Mystics and yogis have known for centuries that Mother Ganges has healing powers: physically, emotionally and energetically. The Ganges is the most sacred river in India. Believers say that her water descends from the celestial world into this earthly plane to purify us. By going to the Gomukh, her source, where she remains unpolluted and pure, one can access those healing powers through intention and ritual. Surrounded by the pristine and massive Himalayas, the glories of divinity become manifest and real in nature.
The trip begins in Dehli, India’s capital, where we will gather and connect. We will then board a luxury coach, whose drivers will guide us safely as we travel north through different villages and towns and along winding Himalayan mountain roads, glimpsing spectacular vistas and valleys where the Ganges meanders gracefully.
Our first stop is Hardiwar, which literally means “Gateway to God” and has been a center of Hindu mysticism for centuries. This is where the Ganges descends to meet the North Indian plains. We will visit local temples and engage in the famous Ganga puja, a celebratory ritual that will invite in blessings. The sounds, smells and sights of this holy city will spark curiosity and a quest for Truth.
We then travel onward to Uttarkashi, where we will receive Lord Shiva's blessing at the landmark Vishwanath Temple, which offers a spectacular view of the river Bhagirathi, a branch of the Ganges.
Next, we will settle in for a couple of days at the village of Gangotri, about 20 km below the source, to acclimate to the altitude before we set out on the “peak” part of our adventure: the trek to Gomukh and back. Porters will accompany us to carry luggage, set up our campsite and cook. We begin with a mountain hike to Chirbasa(9km). The night will be chilly, but we will ignite a campfire and chant mantras to warm us inside and out. The following day, we continue to GOMUKH, where you will be invited to take a cold dip in the holy Ganges. We will also spend time meditating and offering homage there before trekking back down -- leaving behind any old story washed away by the sacred bath.
We then have a long drive down to Rishikesh, another historic city along the Ganges, where we will reset and reflect -- and explore some more worldly pleasures like shopping and an optional whitewater rafting excursion.
Finally, we travel back to Delhi and board a train to the last stop on our adventure: Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and home to over 5,000 temples, large and small. The warmer weather and contrast to the mountains will be welcome. Mantra chanting resonates throughout the town, which is considered to be the “Heart Altar” of Bhakti yogis, those who follow the path of devotion. We will enjoy a boat ride on the sacred river Yamuna, visit significant temples, tour a wonderful charity school that educates very poor children, and take an excursion to holy Govardhan Hill. Every day, we’ll meet local saints and sages living lives of devotion, practice yoga and meditation and enjoy good healthy food. We’ll also make time for a henna party and a little shopping before we return to Delhi’s international airport and bid India farewell -- until we meet again!
Overall notes:
- You should pack light and be prepared for a range of temperatures and conditions. The mountain weather will be warm during the day and very cold at night. Having warm layers that can be added or taken off as needed is a must. You will need to bring your own lightweight but warm thermal sleeping bag for our mountain trek. The weather in Vrindavan will be warmer or even hot.
- You will need comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes, as well as sandals that are supportive for long walks and can be taken on and off easily as we visit temples and homes. Modest dress should be observed in all holy places and temples we visit.
- On most days, we will practice yoga and meditation. Please bring a lightweight, compact travel yoga mat.
- Our main shopping opportunities will be on the latter part of the journey, so you’ll be able to indulge a bit without having to worry about carrying souvenirs and gifts up the mountain!
This will be an especially physically challenging trip, but
spiritually uplifting. Gopi welcomes all who are interested but
asks that you take this on only if you are healthy and fit.
Ideally, you also have some hiking/camping experience and/or have
traveled in developing countries. Before you pay your deposit,
please speak directly with Gopi to confirm that this is the trip
for you.
PRICE:
$2850
Processing fees apply for credit card
payments
IMPORTANT INFO: Plan to arrive in Delhi on the evening of Oct 8 and to depart from Delhi in the late evening of Oct 22 or early morning of Oct 23. Once you register you will be given more details regarding flights (please do not book a flight without confirming the times will work). If there are still restrictions due to Covid-19 we will provide a 100% refund of anything you have paid directly to us (for flights and other expenses, it will depend on airline policies and/or your travel insurance coverage). We request that you receive the Covid-19 vaccine before traveling.