Welcome to Delhi, India's bustling capital city. After customs, our representative will meet you with a traditional Indian welcome and escort you to your hotel.

Delhi, one of the oldest and most progressive cities in the world, combines a unique ambience fusing the ancient with the modern. Tremendous ancient monuments stand side-by-side with futuristic buildings, rambling homes are dwarfed by towering luxury hotels, technology intermingles with handicrafts – Delhi is India’s show window. A truly cosmopolitan city, it has brought within its fold people of all ethnic groups and their traditions and cultures, reflected in the variety of arts, crafts, cuisines, festivals and lifestyles.

5:30 pm - Getting to know everyone, followed by dinner. Overnight in our hotel in Delhi(D)

After breakfast we journey to experience and participate in The AGNIHOTRA Ritual ---“A sacred healing FIRE from the ancient science of Ayurveda”. A process of purifying the atmosphere through a specially prepared FIRE. The beneficial effects reduce stress, improve overall health and give one increased energy.

Upon completion of the ceremony we tour of Old Delhi, with its vibrant market lanes, old havelis (mansions) and colorful neighborhoods, and a stunning sense
of journeying back in time. Here, we will visit the Gauri Shankar Temple, the 800-year-old Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.Located amidst the congested lanes of Old Delhi, this Temple is arepresentation of cosmic energy around which the universe revolves,elucidated by a brown lingam (phallas stone) encased in a marble representation of a female organ. The idols of Shiva and Goddess Parvati are beautifully decorated with gold jewelry.

We visit the Kashmiri carpet house where you will see how hand knotted carpets are made.

After lunch, we'll drive through New Delhi, past the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidents Palace) and Parliament House. Our next stop will be the AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE. This temple complex displays millennia of Indian tradition and modern Hindu culture, spirituality, with astounding architecture. This stunning spread of a hundred acres is entirely constructed from pink stone from Rajasthan and marble from Italy, intricately carved with flora and fauna, dancers, musicians and deities, numbering 20,000 with 234 intricately carved columns. All with significance and sacred vibration.

Back to our hotel and dinner. Overnight in our hotel in Delhi. (BLD)

This morning, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Varanasi.

Upon arrival you drive to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. We will visit a Buddhist Temple and Monastery, where we can chat with the Tibetan monks.

Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world, regarded as the spiritual capital of India. The city draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters and perform funeral rites. Along the city’s winding streets there are some 2000 temples, dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. A cultural center of North India for several thousand years, Varanasi is famous for silk fabrics, perfumes and sculptures. The city is known worldwide for its many ghats (embankments made in step stone slabs along the river bank where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions).

We will also visit a very special man who distills the most amazing essential oils! Later we will return to our hotel to relax before dinner.

Overnight in our hotel in Varanasi (BLD)

Early morning drive to the ghats for a boat cruise, where we will watch the ancient city wake up with the rising sun, we will participate in a ceremony and meditation led by Finbarr as the sun rises. Here we have the opportunity of observing pilgrims from all over India performing various rituals alongside the banks of the Ganges later we return to our hotel for breakfast. At noon we will visit the silk factory, observing how the silk weaving is done on foot-powered looms passed on for generations.

After lunch, some free time to rest until 5:00pm. We will then experience a ride on a cycle rickshaw through the busy streets of Varanasi, passing through the traffic and by many Hindu Temples and shrines spread all over the street.

Finally, we reach the banks of the River Ganga to witness the evening aarti of the Ganga (rotating of oil lamps while reciting Sanskrit mantras). The Ganga aarti is an uplifting spiritual ritual infusing us with holy and sacred connection. Afterwards, we will go back to our rickshaws and travel back to our hotel for dinner (Hindus address the River as Ganga or Mother Ganga).Overnight at our hotel in Varanasi (BLD)

This morning, we depart for Delhi and drive to Agra.

Agra, situated in the ancient region Braj, forming part of India’s heartland Uttar Pradesh. Braj is associated with the birth and early life of Lord Krishna. The city of Agra is situated on the west, or right, bank of the river Yamuna, south east of Delhi. The origin of Agra is shrouded in mystery, and its early history is to some extent uncertain; it was only in the time of Akbar that Agra city attained world-wide fame, becoming one of the greatest and grandest cities of that time.

Upon arrival, we will check-in our hotel and after a little rest we will have an opportunity to visit a Colonial style Indian home built in 1870. Here, we will see how craftsmen are working with gold and silver wires doing embroidery. On display they have a 150-year-old elephant made of ivory and inlaid with ten thousand semi-precious and precious stones. Later, we return to our hotel and have some free time till dinner.

