TBD for 2026

The Caltech Y, in partnership with the Caltech SURF Program and IIT Gandhinagar (IITGN), is coordinating a trip to Gandhinagar, India. This trip is designed to introduce Caltech students to the many layers that form identity in India. Through a combination of academic lectures and fieldtrips, IITGN faculty will take participants through the India of the past, present and future, relating India’s ancient traditions of philosophy, science and technology to a present-day India.

The trip will take place in Gandhinagar, located on the western coast of India, a region chosen by Gandhi as the center of his political campaigns and social experiments.  Nearby Ahmedabad, also has a long-standing tradition of business and entrepreneurship as well as spectacular architecture. It is a historic city steeped in tradition that is also responding rapidly to modernity and globalization.

Itinerary

December 14               Leave Caltech

December 16               Arrive in India

December 17-22          Workshops, Discussions, Fieldtrips

December 23               Leave India

December 23               Arrive in US

Program Highlights

Talks and discussions will be led by IITGN faculty and other guest speakers. Topics include:

• History

• Religions in India

• Democracy

• Caste and community structures

• Science and technology (both ancient and modern)

• Science policy

• Indian philosophical traditions

• India as an economic market

• Gender issues

• Poetry and films

Cost: $1300/student

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Thanks to our partners, IITGN and the SURF Program, this trip is heavily subsidized. The $1300 student fee includes airfare to and from Caltech, lodging and meals while in-country, visa processing fees and Travel Insurance.  Immunizations are required, but not covered in the fee.

The trip is open to all undergraduate students.  Because this trip is scheduled at the beginning of winter break participants may choose to travel independently to a different destination when the program ends or to return with the group to Caltech. 

2024 Application

A few of those selected in the first round needed to drop out - so we are re-opening applications for those last few spots.  If you are interested:

1. Email caltechy@caltech.edu first to find out if spots remain.

2. Then, click the link above and complete the application

For questions, please contact caltechy@caltech.edu. Space is limited.