Today, I meet an rising variety of individuals eager about what I name “transformative journey,” or journeys that mix inside and outer exploration, and give you a brand new perspective. For these vacationers, I at all times recommend a visit to India, a birthplace of holistic wellness. As a frequent customer to India and a journey advisor, here’s a two-week itinerary I created to expertise the nation’s historic therapies in breathtaking areas.
Days 1-3: Solar Salutations in New Delhi
India’s bustling capital metropolis might not look like the plain place to seek out inside peace, however religious traditions run deep right here. You possibly can go to the spartan residence the place Mahatma Gandhi spent his remaining days, or help at a Sikh Temple’s neighborhood kitchen, the place meals is cooked and served to greater than 10,000 individuals day by day. My group and I can even organize a surya namaskar, or solar salutation session within the Lodhi Gardens, together with a non-public workshop to stability your chakras — the seven power facilities which might be central to Hindu mindfulness practices. Afterward, you’ll be able to retire to the lavish, non-ascetic comforts of The Leela Palace New Delhi.
Days 4-5: Yoga and Sound Therapeutic in Agra
The colossal majesty of the Taj Mahal is price a visit in itself. However you may also apply morning yoga and pranayama (managed respiration) lessons close by, and revel in views out of your room at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, the place one of many spa therapies makes use of singing bowls to stability your power.
Days 6-8: Ayurvedic Exploration in Ajabgarh
Tucked amid the rugged slopes of the Aravalli mountains, the village of Ajabgarh is residence to a stately Seventeenth-century temple and fort advanced, and Amanbagh, an opulent backyard resort that was as soon as the personal looking lodge of Sir Jai Singh Prabhakar, the maharaja (prince) of Alwar. Right here, you’ll be able to take a deep dive into Ayurveda, the guiding rules of conventional Indian drugs which were practiced for greater than 5,000 years. A personalised evaluation with an in-house practitioner is adopted with particular suggestions for optimizing your well being, together with using sure spices and herbs.
Day Sept. 11: Organics and Astrology in Jaipur
The “Pink Metropolis” of Jaipur is thought for its elegant structure, grand royal palace, and vibrant bazaars. You may also go to an natural farm run by a household of nobles; take a guided hike within the Aravalli foothills; and meet with an professional in nadi jyotisha, an historic Indian apply of studying palm leaves. Spend the evening on the beautiful Rambagh Palace, a former residence of the maharaja of Jaipur.
Days 12-14: Religious Retreat at Ananda within the Himalayas
Set within the distant foothills of the Indian Himalayas, Ananda is likely one of the world’s most peaceable and enchanting wellness retreats. The 100-acre property, overlooking the river Ganges, supplies a uniquely serene setting for pursuing concord of thoughts, physique, and spirit. Courses and one-on-one periods in Ayurveda, yoga, and the Hindu vedanta philosophy are supplied right here. You may also guide a non-public session with a physiotherapist, candle meditation workshops, and a Tibetan therapeutic therapy with natural oils.
Marion Miller is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Record and makes a speciality of India journeys. You possibly can create a tailored itinerary with Miller by contacting her at mmiller@micato.com.