India Retreat 2025: Pilgrimage of Yogis & Saints

Dear Yogis,

We invite you to join us on our next spiritual pilgrimage to India in January 2025!

This pilgrimage is to support our students with personal growth, transformation and spiritual connection as we immerse ourselves in the spiritual richness of India. Our journey will be from January 4 to January 16, 2025, and we will be visiting Delhi, Rishikesh and Varanasi.

This two-week retreat will include daily practices such as yoga, pranayama, meditation, puja, and daily exploration of spiritually significant places where Saints and Yogis have practiced and taught. We will learn about the lives, stories, and teachings of saints and yogis who have walked this path before us, as well as the land which they have practiced on. 

We invite you to experience the transformative energy of this ancient land and traditions, and let us support you to step deeper into your spiritual journey.

With joy & excitement

Deepa & Kym

The Journey

Delhi

Our journey begins in Delhi, where participants will arrive and spend a few days settling in and visiting some of the city's most sacred sites. These locations offer a glimpse into the spiritual diversity and richness of India's capital.

Lotus Temple, Bahá'í Faith: The Lotus Temple, an architectural marvel shaped like a blooming lotus flower, is a Bahá'í House of Worship that welcomes people of all faiths. The Bahá'í Faith, founded by Bahá'u'lláh in the 19th century, teaches the unity of all religions and the importance of universal peace and equality. Bahá'u'lláh's teachings emphasize the spiritual unity of humanity, the elimination of prejudice, and the harmony between science and religion.

Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, Sufi & Islamic faith: The Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is the mausoleum of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. A prominent figure in the Chishti Order of Sufism (Sufism is a mystical path in Islam), Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya's teachings centered on love, compassion, and the renunciation of material wealth. The Dargah is a place of deep spiritual resonance, attracting devotees from various backgrounds who come to seek blessings and experience the saint's enduring spiritual presence.

Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Sikh faith: Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, with its striking golden dome and serene waters of the Sarovar (holy pond), is a major Sikh house of worship. This sacred site is associated with Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, who preached the oneness of God, equality of all people, and selfless service to humanity. The teachings of Guru Nanak emphasize living an honest life, sharing with others, and remembering God at all times.

Exploring Delhi: During our stay in Delhi, you will have the opportunity to reflect, and connect with the spiritual energies of these mystics from different traditions. We will also take time to have fun, go shopping, get oriented and eat delicious food!

Rishikesh

After Delhi, we will travel to Rishikesh by train. This journey is not only a common mode of transport but also a wonderful way to connect with the local experience and witness the diverse landscapes and people of India.

Exploring Rishikesh: Rishikesh, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Himalayas," is a town steeped in spiritual heritage. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Rishikesh has been a sanctuary for saints and yogic practitioners for millennia. Visitors can enjoy serene walks along the ghats, participate in massage and kirtan sessions, and immerse themselves in the town's tranquil ambiance. The lively markets and local cafes also offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the area

Kunja Puri Temple: Perched at an altitude of 1,645 meters, the Kunja Puri Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. This temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and the Doon Valley. It is believed to be one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, where the body parts of the goddess Sati fell. Pilgrims visit this temple to seek blessings and experience the powerful spiritual vibrations that emanate from this sacred site.

Vashishta & Arundhati Guha (Cave): Vashishta Guha is an ancient cave where the sage Vashishta, one of the seven great sages (Saptarishis), is said to have meditated, and his wife Arundhati is said to have meditated close by. Located along the banks of the Ganges, this cave offers a tranquil environment ideal for deep meditation and introspection. The cave's spiritual significance and serene surroundings make it a powerful spot for seekers to connect within.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated at an altitude of 1,330 meters amidst dense forests. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison (Halahala) that emerged from the ocean during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), which turned his throat blue, giving him the name Neelkanth (the blue-throated one). Pilgrims visit this temple to pay homage to Lord Shiva and experience purification and release of ‘poison’ from within, that occurs when we ‘churn’ ourselves through spiritual practice.