Overnight in our hotel in Agra. (BLD)

Today we have an early morning visit the Taj  Mahal. The Taj Mahal is widely recognized as "the jewel of Muslim art" in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage. This wonderful mausoleum was erected by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the empress Arjumand Bano, later called Mumtaj Mahal.

Described as the lustrous pearl, the Taj Mahal’s beauty stems from several factors: the charming site of the vital river bend on which it stands, the reflection of the building in the water mirroring its magnificence, and the white marble façade of the mausoleum in contrast with the natural background of the skyline when viewed from the garden in front, its color, moods and texture changing quite often.

Within the Taj Mahal, we will experience a powerful vortex which connects us to the Divine Mother.

After our sunrise experience, we'll go back to our hotel for breakfast, and later visit the marble factory where one can view the craftsmen working on marble using the same technique that was used 400 years ago. Later we drive to Jaipur.

En route stopping for lunch and later driving to a village known as Abhanari to see Chand Baori, the world famous stepwell. This is the deepest and largest stepwell in India, with 3,500 narrow steps and over 13 stories, extending approximately 100 feet into the ground.

Here, we will also see and experience Harshad Mata Temple or the Temple of Joy and Happiness, a wonderful Hindu Temple.

Later we continue to Jaipur and check in to our hotel. Overnight in our hotel in Jaipur. (BLD).

Jaipur is an amazing city with all its beauty and mysticism. After breakfast, we will visit the Amber Fort, you are transported back in time today, riding royally atop elegantly draped and painted elephants, to the mountain fortress of Amber, discover the amazing Amber Fort and immerse yourself into the lost world of Rajput Maharajas who built this vast and imposing palace. Wander through the courtyards, admiring great halls and temples as well as awe- inspiring architectural features as well as intricate carvings and delicate frescos this is an evocative journey to the past that will live long in the memory. Later we will drive to visit the Galtaji Temple about 10 kilometers from Jaipur City, this site consists of a series of temples built into a narrow crevice in the ring of hills that surrounds Jaipur. A natural spring emerges high on the hill and flows downward, filling a series of sacred kunds (water tanks) in which pilgrims bathe. Visitors and pilgrims can ascend the crevasse, continuing past the highest water pool to a hilltop Temple. Views of Jaipur and its fortifications spread out across the valley floor, and it is believed a Saint Galav lived here.

Jaipur, the first planned city in India, is also known as the Pink City of India. In addition to its role as the provincial capital, the economy of Jaipur is fueled by tourism, gemstone cutting, luxury textiles and is considered a major hub for arts and crafts. Many shops sell antiques, jewelry, gems, carpets and leather products. This afternoon, we will be visiting the gem cutting and textiles gallery. Later, we will be visiting the Birla Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Some free time before dinner. Overnight at our hotel in Jaipur. (BLD)

Pushkar is famous for its annual fair (Pushkar Camel Fair) featuring a trading fete of cattle, horses and camels. [1] It is held over seven days in autumn marking Kartika Purnima according to the Hindu calendar (Kartik month October or November). It attracts nearly 200,000 people. [3] In 1998, Pushkar hosted about 1 million domestic(95%) and international tourist over the year.[6] Pushkar town is famous for its lake known as Pushkar Lake. The lake has 52 ghats. About 400 blue-colored temples surround the holy lake. It makes the atmosphere more spiritual and divine as one can listen to magical chants from temples, Pushkar is the only place in India which has a Brahma Temple. Later we will be visiting the Brahma Temple. Overnight at our hotel in Pushkar. (BLD)

This morning, we depart for Jodhpur, a city in the Thar Desert of the northwestern state of Rajasthan. Its 15th century Mehrangarh Fort is perhaps the most magnificent fort of all in Rajasthan. Set on a rocky hill, the fort overlooks the walled city where many houses are painted in blue. Jodhpur is also known as the Sun City, as the sun shines almost every day of the year on arrival we check-in, then visit the local market where we will have an opportunity to mingle with the locals and witness wonderous variety, especially the women in their vibrant colors and men with their colorful turbans. We shall visit Maharani Textiles, and conclude our day with a visit to Kunj Bihari Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna also known as Sri Nathji, the temple belongs to the Rama Nandi Vaishnava sect of Hindus. Overnight at our hotel in Jodhpur. (BLD)

Holi or the festival of colors. After breakfast we have some free time and later we will participate and celebrate playing Holi, sprinkling colors and having fun. Later in the afternoon we will visit the Mehrangarh Fort . Built in 1459, this imposing structure is enclosed by thick walls where several palaces inside are known for their intricate carvings. Here, you will visit the Temple of MaaChamunda, a Hindu Temple with a dramatic view of Jodhpur City.

