About the Tour
Has it been a while since you’ve really focused on your spiritual practice, or even on yourself? Do you want to return to what matters most to you, but you’ve just been too distracted? Perhaps you know there’s something profound in yourself that you want to explore, but you don’t even know where to start.
If this resonates with you, then they invite you to join them and some of their favorite friends and teachers on the Light of Diwali Tour and Retreat, where you’ll embrace your divinity, learn about and practice esoteric Yoga and meditation techniques, connect with like-minded seekers, and explore the spiritual home of the philosophies they love.
For 17 incredible days of your life, you will be immersed within some of the most historically significant and stunning locations in Northern India, including intricate temples, opulent palaces, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and holy waters where you can literally wash your karma away and start your practice again with an open heart and a fresh perspective.
The intention is to marinate your senses in the beauty and majesty of the Golden Triangle and through Rajasthan to remind ourselves of the sacredness within every detail of life and have the kind of eye-opening experience that grounds you in the present moment. Then you will move on to Rishikesh, the Home of Yoga, where you will engage in more focused practice together, digging deep into the layers of being, sharing insights, and plugging into Source.
What to expect:
1. Daily Specialized Yoga and / or Meditation Classes
Immerse yourself in thematic yoga sessions led by J’aime, exploring various esoteric yoga practices and meditation techniques to enhance your well-being and deepen your understanding of the metaphysics of Classical Hatha Yoga.
2. Yoga Philosophy Discussions
Engage in insightful conversations about yoga philosophy, providing a deeper understanding of the ancient principles guiding the practice.
3. Personalized Spiritual Guidance
Receive personalized spiritual guidance to enrich your spiritual journey and deepen your connection with yourself.
4. Entrances to All Tourist Destinations
Enjoy hassle-free access to all the tourist destinations on the itinerary, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and history of each place.
5. Private Air-Conditioned Tour Bus
Travel in comfort and style aboard the private air-conditioned tour bus, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey between destinations.
6. Domestic Flights
Seamlessly navigate the vast landscapes of North India with included domestic flights for your convenience.
7. Tour Guide
Benefit from the expertise of the local tri-lingual Rajasthani tour guide, ensuring you have all the information and assistance you need during the journey. Spanish-English-Hindi
8. Weeklong Yoga Retreat with Certificate
Deepen your yoga practice and gain wisdom with a weeklong Yoga Intensive, offering a structured program to enhance your skills and knowledge. With daily yoga and meditation, guest teachers, satsangs, and excursions.
9. Live Translation
For the Spanish-speaking guests, you will have live translation so you never have to miss a word!
10. Tour Book
A printed guide for you to take home with interesting information about every location you will visit, including history, mythology, important facts, and images.
11. 50-Hour Yoga Retreat with Certificate
Deepen your yoga practice and gain certification with a 50-hour Yoga Intensive, offering a structured program to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Itinerary:
Day before the tour
Arrive in Delhi and rest in the hotel.
Day 1: Delhi Day Tour
- Humayun’s Tomb: Also referred to as Maqbara-e-Humayun, Humayun's tomb is an architectural masterpiece. It is considered to be the first garden-tomb to be built in India. It is the tomb of the Mughal emperor Humayun. Humayun's tomb has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1993 which further adds to the importance of this impressive structure of red sandstone.
- Akshardham Temple: Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is one of the most important social, religious, and cultural places in Delhi. The beauty of Akshardham Temple is its architecture. It is built of 234 ornately carved pillars; 20,000 murtis of sadhus, acharyas, and devotees; and has nine beautifully crafted domes. The temple houses the murtis of Swami Narayana, Shiv Parvati, Radha Krishna, Sita Ram, and Lakshmi Narayan.
- Hauz Khas Village: Deer Park walkaround and shopping. Known as ‘The National Capital of Ethnic Chic’, the hip and trendy Hauz Khas Village is a beautiful urban village nestled in a corner among the ruins of domed tombs of Muslim royalty from the 14th to 16th centuries. Old homes here have been converted into fashion boutiques, chic homestays, art galleries, jewelry shops, book and antique stores, multi-cuisine restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Visitors can stroll along the lake, watch the beautiful sunset from the ruins of the fort or sip a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants overlooking it.
Day 2: Agra
- Taj Mahal: An immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.
