9th to 13th January 2025
Artcation
In Andretta, Himachal Pradesh
A 5-day mindfulness retreat in the Himalayas
let's travel outside, to dive within.
What is ARTCATION all about?
ARTCATION with Project Aaina is a holistic retreat experience that merges art and vacation into one transformative journey, redefining experiential travel. It's about embracing creativity, connecting with oneself, and immersing in the beauty of nature, while exploring new destinations. Through a carefully curated itinerary, participants engage in various art forms, mindfulness practices, and outdoor activities, fostering self-reflection and growth. It's an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and create lifelong memories in the company of like-minded individuals.
Wondering if you have to be an artist to join us? Well, let us give you some awesome news, you already are one! You do not have to be a master of the craft to know art. We are here to inculcate artistic expression through the free flow of conversations and experiences. We help build a safe space for our guests to explore their creativity, build meaningful connections, and share their stories. With intense research and spiritual application, we have curated sessions that allow our guests to establish a deeper connection with their emotions, letting go of the self they have created to reach out to the self that sits within.
The sessions include art, movement-based activities, yoga, meditation, sound healing, breath work, drum circles along with various recreational sessions.
NOTE: You don’t need to have any background in Art or be an Artist. It’s about flowing from one medium to another.
When is it happening?
9th january to 13th january 2025
Where is it happening?
Andretta, often referred to as the "Village of Artists," is a picturesque settlement located in the foothills of the Himalayas, merely 10km from Palampur in Himachal Pradesh. Notably, the village is home to the prestigious Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, this institution has played a pivotal role in promoting pottery and traditional crafts in the region. Beyond its evident artistic allure, Andretta is embraced by the enchanting beauty of the Himalayan slopes, nestled between the majestic, snow-capped Dhauladhar range and the dense greenery and bamboo groves of the Shivalik hills. The village is further distinguished by its colonial-era architecture and charming cottages, contributing to its undeniable old-world charm.
Where will we stay?
A unique experience of luxury within a time capsule.
The Mirage - a boutique heritage homestay nestled in a lush, quiet setting offering stunning views. Set in the idyllic Andretta artist’s village, it is the perfect space to relax and rejuvenate. The property consists of traditional Himachali mud houses lovingly restored to an inviting retreat. The Main House of The Mirage was built in 1948 by the drama teacher of Prithviraj Kapoor and Jaya Dyal, both of whom arrived in Andretta from Lahore at the time of Partition. Along with other members of Lahore’s cultural scene at that time, they joined Norah Richards, who had established an artist’s colony here in the 1920s. It is set amongst dense foliage, against a backdrop of jungle & bamboo groves.
What are you Investing in?
The fee includes a very comfortable four night and five days stay in luxury accommodations on double sharing basis so you can come with friends or make new ones
Nourishing meals throughout the day, catering to both body and soul
More than 15 transformative sessions that foster personal growth and well-being
A pottery session in the Artists village of India
A carefully designed yog nidra session
Extensive art sessions set amidst breathtaking views
An eco printing & block printing workshop
Movement-based therapy sessions, tailored to your needs
Expertly guided chakra meditation, find your energy blockages and get on a healing journey
Experience deep relaxation and aura cleansing with therapeutic sound healing sessions
Energizing drum circles, a unique blend of self-expression and connection
A thoughtfully designed immersive art session inside a forest
Connect with nature's serenity through scenic hikes, forging a deeper connection with the environment
Village walks and cultural experiences
Embrace vibrant cultural evening with music and captivating campfire
Retreat from the noise and chaos, finding solace and self-connection in the serene surroundings
Engage with the local community, discovering their rich traditions and stories
Create lasting bonds through engaging activities, fostering connections beyond the retreat
Think of this retreat as an investment in yourself <3
What is the price of investing in yourself?
