Second-year Vaishnava theology students at Bhaktivedanta College take part in a four-day retreat in Krishna Valley during the summer holidays. While the first-year programme introduces students primarily to the daily life of the resident Vaishnava community and its self-sufficient way of living, the second-year programme focuses on experiencing Krishna Valley as a sacred place.

During the pilgrimage retreat, students visit areas of Krishna Valley that represent the sacred sites of Vrindavan in India. Through direct experience, they explore the meaning of pilgrimage, the distinctive nature of sacred space, and appropriate conduct at a holy place. At the various stops, they hear about Kṛṣṇa’s pastimes, the philosophical teachings connected with them, and the relevance of these teachings to everyday life. Their journey takes the form of a parikrama, a pilgrimage accompanied by devotional singing and music, which enables theoretical knowledge to develop into personal experience and deepens their awareness of their relationship with God.

The programme also includes creative and community activities. Students work together to recall the stories they have heard through drawing, prepare a theatrical performance, talk, sing, and share their experiences. They also help care for the sacred sites by cleaning and tidying the areas and removing weeds. The four days thus offer a combination of learning, spiritual reflection, practical service, joyful community life, and the strengthening of friendships.