Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, where vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and cultural connections create a journey like no other. This spring, celebrate Holi—the Festival of Colors—in its most authentic form, experiencing the joy, togetherness, and spiritual essence of this ancient celebration.

Marvel at the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, trek to Himalayan temples hidden in the clouds, engage with local artisans keeping traditions alive, and celebrate Holi with village communities in a way that goes beyond just colors—embracing music, dance, and heartfelt connections.

This is not just a trip—it’s a transformative journey that will leave you enriched, energized, and forever connected to the soul of the Himalayas.

This extraordinary journey blends adventure, spirituality, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes—offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A Holi like no other – celebrating in an ancient temple

Hunting for rhododendron colors in the himalayan flower forests

Experiencing Himalayan life while staying at a comfort luxury permaculture retreat

The grand icon – the taj mahal visit

Unique Himalayan adventures & nature experiences

• Trek to the highest shiva temple in the world (Tung Nath, 3,470m) & Chandrashila peak (4,000m): a sacred journey leading to sweeping 360° views of the Himalayas, including Nanda devi & Trishula peaks.

• Stand at Devprayag – the birthplace of the holy Ganges: witness the powerful confluence of the Alaknanda & Bhagirathi rivers, forming the legendary ganga river—a deeply sacred moment in Hindu tradition.

• Forest bathing & meditation in mystical Himalayan woods: engage in shinrin-yoku, a Japanese-inspired forest immersion practice, surrounded by ancient trees and Himalayan folklore.

• Swimming in the clearest Himalayan rivers & waterfall trek

• A sacred encounter - exploring hidden temples & caves

• Trek to remote, lesser-known Himalayan temples, participate in fire ceremonies, and meditate inside mystical caves used by sages.
  
  Cultural immersion & transformational experiences

• Immersive village life & handicraft experience: spend a day with "untouchable" artisan tribes, learn ancient handicraft skills, and directly contribute to reviving a dying art.

• Cooking in the wild & learning lost Himalayan recipes

• Ganga aarti ceremony in Rishikesh - a spiritual spectacle: participate in a sacred fire and water ritual on the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by chants, fire lamps, and divine energy.

• Beatles ashram visit in Rishikesh - tracing the steps of legends: walk through the historic maharishi Mahesh yogi ashram, where the Beatles meditated in 1968, inspiring their most iconic music.

• Riverside bonfire & star gazing in the Himalayas: experience the magic of a night under the stars, storytelling with locals, and traditional music around a bonfire.

• Sunrise yoga & ancient breathing practices in the Himalayas: practice yoga in nature at the birthplace of yoga!
  
  why this trip is unlike any other?

• 100% off-the-beaten-path – no tourist traps, only authentic Himalayan experiences.

• Taj mahal + Himalayas – a rare combination of India's most iconic monument and its most mystical landscapes.

• Impact-driven travel – directly uplifting 557 local lives, supporting women, artisans, farmers, and schools.

• Eco-conscious & sustainable – stay in off-grid forest cabin, boutique retreat, and permaculture farm.

• A deeply transformational journey – this isn't just a trip—it’s a life-changing experience that stays with you forever.

• This trip will positively impact 557 people out of which 507 are women.

• Supporting widows and victims of domestic violence by participating in cultural experiences as the guide, village hostess, and women village groups provide these experiences. (a visit from a group of 8 guests our village hostess can sustain herself for 3 months)
  

• Cleaning Himalayan Drives are help regularly, an initiative aimed to raise awareness about waste management & segregation in the region.
  

• Teaching locals about waste management and afforestation by our action-clean drive.
  

• Supporting women and youth empowerment through our eco-retreat farm stay.
  

• Sustaining the local farmers as food is sourced by our farm and local farmers practicing organic farming.
  

