Pilgrim Sacred India 2024
PILGRIM SACRED INDIA
Rishikesh - Himalaya Trek - Vrindavan
6 to 18 October 2024 - 13-day spiritual & adventurous journey.
Bhakti Yoga science - Trekking & Pilgrimage
visit @ohmat on Instagram, for more videos about our pilgrimage retreat in Himalaya, Rishikesh & Vrindavan.
Hello dear friends!
We extend a warm invitation to embark on a deeply transformative spiritual journey with us—an intimate sacred journey to the highly sacred sites of India. This is something that can change your life cause we will trek deeply into the Himalayas to an altitude of 3,690m where we leave tourists behind, and into the ancient sacred temple of Vrindavan the birthplace of Radha Krishna, where their love is merging the streets.
We believe that the pursuit of transcending material aspects of life is the essence of human existence. It is our sincere conviction that dedicating time to such a spiritual quest is not just a choice but a fundamental responsibility. Participants who have embarked on this sacred journey in the past have unequivocally described it as a profound life-altering experience, a demarcation between the life they knew before and the transformative existence that followed. The impact of this expedition has imprinted a lasting significance on their lives. We are steadfast in our belief that the sanctified locations we are about to explore hold the power to bestow such profound blessings. Kindly peruse the program details below, which include information about the sacred sites we are set to encounter.
Those who follow their inner calling are considered blessed, enriched by profound spiritual experiences from their past. Serving such individuals on this journey is a privilege, as we aspire to guide them along the path tread by numerous truth-seekers before us.
Embarking on a 13-day pilgrimage to India offers unparalleled opportunities for spiritual growth and enlightenment. Renowned as the birthplace of spiritual wisdom, love, and inner exploration, India promises a plethora of cultural and traditional experiences. Navigating the country and its temples alone can be overwhelming, potentially causing one to overlook the spiritual treasures hidden beneath the surface of bustling sounds and distractions.
Therefore, we invite you to join us on a meticulously planned Pilgrim, where we provide continuous care and support based on our extensive experience of traversing India and being an integral part of the local bhakti yoga temple community. Our journey ensures both comfort and an unpredictable spiritual adventure.
India has withstood centuries of attempts to diminish its culture, religion, and traditions by various forces, yet it has retained its spiritual practices, faith, devotion, ancient Vedic scriptures, Ayurvedic medicine, Jyotish astrology, music, temples, and rich relationship culture. While the tourist experience in India can be loud and colorful, our pilgrimage aims to uncover places and people that not only impress culturally but also touch and potentially transform the heart.
If you're considering this pilgrimage, you likely have some understanding of India and its spiritual teachings. As followers of the ancient Vaishnava teachings, we approach our journey with humility, praying that our consciousness remains receptive to the spiritual essence during our exploration of holy places. Our practice is rooted in listening (Sravanam) and repetition (Kirtanam). Daily gatherings will set the tone for our consciousness, involving discussions on scriptures (satsanga) to comprehend the wisdom bestowed by past teachers.
Join us on this extraordinary pilgrimage, where the pursuit of spiritual growth intertwines with cultural exploration, offering a unique and transformative experience in the heartland of Incredible India.
Teachers
In this pilgrimage you will be accompanied and assisted by us - Liladhar and Debbie. We will introduce ourselves.
Liladhar
I am very glad to all of you. My friends and well wishers. With an open heart I invite you to pilgrimage. If you are reading this, then maybe soon we will spend some time together. I can't wait to meet you and share with you the glory of the most amazing place in the world.
I was lucky guy and lived and traveled with my teachers, senior monks, from whom I learned a lot of wisdom, knowledge and culture, and now I can and want to share it with others. The last 20 years have been a regular practice of pilgrimage to India for me. Sometimes there were 90 people in our groups and that's great ofcourse, a lot of fun as well, it's given me a lot of experience, but I prefer smaller groups.
I have been studying and practicing Bhakti yoga since 2002. In 2006 I was initiated into the Bhakti tradition. So for 12 years I was a young monk (Brahmacharya). Was living in southern and northern India, studying the vedic scriptures, practicing prayers and chanting mantras, meditation and features of religion and culture. After that I moved to Europe to Amsterdam and met my wonderful wife Debbie who is beautiful being, with big devotional heart, she is my helping hand always, best friend, family protector and wonderful mother. We have a 6 years old daughter Jeya that made us move to Portugal Algarve to a quiet place in the south.
Debbie
I started yoga journey 15 years ago and since 10 years also a yoga teacher, teaching in Bali, Amsterdam and Portugal.
I organize and hold several yoga retreats guiding mostly women on their search for yoga lifestyle.
When I met Liladhar, my heart was also touched by the teaching of Bhakti yoga. Now we live family life together, work and practice spiritual life together. I think this is the most precious thing that has happened to me. I have always been attracted to the idea of God and have always prayed. The birth given Christian church system itself was not very attractive to me, so the teachings of Bhagavad Gita / Bhakti yoga, a message about true Love, became a refuge for me and my heart.
