Andrew Harvey is an author, spiritual teacher, and founder of the Institute of Sacred Activism, dedicated to creating a new world founded in universal compassion and sacred passion for all life.
MOREJoin renowned spiritual teacher Andrew Harvey on a sacred pilgrimage through northern India's holy cities, ancient temples, sacred rivers, forested wilderness, and the quiet beauty of the Himalayan foothills.
From the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh to the wild beauty of Corbett National Park, the peaceful hills of Uttarakhand, and the serene waters of Bhimtal Lake, this journey invites you into a landscape where the sacred is woven into every step. Through meditation, teachings, ritual, time in nature, and visits to revered temples, caves, and ashrams, you will be guided into a deeper encounter with India’s spiritual heart—one shaped by devotion, silence, beauty, and the transforming presence of the Divine. READ MORE
Andrew Harvey is an author, spiritual teacher, and founder of the Institute of Sacred Activism, dedicated to creating a new world founded in universal compassion and sacred passion for all life.
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Tour Description
Our journey begins in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, where ancient and modern worlds meet in a living tapestry of history, culture, and devotion. We then travel north to Haridwar, one of India’s most revered pilgrimage cities, where the holy Ganges flows through a landscape steeped in mythology, prayer, and sacred longing. Here, the pilgrimage begins to unfold in the presence of the river, with the luminous Ganga Aarti at Hari-Ki-Pauri, a purifying dip in the Ganges, and visits to sacred sites including Bharat Mata Temple, Shanti Kunj, and the ashram of Sri Ma Anandamayi, the beloved saint and mystic whose life radiated peace, wisdom, and divine love.
Continuing to Rishikesh, the “Yoga Capital of the World,” we enter a place long cherished by seekers, sages, and pilgrims as a gateway to meditation, spiritual practice, and inner awakening. Set along the banks of the Ganges and surrounded by forested hills, Rishikesh offers a contemplative space to listen more deeply—to the river, to the silence, and to the soul’s call. Our time here includes the renowned Beatles Ashram, the powerful evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, and an exclusive yoga session at Vashishth Cave, a sacred place of meditation where saints and sages have sought spiritual guidance for centuries.
Leaving the river towns behind, the journey opens into the wild beauty of Corbett National Park, where forest, river, and the untamed presence of the natural world remind us of the sacredness of all life. On jungle safaris through this celebrated wildlife sanctuary, we will have the opportunity to witness the rich biodiversity of northern India, from birds and elephants to the elusive Bengal tiger, while experiencing another dimension of the Divine alive in creation.
Our path then leads us into the peaceful hills of Uttarakhand, where the spaciousness of the Himalayan foothills offers a powerful setting for reflection, teaching, and integration. Here, time with Andrew invites us to deepen into the spiritual themes of the journey, exploring the path of transformation, devotion, compassion, and awakened action. Surrounded by forests, mountain air, and quiet natural beauty, there will be space for meditation and personal practice, a riverside walk and picnic, and a visit to Binsar Mahadev Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Our final days bring us through Bhimtal, a serene lakeside town held by mountains and forest, offering a last place of beauty and contemplation before returning to Delhi. Throughout this pilgrimage, the sacred river, temple flame, forest path, and Himalayan hills become companions in an inner journey—one that invites renewal, courage, devotion, and a deeper recognition of the Divine presence within and around us.
To see more photos/videos from our last Himalayas journey check out our Flickr album and our Youtube page!
Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the hotel where you can relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, we’ll gather for an introductory meeting at the hotel, offering a chance to meet your fellow travelers and our tour leader, Andrew Harvey.
(Overnight in Delhi at The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel or similar)
After breakfast, we embark on a four-and-a-half-hour journey to Haridwar. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and settle in. Known as the "Gateway to the Abode of Gods," Haridwar is a city steeped in ancient history, with its origins tracing back to prehistoric times. Over the centuries, Haridwar has been known by many names, each reflecting its rich cultural and spiritual significance. According to Hindu mythology, Haridwar is one of the four sacred sites where drops of nectar, churned from the primordial ocean, are believed to have fallen.
In the early evening we will attend the Ganga Arti at Hari-Ki-Pauri, a mesmerizing ritual that takes place every evening on the banks of the River Ganga. Hundreds of devotees gather at Har Ki Pauri to witness this daily ritual, offering flowers, diyas (small oil lamps), and prayers to the river.
Afterwards, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner to connect with your fellow pilgrims and sample the delicious cuisine of northern India.
