• RISHIKESH in APRIL 2007 •

Exploring the Gita
In April of this year we will be traveling to the home of the Bhagavad Gita, to the source of Vedic wisdom in the foothills of the Himalayas. On the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh we will spend a week with Thom Knoles for in-depth study of the Gita, the "Song of God," and of how we may apply its wisdom in our lives. Exploring the Gita, as we are calling it, promises to be an experience both memorable and profound.

(If you wish to get a head start on the studies, please email Jeff Kober for information on recommended readings.)

Exploring the Veda, Part Seven
At the same time as our study of the Gita, those who have been participating in our Vedic studies will conclude with Exploring the Veda, Part Seven, and will participate in the Gita course at no additional charge.

Important Information for All Retreat Participants

This Rishikesh news bulletin will give you all the information you will need to have a safe, fun and “consciousness expanding" experience in April 2007 with Thom Knoles on the banks of the holy Ganges River within the magical city of Rishikesh (the home of saints and sages).

The Veda 7 and Exploring the Gita retreat is filling up fast so be sure to secure your position as soon as you can.

To make a new reservation or to confirm your existing reservation, we will need half- (or full) payment by 3 February 2007. The balance must be paid on or before 15 March 2007.

Prerequisites:
All meditators are welcome to participate in our retreat to Rishikesh. The study of Exploring the Gita is open to all. (If you have non-meditating friends or family who would like to attend, please contact Will.)

Course Fees:
The course fee for meditators participating in Veda 7 is $1420. (Your participation in Exploring the Gita is at no charge.) The course fee for meditators participating in Exploring the Gita only is $1420.

(Please note: Veda 7 is open only to those who have completed Vedas 1 through 6.)

Payment:
Choose one of the three payment options below. Click on the link for the appropriate form:
1. Visa or MasterCard
2. Cashiers check in US currency

Email the appropriate form to Adele or fax to 818-907-1933.

Refunds:
Should you decide to cancel your reservation, you may do so on or before 1 April 2007. $350 of your initial deposit is non-refundable. There will be no refunds after 1 April.

When To Arrive:
Exploring the Gita and Veda 7 will begin in Rishikesh on Sunday 15 April at 7 p.m. and end on Monday 23 April. All course participants should arrive in Rishikesh no later than 15 April between 2 and 6 pm.

Depart:
We will be departing Rishikesh early morning on 23 April 2007.

Flight Information:
As of January 2007, flights from Los Angeles to Delhi on American Airlines were running about $1,172 US DOLLARS before tax ($75). The least expensive flights we could find from Sydney to Delhi are about $1,118 AUD. Regardless of where you are travelling from, purchase tickets now to get the best savings.

Overland Travel:
Once in Delhi you can travel to Rishikesh by car or train (the airport is closed for repairs). Travel by train is advised – the Shatabdi Express is recommended. The train arrives in Haridwar from where you can take a 30 minute cab ride to the accommodations in Rishikesh.

Go to: Indian Rail.

For a great overview of this and more information, check out the website of Ananda in the Himalayas.

Timetable:
All those participating in Initiator Training will arrive two days early, on 13 April. Other course participants will arrive on 15 April. Courses end on 23 April. Full calendar of daily activities.

Accommodation and Meals:
We will be staying eight nights in Rishikesh at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram from April 15 to April 23. Your course fee covers breakfast and dinner daily at the Ashram. (Meals elsewhere will be at your discretion and at your own cost.)

(Please note: At the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, each room has a private bath with a Western toilet, shower and sink. The rooms are very basic, so do not expect fancy accommodations.  Rooms are shared with two single beds in each room.  We will be separated into male and female quarters, although married accomadations are available as well.  If you want to room with someone in particular, please be sure to let Adele know when you reserve your spot.)

Visa Information:
A visa is required for European, Australian and American passport holders. For Australians, the visa fee is currently $75 AUD for a single entry tourist visa and takes 5 to 10 working days to process. The American fee can be as little as $30 USD for a 15 day single entry, or $85 USD for a 6 month double entry to as much as $150 USD for a ten year visa. It takes 10 to 15 days to process. (I have found it takes less time, but you should get your visa right away). You will need a passport with at least 6 months validity from departure date. Since you are arranging your own flights you will need to arrange your own visa.

For Californians please check with the local Consulate of India.
From Australia: Indian Consulate Sydney.
From England: Indian Consulate London .
For other nationalities please check with your local consulate of India.

What to bring:
Blank notebooks and pens
Personal medications, prescription and/or over the counter
Hand sanitizers
Flashlight
Spare batteries
Mosquito repellent
Sun block
Charcoal tablets (for stomach trouble)
Anti-bacterial ointment
Swimwear
Hat

Reading materials:
Required reading:
There are many translations of The Bhagavad Gita, each with its own commentary and interpretation. We will be using Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s translation, which covers the first six chapters. On the list below you will find suggestions for your study of the other chapters. Click the link for Alibris, and search by cutting and pasting the title immediately below:

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on the Bhagavad-Gita : A New Translation and Commentary, Chapters 1-6

Supplemental Readings Follow this link for further suggested readings and recordings.

Frequently Asked Questions
For answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning this trip and/or trips to India in general, please click here. Any questions not answered here, please email Adele.

We look forward to seeing you in India.

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