Women’s Northern India Wellbeing Journey

Namaste! Welcome to India. On arrival, once you have cleared immigration and collected your luggage, you will be accorded a traditional welcome with marigold garlands before you are led to your vehicle and transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.

Meals Included: –

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the striking Lotus Temple, an architectural marvel of white marble petals and a sanctuary for quiet reflection. Open to people of all beliefs, the temple is one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world, emblematic of India’s embrace of diverse faiths.

Departing mid-morning, we travel along the Express Highway to the city of Agra. Agra is the city of love and longing – meticulously planned, built, and nurtured by three successive Mughal emperors: Akbar, Jehangir, and Shah Jahan, during the most glorious era of the Mughal Empire. The buildings spread across Agra are stellar examples of Mughal architecture and engineering skills. Conversations about Agra usually begin with mentions of the Taj Mahal.

Later, visit the Agra View Point, where the Taj Mahal reveals itself from across the Yamuna River. This peaceful location offers a contemplative view of the monument’s perfect symmetry, away from the main crowds.

This afternoon, we enjoy a foodie walk through the old lanes of Agra, where time seems to have stood still. Navigate bustling markets and hidden alleyways, sampling local delicacies from handpicked vendors. Learn the stories behind traditional recipes and savour regional specialities that reflect the city’s diverse culinary heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we head to the Taj Mahal to enjoy the sunrise, witnessing the beautiful wonder of the world changing its colour. This is one of the most beautiful times to view this iconic monument – one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. Emperor Shah Jahan built this exquisite white marble mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz Mahal, and it stands as a timeless symbol of love and devotion. At first light, the Taj is bathed in soft hues of pink and gold — a breathtaking sight best experienced in quiet morning stillness.

Return to your hotel for breakfast before continuing to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. This vast red sandstone fortress served as the seat of Mughal power and offers commanding views of the Taj from its inner courtyards. Later, visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often referred to as the ‘Baby Taj’. Built entirely of white marble, this delicate structure was the first in India to be adorned extensively with pietra dura inlay.

We have a vegetarian lunch at Café Sheroes Hangout.  Run by acid attack survivors, the café is a space of empowerment and resilience. The women here are not defined by their scars but by their strength, determination, and grace — courageous fighters who are redefining their own futures. Our time here is a humbling and inspiring experience that offers a deeper connection with the community.

Later in the afternoon, depart Agra by road for Delhi. Travel back through the plains of northern India, arriving in the evening before transferring to your hotel for check-in.

1 night Cardinal Express OXMO (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Our journey sees us arriving in time to connect with our afternoon flight to Dharamshala, a beautiful city nestled in the foothills of the Dhauladhar range and home to the Dalai Lama.

“Dharamshala” translates to “a spiritual dwelling” or loosely, a shelter or resting place for pilgrims and travellers. The city is divided into lower and upper Dharamshala based on altitude. A popular pilgrimage destination, the town is filled with temples, markets, galleries and gathering places.

Transfer early this morning to Delhi Airport with a packed breakfast to connect with your flight to Dharamshala, set in the foothills of the Dhauladhar range. On arrival, meet your local representative and continue by road to your hotel.

In the afternoon, walk through McLeod Ganj Market, home to a large Tibetan community and the residence of the Dalai Lama, with streets lined with monasteries, prayer flags, and local shops.

3 nights Norbu House or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Tushita Meditation Centre, a peaceful space nestled amidst pine forests. Known for its focus on Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and practice, the centre offers visitors an introduction to healing, mindfulness, and inner stillness.

We then explore a treasure trove of Tibetan culture in exile at the Norbulingka Institute. Many books, precious statues, and monasteries in Tibet were destroyed following the Chinese invasion in 1950, making the Norbulingka Institute one of the best places to learn about Tibetan culture and art anywhere in the world. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, observe artisans at work in traditional thangka painting, wood carving and metalwork, and gain insight into Tibetan heritage through this living cultural centre.

Next, we visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex. Also known as Tsuglagkhang, this complex is a beautiful and peaceful place located in Upper Dharamshala and is the spiritual heart of McLeod Ganj and the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Decorated with colourful prayer flags, prayer wheels and artwork, it’s perfect for long serene walks, reflection or meditation with chanting monks.

In the afternoon, enjoy a stop at the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, one of the highest sporting grounds in the world. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the setting here is as impressive as the sport itself.

We finish our day at the serene Gyuto Monastery, home to monks of the Gelugpa tradition. Known for its tantric meditation rituals and hypnotic chanting, the monastery offers panoramic views and a chance to witness Tibetan Buddhism in practice.

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, return to the tranquil Tushita Meditation Centre for another chance to immerse yourself in its serene environment and healing atmosphere. Whether you join a guided session or enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the centre offers a grounding start to our day.

