Universal Yoga Tours

Arrive Delhi, Overnight at Hotel

Delhi-Rishikesh (250 Kms-06 hrs)

After B/fast drive to Rishikesh the holy city of India, the hatha yoga capital of the world, a totally vegetarian town. Arrive at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, resting serenely on the banks of the holy Ganga, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Study Yoga for 04 days with Martena WIlson at Parmath Niketan Ashram.

Arrive Delhi, Overnight at Hotel

After B/fast drive to Haridwar which is hardly 25 kms from R'kesh and Takes about 30 mins. Haridwar, located in the foothills of the Shivaliks and on the banks of River Ganga, is an important pilgrimage site for the Hindus. When the Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains, Haridwar is the first major town on the plains. Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely, nevertheless it becomes very quiet and calm here. The water is clean and carries the religious sanction of purifying the soul of all its sins which, in turn, opens the gateway to Nirvana. Consequently, people bathe on the numerous ghats built on the river shores, some travelling great distances for this purpose only.

Prime Attractions at Haridwar

Mansa Devi Temple: The temple of Goddess Mansa Devi is situated at the top of Bilwa Parvat. Mansa means desire and it has been observed that the devotees who visit this temple with the genuine wishes gets their wishes fulfilled, and its popularly known as Mansa Devi Temple. The top of the hill gives you excellent view of the Haridwar city. In this temple you will see that only one statue of the Goddess has three mouths and five arms while the other statue has eight arms. The access to this temple by trolley ropeway route is really very excited

After lunch go to have a nice view of Chandi Devi Temple, this temple is at the top of Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganges, was built in 1929 AD. The story goes that Chanda-Munda, the army chief of the Demons Shumbh-Nishumbh were killed by Goddess Chandi hence, the name Chandi Devi.

Har-Ki-Pauri : Har-Ki-Pauri (the footstep of God) ghat, also known as the Brahmakund, is one of the most sacred pilgrim places. It is said to be built by Vikramaditya in memory of his brother, Bhartrihari. In the evening, a 'Maha Aarti' is performed on this ghat. The floral diyas which float on the ghat, in the twilight, creates an impression of stars being brought in the river water.

This ghat is suppossed to be at the precise spot where the Ganges leaves the mountains and enters the plains. Popular belief is that if one take bath in this ghat, it will wash away all your sins. During the day time the ghat is full of Pandas and Pujaris.

Back to Rishikesh and overnight at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

Arrive Delhi, Overnight at Hotel

Taj Mahal:

This beautiful creation of love is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his favorite Queen, Mumtaz. Finished in by marble, it is perhaps India's most fascinating and beautiful monument.

Agra Fort:

The Agra Fort is situated 3 kms upstream from the Taj Mahal on the right bank of the yamuna, the Agra Fort was built, under the direction of Akbar The Great. The Fort is shaped like an irregular triangle with strong base on the river front and the two sides joining at the Delhi Gate. There are a number of exquisting buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-i-Khaas, Musamman Burj-where Shah Jahan in 1666 A.D. Jahangir's Palace; Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.

Fatehpur Sikri:

In 1569 the Mughal Emperor Akbar, after the capture of the fort of Ranthambhor, came to the hamlet of Sikri to see Shaikh Salim. The young emperor was 27 years old, but still childless as three children had died in infancy. Shaikh Salim prophesied that he would have not one but three sons. The following year a son was born and called Salimin difference to the saint. In gratitude emperor Akbar began to construct a great mosque at this site. The saint died in 1572 and a tomb for Shaikh Salim (or Salim Chisti) was built within the mosque complex. It is still a venerated place of pilgrimage, especially for childless women who come and tie a thread on the lattice windows of the tomb chamber as a reminder of an unfulfilled desire; untying it when their wish is granted, believing that like Akbar's wish, theirs too will be granted. When the royal Salim (later Jahangir, the next Mughal Emperor) was a year old, construction of the fort and palaces began in earnest, and continued until 1585. Emperor Jahangir describes the beauty of the site in his memoirs:

Prime Attractions of Fatehpur Sikri:

Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-Khana-I-Khaas, Turkish Sultana's House, The Treasury, Daulat Khana-I-Khaas, Palace of Jodha Bhai, Hawa Mahal and Nagina Masjid, Birbal's Palace, Panch Mahal, Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti, The Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza.

Arrive Delhi, Overnight at Hotel

Delhi-Rishikesh (250 Kms-06 hrs)

After B/fast drive to Rishikesh the holy city of India, the hatha yoga capital of the world, a totally vegetarian town. Arrive at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, resting serenely on the banks of the holy Ganga, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas.