(Overnight in Haridwar at Amatra by the Ganges or similar)
This morning is devoted to meditation and a talk with Andrew, offering time to reflect, integrate, and open more fully to the sacred atmosphere of Haridwar.
In the afternoon, we set out to explore some of the city’s meaningful spiritual sites, beginning with Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India. Founded by Swami Satyamitranand Giri and inaugurated in 1983 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, this eight-story temple was constructed by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad as a tribute to patriotic devotion. Each floor represents a different theme, offering visitors a unique journey through India’s cultural, spiritual, and national heritage.
We continue to Shanti Kunj, a renowned ashram and the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP). Established in 1971 by Pandit Sriram Sharma Acharya, Shanti Kunj is an important centre for spiritual learning and practice, drawing seekers to Haridwar in search of inner growth and renewal.
Our last stop of the day is Anandamayi Ma Ashram, a sacred site dedicated to the revered spiritual figure Ma Anandamayi. Known for her mystical and yogic presence, she embodied peace, devotion, and spiritual wisdom. Devotees from around the world come to this ashram to honour her legacy and experience the quiet sanctity of a place shaped by her life and teachings.
(Overnight in Haridwar at Amatra by the Ganges or similar)
Start the day with a holy dip in the Ganges, a sacred ritual believed by Hindus to purify the soul and open the heart to blessing and renewal.
After breakfast, we depart Haridwar and make the short journey to Rishikesh, the renowned “Yoga Capital of the World.” Set along the banks of the Ganges and surrounded by forested hills, Rishikesh has long been cherished by saints, sages, yogis, and seekers as a place of meditation, spiritual study, and inner awakening. The town gained international recognition in the 1960s when The Beatles came here to study with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, helping bring global attention to India’s ancient wisdom traditions.
Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and take time to settle into the peaceful rhythm of this sacred river town. The evening is free for meditation and a talk with Andrew, offering space to reflect on the journey so far and open more deeply to the contemplative atmosphere of Rishikesh.
(Overnight in Rishikesh at Hotel Divine Resort or similar)
After breakfast, visit the Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. In 1968, The Beatles travelled to Rishikesh to study Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a visit that brought international attention to the town and helped shape the world’s growing interest in Indian spirituality. Today, the ashram remains a fascinating and atmospheric site, where traces of its history still speak to the meeting of East and West, creativity and contemplation, music and meditation.
The afternoon is at leisure to rest, explore, or spend time in quiet reflection. You may choose to wander through Rishikesh’s vibrant local markets, known for handicrafts, spiritual items, books, textiles, and devotional offerings, or simply enjoy the peaceful presence of the Ganges.
In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, a powerful sunset ritual on the banks of the river. Drawing visitors from many cultures, languages, and spiritual traditions, this ceremony carries a universal power, transcending words and belief systems to speak directly to the heart. As lamps are offered to the sacred river and prayers rise with the evening light, the Aarti becomes a moving experience of devotion, gratitude, and divine presence.
(Overnight in Rishikesh at Hotel Divine Resort or similar)
Early this morning, drive to Vashishth Cave for an exclusive yoga session on the banks of the Ganges.
Also known as Vashishtha Gufa, this sacred cave has been a revered pilgrimage site for centuries. Saints and sages have meditated here in search of spiritual guidance, and the cave is considered a powerful centre for blessings, silence, and inner peace. Practising yoga in this sacred setting offers a rare opportunity to connect with the deeper spiritual currents of Rishikesh, where the natural beauty of the river and the ancient presence of the cave create an atmosphere of stillness and devotion.
After the session, return to the hotel for breakfast. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may choose to relax at the hotel, walk along the river, or explore the vibrant local markets of Rishikesh, known for their handicrafts, spiritual items, and lively atmosphere.
(Overnight in Rishikesh at Hotel Divine Resort or similar)
After breakfast, we leave the sacred river town of Rishikesh and journey toward Corbett National Park, a forested wildlife sanctuary in northern India’s Uttarakhand State. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, Corbett is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, wild elephants, deer, reptiles, and a remarkable variety of birdlife.
Upon arrival, check into the hotel and take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this remarkable natural setting. After days spent along the banks of the Ganges, Corbett offers a different expression of India’s sacred landscape, where forest, river, and wildlife reveal the beauty and mystery of the natural world.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, take in the scenery, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the resort.
