Spiritual North India and Varanasi

Whether you want a whirlwind tour or wish to enjoy an in-depth experience of Delhi’s numerous sights, the choice is yours on this full day tour! Discover the Old Town with its bustling markets, including Chandni Chowk, once the grandest Indian market. Head to the imposing Red Fort and onto India’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, beautifully decorated with paintings, inlaid stones, carvings and glazed tiles. Feast at the colorful, open-air food and craft bazaar of Dilli Haat. Visit Laxminarayan Temple, built in honor of the Hindu goddess of wealth, and its beautiful gardens. Discover the UNESCO World heritage site Humayun’s Tomb, a monumental landmark in Indo-Islamic architecture with its perfect synthesis of Persian architecture and Indian traditions. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Red Fort closed on Mondays)

Escape daily routines and enjoy a blissful Himalayan sojourn amidst the superb vistas of Dhauladhar Hills, high above the rugged Kangra Valley of North India. The area offers a mystical blend of natural wonders and cultural delights. Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and traditions as you venture to the Norbulingka Institute and various museums in Mcleodganj, and enjoy performances at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. Unearth Tibetan Buddhism with a visit to the Dalai Lama's residence at Namgyal Monastery. Visit the Tibetan Children's Village School, which is an NGO supporting refugee and destitute children and where monetary donations are welcome. The Men-Tsee-Khang (Tibetan Medical and Astro Institute) offers an insight into traditional alternative healing. (Half Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Discover spirituality at the Himalayas! Begin your tour of Haridwar with an exciting ropeway ride to the top of the majestic mountain, Neel Parvat, to visit the revered Chandi Devi Temple perched atop. Experience the hustle and bustle of a local market. Catch your breath at a viewpoint that overlooks the city before moving onto the revered Mansa Devi Temple on the neighboring mountain, Bilwa Parvat. Explore the famous Har Ki Pauri ghat on the banks of the river, which reputedly houses a large footprint made by the Hindu God Vishnu. Experience the mystical evening Aarti (prayer ceremony) performed by priests at the ghat, and watch thousands of lamps float downriver, accompanied by rhythmic chanting. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Discover the highlights of the temple town of Rishikesh during this private tour. Start with a visit to the iconic Ram Jhula, a suspension bridge over the fast-flowing Ganges River. Accompanied by your guide, stroll on the bridge for a little over a mile to reach the other side, where you’ll visit Parmarth Ashram, a renowned center for yoga and religious learning. Next up is Chaurasi Kutia, better known as the Beatles Ashram. See the spiritual center, where the Beatles learned transcendental meditation and composed some of their hit songs. Afterwards, take a break to buy yourself lunch at a local eatery. Then, you will drive out to Vashishta Cave, located on the sandy shores of the river where the Hindu sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated thousands of years ago. Nearby, you also have Arundhati Cave, named after the sage’s wife. As the sun goes down, make your way to Triveni Ghat for the famous Ganga aarti or river worship. Watch as hundreds of lamps light up the night sky while priests conduct the ceremony to the accompaniment of chants and devotional songs. (Duration: full day; Private activity & transfers; Fitness level: easy; Please note that ashram visit may not be possible on some special occasions or during ceremonies; Best time to travel: Oct-Apr)