Study all levels of Yoga for 07 days with Dr. Rao Ganesha at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

Rishikesh-Anandpur Sahib ( 350 kms-10 hrs ).

Anandpur Sahib-The City of Bliss

Anandpur Sahib-the holy City of Bliss-is one of the most important sacred places of the Sikhs and is closely linked with their religious traditions and history. It is located on the lower spurs of the Himalayas surrounded by picturesque natural scenery, with the river Satluj forming a shimmering and shiny blue border on the south west barely four miles away. So far as the historical significance of Anandpur Sahib is concerned, it is second only to Amritsar, the city of Golden Temple. Anandpur Sahib was founded in the year 1664 by the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji, near the ruins of an ancient place, Makhowal. The Guru purchased the site from the rural of Bilaspur.

The Takht Sahib proper is a square hall with a balcony in front overlooking a spacious courtyard on a lower level. In the middle of the inner domed room are placed some weapons preserved as sacred relics. The space being limited on the top of the hill, the sarovar is on the plain ground west of the Takht Sahib. A large spacious pavilion is also around for larger congregation. Although the town is small but on the occassion of Hola Mohalla every year in the month of March it booms into boisterous activities and recaptures its old glory andsplendor.

Overnight at the Hotel in Anandpur Sahib.

Anandpur Sahib-Dharamshala ( 150 kms-05 hrs ).

After B/fast drive to Dharamshala. Dharamshala stands at the foot of Dhauladhar and has a magnificent view of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than any other hill station in India.

• Check-In at Chonor House ( 02 Nights Stay ).
• Study Yoga with Mr. Vijay Amar (Ashtanga series and hatha yoga)

Dharamshala-Delhi ( 450 kms-By night Train ).

Delhi-Agra ( 210 kms-5 hrs )

After reaching Delhi, Have breakfast in a restaurant and drive to Agra, the beautiful city of Taj. Agra is the one of the prominent destinations of the World Tourism map with three heritage monuments -The Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri & Red Fort. It is more just a dacadent city of graveyards and stones, but it is a vibrant centre of Culture, Art and Religious philosphies that have enriched mankind and shaped humen thought over centuries. Agra is famous for handicrafts products such as Inley work on Marvel, Leather work,Footwear, Brasswear, Carpets, Jwellery, Zari and Embroidery work.

After arrival in Agra, Check-In in Hotel and overnight at Hotel.

Sight Seeing of famous and heritage monuments in Agra.

Taj Mahal:

This beautiful creation of love is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his favorite Queen, Mumtaz. Finished in by marble, it is perhaps IndiaÍs most fascinating and beautiful monument.

Agra Fort:

The Agra Fort is situated 3 kms upstream from the Taj Mahal on the right bank of the yamuna, the Agra Fort was built , under the direction of Akbar The Great. The Fort is shaped like an irregular triangle with strong base on the river front and the two sides joining at the Delhi Gate. There are a number of exquisting buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-i-Khaas, Musamman Burj - where Shah Jahan in 1666 A.D. Jahangir's Palace; Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.

Fatehpur Sikri:

In 1569 the Mughal Emperor Akbar, after the capture of the fort of Ranthambhor, came to the hamlet of Sikri to see Shaikh Salim. The young emperor was 27 years old, but still childless as three children had died in infancy. Shaikh Salim prophesied that he would have not one but three sons. The following year a son was born and called Salim in difference to the saint. In gratitude emperor Akbar began to construct a great mosque at this site. The saint died in 1572 and a tomb for Shaikh Salim (or Salim Chisti) was built within the mosque complex. It is still a venerated place of pilgrimage, especially for childless women who come and tie a thread on the lattice windows of the tomb chamber as a reminder of an unfulfilled desire; untying it when their wish is granted, believing that like Akbar's wish, theirs too will be granted. When the royal Salim (later Jahangir, the next Mughal Emperor) was a year old, construction of the fort and palaces began in earnest, and continued until 1585. Emperor Jahangir describes the beauty of the site in his memoirs:

Prime Attractions of Fatehpur Sikri:

• Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-Khana-I-Khaas, Turkish Sultana's House, The Treasury, Daulat Khana-I-Khaas, Palace of Jodha Bhai, Hawa Mahal and Nagina Masjid, Birbal's Palace, Panch Mahal, Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti, The Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza.

Agra-Delhi and return back to home with good memories from India.

