1. What is Sikhi Camp?
Established in 1996; BOSS Sikhi Camp is a 6-day residential retreat. The camp is aimed at young adults (and those young at heart!) who wish to learn more about Sikhism. This Sikh camp for adults will provide you with a real living experience of being a Sikh and help you access your spiritual side.
There will be a balance of meditation, lectures in English and informal discussion sessions. You can also take part in outdoor activities, and take time out to reflect and grow. All of this combined leads to a joyful learning and spiritual experience. You will have plenty of opportunities to volunteer (do Seva) should you wish to do so.
The camp is primarily for newcomers & those interested in finding out more about Sikh spirituality and experiencing the Sikh way of life. There are no pre-requisites as to how religious or spiritual you are or how much you know about Sikhism or if you are of Panjabi descent or not. You most definitely do not need to be Amritdhari (baptised) or keep uncut hair to attend camp. All we ask is that you come with an open mind and the willingness to try something new.
2. Who organises Sikhi Camp?
Sikhi camp is organised under the umbrella of the British Organisation of Sikh Students (BOSS). BOSS is a not-for-profit community organisation that has been working with young students across the country for over 30 years.
Sikhicamp will be organised and delivered exclusively by volunteers. No one is paid a wage and all camp fees & donations go into the actual cost of running the camp.
3. What will I get from attending?
This depends on what you want from camp. Some people come away with memories of a good week spent unwinding whilst gaining spiritual knowledge & making new friends. Others (the majority) look back at it as being a major milestone in their life which changed their purpose and direction of living. We strive to get you to the latter! Intention, vibration and affirmations can all play key roles so we ask you to arrive with excited anticipation and an open mind as you watch miracles unfold and your personal growth soar into the sky!
4. Where will BOSS Sikhi Camp take place?
The location is not disclosed unless you have been successful in securing a place at Sikhi Camp. This adds to the suspense and mystery and also keeps us safe. What we can say is that it will be away from city life in a breathtaking location near the coast of North Wales. We will be based at a residential and outdoor education centre that specialises in accommodating large faith groups etc, so you won’t need your tent! More information can be provided on request - get in touch and we can have a chat.
5. How will I get to Sikhi Camp?
Transport is provided in the fee that you pay for BOSS Camp (yes that’s insane!) Coaches/minibuses will be at various pick-up points across the UK. They usually include Birmingham, Leicester, Southall, East London and Leeds, however, these can change depending on the majority of applicants’ locations. You will be notified of the final pick-up points in advance and you will have an opportunity to select the most suitable pick-up point for yourself.
If you are flying in from outside of the UK then we would recommend you fly into Birmingham (BHX), Heathrow (LHW) or Manchester (MAN) so you can make your way to the closest coach checkpoints. (Please contact us if you need help with your transport arrangements and we can discuss the best options for you.)
We would prefer it if attendees did not bring their vehicles due to the site Health and Safety policy but please get in touch to discuss if you feel this is required.
6. What are the facilities like at BOSS Camp?
As mentioned above the centres we use are experts in accommodating large groups and that is their core business.
No matter which centre we use sleeping facilities will be a mix of small to medium-sized dormitories (2-20 people) with bathrooms nearby. Very limited single rooms may be available and will be provided if required for medical reasons or accessibility. Some of the best of friendships are formed in these dorms and we cherish these types of sleeping arrangements for that reason. You can, of course, be grouped with friends but if you’re alone we promise you will make friends (often for life!) almost immediately. We follow a strict gender-separation sleeping arrangement.
7. How many people will be at Sikhi Camp?
On average we have about 250 campers ranging from 16 to 60+. There are also around 200 Sevadaars (helpers) and families who attend to help out for the week too. With Guru Ji’s Kirpa, BOSS Sikhi Camp is one of the most established, longest and largest Sikh camps in the world.
8. Will I fit in?
Around 70% of those who attend BOSS Sikhi Camp are what we call ‘First-timers’ (attending a Sikhi-based retreat for the first time in their lives). Many of these people attend without knowing anyone (which doesn’t last long!) Everyone is welcome regardless of background, race, ethnicity etc. BOSS Sikhi Camp is well known for its inclusivity, love and acceptance. As long as you are over 16 you are eligible. There will be hundreds of people just like you at Camp who will turn into friends for life.
9. What does an average day look like at Sikhi Camp?
The mornings will incorporate meditation, breakfast, thought-provoking lectures, group discussions, and Q&A sessions. After lunch, there are a host of activities such as water sports, hiking, football, beach trips, yoga and art workshops. The evenings typically involve a Kirtan Darbar (meditation session) and sometimes an informal evening talk or presentation. The days are long but the most spiritually fulfilling moments you will experience.
10. What is the food like at Sikhi Camp?
We know food is an important aspect of camp! All 3 meals plus snacks are provided for. Rest assured this isn’t one of those retreats where you will be starved or fed very little or basic rations. The Langar is lovingly prepared by our expert volunteers. As per the Sikh tradition, Sikhi Camp follows a Lacto vegetarian diet (no meat, fish or eggs) but know, that your personal diet choice will not impact your application so please do not let this deter you from applying.. We know sometimes the idea of not eating meat for 6 days can be daunting but we would love for you to give it a go. You’ll be surprised by how quickly you’ll adapt!
We provide a mix of traditional Panjabi and Western food like Roti, Daal, Paronthe, Pizza, Pasta, Salads, Keer and cake (not all at once!)
We do our best to cater for special dietary needs - please do let us know your requirements on your application form.
11. How much does it cost?
The cost of camp is extremely high and is subsidised by fundraising throughout the year. It costs an average £450 per person to run the camp. Thus we do ask campers to contribute to the costs by paying just £199 each. As the national student body, we have managed to negotiate a substantial discount for all students who apply. The fee covers transport, all meals, full board, activities & a priceless spiritual experience. That’s a lot of bang for your buck!
12. Do I need to take out personal insurance for the week?
Every effort will be made to ensure accidents do not occur, however, Sikhi Camp cannot accept liability for any injury incurred as a result of such an accident. Any concerned person is advised to take out adequate personal insurance for the duration of the Sikhi Camp.
13. Is there any entry criteria?
You need to be over 16 to attend and that’s pretty much it! We ask you not to bring any alcohol or drugs to the site as Guru Granth Sahib Ji will be present.
14. What is the application procedure? What do I need to bring with me?
Please apply using the registration form on our website. This is a secure form which uses a leading internet commerce company (called Stripe) to take your payment. They charge a small fee per transaction but this means the whole process is secure and safe. You will receive confirmation via email once you have submitted your application. If your application has been successful, the BOSS Camp admin team will let you know within 14 working days via email.
A few weeks before camp, we will send you a welcome pack which will explain what happens in more detail and contain a vital and much appreciated recommended packing list too!
15. I have applied but cannot make it to camp anymore. Can I cancel my place?
Sorry to hear this! The BOSS Sikhi Camp team regret to say that they cannot offer a refund if you are unable to attend or have changed your mind. Under exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer you a partial refund. Please contact admin@sikhicamp.org if you think this may be the case. Please do let us know straight away if you are unable to attend so we can offer your place to someone on our waiting list.
Due to the nature of the booking process, strictly no refunds are available if you cancel four weeks before the start of camp.
16. I have more questions: Can I talk to someone before applying?
Sure! We’re always happy to chat and answer any questions you have. Big or small. Just drop an email to info@sikhicamp.org or call 07935 900 546. You can also follow us on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Soundcloud and YouTube by searching for Sikhi Camp or BOSS.Sikhs. For the latest information, Sign up for our free newsletter too.
