ITINERARY
Gatherings and meetings with Jeremy Pajer, Jorge Luis Delgado & Stephanie Urbina Jones will take place throughout this program. Exact times to be announced on site.
This itinerary is subject to change as needed or as circumstances require.
Arrival in Delhi:
Stepping Into India
Day 1
Your pilgrimage begins as you arrive in Delhi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a traditional Khatak silk scarf ceremony before transferring to your hotel. Take time to rest, ground yourself, and begin opening to the sights, sounds, and energy of India. This first evening offers space to settle in, opening circle and to prepare for the sacred journey ahead.
The Golden Temple & Sacred Devotion
Day 2 , early departure
After breakfast, travel by train to Amritsar, the spiritual heart of Sikhism. In the afternoon, visit the Attari Border, where India and Pakistan meet in a remarkable display of national pride and ceremony.
As evening falls, experience one of the most moving spiritual traditions in India. Return to the Golden Temple to witness the Palki Sahib Ceremony, when the Sikh holy scriptures are carried in a beautiful procession from the temple sanctum to their resting place for the night. The illuminated temple reflected in the sacred waters creates an unforgettable atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
From here, journey into the Himalayan foothills to Dharamshala, home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Upon arrival, participate in the traditional Kora Walk, a sacred circumambulation path around the Dalai Lama's residence. Along the way, encounter Tibetan pilgrims spinning prayer wheels, chanting mantras, and offering prayers for the benefit of all beings.
Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, including the Dalai Lama Temple, Kalachakra Temple, and Namgyal Monastery.
From Sikh Sacred Lands to Tibetan Exile
Day 3
Begin the day with a deeper exploration of the Golden Temple and the nearby Jallianwala Bagh Memorial, a place of remembrance and resilience.
Tibetan Wisdom & Meditation
Day 4
Today is devoted to Tibetan culture, contemplative practice, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
Begin with a guided meditation session at the renowned Tushita Meditation Centre. Surrounded by the peaceful energy of the mountains, this practice offers an opportunity to cultivate presence, awareness, and inner stillness.
This famous monastery was built in the memory of soldiers who devoted their lives to Tibet Freedom War. The monastery complex is serene and beautiful and its décor, style and architecture look amazing. The monastery with the mesmerizing Dhauladhar in its background is one of the finest tourist places in Dharamshala.
End the day with a scenic cable car ride back to McLeod Ganj and time permitting wander through the vibrant Tibetan marketplace.
Later, visit Naddi Village, where expansive views of the snow-covered Dhauladhar Range stretch across the horizon. Explore St. John's Church in the Wilderness, the beautiful Norbulingka Institute, and the Gyuto Monastery, known for preserving advanced tantric teachings and Buddhist philosophy.
Ancient Temples &
Modern Vision
Day 5
Journey from the Himalayas to Chandigarh, India's first planned city.
Along the way, visit the remarkable rock-cut temples of Masroor, often referred to as the "Ellora of the Himalayas." Carved directly into sandstone cliffs, these ancient temples offer a glimpse into India's sacred architectural heritage.
Upon arrival in Chandigarh, explore the imaginative Rock Garden created by artist Nek Chand and experience the unique urban design vision of famed architect Le Corbusier.
Entering the Sacred Ganges
Day 6
Travel south to Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World and one of India's most beloved spiritual destinations.
Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Rishikesh has drawn yogis, sages, and seekers for centuries. Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram and witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a powerful ceremony of light, prayer, and devotion offered to Mother Ganga.
Spend the evening soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the river.
Explore the spiritual landmarks of Rishikesh, including Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mata Temple, and several renowned ashrams. In the afternoon, journey to Haridwar, one of Hinduism's holiest cities.
At sunset, gather at Har Ki Pauri to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti. As hundreds of lamps illuminate the river and devotional chants fill the air, you will experience one of the most profound spiritual ceremonies in all of India.
Rishikesh & Haridwar: Sacred Waters
Day 7
Begin the day with yoga and meditation beside the Ganges, welcoming the sunrise amid the foothills of the Himalayas.
The Pink City of Jaipur
Day 8
Fly from Dehradun to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and one of India's most colorful cities.
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is rich with royal history, magnificent architecture, and vibrant culture. After settling into your hotel, enjoy time to relax or explore the old city streets at your own pace.
Palaces, Forts & Sacred Ceremony
Day 9
Today you explore the grandeur of Rajasthan.
Visit the magnificent Amber Fort, rising above the surrounding hills, and stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. Later, discover the City Palace and the ancient astronomical observatory known as Jantar Mantar.
As evening approaches, participate in the devotional Aarti ceremony at Govind Devji Temple, where music, prayer, and community come together in joyful celebration.
The Taj Mahal:
Monument to Love
Day 10
Journey to Agra, home of one of the world's most celebrated architectural masterpieces.
Visit the breathtaking Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in honor of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. More than a monument, the Taj Mahal stands as a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and devotion.
You will also explore the impressive Agra Fort, once the seat of Mughal power.
Journey to the Eternal City
Day 11
Travel by train to Varanasi, India's most sacred city and one of the oldest living cities on Earth.
Upon arrival, settle into your hotel before heading to the ghats at sunset. Here you will witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests offer fire, incense, and prayer to the sacred river in a ceremony that has captivated pilgrims for centuries.
This day we will do Breathwork in one of the oldest city on earth. What?
Varanasi: Life, Death & Liberation
Day 12
Rise before dawn for a sunrise boat journey on the Ganges.
