Opportunity India 2023

Discover the stunning scenery of the Eastern Himalayas by foot, while raising funds to support the work of Opportunity International Australia to help families leave poverty behind.

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25 October - 3 November 2023

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$5,150

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

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3.5/5

Challenge Grade

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$3,000

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

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Did you know that one in five people around the world live in poverty?

When you take on the Trek for Opportunity in India, you will fund Opportunity International Australia’s microfinance programs. You will be giving a hand up to women and families living in poverty, and helping them to change their lives for generations to come. 

Over 10 awe-inspiring days, you will trek through scenic villages, monasteries, and tea plantations, and experience the breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayan Range of India. From views of majestic, snow-capped peaks to dense forests, and lush valleys, this trek will immerse you in a unique experience with the local communities and traditions of the region. 

Best of all, you’ll be trekking to contribute to a world in which we can empower more women and families experiencing poverty.

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How it works

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Book with Confidence

Pay only $475 upfront to secure your place and pay the remaining balance in flexible instalments.

Cancel up to 90 days before travel with no penalty. For more details, see our FAQs.

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Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

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Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1: Wednesday, 25 October 2023

Arrive Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata! One of the most populous metropolises in India, Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal in Eastern India. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. From here, freshen up and explore until meeting up with your fellow adventurers in the afternoon for sightseeing and our first team briefing. 

Meals: D

Day 2: Thursday, 26 October 2023

Kolkata to Bagdogra

After an early breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight to Bagdogra. On arrival, we will make our way to Darjeeling. Winding through flat rice fields and teak plantations, the road starts to climb into the foothills of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, we will visit the Dali Monastery, the seat of the Drukchen Rimpoche, and get our first glimpse of the rolling hills that we will soon be climbing. Tonight, we’ll meet for dinner before an early bedtime in order to get plenty of rest for our first day of trekking tomorrow. 

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Friday, 27 October 2023

Darjeeling to Rimbik - Sirikhola, trek to Gurdum

We’ll transfer to our starting point this morning in Sirikhola and begin our ascent to Gurdum (2,350 m). Our initial path will be through local village houses, tracking uphill, before reaching the forest edge. From here, the trail is a gradual ascent through the rhododendron, magnolia, and oak trees. Upon arrival in Gurdum, we’ll reach our campsite for the evening. Gurdum is a picturesque, small village of about 150 people overlooking the valleys and villages of Sikkim.

Trekking time: 3-4 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Saturday, 28 October 2023

Gurdum (2350 m) - Sandakphu (3636 m)

Enjoy a cup of hot Darjeeling tea in your tent as you wake up to the sounds and sights of the Himalayas stretched out before you. After a hearty breakfast, we will start our long trek to Sandakphu, the highest point of the trail. The day’s walk is again an uphill ascent as we enter Singalila National Park. The trail is again through the forest and there is no habitation along the trail, a solitary hut or two might be spotted but we leave village life behind. As we climb, the forest will thin and mountains become visible. We’ll reach our final destination for the day, Sandakphu (3636 m), where it’s possible to see the four 8000m peaks of Lhotse, Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga. We camp a little further out from the village area Sandakphu where we will surely sleep well after a long day. 

Trekking Time: 7-8 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 5: Sunday, 29 October 2023

Sandakphu (3636 m) - Sabargram (3600 m) 

Rise early to see the breath-taking view of four of the world’s highest peaks. The entire Khangchendzonga Range towers over a basin of rhododendrons, and silver firs in the foreground. On the western horizon, the peaks of the Everest Group are visible. To the east on the Chola Range can be seen the passes of Chola, Nathula, and Jalep La, leading to Tibet. Our trek today will take us along the ridge to Phalut, which is a relatively level walk. Again, we will be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Himalayan forest catching glimpses of the great snow-clad peaks. Camp this evening will be in Sabargram. 

Trekking time: 6-7 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 6: Monday, 30 October 2023

Sabargram (3600 m) - Phalut - Sammanden (2500 m)

Enjoy another morning waking to the breathtaking mountain view. We’ll continue along the ridge until we reach Phalut, before starting a descent downhill toward the village of Sammanden, a small village in a forest clearing where we will camp for the night.  