The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration. You may choose to relax at our hotel or revisit the local market of McLeod Ganj, where narrow lanes bustle with shops selling prayer flags, handicrafts, Tibetan jewellery and herbal teas. Take the time to wander, sip chai in a local café, or observe the rhythm of daily life in this vibrant hill town.

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we say farewell to Tibetan life as we embark on a scenic overland journey to Amritsar, a city deeply rooted in Sikh history and tradition. We travel through the foothills and plains of Northern India, noticing the changing landscape as we descend into the heart of Punjab.

Arriving in the afternoon, we settle into our hotel and then enjoy a hands-on cooking class.  Learn to prepare traditional Punjabi dishes using fragrant spices and local techniques. The session concludes with a homemade dinner, offering a warm and flavourful introduction to the region’s renowned cuisine.

2 nights Ranjit Svaasa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, visit the revered Golden Temple, the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism. Amritsar translates as “his pool of nectar”, and many pilgrims come to have a divine bath in the pool of nectar at the Golden Temple.

Walk through its marble pathways, past the sacred pools and gilded domes, as hymns echo softly in the background. A highlight of our visit is witnessing the community kitchen in action! One of the largest free kitchens in the world, the Golden Temple kitchen serves a free meal called a “langar” to more than 40,000 visitors daily. Regardless of age, social status, or financial background, everyone eats together while sitting on the floor. It’s a powerful demonstration of equality and community.

Continue to Jallianwala Bagh Gardens, the site of the tragic 1919 massacre that became a turning point in India’s independence movement. The memorial and preserved bullet holes offer a solemn reminder of colonial-era atrocities. Then explore Gobindgarh Fort, a restored 18th-century military fort that now houses museums, performances, and cultural exhibits reflecting Punjab’s vibrant past.

This afternoon is free for you to explore the local markets at your own pace. Wander through bustling bazaars filled with colourful textiles, phulkari embroidery, handcrafted juttis, and the distinctive sounds and flavours of Punjabi street life.

Meals Included: – Breakfast

This morning, following breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the railway station to board your train to Delhi.

On arrival, meet your representative and continue into the city. Drive past key landmarks including India Gate and Parliament House, offering a brief introduction to the capital’s central district. Later, check in at your hotel. Dinner this evening will be served at your hotel.

Overnight CBD Park Plaza or similar

Meals Included: – Breakfast, Dinner

Early this morning, we depart for the foothills of the lower Himalayas and the city of Rishikesh. Revered as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh is situated along the banks of the holy Ganges River and draws spiritual seekers and travellers alike for its serene atmosphere and sacred heritage. With temples, ashrams, yoga and meditation centres, holistic healing and wellness retreats, here is where we allow the hustle and bustle of India to melt away. Life in Rishikesh is alcohol-free with vegetarian-only cuisine.

On arrival, we check into our Wellness Retreat and enjoy lunch. Veda Wellness Retreat is a sanctuary for holistic wellness and rejuvenation. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the sacred Ganges River, this retreat offers a tranquil escape. With a focus on Ayurveda, yoga, and naturopathy, Veda provides a range of personalised wellness programs tailored to each guest’s individual needs. From traditional Ayurvedic treatments to therapeutic yoga sessions and detoxifying therapies, every aspect of the retreat is designed to promote balance, harmony, and inner peace. With comfortable accommodations, nutritious cuisine, and a serene ambience, Veda Retreat invites guests to embark on a transformative journey towards health and wellness amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Rishikesh.

This afternoon, experience the rhythmic devotion of the Ganga Aarti Ceremony on the ghats of Rishikesh, India. As dusk sets in, witness the fascinating Hindu religious ritual – the rhythmic chants, melodious hymns, and the mesmerising sight of lamps with wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor are offered to one or more deities and floated on the holy River Ganges. It’s a spiritual and uplifting ceremony that leaves a lasting impression on your soul.

We return to our retreat for a wholesome dinner and a restful evening.

3 nights Veda Wellness Retreat or similar

Meals Included: – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your day with an early morning yoga and meditation session, embracing the serenity of Rishikesh as the sun rises over the Himalayas. This calming practice sets the tone for a day of exploration and introspection.

After breakfast, visit Ram Jhula, the iconic iron suspension bridge that stretches across the Ganges. A hub of spiritual activity, the bridge offers sweeping views of the river and surrounding ashrams. We continue on foot through the local markets, where stalls brim with incense, rudraksha beads, handmade journals and spiritual texts — a vibrant display of Rishikesh’s soul. Stroll along the riverbank, where the rhythm of daily life unfolds against the sacred waters of the Ganges. Observe sadhus — wandering holy men in saffron robes — engaged in rituals or deep contemplation. Alongside them, cows and bulls wander peacefully along the riverbank as if they too, are searching for a guiding light.