• Reviving local handicrafts and folk music by providing livelihood to the grass-root untouchable handicraft tribes
  

• Supporting local schools by providing financial and educational programs for the

  village children

CLOTHING

• Casual cargo pants in quick dry fabric X2

• Light weight Fleece jacket

• Warm jacket

• Rain coat/poncho

• Full sleeves t-shirt x2

• Short sleeves t-shirt /top x2

• Sun hat

• Woollen hat, gloves and scarf

• Bandana / light Scarf

• Shorts and t-shirt to swim

• 2- 3 casual outfit (full length pants / skirts / dress)

• Marino wool base layer
  
  

FOOTWEAR

• 1 Pair of lightweight hiking boots/shoes: should be well broken in and comfortable

• 1 Pair of comfortable sandals/flip flop

• 3-4 pairs of socks
  
  

Optional:

• Little gifts for school children and hosts (ex- sweets, pen, pencil etc)

• Tipping is really appreciated in India. (will provide a tipping chart)

• Binoculars (wild life watching)

Do's

• Clothing:

- Legs & Shoulders Covered

- Loose Clothing

• Eating with right hand

• Feel free to give tips

• Please follow instructions given by guide in villages

• When giving someone something, please use right hand
  
  

Dont's

• Clothing: - Please do not dress in "revealing"? attire
  

• No handshake with the opposite sex

• Late night not to wander off alone
  

• No shoes in people's homes, temples and kitchen

• No public display of affection or kissing

• Beware of pickpockets in large cities

Delhi airport arrival

Rest

Meet & Greet

Pick up from the airport.

• You will be picked up from the airport.

• Upon arrival, settle into your airport hotel and take some time to rest and unwind after your journey.

• In the evening, we’ll come together for a warm welcome dinner, where you’ll have the chance to meet fellow travelers, connect over shared experiences, and receive an introduction to the exciting journey ahead.

Meals:

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Ashok Airport Resort

Delhi to Devprayag

Rest

Tea ceremony & introductions

Ganga Confluence Point

• At sunrise, we set off in a private vehicle toward Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers unite to form the sacred Ganges. The journey unfolds through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, with peaceful stops along the way.

• Upon arrival, we settle into a boutique hotel with stunning river views. After a short rest, we visit the holy confluence, a site of deep spiritual significance.

• As evening falls, a tea ceremony and program introduction bring us together, with each guest receiving a handmade journal to capture reflections.

• After a nourishing dinner, we unwind, embracing the serenity of the mountains.

Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Stay:

The Tatva Devprayag

• Into the deep Himalayas

• Arrival at Dea Avnova

• Welcome ceremony

• River village & temple walk

• After breakfast, we depart in private taxis, winding through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes next to the river Ganges toward isolated mountain villages. Along the way, we pause at sacred Prayags. 4 hrs

• Arriving at Dea Avnova, we’re warmly greeted by the local community with traditional music and a welcoming ceremony and welcome lunch. This boutique retreat and permaculture farm, cared for by locals, is part of our empowerment project.

• After a quick tour and some rest, we set off on a peaceful walk through a river village, visiting an ancient Himalayan temple, connecting with the spirit of the land.

• Dinner Around the fire.

Meals:

Breakfast

Welcome Drink & lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• Yoga & Mindful Start

• Gopeshwar Market Exploration

• Visit Gopinath Temple & Historic Priest Quarters

• Leisure & Relaxation

• As the Himalayan sun rises, we begin the day with refreshing yoga, followed by a wholesome breakfast to fuel our journey. The morning is yours—relax in the retreat’s tranquility or explore the surrounding hills on a self-guided hike.

• Later, we travel to Gopeshwar, where the ancient Gopinath Temple stands as a 9th-11th century architectural marvel. A temple representative shares its centuries-old legends, enriching our experience before we enjoy a traditional lunch.

• We explore Gopeshwar’s lively market, selecting handcrafted kurtas to embrace local traditions. We will shop for Holi colors and sweets. As evening falls, we return to our homestay for tea and a reflection ceremony, sharing stories and insights from the day.

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• HOLI CELEBRATION

• ANCIENT RIVER PRATICE

• COOKING COURSE
  
  
  We begin our Holi experience with a sacred ceremony

at our retreat’s temple, setting intentions for the day

ahead. After a hearty breakfast, we prepare for the

festival of colors before heading to an ancient Shiva

temple in Gopeshwar, home to one of the most

authentic and spirited Holi celebrations in India.