- Agra Fort: Also called Red Fort, the large 16th-century fortress of red sandstone located on the Yamuna River in the historic city of Agra, west-central Uttar Pradesh, north-central India. It was established by the Mughal emperor Akbar and, in its capacity as both a military base and a royal residence, served as the seat of government when the Mughal capital was in Agra. The structure, a contemporary of Humāyūn’s Tomb in Delhi, reflects the architectural grandeur of the Mughal reign in India. The fort complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
Day 3 to 4: Jaipur
- Amber Fort: The legendary Amber Fort is a seven centuries old Rajputana palace located around 11 kilometers away from Jaipur. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is among the most magnificent architectural wonders of India. Set up on the Aravalli hills, the Amber fort (also known as Amer Fort) was constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592. Built in red and yellow sandstone complemented by white marble, the splendid fortress offers a breathtaking view of the Maota Lake.
- Hawa Majal: The most iconic landmark of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal is a 200-year old monument in the heart of the city. Famous for its unique honeycomb design and Indo-Islamic architecture the fivestoreyed palace has 953 lattice work windows. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh as a summer palace, painted in pink and adorned with floral motifs, dome-shaped arches, and pillars.
- Johari Bazaar: Jaipur is the business hub of Rajasthan, famous for its handicrafts and indigenous products. Johari Bazaar is the oldest and most colorful market in Jaipur, located near Hawa Mahal. It is a shopper’s paradise offering vibrant handmade products, scrumptious local food, and premium quality Kundan jewelry.
- Jaipur City Palace: City Palace used to be the home for the royal family of Jaipur but later it was divided into two parts; one which contains a few courtyards and museums and the other where the royal family still resides. Located in the heart of the old city, it was conceived and built by the founder of Jaipur, the Rajput King Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and expanded by the rulers who inhabited it later.
Day 5: Pushkar
According to the Hindu scripture Padma Purana, Brahma saw a demon trying to kill his children and harass people. He immediately slew the demon with his weapon, the lotus flower. In this process, the lotus petals fell on the ground at three places where springs emerged creating three lakes. Brahma named the place where the petals ("pushpa") fell from his hand ("kar") as "Pushkar". Pushkar is considered one of the most sacred places in India.
- Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple: It is the belief of devotees that a dip in the waters of the lake equals the benefits that would accrue by performing yagnas (fire sacrifices) for several centuries. Brahma Temple is the only temple that is dedicated to Lord Brahma in India. Located near Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple receives many pilgrims to its doorsteps every year. Built in the 14th century, Brahma Temple commemorates Lord Brahma, who is considered the creator of this Universe according to Hinduism.
- Pushkar Camel Safari: Leaving from the center of Pushkar, you will take a camel ride to a viewpoint to watch the sunset. Continuing on to the Pushkar Desert Camp, you will share a vegetarian Rajasthani dinner around a campfire and evening meditation. The campsite includes glamping tents and cottages, all with comfortable amenities. In the morning, you will share breakfast and return to the town for the drive to Udaipur.
Day 6: Chittorgarh to Udaipur
Chittor Fort: Situated some 100 kilometers from Udaipur in the pretty town of Chittorgarh, the fort is reminiscent of Rajputana pride, loyalty, and sacrifice. It is also one of the largest forts in India. Chittorgarh Fort, a magnificent and historic fort in India, is one of the most important attractions in Rajasthan. For those on a trip to Udaipur, this full-of-tragic-lovetales fort is a must visit. Spread
over a huge 700 acres with a perimeter wall of 13 kilometers, this fort once served as the abode of kings and queens. In 2013, UNESCO declared it a world heritage site under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan. After a day of exploration, you willcontinue on to Udaipur and rest.
Day 7 to 8: Udaipur - Diwali
- City Palace and Lake Pichola: Lake Pichola is one of the largest and the oldest lakes that Udaipur features. The City Palace complex extends along the lake shore by nearly a km. It is beautifully surrounded by ancient temples, elevated hilly regions, lofty palaces, and bathing Ghats in all the surrounding locations. This magnificent beauty was crafted back in the year 1559 and served as the power seat for the Maharanas. Presently, the City Palace features courtyards, corridors, huge rooms, mahals, pavilions, terraces, and hanging gardens. There is also a renowned museum in the palace that features the finest Rajput elements of art and culture including brilliant sculptures and colourful paintings.