You can experience this entire Retreat for a budget of-
Double Occupancy- INR 59,500/- per person
Single Occupancy- INR 69,500/- per person (limited seats on first come, first serve basis)
A New Year Special Discount Available
COST BREAKUP-
Actual cost of Stay, Food & Cultural activities for 5 days- INR 39k
Program, Experience, 15+ Workshops/sessions, Materials & Curation fee- INR 19k
A portion of this money is used to provide activities for underprivileged children & women
How to reach Andretta?
By Air
Flight to Dharamshala (Gaggal Airport). There are direct flights from Delhi & Chandigarh. Distance from the airport to The Mirage is a little over 40km and takes about 1 and a half hours.
Flight to Dharamshala (Gaggal Airport). There are direct flights from Delhi & Chandigarh. Distance from the airport to The Mirage is a little over 40km and takes about 1 and a half hours.
By Train
The closest train station is Amb Andaura Station. The new Vande Bharat train runs between Delhi/Chandigarh to Amb Andaura. Onward taxi from Amb to Andretta is 3 hours. Other train options are from Delhi to Chandigarh, Amritsar, or Pathankot stations. Onward travel to The Mirage is usually by taxi.
By Road
By Road
By private vehicle or taxi, you will need 11-12 hours from Delhi, 6 hours from Chandigarh, and 5 hours from Amritsar. From Delhi to Palampur, (via Chandigarh), daily overnight Volvo buses (private and government) are available. HRTC has daily buses from Chandigarh to Palampur.
Warning: Don’t program your GPS for the whole trip from start to finish. Google Maps will bring you the shortest but worst way. Program in increments, from Delhi or Chandigarh, via Amb, Pragpur, Tanda hospital, Panchrukhi & Andretta (The Mirage).
When to reach Andretta?
You should arrive by 10:30 AM on 9th of January 2025 at the property.
You should plan your return from Andretta post 11 AM on the 13th January 2025
What’s the group size?
We keep the group size limited to 15 participants, to curate a personalized experience
What’s the day-wise journey like?
Note - This is just a brief overview of the itinerary. You are in for a lot of fun surprises.
DAY 1 - 9th January 2025
Morning: Arrive in the morning and immerse yourself in the exquisite surroundings of our location and proceed to complete the check-in process to access your accommodations.
Introduction Session: Get acquainted with fellow participants and immerse yourself in the retreat's purpose and essence.
Pottery Session: Get your hands into the clay and experience a creative pottery session at a scenic pottery studio
Reflection meditation: Indulge in a serene practice to foster deeper connections with both yourself and those around you
DAY 2 - 10th January 2025
Yog Nidra: Start your day with the ultimate relaxation technique that will help you de-stress and rejuvenate your mind and body
Immersive Art Circle: Reconnect with your creative spirit in a serene environment, free from city distractions.
Rhythm Exploration: Engage in mindful activities to discover the art of percussion and rhythm.
Gratitude Meditation: Feel the transformative force of gratitude as you embark on a journey of self-connection and relaxation during this rejuvenating meditation session.
DAY 3 - 11th January 2025
Community Art Connection: Cherish the power of art and communication to understand community and connection in a thrilling and innovative way
A special Himachali lunch
Eco Printing & Block Printing: Unleash your creativity with intricate patterns and designs on fabric or paper
Guided Chakra Meditation & Sound Healing: Experience a rekindled sense of inner balance by soaking yourself in the transformative journey of chakra meditation and sound healing. Guided by a seasoned specialist, to lead you on this spiritual path
DAY 4 - 12th January 2025
Movement therapy: Start the day by reconnecting with your body and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself through movement therapy.
Immersive Drum Circle: Develop a connection between your physical self and your mind in this rhythmic movement and drum circle, you also get to sense the intricate realm of your emotions.
Outdoor Art & forest bathing Session: Take a remarkable journey through nature and the enchanting art of painting in a forest with this session, providing you with an opportunity to connect with nature and yourself in this outdoor art session.
Self-Reflective Journey: Take a self-reflective journey in a meditative journaling session. Explore your inner thoughts, gain valuable insights, and create takeaways to cherish from this introspective experience.