(Overnight in Corbett at The River View Retreat or similar)
Early this morning, embark on a jungle safari in Corbett National Park, one of India’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries and home to more than five hundred species of animals, reptiles, and birds. As we move through the park’s forests, riverine landscapes, and grasslands, we may have the opportunity to glimpse elephants, deer, birdlife, and perhaps even the elusive Bengal tiger.
Corbett offers a powerful reminder that the sacred is not only found in temples and ashrams, but also in the living presence of the natural world. The stillness of the forest, the call of birds, the movement of wildlife, and the ancient rhythms of the land all invite a deeper reverence for life.
The afternoon is free for relaxation and meditation, or to enjoy the hotel’s activities and peaceful natural surroundings.
(Overnight in Corbett at The River View Retreat or similar)
Early this morning, head out for a second jungle safari in Corbett National Park, offering another opportunity to experience the beauty and biodiversity of this extraordinary sanctuary. As the forest awakens, we may glimpse elephants, deer, birdlife, and perhaps even the elusive Bengal tiger, while taking in the quiet mystery of this protected wilderness.
After the safari, return to the hotel for breakfast before checking out and continuing into the peaceful hills of Uttarakhand. As the journey rises from forested lowlands into the Himalayan foothills, the landscape begins to shift into mountain air, winding roads, wooded slopes, and expansive natural beauty.
Upon arrival, check into Essence of Nature or similar and settle into the serene surroundings. This peaceful setting offers space to rest, reflect, and integrate the experiences of the journey so far. In the evening, gather for an inspiring talk and discussion session with Andrew, offering an opportunity to deepen into the spiritual themes that have been unfolding along the way.
(Overnight in Uttarakhand at Essence of Nature or similar)
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day walk with a picnic lunch by the riverside. Set amidst the peaceful natural beauty of the Himalayan foothills, this gentle outing offers time to breathe in the fresh mountain air, walk along scenic trails, and absorb the quiet rhythm of the surrounding landscape.
The riverside setting provides a beautiful opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature after the more active days of travel and exploration. Surrounded by forest, flowing water, and the spaciousness of the Himalayan foothills, this time outdoors invites reflection, renewal, and a deeper sense of presence.
The evening is free for meditation, reflection, and personal practice in the serene setting of the resort.
(Overnight in Uttarakhand at Essence of Nature or similar)
After breakfast, set out on a half-day visit to Binsar Mahadev, also known as Bindeshwar Mahadev Temple. This ancient shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is revered for its peaceful spiritual atmosphere and natural beauty.
Surrounded by forest and the quiet beauty of the Himalayan foothills, the temple offers a contemplative setting for reflection and connection. The journey to Binsar Mahadev is part of the experience, as the surrounding landscape invites stillness, reverence, and a deeper encounter with the sacred presence of Uttarakhand.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
(Overnight in Uttarakhand at Essence of Nature or similar)
Today is at leisure, offering time for relaxation, meditation, and personal reflection. In the peaceful beauty of the Himalayan foothills, there is space to rest, absorb the experiences of the journey, and spend time in personal practice.
After many days of sacred sites, rituals, teachings, river landscapes, and wilderness, this day allows the journey to settle more deeply within. You may choose to rest at the resort, meditate, journal, walk in nature, or simply enjoy the stillness of the surrounding hills.
(Overnight in Uttarakhand at Essence of Nature or similar)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin the drive to Bhimtal, a peaceful lakeside town surrounded by mountains and forests.
Time permitting, there may be an opportunity to visit Neem Karoli Baba Ashram at Kainchi Dham, a sacred Hanuman temple and ashram associated with the revered saint Neem Karoli Baba. Set amidst natural beauty, with forested hills and a river flowing nearby, the ashram is known as a place of devotion, meditation, and quiet spiritual presence. Devotees from around the world have been drawn to this site, inspired by Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings of love, service, and remembrance of God.
Upon arrival in Bhimtal, check into the hotel and enjoy time to rest in this serene lakeside setting. This evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner at the hotel, offering a chance to reflect on the journey, the sacred places visited, and the experiences shared together.
(Overnight in Bhimtal at the Rosefinch Sarovar Portico Hotel or similar)
Today, we make our six-hour drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will check into the hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the experiences and memories made during this incredible journey. Enjoy a final evening of rest and relaxation before your departure, cherishing the spiritual and transformative moments that have marked this adventure.
(Overnight in Delhi at Hotel Pride Plaza or similar)
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels onward as your journey comes to a close.
(B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