After our last trip in 2022 to northern India, we received many letters with wishes to travel with us. Thus, we realised that this was a sign and decided that we will offering annual pilgrimage to this sacred Mother India.
Locations
This will be a 13-day trip. In which we promise you care and support throughout the whole journey. We have planned our journey in such a way that you are comfortable and at the same time that you can experience a spiritual adventure that is always unpredictable.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh unfurls itself as an incredibly auspicious and purifying haven, adorned with unparalleled beauty. On the second day of our journey, we will venture to Devprayag, a nearby town situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, where they merge to form the sacred Ganges River. Devprayag is renowned as a pilgrimage destination, believed to be the site where Lord Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, undertook penance to atone for the demise of the demon king Ravana.
Our visit to Devprayag will culminate with a sacred bath in the revered Ganga, as ancient scriptures guide us that immersing oneself in the holy waters absolves sins, both from this life and past lives. In Rishikesh, we will partake in the daily holy Puja dedicated to the Ganga, further connecting with the spiritual essence of this sacred river.
Upon our return from the Himalayan trekking expedition, we will indulge in a delightful dining experience and treat ourselves to rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages available in the town and visit stunning Waterfalls in Nature. Rishikesh, a magnet for yogis from around the globe in search of deeper meaning.
Himalaya
The Himalayas harbors enigmatic secrets, defying physics, such as the City of Immortal Beings nestled within. The Himalayas are the dwelling place of numerous Gods. Additionally, the Himalayas are considered to be a place of spiritual awakening and enlightenment, drawing seekers from around the world to meditate and seek higher consciousness. While we may not explore these very high remote realms, last year's pilgrim amidst the Himalayan foothills, we sensed the call to venture deeper. With sincere soulseekers, we aim to unveil the majestic mysteries of the so called 'path of liberation'. Gods like Vishnu and Shiva graced this sacred land with years of meditating in different sacred sights that we will visit leaving you in absolute Awe, as their power remains palpable. Over 8 days, we'll trek the Himalaya with humility, praying and pondering not only on their pastimes but also why numerous sages tread on this sacred path of liberation. We encourage every soul to undertake this trek at least once in its lifetime, as it is a purification journey for the spirit.
Vrindavan
On the morning of the 10th day of our spiritual journey, we will set forth towards Vrindavan, the culminating destination of our enchanting adventure—a sacred and ancient city, often referred to as the "City of 5000 Temples." Vrindavan holds profound significance, attracting pilgrims from all corners of India and, now, from across the globe. The air is filled with the resonating chimes of bells as sadhus eagerly make their way to the early morning service (Arati) in the temples, starting as early as 4-5 am.
This hallowed ground is where Krishna, the epitome of truth and personified love according to sacred scriptures and teachings of the past, dwelled thousands of years ago as God's earthly incarnations. Over the course of 3 days, we will endeavour together to immerse ourselves in the transcendental aura of this exceptional place. Our time will be spent visiting temples, engaging in soulful kirtans, delving into spiritual philosophy discussions, exploring local markets, capturing moments through photography, sharing impressions, relishing delicious meals, and indulging in laughter and deep reflections.
Vrindavan, with its rich history and spiritual ambiance, promises an experience that transcends the ordinary, and we invite you to join us in discovering the profound beauty and wisdom that this city of temples has to offer.
Day to Day Highlights (aprox) :
Day 1 - Delhi Airpot to Rishikesh. After reaching Rishikesh (5 hours ride with comfy Mercedes Van) settle down in boutique hotel and post lunch we go for the Ganga puja.
Day 2 - DevPrayag, where Ganga is merging. This is where we to take holy bath in mother Ganga, which is believed to take away our sins. After we move into the Himalayas for our first stop at Joshimath. Arriving in evening for rest and relax time in Hotel and surrounding.
Day 3 - In Joshimath we visit Narshima Dev temple. visit auli and than we move to Badrinath.
Day 4 - Early morning Badrinath temple darshan with Hot Spring water bath. Visit Ganesha Gufa, Vyas Gufa. Than we trek to Vasudhara falls.
Day 5 - Morning trek to to the Charanpaduka, the foot prints of Lord Visnu. Afternoon back to Joshimath.
Day 6 - Early morning drive to Chopta, trek to Tunganath temple with Chandrashila. Than after we go to Guptkashi.
Day 7 - After breakfast we visit Kalimath temple The most famous temple of Kali Devi.
Day 8 -After breakfast we travel back to Rishikesh. Evening for Ganga Puja.
Day 9 - Day of resting and relaxing. You will receive a complementary Ayurvedic Massage in town from local hands. And we will wander around town and dine in the lovely local restaurant Ganga View Cafe.
Day 10 - Travel to Vrindavan, afternoon we visit Krishna Balaram Mandir. Evening rest and relax.
Day 11 - early morning Parikrama (holy walk) around Vrindavan. After breakfast we go to Cow Shala, afternoon free choice for shopping at Loi Bazar local Indian Market, evening visit Radharaman temple
day 12 - Yamuna boat ride. Evening rest and relax.
Day 13 - transfer back to Delhi Airport.
