Home

India Immersion

10 – 31 JANUARY 2009
9 – 30 JANUARY 2010
Security Update

Despite the horrendous terrorist attacks on Mumbai last week, this is to confirm that the India Immersion is still going ahead. Our Immersion Coordinator was in India at the time, and has returned safely, and with an excellent program now almost finalised. We at the ERISJ will continue to monitor the security situation in India closely and will make adjustments where needed to our itinerary or other arrangements, but it is considered very unlikely that the situation in India would deteriorate across the country to the point where we would consider cancelling.

Please continue to check this page as we will update it with further advice and plans related to security. In the meantime, feel free to contact Khristo Newall, the Immersion Coordinator, if you are interested in this Immersion but wish to discuss the Mumbai attacks or general security concerns on 08 9432 2411.

Your program overview

Join us for a life-changing journey through the Indian sub-continent.  This Immersion will give you an insight into the contrasts and the diversity of life in India. It will be challenging and confronting, exposing you to the reality of poverty and oppression and the sense of powerlessness that so often accompanies the overwhelming scale of these issues in a country the size of India.

 

Participants will also get the opportunity to engage with people and communities, in both rural and city contexts, and to see stories of hope and positive change. Download India Brochure (PDF2.14Mb).  Download the general Immersion Programs Brochure (PDF 304.1Kb) or read more about the Objectives and Philosphy of Immersions.

FREE Promotional Film Night: Thursday 11 December @ 6pm

Join us at the Institute for a free film night with a showing of the great 'Salaam Bombay' by Indian director Mira Nair. Read more...

Itinerary:
This Immersion begins in Chennai and from there we will travel to a poor rural setting to spend several days involved with a schooling project. Travelling by train, we will then visit Mumbai, the home of Bollywood and also some of the world’s largest slums. This contrast of wealth and poverty is profound, and we will be given the opportunity to explore the city and visit agencies working with the poor.
 
During the train journey, there will be opportunities to visit historic sites and places of incredible natural beauty. With India being the birthplace of Gandhi, the inspirational figurehead of the non-violence movement around the world, the group will also do a full-day workshop in Ghandiian non-violence training.
 
The immersion concludes with several days in Delhi where we will live and work alongside groups working with the urban poor. These projects work with people from the ‘untouchable’ caste; women working in prostitution; those caught up in drug abuse, and other extremely marginalised groups.
 
During this time will be India’s Republic Day, which particularly in Delhi is a vast spectacle as only India can do, and we will be able to witness this grand occasion, and as an option to visit the Taj Mahal or other magical sites near Delhi on a final rest day.
 Costs (ex Perth)*:
Participant Category 2009 2010
Unwaged $3200 $3500
Waged $3600 $3800
Employer-sponsored $3900 $4100

Prices are based upon a Perth - India return trip.  Contact Khristo Newall (Tel: 08 9432 3411) for pricing information if your departure point is not Perth.

These prices include:

  • International and domestic airfares and full travel insurance;
  • Extensive domestic travel within India;
  • Accommodation, all meals and safe drinking water; and
  • A modest cash gift to the projects and communities we visit
  • If you are Perth-based, the price also includes your preparation and debriefing, and eligibility to participate in our permanent network of Immersion Alumni that meets bimonthly for dinner at the ERISJ.

The price excludes your passport, visa and health precaution costs.

* Registrants during the two months prior to Immersions outside Perth should note that the discounted airfares that Immersions are priced around may no longer be available.  This excess will need to be passed on to the participant – we will of course seek best price available.
Travel Advice - how to ensure  a safe and healthy trip

We want you to enjoy your immersion experience.  Please check our advice on how to achieve this.