I love the idea of a community without borders—where people live together in peace and harmony, close to nature, guided by holistic ideals. Just a short drive from Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu, South India, lies Auroville, a community that strives to turn this vision into reality. I’ve visited twice, each time exploring different projects that reflect its unique spirit.

I’ve always been curious about different medical practices around the world. But nothing — absolutely nothing — could have prepared me for the Ayurvedic massage I experienced in Pondicherry, India.

This is the story of a journey through five of India’s Seven Sisters. Of rice wine toasts and jungle bathrooms, of mountain roads, roadside wisdom, and sacred traditions whispered over campfires.