Return to our hotel Jodhpur with free time before dinner. (BLD)

This morning, our drive will take us to Ranakpur.

In a remote and peaceful valley of Ranakpur are the most beautifully preserved Jain Temples in India. Built in the 15th century, these temples are known for being the largest and most important temples in the Jain religion. The main temple dates back to 1439 and is called the "four-faced temple.” Covering an area of 48,000 square feet, it has 29 halls, 80 domes and is supported by 1444 marble pillars, each of them intricately carved, yet no two are alike.

Later, we check-in at our hotel. In the evening, we will be entertained with Rajasthani Folk dances followed by dinner.Overnight at our hotel in Ranakpur. (BLD)

Today, we depart to Udaipur, stopping en route, we will visit the Shri Eklingi Ji Temple. Eklingi is believed to be the ruling deity of Mewar.From here, we'll drive to Udaipur. Known as the Venice of the East, it has been dubbed the most romantic spot on the continent of India by a British administrator, James Todd. It is known as "the city of lakes" because of its sophisticated lake system, with seven lakes surrounding the city, and the city itself nestled around the Aravalli range of Mountains. Upon arrival we'll check-in, and after some rest and tea, we'll drive around the city and take a boat ride on the famous Lake Pichola. We will learn why this city is also known as the White City.

Later, dinner at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel in Udaipur. (BLD)

After breakfast, we will drive for about one hour to visit the famous NATHDWARA TEMPLE, also known as Shri Nathjiis famous for being the home of the idol Shri Nathji, a form of child Krishna. It is renowned for its unique rituals and the daily elaborate adornment of the deity. The Temple is a major pilgrimage site attracting devotees from all over the World. After this beautiful experience and positive energy we drive back to our hotel and rest of the day is at leisure or shopping. Overnight at our hotel in Udaipur. (BLD)

This morning we depart for the airport and our connecting flight to Delhi and on to Bagdogra followed by a magical drive through the beautiful, mystical Himalaya mountains, for about three hours, to reach Darjeeling, a city in the State of West Bengal, located in the Himalayas at an elevation of 6700 feet. Upon arrival we check into our hotel in Darjeeling where we will overnight. (BLD)

Darjeeling: Nestled among the rolling mountains, Darjeeling is fondly called "Queen of the Hills"

Here we will experience the amazing energy of The Temple of Good Will, a magnificent white palace and the etheric retreat of the Master El Morya (Master of Ray 1.) Located in the Himalayas above the city of Darjeeling. Magnificent, radiant currents of light pour from his retreat. and allow a physical focus with the hills surrounding the city.  Here we will connect with the vibrational energy of the Temple of Goodwill, Master El Moyra and archangel Michael, the angel of Ray 1.  Darjeeling is known for its tea plantations. Darjeeling hybrid black tea is now an internationally famous tea. (BLD)

Today we will visit DhoomGompa, Located in the Darjeeling hills, 8 km from town. One of the most famous religious monasteries in Darjeeling, DhoomGompa houses several ancestral handwritten documents about Buddhism. We will engage with a beautiful and exquisitely carved statue of Maitryei Buddha.

Observatory Hill & Mahakal Temple: A short walk takes us up the Observatory Hill, home to the famous Mahakal shrine sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Amidst tinkling temple bells and fluttering prayer flags sits a Hindu priest and a Buddhist lama, performing rituals of both faiths. Overnight at our hotel in Darjeeling. (BLD)

Today early morning around 4 am we take a short drive to Tiger Hill.

Tiger Hill is eminently known for its beauty and splendid sights of the early morning sunrise where we witness panoramic view of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga together, it lies at an altitude of 2590 meters. The wonderful view of the snow capped mountains sitting among cotton clouds drawspilgrims from all over the world. Here we will experience ceremony and meditation led by Finbarr before our drive back to our hotel for breakfast. Later we explore the beauty of Darjeeling as we walk through the local bazaar and have lunch at a local restaurant. Visit a local tea plantation and experience the different types of tea. Overnight at the hotel in Darjeeling. (BLD)

Today we drive back through the mountains to reach Bagdogra and board our flight to Delhi. On arrival we check in to our hotel with time for dinner, say goodbye for those of you flying back home this evening with good energy and memories. Flights leave Delhi late evening on the 11^th or early morning on the 12^th or you can overnight in Delhi at our hotel and fly home on the 12/13^th.

Thanks for traveling with Sacred Mystical Journeys, hope to connect with you on another mystical adventure. (BLD)