Frequently Asked Questions

How long are these trips?

The duration of all trips is 20-28 days, including international travel time.

Do you offer longer medical electives?

Yes. You can add 2-4 weeks extension on either end of the trip to make it a 6-8 week long medical elective. We have 5 spots set aside for residents and students on each trip to work alongside nurses and a part-time physician at one of our permanent clinics in Dharamsala or Manali region of the western Himalayas. Contact us via e-mail for more detailed information.

Can non-US medical students participate in your expeditions?

Yes, participation is open to medical, dental, nursing, pharmacy and PA students of all levels from all countries.

Can non-medical or premedical students participate?

Yes, 2 spots are set aside for pre-medical or non-medical students on each trip.

How many people participate in each trip?

A maximum of 36 people from different backgrounds make up a team. We usually include one dentist, one ophthalmologist and four to six physicians with varying specialties. The remaining spots are filled with medical or dental students, nurses and non-health care support personnel.

What is the trip cost?

Trip costs vary from US $ 2,800 to $3,100. Exact Cost of a trip with breakdown information may be obtained via e-mail request.

What is included in the cost?

Cost Includes:

  • Airport pick up and drop off in India
  • Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses and all-weather tents on twin share basis
  • 3 meals per day, snacks and non alcoholic beverages
  • 24 hour onsite support
  • Ground transportation in SUV type vehicles 24/7 for the duration of the trip
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Supervision from a US board certified physician/s during clinics
  • Evening case study presentations
  • Local activities as mentioned in each trip itinerary

Inclusions and exclusions are given in each trip itinerary

How are trips funded?

Participants arrange their own funding. Some participants have been successful in securing sponsorships to help off-set costs.

Is passport or visa required?

Passport is required and visa is essential for travel to India. Your passport must valid for at least six months from the date of entry into India. There are Indian consulate offices located in many US state capitals. You can turn in your completed application form along with passport, two passport size photographs and a cashiers check or money order. It may take up to two weeks for the whole process. Expect delays. We send you instructions on how and where to apply for visa as part of your trip preparation.

Where do I get the airline reservations and tickets?

You have the option of purchasing it yourself or Himalayan Health can handles all international and domestic air reservations and ticketing through it’s travel agent. These air tickets are purchased through consolidators and guarantee low prices which help us to keep your trip costs low.

Can I use Frequent Flyer Miles on these trips?

Yes. Depending on the airline, 90,000-130,000 free miles are required to get a free round trip ticket to India. Himalayan Health Exchange will credit the difference to you out of the total trip cost.

What is the travel time?

Flying time off the US east coast to New Delhi is approximately 17 hours. Depending on the airline there can be a stop over of 3-7 hours in Europe. This makes it a 20 to 24-hour journey. Recently, Air India and Continental airlines have introduced non-stop flights from Chicago and Newark to New Delhi. It takes 14-15 hours on either airline.

Where will I stay?

Depending on the trip and region you travel through, accommodations include hotels, guest houses, lodges or tents. Type of accommodation for each trip is mentioned in the detailed itinerary.

Are there special health issues?

Recent medical and dental exams should ensure that you are in good health. We recommend that you contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or a travel clinic for the most recent update on health precautions.