Enjoy the cool breeze from the river waters, and as evening draws near, we witness the Ganga Aarti once more. Surrounded by floating lamps and rhythmic hymns, it’s a powerful connection to the spiritual essence of Rishikesh.

We return to the retreat for a guided meditation session to close the day, followed by dinner.

Meals Included: – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the morning with an invigorating yoga and meditation session. The day is then free to relax and reflect, or opt for Ayurvedic wellness treatments or visit the famed Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia), where the band stayed in 1968. Alternatively, head to Har Ki Pauri in nearby Haridwar, one of India’s most sacred ghats, where the Ganges is believed to cleanse sins. You may also choose to visit Mansa Devi Temple, perched atop the Shivalik Hills and accessible by cable car, offering panoramic views and revered blessings from the wish-fulfilling goddess.

This evening, join a calming meditation session, drawing in the calm of Rishikesh one last time as the Ganges flows quietly nearby.

Meals Included: – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our Wellness Retreat, the sacred Ganges River, and the enchanting city of Rishikesh, and then journey back to Delhi by road. Arriving in the early afternoon, we head straight into the heart of Old Delhi for an immersive experience through the city’s historic core.

Hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave through the narrow, bustling alleys of Chandni Chowk, where every corner reveals a tapestry of old-world charm — spice-laden stalls, ancient havelis, and silver bazaars. Step into a bygone era as you ride past centuries of history, trade, and tradition.

Continue with a guided food walk, an authentic dive into Delhi’s culinary soul. Sampling some of Old Delhi’s most iconic street dishes — from spicy chaats and kebabs sizzling on open flames, to sweet jalebis and refreshing lassi. And chai, because there’s always time for chai.

Later, we check into our hotel and enjoy a final farewell dinner. Reflecting on our experiences through India’s spiritual, cultural, and historical heartlands and your Women’s Northern India Wellness Journey.

Overnight Cardinal Express OXMO or similar

Meals Included: – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Please ask us if you would like to explore more of India independently.  We highly recommend a 2 night Varanasi Package which you can add on to extend your stay in India….

Meals Included: – Breakfast

We grade the overall walking on this itinerary as EASY
(see our grading system)

This grading is provided as general advice only, and is based on our assessment and also feedback from past participants. Please consider your level of fitness and experience in regard to this rating, and if you’re unsure please contact us for more information

10 REASONS TO GO WITH US

Realistic Itineraries
we want you to love and be inspired by Northern India. This tour itinerary is well-designed and realistic, allowing you to complete the full itinerary ….. we don’t over sell and under deliver

Be Fulfilled
this itinerary is designed to maximise your awe and leave you fulfilled. You will visit the Golden Temple, Café Sheroes Hangout, Jallianwala Bagh, Ram Jhula, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, and the Taj Mahal, you will experience yoga and meditation classes in Rishikesh, Agra and Dharamshala, foodie walks in Agra and Delhi, Ganga Aarti ceremony, and a Punjabi cooking class. We’ve planned this itinerary so you get the full experience and time to relax ….. you won’t leave Northern India feeling unfulfilled

Meaningful Moments 
we will bring your Northern India experience alive ….. a guide book and phone App can’t do this as well as our local guides

Flexibility
our departures have 1 experienced female host guide from Australia and local guides. Having 2 guides means we can better cater for group dynamics and individual needs. Incidents can mean changes to the itinerary become necessary, and if there was only 1 guide then these changes will impact on your expectations and your level of enjoyment ….. avoiding this is why we always have 2 guides

Safety
our female host guide carries safety documentation, and our local guides carry group first-aid kits, communication devices, and safety equipment. In addition, safety procedures are in place, and constant communication is undertaken with local emergency services

Travel Assistance
our in-house travel specialists can assist you with travel insurance. If you want to see more of India, we can also package any accommodation, flights, and add-ons in addition to this tour. Package your Indian adventure with us and save stress, time and money

Timing
we go at the best time of the year for comfortable conditions. We can’t guarantee perfect weather everyday, but you can book with confidence 

Nature Connection
we want you to feel de-stressed and re-energised. So, our guides are also nature facilitators with skills to immerse you with your surrounds. Not only do we safely guide you and share our knowledge, we also provide invitations for you to slow down and connect deeper with nature (included activities such as an introduction to Shinrin-yoku ‘Forest Bathing’ ) <learn more about Forest Bathing here> ….. we’re pioneers of outdoor adventure with deep nature immersion

Group Fitness
we want you to succeed and maximise your enjoyment, so group chats online are provided leading up to your tour (included as part of the tour price). These will assist you to meet your guides and other group members, ask questions on what to expect, receive advice on the activities, travel, and the destination, and gauge your level of fitness ….. we invest in your preparation

Small Groups
a maximum of 12 only on each departure. Meaning, it’s better for the environment and you won’t feel like you’re just a number in the crowd