The seaport of Thiruvananthapuram is surrounded by miles of coconut palms, beaches, and backwaters. The city itself is filled with unique neighborhoods and lanes, dotted with temples, mosques, and churches. The famous 9th century Hindu philosopher, Shankaracharya, was born in Kerala, and for centuries Kerala has maintained unique Vedic rituals as well as martial arts.
Students have a mandatory two day orientation in Madison immediately before departure.
Meals are provided at the program house daily. In India, students receive a small monthly stipend that covers their living expenses. The Program Fee covers room and board expenses. Students often find they need more money in India for travel during vacations and expensive gifts they may want to bring home. Either a faculty member or graduate student from the U.S. serves as a Resident Director.