Day 1 Delhi

Arrive in Delhi

Today upon arrival you will be welcomed by a Universal Yoga Tours representative at the Airport and taken to your. We will check you into to the hotel. Meet our yoga guide, discuss the next week and plan an afternoon of touring Delhi or rest overnight at Hotel.

Day 2 Delhi - Neemrana (120 KMS/03 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation begin the discussion on gratitude. 10:00am breakfast; 10:30am combined sight-seeing tour of Old Delhi & New Delhi, visiting Red fort - one of the most magnificent palaces in the world, Raj Ghat - the cremation sites of Mahatma Gandhi, Jama Masjid - the biggest Mosque in India, and Chandni Chowk - the shopping centre of Old Delhi.

After lunch visit Birla Temple, Qutub Minar - 239ft magnificent tower of victory is an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder of ancient India, drive through India Gate, the Presidents' House and the Parliament House. Later we drive to Neemrana. Upon arrival check in to Neemrana Fort-Palace, Built in 1464 AD. It is among one of India's oldest heritage resorts. Group dinner and discussion on gratitude. How do we become ungrateful in our lives.

Day 3 Neemrana (120 KMS/03 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation. 10am breakfast; 10:30am explore the Neemrana Fort-Palace; afternoon, optional activities, A guided tour of the 18th century Stepwell can be arranged on request. Camel cart rides can be arranged on request. Trek to the watchtowers on the hills. Free time. Rest and review handout given to discuss how gratitude can enrich the lives of others. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4 Neemrana - Jaipur (140 KMS/04 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation; 10am breakfast; 10:30 am drive to Jaipur. Check in to heritage hotel; Free Time to explore, and shop. We will meet back again at 5pm to where you will be escorted to a beautiful restaurant, Chokhi Dhanni, to enjoy the Delicious food of Rajastahn. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5 Jaipur

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00am breakfast; 1030am; enjoy a full day sight seeing tour of Jaipur city. Visiting the 16th century Amber fort arriving on an elephant like a Maharaja. We will see the City Palace; Museum, Jantar Mantar- the Observatory; and local bazaars. Drive past Hawa Mahal-the palace of winds, through residential & business areas of Pink city of India. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6 Jaipur - Agra (236 Kms/05 Hrs)

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am drive to Agra. On the way we will see the city of Fatehpur Sikri, originally designed as the capital for Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The city was abandoned due to a lack of water. Upon arrival in Agra check in to (insert name here) hotel. Visit the Red Fort built by Mogul Emperor Akbar The Great. (I am assuming that we have suggestions for places for dinner?) Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7 Agra

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am a sight-seeing tour of Agra visiting the World famous Monument of love -The Taj Mahal - built by Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Afternoon is yours to explore. A special invitation to attend a Grand Hindu Wedding Ceremony. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8 Agra - Delhi (203 Kms/04 Hrs)

8:00am closing yoga and meditation 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am Wrap up tour with group reflections.

Evening Return Home

Day 1 Delhi

Arrive in Delhi

Today upon arrival you will be welcomed by a Universal Yoga Tours representative at the Airport and taken to your. We will check you into to the hotel. Meet our yoga guide, discuss the next week and plan an afternoon of touring Delhi or rest overnight at Hotel.

Day 2 Delhi - Neemrana (120 KMS/03 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation begin the discussion on gratitude. 10:00am breakfast; 10:30am combined sight-seeing tour of Old Delhi & New Delhi, visiting Red fort - one of the most magnificent palaces in the world, Raj Ghat - the cremation sites of Mahatma Gandhi, Jama Masjid - the biggest Mosque in India, and Chandni Chowk - the shopping centre of Old Delhi.

After lunch visit Birla Temple, Qutub Minar - 239ft magnificent tower of victory is an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder of ancient India, drive through India Gate, the Presidents' House and the Parliament House. Later we drive to Neemrana. Upon arrival check in to Neemrana Fort-Palace, Built in 1464 AD. It is among one of India's oldest heritage resorts. Group dinner and discussion on gratitude. How do we become ungrateful in our lives.