Ganga Aarti on the river bank: One of the most enchanting experiences in Rishikesh is the Ganga Aarti, held at the Triveni Ghat. As the sun sets, devotees gather along the banks of the Ganges to participate in this ritual, which involves the offering of lamps to the river goddess. The aarti is accompanied by the chanting of hymns, the ringing of bells, and the fragrance of incense, creating a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Famous Yogis of Rishikesh: While we are in Rishikesh, we will also learn about the Kriya Yoga and Nath lineage that have played a crucial role in the evolution and preservation of yoga practices. We will explore the teachings of renowned Kriya Yogis such as Babaji and Sri M. We will also hear about other well known Yogis such as Sivananda, and Ananda Mayi Ma, whose lives and teachings continue to inspire spiritual seekers worldwide.

In Rishikesh, you will have ample opportunities to explore, go shopping, get massages, go swimming and deepen your spiritual practice amidst the serene and spiritually charged environment of this ancient town.

Varanasi

From Rishikesh, we will travel to Varanasi in the comfort of a flight. Known as one of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is a place of immense historical and mythological significance. Here, we will mostly explore on foot or by boat along the Ganges River, immersing ourselves in the vibrant spiritual energy of this ancient city.

Exploring Varanasi: Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, is considered the spiritual capital of India. According to Hindu mythology, the city was founded by Lord Shiva, making it one of the most sacred places for Hindus. Varanasi is a hub of spiritual activity, where rituals, prayers, and festivals are a constant part of daily life. Pilgrims from all over the world come to Varanasi to seek blessings, perform rituals, and attain liberation (moksha).

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that a visit to this temple and a dip in the holy Ganges can cleanse one's sins and lead to salvation. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, reflecting the resilience and enduring faith of its devotees.

Lahiri Mahasaya Samadhi Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lahiri Mahasaya, a key figure in the Kriya Yoga tradition. Lahiri Mahasaya revived the practice of Kriya Yoga and made it accessible to householders. His teachings emphasize the importance of direct spiritual experience and the practice of meditation to realize one's true nature. The Samadhi Temple is a serene place where devotees can meditate and connect with the spiritual legacy of Lahiri Mahasaya.

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most spectacular spiritual ceremonies in Varanasi. As the sun sets, priests perform the aarti with lit lamps, chanting hymns, and ringing bells, offering their prayers to the river goddess Ganga. This mesmerizing ritual draws thousands of devotees and tourists each night who come to witness this divine ritual.

Tailanga Swami Math: The Tailanga Swami Math is associated with Tailanga Swami, a renowned saint known for his miraculous feats and deep spiritual wisdom. Tailanga Swami, also known as the "Walking Shiva of Varanasi," lived an ascetic life and is revered for his profound teachings and spiritual powers. The math serves as a place of worship and reflection for his devotees.

Sarnath, Buddha’s first sermon: Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It is here that the Buddha set in motion the Wheel of Dharma, teaching the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Sarnath is home to several stupas, monasteries, and the Dhamek Stupa, marking the spot of Buddha's first sermon. It is a place of deep historical and spiritual importance for Buddhists worldwide.

Manikarnika, Cremation Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi. It is a renowned as a major cremation site, where the fire is said to have been continuously burning for thousands of years. Its name is derived from the legend that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati lost an earring (manikarnika) here. Observing the cremation rites at Manikarnika Ghat is a deeply moving experience, offering a stark reminder of the transient nature of life.

Famous Saints of Varanasi: During our time in Varanasi, we will also learn about other saints associated with the city, such as Paramhansa Yogananda, Kabir, and Tulsidas. Paramhansa Yogananda, the author of "Autobiography of a Yogi," brought the teachings of Kriya Yoga to the West. Kabir, a 15th-century mystic poet, and saint, is known for his profound and inclusive spiritual teachings. Tulsidas, a renowned poet-saint, is celebrated for his epic poem, the Ramcharitmanas, which narrates the life of Lord Rama.

In Varanasi, you will have the opportunity to explore these sacred sites, delve into the rich spiritual history, and deepen your connection with the divine in this ancient city.

Concluding Our Spiritual Journey

From Varanasi, retreat participants can travel back to Delhi for their flight home or are welcome to continue their adventures either directly from Varanasi or Delhi. For those looking to extend their journey, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring: The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra and the serene landscapes of Nepal are relatively close and easily accessible from Varanasi. The Golden Temple in Punjab and exploring the palaces in the deserts of Rajasthan are also in North India.

We can provide you with contact information for Sanjay, our reliable travel agent who can assist you with your onward travel plans, ensuring a seamless continuation of your adventure.

We’re excited for you to join us on this spiritual journey through India's sacred citiesI

Yours in Yoga,

Deepa & Kym