Hello to all and warm wishes.
Traveling with a group which shares our interests and is led by the BCBS staff is such an grand opportunity! After reading accounts written by some early pilgrims and early European researchers, and talking with recent travelers who did this on their own, it's clear many would have been happy to be on this trip. On our journey, we will be traveling with many people over many centuries who have made this possible, and who would have been joyful that we can go. It's an honor to travel with them. May all pilgrims from any time be well and happy, and may we share all the aspirations they had for us too.
A few days ago I sent an email response to a previous posting and this posting is generally a duplicate, in case it did not go out. Hope this is of some value.
--As background, my primary Buddhist meditation practice is in the Theravada tradition. Our sangha in Colorado Springs comes from U Bha Khin's lineage, so S. N. Goenka (who taught and inspired the authors of "Along the Path") is sort of a spiritual "great-uncle" to our sangha.
--Also as background, I am a community health dentist, so naturally suggest a thorough preventive dental evaluation (and treatment, if necessary) well before the trip starts, especailly if you've had lots of dental work, to set your minds at ease and also to answer any questions you may have. As Justin mentioned, medical care availability can be an issue in parts of India, and I would well imagine dental care is not much different. Your dentist may recommend equipment, treatment considerations, or special medications to bring "just in case," and please ask them any specific questions. You might also be able to refresh your memory of all the things that happened in 2006 by looking over the magazines in their waiting rooms.
--I have also spoken with the public health experts at my clinic, and they had sound personalized advice about vaccinations, insect repellents, and the like, which may help prevent some unwanted stuff. At any rate, it seems like a good idea to talk with a physician or nurse who is "smart" about travel medicine and who is up-to-date on current recommendations, and some of the vaccinations should be considered before too much more time passes. Many medical people love to travel, too, and you can probably pick up some good travel suggestions.

I am sure we will be in touch several times before the trip. Again, it is an honor to be able to travel with such a group. May we all be well and happy.