Bodhisattva Spiritual Retreat in Bodhgaya, India

• Seekers of spiritual growth and deeper meaning
• Changemakers who want to integrate service with self-awareness
• Individuals and groups ready for authentic transformation

Whether you come for clarity, contribution, or community, the Bodhisattva Retreat will meet you where you are—and gently guide you where your heart longs to be.

• Accommodation
• 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
• Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
• Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
• 1 day orientation
• Daily transportation to project
• In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
• Fundraising support
• University course credits (where applicable)
• Certificate of Completion

• Airfares
• Travel Insurance
• Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

Airport pick-up is included in the volunteering cost unless specified.This may involve either a local pick-up by your volunteer host or a public transport ticket where necessary. These details will be finalised with you upon making a booking as this will depend on your arrival information.

The retreats are really soulful and intentionally not structured in a strict way. Dhirendra, our director, is very connected to the energy of each group. He usually meditates on it beforehand, and then the week unfolds naturally based on what’s needed.

Each retreat is different on purpose. We want them to feel unique, not something that’s repeated or overly planned. It’s really about trusting the process and allowing the experience to shape itself.

In the West, we’re so used to routine and needing to know what’s coming next — but this retreat invites people to step out of that. To slow down, to listen, and just be present with whatever arises.

In terms of a daily schedule, we don’t follow a strict one — and that’s part of the magic!

1. Visit Mahabodhi Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. It’s a sacred site for Buddhists and a place of deep historical and spiritual significance.

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3. Explore Bodhi Tree: Located within the Mahabodhi Temple complex, this ancient tree is believed to be the direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha meditated.

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5. Visit Great Buddha Statue: The 80-feet tall statue of Buddha is a prominent landmark in Bodhgaya. It’s located near the Mahabodhi Temple and is an impressive sight to behold.

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7. Attend Meditation Sessions: Bodhgaya is a hub for meditation and spiritual practices. Many centers and monasteries offer meditation sessions and retreats for visitors.

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9. Visit Monasteries and Temples: Bodhgaya is home to various monasteries and temples representing different Buddhist traditions. Explore these to gain insight into the diverse Buddhist culture.

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11. Take a Walk around Sujata Village: This nearby village is where Buddha received his first meal after his ascetic practices. It’s a serene place to explore and learn about Buddha’s early life.

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13. Participate in Puja Ceremonies: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Buddhist rituals by attending puja ceremonies at the Mahabodhi Temple or other monasteries.

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15. Shop for Souvenirs: Bodhgaya has markets selling a variety of Buddhist artifacts, handicrafts, and religious items. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs or gifts.

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17. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Explore the local food scene and try traditional Indian and Tibetan dishes available in Bodhgaya’s restaurants and street stalls.

No extra requirements for this program. 

India is an eclectic and intoxicating cultural experience like no other! Home of the famous Taj Mahal, the Himalayas, the sacred Ganges river, and over 1 billion people of varying languages, cultures and beleifs, India is sure to push you to the boundaries of your comfort zone.

IVI is focused on establishing sustainable employment and education through volunteering efforts in India. Children in some of the regions we service have not had basic nutritional background. Over 950,000 newborns per year in India die from infections. Education about health for families provides a strong foundation for self-care in the communities we service in India.

India’s climte ranges from tropical down south to alpine up in the northern mountain regions. 

From April until the start of October is summer, and in most places in India, is very hot. In June the monsoon rains start in Kerala down south, and move inland. Further north and in the rural areas of Rajasthan, it can get pretty cold from December to January- sometimes as low at minus 5 degrees!

Be prepared for some hot temperatures but if in the Sikkim region, bring along some warmer clothing as it can get cold in the mountains. 

India is a country FULL of culture! From the beautiful colours, different religions, ancient traditions and the smells of spices- India is a country like no other.  It’s the the second most populous nation after China, with over 1.2 billion people. 

The most prominant religions are Hinduism and Buddhism and around 13% of the popualrtion are Muslim. Because there are so many religions, India celebrates a large number of festivals throughout the year. Some of these include Diwali, Holi, Eid and Good Friday. 

In India, the cow is considered to be a Holy animal and you will see cars either driving around, or simply waiting if a cow is in the road holding up traffic! In some parts of India it is forbidden to eat meat or drink alcohol. 

You will see many temples in India, as well as colourful clothing, particually the sari’s that the local women wear, and many cultural dance shows and activities. 

30 Years Non Profit Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.

Affordable Volunteer Travel