The Programme for three weeks in July-August 2026, participants from across the world gather at one of Asia's oldest and most respected institutions to do something no programme anywhere else makes possible: master cutting-edge digital technologies by day, and immerse themselves in a living Himalayan cultural landscape. The programme is built on a radical premise that the future of digital documentation belongs to those who understand what is worth preserving.
Completion of the Himalayan Living-Lab programme positions participants as strong candidates for IIT Roorkee's postgraduate offerings. The institute's M.Des, M.Tech and PhD programmes in Design, Architecture, and related fields are among India's most competitive. Summer programme faculty routinely support exceptional participants in developing postgraduate applications.
Complimentary pick-up and drop-off service between Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi) and the IIT Roorkee campus.. Approximately 4-hour drive.
On-campus hostel accommodation and meals for the full three-week programme.
All transport between IIT Roorkee and Bagori Village, Uttarkashi fully arranged and covered. Journey approx. 6–7 hours through Uttarakhand.
Official invitation letter from IIT Roorkee International Relations Office provided upon acceptance.
Participants advised to hold comprehensive medical insurance.
Prof. Smriti Saraswat is an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at IIT Roorkee and Coordinator of SANCHAY — a national craft-based lab under the Ministry of Textiles. Her research focuses on Himalayan cultural heritage, indigenous craft traditions, and design-led community development in Uttarakhand. She holds a PhD from IIT Roorkee and a Master's from CEPT University, where she graduated as Batch Topper.
IIT 
