While in Abu we will stay at the Swami Narayan Mandir, a quiet pilgrims guest house on the edge of town, within easy walking distance of Arbuda-devi Mandir, Nakki Lake, and the Dilwara Jain Temples. Our time in Mt. Abu will be devoted to intensive Hindi instruction, as well as field trips to nearby sites. The Fort is a living museum to one of the great royal dynasties of India, while the city and the surrounding region are a mosaic of the regional cultures and traditions of Rajasthan. Each of the upper floors offers commanding views of the outer ramparts of the Fort, the old city, and the remarkable desert landscape beyond. Two balanced meals are provided by the restaurant service that does the catering for the Museum restaurant, located within the portion of the Fort open to visitors.
Lunches are prepared in the hostel kitchen by an Indian cook.
The program runs from late August until mid-December, with a break in October during which students may travel to other parts of Rajasthan or remain in Jodhpur to work on their research topics. Hindi will be offered at beginning to advanced levels, depending on the needs and preparation of the students. Students are taught reading, writing and speaking, and will have ample opportunity to practice with native speakers. This class provides an introduction to Indian culture with special emphasis on Rajasthan. It is overseen by a UVa-Emory Program faculty member, and includes lectures by local experts, field trips, concerts, etc.