Here, we immerse ourselves in the true essence of

Holi—celebrating with the locals through music,

dance, and a joyous explosion of colors and flowers.

After the festivities, we return to the pristine river in

front of our retreat to cleanse and rejuvenate.

Following an ancient Himalayan ritual, experiencing

an age-old practice of washing hair with native tree

bark, a tradition deeply rooted in Himalayan culture (a

forgotten practice).

In the afternoon we will have a cooking course after

collecting vegetables and herbs from our

permaculture garden.


Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• ROHDODENRON HUNT -1

• ANCIENT GODDESS TEMPLE &

• ATRIMUNI CAVE & WATERFALL

• TEA BY THE RIVER & RETURN

• EVENING OF RELAXATION
  
  After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive to

Mandal, a picturesque village where our 5-kilometer

trek to the ancient Anasuya Temple begins. The trail

winds through dense forests, leading us to this

centuries-old shrine, a serene sanctuary dedicated to

Goddess Anasuya.

We arrive in Anasuya village, a settlement of just two

families, steeped in history and tradition. Here, we are

welcomed into a local home for lunch, savoring

authentic Himalayan cuisine while connecting with

the community.

Our journey continues along a forest trail, leading us

to the Atrimuni Cave, hidden behind a cascading

waterfall. Once a meditative retreat for the sage

Atrimuni, the cave exudes powerful spiritual energy,

offering a moment of quiet reflection.

We collect some Rhododendrons to take home to

make a delicious chutney

As we descend, we pause at a quaint tea stall by the

riverbank, enjoying a refreshing break before heading

back to our retreat.

Back at the retreat, we unwind and rejuvenate over a

delightful dinner, reflecting on the day’s journey

through history, nature, and tradition


Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• ROHDODENRON HUNT -2

• YOGA & FOREST BATHING

• WINDOW TO THE HIMALAYAN LIFE
  
  

After breakfast, we embark on a serene hike into the

forest, experiencing the ancient practice of Shinrin

Yoku, or forest bathing. Guided gently through our

unique three-step Himalayan method, we surrender

to the untouched beauty, breathing in the fresh

mountain air and absorbing the calming melodies of

nature.

Leaving the forest behind, we are welcomed by village

women who guide us into Bandwara, a picturesque

village with charming historic architecture. Here, we

engage with the community, learning about their daily

lives, traditions, and the vital roles women play in

sustaining the village.

We sit down to a home-grown organic lunch at one of

the village lady's house, a true farm-to-table experience

showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Back at the retreat, we gather for a reflective tea

ceremony, sharing insights from the day. As evening

sets in, we enjoy a peaceful dinner, followed by free

time to unwind and rest beneath the starlit Himalayan

sky

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• ROHDODENRON HUNT -3

• WILD LIFE SANCTUARY

• ASCENT TO THE HIGHEST SHIVA TEMPLE

• GIVING BACK TO THE HIMALAYAS
  
  

After a hearty breakfast, we set out for Chopta, a

hidden gem within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary.

From here, our 3.5 km trek begins, winding through

alpine trails filled with the Rohdodendron toward

Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple (3,650m).

This 1,000-year-old sanctuary, known as the "Lord of

the Peaks,

" stands as a testament to ancient

spirituality, offering sweeping Himalayan views along

the way.

We will look for various colored Rhododendrons and

listen to the stories of flower goddess here.

On our descent, we take part in a clean-up drive,

leaving the trail pristine and untouched, just as nature

intended.

Note: Guests not feeling fit to do this trek an alternative,

easier hike will be arranged

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• YOGA

• NATURE DRIVE IN THE SANCTUARY

• FOREST TEMPLE VISIT

• COOKING IN THE WILD LIFE SANCTUARY

Morning Yoga

After breakfast, we head to the middle of the

Kedarnath wild life sanctuary, a 4 km hike through

lush forests to this ancient nag temple. This temple is

a peaceful place emanating energy, and only locals

know about this hidden temple. We will gather wood,

which we will use for starting the fire to cook here

with the locals.