Day 3 Neemrana (120 KMS/03 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation. 10am breakfast; 10:30am explore the Neemrana Fort-Palace; afternoon, optional activities, A guided tour of the 18th century Stepwell can be arranged on request. Camel cart rides can be arranged on request. Trek to the watchtowers on the hills. Free time. Rest and review handout given to discuss how gratitude can enrich the lives of others. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4 Neemrana - Jaipur (140 KMS/04 HRS)

8:00am yoga and meditation; 10am breakfast; 10:30 am drive to Jaipur. Check in to heritage hotel; Free Time to explore, and shop. We will meet back again at 5pm to where you will be escorted to a beautiful restaurant, Chokhi Dhanni, to enjoy the Delicious food of Rajastahn. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5 Jaipur

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00am breakfast; 1030am; enjoy a full day sight seeing tour of Jaipur city. Visiting the 16th century Amber fort arriving on an elephant like a Maharaja. We will see the City Palace; Museum, Jantar Mantar- the Observatory; and local bazaars. Drive past Hawa Mahal-the palace of winds, through residential & business areas of Pink city of India. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6 Jaipur - Agra (236 Kms/05 Hrs)

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am drive to Agra. On the way we will see the city of Fatehpur Sikri, originally designed as the capital for Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The city was abandoned due to a lack of water. Upon arrival in Agra check in to (insert name here) hotel. Visit the Red Fort built by Mogul Emperor Akbar The Great. (I am assuming that we have suggestions for places for dinner?) Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7 Agra

8:00am yoga and meditation 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am a sight-seeing tour of Agra visiting the World famous Monument of love -The Taj Mahal - built by Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Afternoon is yours to explore. A special invitation to attend a Grand Hindu Wedding Ceremony. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8 Agra - Delhi (203 Kms/04 Hrs)

8:00am closing yoga and meditation for gratitude tour and begin the journey to Ammajis Ashram 10:00 breakfast; 10:30am Wrap up tour with group reflections.

Agra-Delhi - Cochin (By Flight)

Morning after breakfast drive back to Delhi to connect flight for Cochin. Upon arrival in Cochin, Universal Yoga Tours will meet you at the Airport followed by transfer to the hotel. (Overnight stay at Cochin)

Cochin - Periyar (165 KMS/5 HRS)

8am yoga and meditation After breakfast check out of the hotel and depart for the sightseeing of Cochin visiting - 'The Jewish Synagogue' at the heart of what is locally called the Jew Town, 'The St. Francis Church', the oldest European Church in India, 'The Santa Cruz Basilica' originally built in 1557 by the Portuguese, The Dutch Palace, Spice market at the narrow streets. Later drive towards Periyar. The name Periyar comes after the Dam made here by the English in 1895. A wild life reserve hence is an ideal place to track down wild life such as Elephants, Bison, Deer and numerous other varieties of birds. The landscape here is with very tropical and you will be surrounded by tea, coffee & other spices. On arrival check into hotel and rest of the day free. (Overnight stay at Periyar)

In Periyar

Early morning at 06.00am you go on a Guided Jungle walk at the Periyar tiger Reserve/national Park. This 03hrs walk (not very hard) is very interesting and gives you the chance to see the wildlife life at a very close distance. If you are lucky you may even spot the rarely sighted leopards & tigers. In afternoon leave for a guided plantation tour to the nearby garden where in various species of spices and other aromatic plants are cultivated. The guide explains & clarifies your doubts on this tour and later move for the most popular boat trip at the National Park - the best way to observe game in wild is by boat. There are many animals to see, including herds of elephants, bison's and packs of wild boars that roam through the woods and parade along the shores of the lake just before sunrise and sunset. Return to hotel and rest. Light evening practice and meditation. (Overnight at Periyar)

Periyar - Kumarakom

After breakfast check out of hotel and drive to Kumarakom that lies at the shores of the enchanting Vembanad Lake, it's a small town hush. Redolent of restful peace. A boat ride in the countryside offers a close look into an engaging rustic life. Skiff-fishermen launching their cockleshell boats. Large flotillas of ducks waddling down to the water from thatched houses on the banks. Women, neck-deep in water, with their waist-length hair heaped in a crown, searching for fish with there feet. And aimless cattle grazing in lush pastureland, where white lotuses lie here and there in small, low-lying pools. Sections of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm open out to provide shade and allow uninterrupted views. On arrival, check in to hotel. Day leisure for, own activities. (Overnight in hotel at Kumarakom)

In Kumarakom

Morning free for own leisure activities and in the evening enjoy the sunset cruises. (Overnight stay at Kumarakom)

Kumarakom - Alleppey (by houseboat)

Cruises: Alleppey round trip

After breakfast check out of the hotel and drive towards Alleppey - the land of Backwaters. Check out from the hotel around 10.30am and drive to Alleppey - the land of Backwaters w ith the Arabian Sea in the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alleppey is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the 'Venice of the East' this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. All meals on board. (Overnight on board)

Note: The houseboat cruise will start around 12 noon. You will cruise for some time, and the crew will stop the boat for lunch. You will then cruise again until 6 pm, when it will stop for the night to leave the Backwaters free for the fishermen. Dinner will be served onboard. In the morning, after breakfast, the boat will start again and the cruise will end around 9 am.

