Holy Rituals on the Ganges

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Delhi - Rishikesh - Haridwar
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 499.- per person (excluding flights)

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims (and The Beatles!) as you journey north to the spiritual towns of Rishikesh and Haridwar. Both destinations are set on the banks of the sacred River Ganges and are a magnet for pilgrims. Soak up the spiritual serenity and watch as pilgrims take a purifying bath in the holy river.

Day 1 – Journey to Rishikesh

In the morning, a driver will pick you up at your hotel in Delhi and you will travel north to Rishikesh in the hills of Uttarakhand (a journey of approximately 5 hours). Rishikesh lies in a picturesque setting at the foot of the Himalayas, and on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. It’s an important place for Hindus and there are many temples and ashrams in the town. On arrival check into your comfortable hotel where you will spend the next two nights.

Day 2 – Soak up the spiritual serenity & try yoga

Take the day to stroll through Rishikesh , which is well-known as the yoga capital of India. Ever since the Beatles spent a few weeks in an ashram here in the 1960s, yogis have descended on the town and now there are endless yoga options, from beginners’ classes to long-lasting ashram stays. What could be better than a calming, spiritual experience on the shores of the most sacred river in India? If you wish, we can arrange a yoga taster class for you. The river here is clear and clean, so if you ever wanted to dip your toes in the Ganges then this is the perfect time.

Day 3 – Holy Haridwar

This morning, continue your journey to Haridwar, one the holiest places of pilgrimage in India. The Ganges is worshipped as a deity in India and the water is used in every puja (Indian prayer). On some days, thousands of believers gather at the ghats. People bathe in the Ganges, offerings with candlelight float down the river and people pray and sing together. Vishnu is also said to have left a footprint at the Har-ki-Pairi Ghat in Hardiwar and a special ritual (aarti) takes place here every evening. We definitely recommend witnessing a traditional Aarti ceremony up close. You’ll stay in a comfortable haveli in the old town.

Day 4 – Departure from Haridwar

In the morning you’ll have time for breakfast and perhaps a stroll through the charming old town, where you can pick up one or two last minute souvenirs. Sadly, it’s now time to say goodbye to the spiritual atmosphere of Haridwar and continue on your next Indian destination.