Meditation- Forest Bathing.

After lunch, we continue towards our next off grid

accommodation at Chopta in the middle of the wild

life sanctuary.

We will enjoy our meal and have a good night sleep

surrounded by wilderness.

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• YOGA

• RITUAL BY THE RIVER

• A JOURNEY TO A HANDICRAFT TRIBAL VILLAGE

• FAREWELL CELEBRATION – DANCE, MUSIC & FEASTING
  
  

On our final day in the Himalayas, we begin with yoga,

embracing the wisdom of ancient traditions one last

time.

We go for river purification meditation by the river for

a cleansing ritual,

In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic riverside

hike, reaching an untouched tribal village where

artisans share their endangered craft. Guests can

create their own pieces and support preservation by

purchasing directly from the artisans.

As the sun sets, we gather at a charming riverside

café, where a glowing fire and rhythmic beats set the

stage for a magical evening. We dance with local

women, learn traditional moves, and celebrate with

Himalayan melodies. The night ends with a feast of

Himalayan river trout barbecue and regional

delicacies, marking the perfect finale to our

transformative journey.

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Tea Ceremony

Dinner

Stay:

Dea Avnovaa- Himalayan Boutique Retreat

• BACK TO THE FOOTHILLS

• EVENING AARTI/FIRE RITUAL

• DINNER & RELAXATION
  
  

As the sun rises, we say goodbye to our hosts and set

off on our scenic drive to Rishikesh, stopping along

the way for a hearty breakfast.

The journey offers beautiful landscapes and cultural

stopovers, with a relaxing lunch break before reaching

our boutique homestay.

Tea time & a river walk to witness Ganga aarti.

Dinner at our homestay

After dinner we will retire for the day

Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Stay:

ITVARA BOUTIQUE

HOMESTAY

• YOGA

• EXPLORING THE LEGENDARY BEATLES ASHRAM

• SHOPPING

• DINNER & REST
  
  

Yoga before the breakfast.

Walk to the famous Beatles Ashram. We visit the

iconic Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band and

other celebrities sought meditation and inspiration in

1968. Walking through its graffiti-covered walls and

serene meditation halls, we step into a place where

music, spirituality, and history intertwine.

Lunch at a restaurant.

We head back to the hotel and rest.

After the tea time, we go for a Ganga River walk and

witness the daily evening ritual of Ganga Aarti. Aarti is

a pleasant ritual of worshipping the Ganga and

happens at a very picturesque place on the banks of

Ganga. Today we will be part of an Ashram aarti.

After dinner we will have an early night today

Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Stay:

ITVARA BOUTIQUE

HOMESTAY

• YOGA

• DRIVE TO DELHI

• DINNER & REST
  
  

The day begins with a peaceful yoga session,

embracing the final moments of tranquility by the

Ganges before a nourishing breakfast.

A leisurely morning allows for quiet reflection and

relaxation, soaking in the sacred energy of Rishikesh.

We begin our journey back to Delhi, making scenic

stopovers along the way to admire the landscapes

one last time.

Arriving at our hotel, we gather for a final dinner,

reminiscing about our transformative journey before

settling in for a well-deserved rest.

Check out time 11 am next day

Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Stay:

Ashok Airport Resort

• TAJMAHAL

• AGRA FORT

• LUNCH AT A 5 STAR RESTAURANT

• BACK TO DELHI
  

Our adventure begins with a smooth, comfortable drive from
Delhi to Agra in a private AC vehicle. Arriving in the city of

the Mughals, you step into the timeless beauty of the Taj

Mahal, exploring its mesmerizing architecture and rich

history with your private guide.

Next, wander through the grand Agra Fort, a magnificent

walled city echoing stories of emperors and conquests. After

soaking in its splendor, indulge in a delicious 5-star lunch,

savoring the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine.

For those seeking an extra touch of magic, an optional stop

offers a stunning panoramic view of the Taj Mahal from a

peaceful, less-visited spot.

As the journey winds down, relax on the drive back to Delhi,

carrying with you the unforgettable memories of a day

steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking beauty.

Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Stay:

Ashok Airport Resort