The meal by default is always Kerala non-vegetarian. Please let us know in advance if you have any food preference. The shower will only be a hand-shower. The water in the shower will be cold. It is possible to get hot water on request to the crew, but it will only come in a bucket.

Alleppey to Kollam (185 KMS/4.5 HRS)

Daily yoga and meditation. After breakfast check out of the hotel and drive towards Kollam. On arrival check in at the hotel and rest of the day free for own activities. Attend Darshan

In Kollamn/Day Excursion visit Amma Ashram

Daily Yoga and Meditation Breakfast at hotel Attend Darshan Return back to Hotel.

Amma's Darshan on Wenesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday.

Kollamn - Kovalam (80 KMS/2 HRS)

After breakfast check out of the hotel and drive towards Kovalam. On arrival check in at the hotel and rest of the day free for own activities. (Overnight stay at Kovalam)

Departure Transfer to Trivandrum Airport

After breakfast check out of the hotel and drive towards Trivandrum airport for the onward flight.

Evening Return Home

Prices:

• $1500 - single occupancy hut
• $1200 - (per person) - double occupancy hut


• $1400 - single occupancy bedroom
• $1100 (per person) - double occupancy bedroom


• $1200 - single occupancy loft
• $1000 (per person) - double occupancy loft

*Prices include: room (or loft), meals at the yoga center, the whale watching trip, and any or all of 15 yoga classes: four morning Kundalini classes, three general classes, three workshops and five meditations.
*Prices DO NOT include: airfare to Hawaii, rental car & gas

Tuesday

• 6:00pm:   Orientation & Dinner
• 8:00-9:00pm:   Meditation Exploring supine and seated positions

Wednesday

• 6:30-7:30am:   Morning Kundalini
• 8:00am:   Breakfast or short visit to Hilo farmers' market
• 10:30-noon:   Yoga class - Asana for time zone changes Asana can help our bodies and minds make the transition to new time zones and places.
• Noon: lunch
• 4:30-6:00pm:   Workshop - Practicing Yoga in Paradise.Yoga is union with all around us. Bring your practice into your activities around the island. Discussion and asana
• 6:30pm:   Dinner
• 8:00-9:00pm   Yoga and meditation Exploring supine and seated positions

Thursday

• 6:30-7:30am:   Morning Kundalini
• 7:30-8am:   Breakfast
• 8:00-11:00am:   Drive to Kona for Whale Watch
• 11:00-2:30pm:   Whale Watch (pack lunches)
• 3:00-6:00pm:   Drive back to Pahoa
• 6:00-8:00pm:   Dinner
• 8:00-9:00pm:   Yoga and meditation Poses to prepare for sleep

Friday

• 6:30-7:30am:   Morning Kundalini
• 8:00-10:00am:  Breakfast
• 10:00-11:30am:   Yoga Class - Asana for Hawaii fun We'll work on poses that will help keep us healthy and happy while out exploring the island
• Noon: Lunch
• 4:30-6:30pm:   Workshop - Sensing Paradise in Your Practice - Hawaii brings us into intimate contact with the elements of earth, water and air from the newest land on earth at Volcano National Park to sensual sea water to the heady heights of the tall volcanoes. Discussion, asana, pranayama
• 6:30-8:00pm:   Dinner
• 8:00-9:00pm:   Pranayama and meditation Breathing for meditation

Saturday

• 6:30-7:30am:   Morning Kundalini
• 7:30-8:30am:   Breakfast
• 8:30-11:00am:   Trip to Hilo for Farmer's Market
• 11:00-12:30pm:   Yoga class - Asana for active bodies - After three days of snorkeling, hiking and general exploring, we'll work on poses to ease aching muscles. (Note to you: these will be gentle front and back body stretches. Supported forward bends and backbends.)
• 12:30pm: Lunch
• 4:30pm-6:30pm:   Workshop - Taking Paradise Home with Yoga - Bliss is centered within us, and often feels difficult to access. See how to make your personal paradise penetrate your entire being, even after leaving island paradise. Discussion and asana
• 6:30pm:   Dinner
• 8:00pm:   Yoga and meditation Focusing in meditation

Sunday

• 6:30-7:30am: Morning Kundalini
• 8:00am: Breakfast

*Hand drum/ Ukulele lessons available during free time-talk to Gabe
*It is highly encouraged to take at least one day to go to Volcanoes National Park
*Pahoa has a small Farmer's Market on Sunday mornings, and it's on the way to Hilo