Join us for a TRIP OF A LIFETIME in Rishikesh, India!
This retreat offers a balance of structured activities, self-reflection, and free time for personal exploration, allowing you to deepen your spiritual practice and recharge your mind, body, and soul. This trip is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and learn about the ancient teachings of Hinduism.
Feel safe and supported with Erica and Akanksha by your side! Erica has traveled to Rishikesh many times and Akanksha grew up in Dehradun, India, a neighboring city to Rishikesh. Let us do all the planning! All you need to do is ARRIVE and IMMERSE yourself in the experience!
Dates:
What's Included?
- 7 nights of accommodations with a choice of a single or shared room
- Daily morning yoga classes (for all levels!) to awaken your body and calm your mind
- Wind down each day with the option of evening meditation sessions
- Opening fire ceremony honoring Hinduism which will be held on an open terrace overlooking the mountains and Ganga. Please bring white/cream clothing to wear. Dinner will be included.
- River rafting down the holy Ganges
- Ayurvedic teachings and cooking class. We will adventure to a local home where a husband and wife will teach us about Ayurveda and how to cook using these ancient herbs to heal.
- Explore the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram AKA The Beetles Ashram! The Beetles, yes, the band, put Rishikesh on the map. Look it up! We will visit this incredible place and you won't be disappointed!
- Visit Karma Ashram and College to get a live yoga demonstration from teens attending school there. This is the same ashram we will partner with for our Joy Quest Scholarship Fund. We will also perform Karma Yoga there which is "a selfless action and service as a means to spiritual growth and liberation" AKA community service.
- Local shopping tours
- We will travel to downtown Rishikesh where you will be fitted for a Sari or Kurta (Indian attire) for our final dinner celebration. Your clothing will be tailored to you and once completed will be delivered to our hotel. The clothing is extra cost which will range from $10-$40 depending on your choice of materials.
- A sound healing session with a friend of Erica and Akanksha who has enjoyed many sessions with him. His name is Baba G.
- Attend a Ganga Aarti Celebration. An unforgettable spiritual experience, performed each evening at sundown on the banks of the holy river Ganga. It is an event to gladden the heart, feed the soul, and create harmony with the elements.
- Gift bags to be received on your arrival with fun and essential items for your trip!
What Food is Included?
- Daily continental buffet-style nutritious vegetarian breakfast, focusing on fresh fruits, grains, and herbal teas. Meat and alcohol are prohibited in Rishikesh.
- Daily group dinners will be held at our hotel or out at local restaurants
- Final dinner and closing ceremony which includes Indian style dress. MORE to come on that!
Add On's:
- Spa services are available at the hotel or local establishments.
- Additional nights should you plan to stay longer than 7 nights.
- Local shopping!
What to Bring:
- A white/cream outfit for the opening ceremony. Dress, skirt, shorts, pants, or T-shirt, are all OK! Whatever makes you feel comfortable.
- Light, airy, and comfortable clothing. Quick drying if possible. Dresses, skirts, and yoga clothing are also acceptable dress.
- Certainly not mandatory, but Erica chooses to keep her shoulders covered and clothing below the knee when she's out exploring. Erica does wear tank tops when practicing yoga.
- Bathing suit. Our hotel has a private beach on the river of the holy ganges. A brand new infinity pool is currently being built at our hotel. It will be ready by the time we arrive!
- Closed-toe sneakers
What's Not Included:
- Airfair. Flights range $600-$1200.
- Airport transfer to hotel. This will range from $10-$40 depending on which airport you're arriving from.
- You'll fly into Delhi International Airport. From there, you can choose to take a 6-ish hour drive to Rishikesh or an additional 30-minute flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Erica has done both and it depends on your preference. Should you choose to take the car ride and enjoy the scenic tour, we can secure your car and driver with local drivers Erica has used.
- Lunch's. We will either be out exploring as a group during the day or you will be enjoying free time to relax or explore.
Secure Your Spot!:
- Full payment or 50% down is required to hold your spot. If paying 50% now, the remaining 50% is due by 2/1/25.
- Because credit card fees are SO high, we're requesting payments be made via Venmo or check. Venmo > Erica Sarcione with The Iron Cactus as the logo.
Personal Investment:
- Single accommodation - $2,199
- Double accommodation - $1,799
- IMPORTANT. You will need an Indian visa which can easily be completed at www.indianvisaonline.gon.in.
This event is non-refundable. Once you have decided to join this life-changing trip, we will hold your spot and start planning for YOU!