Trekking Time: 7-8 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 7: Tuesday, 31 October 2023

Sammanden (2500 m) - Darjeeling

Today is our last day on the trail, and we will finish our descent downwards. We’ll share a final picnic lunch when we reach the valley floor in the Sirikhola village. We’ll cross over the suspension bridge, before meeting our vehicles to transfer to Darjeeling. After a well-deserved shower, we’ll join for a celebratory dinner to toast to completing our challenge.

Trekking Time: 5 hours

Meals: B L D

Day 8: Wednesday, 1 November 2023

Darjeeling - Varanasi 

This morning is at your leisure to explore Darjeeling before we meet in the afternoon for our overnight train to Varanasi. We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the train, where we will settle in for the evening.

Meals: B L D

Day 9: Thursday, 2 November 2023

Varanasi - Project Visit 

We’ll be picked up in the morning and transferred to the hotel, where we can drop our belongings before we head out for a project visit with Opportunity International Australia. In the evening, we will visit the ghats at the bank of the holy river Ganges to attend an aarti ceremony. This evening, we’ll have our final team dinner and share in the many new experiences we’ve had.

Meals: B L D

Day 10: Friday, 3 November 2023

Varanasi - Project Visit - Delhi 

Today we will continue our project visits and learn more about the important work of Opportunity International Australia. This evening, we’ll be transferred to the airport where we will catch a flight to Delhi. From here, our adventure ends but the memories and impact we’ve made remain.

Meals: L

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Domestic airfares • Arrival airport transfer • Single room accommodation in 4-star hotels and at campsites • Train fare to Varanasi in 2nd class sleeper car • English-speaking local guides • Camping equipment including swags with mattress, sheets and pillow • All meals as per itinerary and water on trekking days • All national park entrance and trekking fees

Doesn’t include:  Departure airport transfers • Personal expenses, such as laundry and alcoholic drinks • Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Tips and gratuities

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Why you'll love this adventure

  • Explore the majesty of the Himalayas by foot

  • Experience the culture of one of the most remote parts of the world

  • Meet some of the amazing women running businesses in Varanasi thanks to Opportunity International Australia

  • Trek alongside like-minded people with a passion for ending global poverty

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3.5/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Darjeeling trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking over 5 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well-supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.  

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own? 

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Opportunity International Australia has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 7,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $44 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Opportunity International Australia, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in sandy and hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day. It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. 

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is single rooms in 4-star hotels, and at comfortable campsites.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on single rooms.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Opportunity? 

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Opportunity International Australia and will go to the area of greatest need. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Opportunity International Australia are
tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, Cancellations and Refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $5,150 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit)

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for Opportunity International Australia.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

  • Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.

  • Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.

  • Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Travel insurance and visas

NSURANCE & VISAS

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to India?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa on arrival for entry into India. Passports are required to be valid for at least six months after the date you return to your home country. You must have a valid passport before you can apply for a visa. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.

Are there any other policies I should be aware of?

Opportunity International Australia has its own policies that you will need to take into consideration. You will be required to read Opportunity’s Child Protection and Preventing Sexual Exploitation Abuse and Harassment policies. You will be required to sign their Safeguarding Code of Conduct. Please contact Opportunity directly for more information on these policies.

How does Opportunity handle my personal information?

Opportunity International Australia Limited (Opportunity) respects your privacy and complies with Australian privacy laws. Opportunity collects your personal information in order to process donations, issue tax receipts and to send you updates about our programs and requests for donations. For these purposes your information may be shared with trusted contractors and third-party service providers (such as mailing houses) either in Australia or overseas. Failure to provide personal information may result in Opportunity being unable to provide you with a tax receipt or important information. More about how Opportunity collects, store, use and disclose personal information, including how you can access and correct it, how you can lodge a privacy complaint and how complaints are handled, is available in Opportunity’s Privacy Policy at www.opportunity.org.au/privacy-policy. You may also contact Opportunity by emailing opinfo@opportunity.org.au or calling 1800 812 164. If you do not want to receive marketing communications from Opportunity, please contact Opportunity to let them know.

 

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Testimonials

“Incredible geography, beautiful people, and meaningful conversation, all while walking trails at the top of the world.”

Jason Smith, Empower: India Trek 2019

“Genuinely a trip of a lifetime - amazing experience, fabulous people, and superbly organised.”

Carolyn Bendall, Taronga Zoo Foundation India 2018

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.

Give us a call on

1300 905 188