- Hathi Pol Bazaar: A perfect destination for shopaholics. One will find intricately embroidered and block-printed clothes, jewelry, home decor, accessories, etc. The prices are also very reasonable. Even if you are not there to shop, you can see a variety of items that reflect the true essence of Rajasthan.
- Sunset boat ride - Jag Mandir: An exquisite palace that looks like a floating marble structure in a lake is a sight to behold as one visits the alluring Lake Pichola. This palace known as Jagmandir or Jag Island Palace is located on the southern side of the lake and occupies the island with the same name known as Jag Island.
Day 9
Morning flight: Udaipur to Dehradun. Drive to Rishikesh Retreat Center - Free day in Rishikesh before the yoga intensive begins
Day 10: Rishikesh Weeklong Intensive Retreat
Embark on an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and transformation at the weeklong Yoga Intensive Retreat nestled in the serene surroundings of Rishikesh in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, you will immerse yourself in the sacred traditions of yoga ashram life. Rise with the sun for early morning yoga sessions, where
the rhythmic flow of asanas will awaken your body and invigorate your spirit. Dig deep into the ancient practice of Yoga, harnessing the power of the mind and body to find inner peace and harmony. Engage in thought-provoking philosophy lectures that illuminate the timeless wisdom of yoga, guiding you on a path of self-realization and enlightenment. And under the guidance of esteemed instructors from Samadhi Yoga Ashram, including the revered founder Guru Vishnu Panigrahi, partake in soul-stirring satsangs that ignite your soul and elevate your consciousness. With each moment, each breath, this retreat promises to be an unforgettable odyssey of growth, healing, and transformation.
Day 11: Closing Ceremony and return to Delhi
- Morning yoga and meditation. Closing ceremony: Thank you and goodbye! Flight back to Delhi.
The tour and retreat guests may choose to extend their trip to Varanasi with the below itinerary: pricing 550 USD.
Optional days:
Day 12
Flight: Dehradun to Varanasi: Free afternoon for rest, rejuvenation, and exploration.
- Evening River Ganges Boat Tour: Ganga Arti is one of the five rituals performed regularly for the worship of the Holy River Ganga in Varanasi. Evening Aarti is the final ritual of the day when thousands of locals and pilgrims gather together to offer their prayers to the Mother Ganges. The evening boat ride also includes a visit to the cremation ground at Manikarnika Ghat where you will witness the Hindu funeral ritual, one of the longest-living human cultural traditions still performed today at this same place. Unforgettable energy.
Day 13: Sunrise Aarti at Assi Ghat
For planning a perfect day in one of the oldest cities in the world, you need to start your day very early. You should reach Assi ghat half an hour before sunrise. As soon as you arrive at the Ghat you will feel a breeze of calmness pass through your heart. The synchronized classical musical tones will lead you to the ghat stairs where you will witness the Subah-e-Banaras event. Morning Yoga class.
- Kashi Vishwanath: Also known as the Golden temple because of its gold plated towers, this Golden temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva who is the most adored deity of Varanasi, known as Kashi in ancient times. Kashi Vishwanath temple was constructed in the year 1780 by the proud Maratha ruler, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
- Durga Temple: Built during the 18th century, Durga Temple is also popular in this city. According to legends, the statue of Goddess Durga displayed in the center of the temple was made by the Goddess herself. Every year, devotees visit this revered place during auspicious occasions, particularly Navratri.
Day 14
Morning yoga and meditation. Closing ceremony: Thank you and goodbye! Flight to Delhi.
Retreat Schedule:
During the retreat section of the event, you will have pranayama and yoga in the morning, followed by breakfast.
During the day you will either have time to schedule ayurvedic treatments or have excursions into Rishikesh or Haridwar.
In the evening, you will have meditation practice and / or satsang with guest teachers. You will be practicing Classical Hatha yoga, including pranayama, meditation, and asana.
Sample Schedule:
- 07:30 - 09:30 Yoga and pranayama
- 10:00 Breakfast
- 12:00 Excursion / Spa services / group activities
- 19:00 Meditation and / or satsang
During the entire event, every day will include either a morning yoga practice or an evening meditation practice. Throughout the day you will have historical / philosophical discussions either about the locations you are visiting or yogic concepts. Led by myself and Sanjay, their Brahmin guide.