Bonfire and cultural evening: Gather around a warm bonfire for a cozy evening filled with lively music. Let the crackling flames and melodious tunes create the perfect ambiance for relaxation and camaraderie.
DAY 5 - 13th January 2025
Hugs and pictures: Bid farewell to the splendid property and captivating environment.
Why should you join this retreat?
The reasons are simple:
Rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Reclaim your spiritual balance with Art
Connect with your inner self through music therapy and sound healing
Introduction to different meditative and therapeutic techniques that can help you kick start your self-reflective journey
Stay in a serene luxury homestay in the Himalayas
Have the much needed getaway you have been thinking of that is full of mindful and fun activities
Connect with a lot of fellow travelers and experience not just a trip but a memory to cherish
Let it all flow free and let go of everything you have been tied to by breaking patterns that no longer serve you stepping into a better version of yourself
Don't think about it too much, you deserve this break!
Contact us and book your slot right away.
The Location
Inclusions:
Accommodation for 4 Nights and 5 Days
Authentic meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner (All meals provided during the retreats will be vegetarian. The ingredients will be locally sourced with an aim of keeping meals fresh and nourishing, enhance the authentic cuisine experience)
Access to multiple intensive Art sessions
All the Art supplies & materials used during the sessions
Instruments for music sessions
Meditation, sound healing and movement therapy sessions
Guided tour of a tea estate
Exclusions:
Personal expenses of any nature
Transportation to and from the venue
Additional beverages or food
Any additional activities during the retreat
Medical expenses of any nature
DISCLAIMER
* You are requested to respect Nature, the culture of the region, and the sentimental values of the locals. You must refrain from acts of littering, intoxication in public areas, and disrespecting people, animals, or any places of worship at all times.
* We at Project Aaina do not support the use of any kind of Intoxication since we’re here on a spiritual journey. The use of drugs, alcohol consumption and smoking is prohibited during the retreats.
*You have to be 18+ to attend our retreats. If you are below 18, we will require you to submit an NOC signed by your parents or guardian.
*All meals provided during the retreats will be vegetarian. The ingredients will be locally sourced with an aim of keeping meals fresh and nourishing, enhance the authentic cuisine experience.
* You are responsible for yourself and your belongings for the entire duration of the Retreat. The organisers are not responsible for any theft or loss of your personal belongings or for any personal injury caused to you. The organisers are also not responsible for any personal effect during or post the trip due to Covid - 19. We are trying our best to take precautions, and your help and cooperation are appreciated.
*Uninformed movement by participants during the day and night outside the property is strictly prohibited; the host or the organizers will not be responsible for any unforeseen circumstances.
* Payment policy- You can temporarily book your seat by paying the registration fee online. Interested individuals are requested to pay the full payment inorder to secure their spot for the retreat.
* Refund policy- The registration fee and the advance payment is a non-refundable amount under any circumstances, however, we understand that an unexpected change of plans is always a possibility, so if you are unable to attend your Retreat, you can transfer your slot to someone else, do let us know at least two weeks before the start of the Retreat.
* If a Retreat has been postponed/cancelled due to Covid or any natural disaster, the payments shall be adjusted towards the rescheduled Retreat.
* A Covid - 19 negative test certificate is mandatory if you haven't got both doses of vaccine.
* If you have been previously tested positive, make sure you have completed the general self-quarantine time period of 7 days, and also given your body and mind time to recover. If your symptoms have subsided, you are most welcome. Take a test again, as the negative certificate is mandatory.
* Masks and personal sanitisers are mandatory on the trip. Make sure you carry them. It's for your own safety, and for the safety of your fellow co- travellers. Little precautions can go a long way. You are requested to help us in this, and be aware of taking necessary precautions.
*We don’t support any kind of mistreatment/bullying. Consent is a very important factor in the case of every participant and team member at Project Aaina. Happy hugs are always welcome.
*You will be asked to leave the retreat immediately if you fail to follow the above-mentioned policies.