As the first light of day illuminates the ancient ghats, witness the timeless rhythms of life unfolding along the riverbanks. Pass temples, pilgrims, holy men, and the sacred cremation grounds of Manikarnika Ghat, where Hindus believe liberation from the cycle of rebirth can be attained.
Later, explore the winding alleyways of Old Varanasi, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath area, and experience the bustling markets that have thrived here for generations.
In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first teachings after attaining enlightenment, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion.
YES WHERE BUDDA DELIVERED HIS FIRST TEACHINGS
Return to Delhi
Day 13
Fly from Varanasi to Delhi. Today marks the completion of your Indian pilgrimage.
You may return home carrying the blessings and insights of this sacred journey—or continue onward into Nepal, where ancient Himalayan wisdom, Buddhist traditions, and breathtaking mountain landscapes await.
Continue your pilgrimage beyond India and into the sacred landscapes of Nepal, where ancient Buddhist traditions, Himalayan vistas, living temples, and profound spiritual teachings have flourished for centuries. This extension invites you deeper into the heart of the Himalayas, offering opportunities for reflection, cultural immersion, and encounters with some of the most revered spiritual sites in the world.
For those participating in the India pilgrimage only, upon returning to Delhi you will transfer to your hotel for an evening of rest, reflection, and integration of your journey. The following day, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Arrival in Kathmandu:
Gateway to the Himalayas
Day 13
Following your flight from Varanasi through Delhi, arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant spiritual and cultural center of Nepal.
Nestled within a valley surrounded by Himalayan foothills, Kathmandu has long served as a crossroads of Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and gather for an orientation to the Nepal portion of the journey.
As you begin exploring this remarkable valley, you'll discover a place where ancient temples, sacred shrines, prayer flags, and centuries-old traditions remain woven into everyday life.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner as we gather in community and prepare for the days ahead.
Sacred Kathmandu Valley: Buddhism, Art & Blessings
Day 14
Today is devoted to exploring some of the most significant spiritual and cultural treasures of the Kathmandu Valley.
Begin at the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Surrounded by monasteries, prayer wheels, chanting monks, and pilgrims from across the Himalayan region, this sacred mandala serves as a powerful center of devotion and spiritual practice. Here, receive a special blessing ceremony led by a respected Buddhist teacher.
Continue to Patan, known as the City of Fine Arts, where centuries of Buddhist and Hindu traditions coexist in stunning architectural beauty. Explore ancient courtyards, temples, and monasteries before participating in a traditional Paubha (Thangka) painting experience. This meditative artistic practice offers a unique opportunity to connect with Nepal's rich spiritual heritage while creating a meaningful keepsake of your journey.
Enjoy a traditional Newari lunch and cultural experience before sampling organic Himalayan teas at a local Chiyaghar.
Later, visit the revered Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world. Situated along the holy Bagmati River, this ancient complex provides a profound glimpse into Hindu spirituality and the cycles of life and death.
As evening approaches, witness the moving Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Bagmati River, where sacred chants, lamps, and devotion illuminate the night.
Nagarkot: Mountain Silence & Renewal'
Day 15
Leave the bustling valley behind as you journey into the Himalayan foothills toward the peaceful mountain retreat of Nagarkot.
Along the way, visit Changu Narayan Temple, one of Nepal's oldest and most revered temples. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers extraordinary examples of ancient Nepalese craftsmanship and sacred architecture.
From here, embark on a walking meditation through beautiful countryside trails leading toward Telkot. The peaceful pace of the walk allows time for contemplation while taking in sweeping views of terraced hillsides and distant mountain peaks.
Continue to Nagarkot, a serene hilltop village renowned for its panoramic Himalayan vistas. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and expansive skies, this is a place for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation.
The remainder of the day is yours to relax, receive healing, journal, meditate, or simply absorb the beauty and stillness of the mountains.
Namobuddha & Bhaktapur: Compassion and Living Tradition
Day 16
Wake early to witness sunrise over the Himalayas, one of the most inspiring natural spectacles in Nepal.
After breakfast, travel to Namobuddha, one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the country. According to tradition, this is the place where the Buddha, in a previous lifetime as a prince, offered his own body to save a starving tigress and her cubs. The story embodies the profound Buddhist teaching of compassion and selfless service.
Visit the monastery, prayer sites, and sacred grounds while learning about the spiritual significance of this revered location. When possible, there may be opportunities to interact with resident monks and gain insight into monastic life
Continue to Bhaktapur, an extraordinary medieval city often described as a living museum. Wander through beautifully preserved courtyards, ancient temples, intricate wood carvings, and historic palaces that reflect the artistic brilliance of Nepal's Malla Kingdom.
In the evening, enjoy a special presentation by a former Kumari, Nepal's Living Goddess. Through her personal story, gain rare insight into one of the world's most fascinating spiritual traditions and the role of the Kumari within Nepalese culture.
Departure: Carrying the Journey Home
Day 17
As your Himalayan pilgrimage comes to a close, enjoy a final breakfast before transferring to the airport for your departure.
Whether your journey began in India or continued through the sacred valleys and mountains of Nepal, you leave carrying far more than memories. You return with the teachings, blessings, friendships, and experiences gathered along the way—woven into your own unfolding path.
May the wisdom of the Himalayas, the devotion of the sacred rivers, and the spirit of pilgrimage continue to guide you long after you return home.
The End