Highlights of our days into the Himalaya trekking include:
1. **Badrinath**: A pilgrimage site of unparalleled significance, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The legend goes that the Pandavas passed this very village on their way to Heaven and that it was here too that Veda Vyasa compiled and wrote the Mahabharata and organised the Vedas. Shortly after Krishna left the Earth, they all decided that the time had come for them to renounce the world, as the age of Kali Yuga had started. So the five Pandavas and Draupadi left to the path of liberation.
2. **Joshimath**: One of the four maths established by Shankaracharya in the 8th century, featuring the ancient 1200 year old Kalpavriksha tree and numerous temples.
3. **Guptakashi - Hidden Benares**: A holy pilgrimage spot in the Rudraprayag district, where Lord Shiva sought refuge before granting the Pandavas their wish at Kedarnath. Gupta Kashi, at 1319 meters above sea level, boasts mesmerizing natural beauty with snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. Lord Shiva proposed to Devi Parvati for marriage in Gupta Kashi.
4 ** Tunganath - Tungnath Temple is thought to be around 1,000 years old with absolute breathtaking views! Tungnath (literal meaning: Lord of the peaks) mountains form the Mandakini and Alaknanda river valleys. It is located at an altitude of 3,690 m (12,106 ft) , and just below the peak of Chandrashila. The Pandavas, heroes of the Mahabharata epic came here. This is the location where Lord Shiva's arm returned after being destroyed. And this is where Lord Rama meditated after defeating the demon-king Ravana. Tunganath is the highest Shiva temple in the world and is the highest of the five Panch Kedar temples located in the Rudraprayag district, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. We will share some epic stories about Lord Shiva and what has happend here.
5. ** Kalimath - Kalimath Temple is located at an elevation of 1800mtr above the sea level in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The temple is beautifully nestled amidst the lap of nature on the bank of river Saraswati and offers a cool, salubrious, and divine environment to its devotees.
*Daily we have sadhu sangha (spiritual talks) at sacred sights to explain the depth of it
** In India unexpected things happen always to teach us that we are not in control, so daily schedule can sometimes change due to this. We ask your mindful flexibility.
*** we share meals together and separate, we do this consciously to give you space to contemplate daily over a meal. Some people prefer to do this in silence and others in a group. We like to respect all. Breakfast is included in the price.
Accommodation
We will be staying in several well maintained Indian hotels on our trip. We selected hotels with some comfort for you to rest and relax after intens days of wandering and trekking.
Food
This is a vegetarian only journey. Breakfast is included in the package price. Other meals we can share together or you can decide to dine alone. Depends on your mood and energy, but we can always advise you places where to go. India is food heaven, but we do not advise to eat food sold on the streets. We are always very careful with how and what we eat, so far this has helped us every year. We teach you the tricks of the game. Make sure to bring hand- sanitisers.
Price (13 days journey)
2150€ based on shared accommodation
2450€ based on private accommodation
Early Bird till 1 April '24 with 150€ discount
We ask you to confirm your spot with a 250€ non-refundable deposit. Balance must be paid in full 90 days before the pilgrim.
If you prefer paying in instalments then please reach out to us.
Cancelation policy below.
Include
12 nights Indian Hotel accommodation, include daily breakfast
Daily Sadhu Sangha / sharing bhakti wisdom / ancient tales of India at every sight we visit
One complementary dinner first day of arrival in Rishikesh
One complementary dinner at the Ganga View Cafe, after returning from the Himalaya trekking
One complementary Ayurvedic massage in Rishikesh after we come back from Himalaya trekking
One complementary dinner upon arrival in Vrindavan
Transport (riksja) to temples and all daily activities / sights we will visit
Transport into Himalaya in a Toyota Innova jeep, 5 seats per car to keep it comfortable
Taxi Transport pickup from Delhi Airport to Rishikesh & to Vrindavan in a comfortable Mercedes Van & back to Delhi Airport last day in local car service. Based on shared transfer.
Exclude
Your Return Flight, book instantly to keep price low, and ask us for flight info
Dinner
Your own daily choice of Snacks and fruits
Travel Insurances, optional vaccination, covid-19 regulations if there are.
More details before you pack
• This is a non alcohol, no smoking, non violence trip, vegetarian only journey
. Pack your Open Heart & Mind
• This is a Women & Men Pilgrim
• Notebook & pen for daily journaling and making notes during our sangha talks
• Bring comfort and warm clothing, winter / wind jacket and scarf for morning and evenings in the Himalaya trek.
. Trekking shoes
. During day is warm, but you need to be covering shoulders and knees for in temples (skirts, Indian trousers, scarfs etc you can buy in India too) Make sure to bring clothing that is ok to get dirty or messy. Flip flops, birkenstock, croqs or comfy shoes that are easy to take off in Rishikesh and Vrindavan at sacred sights. Most important things can get dirty and break, or even taking away by local people in need.
• Don't forget swimwear for Holy baths
. Sun screen , sunglasses
• Mosquito repellent (also available in India)
• Arrange ur Travel insurance
• Your personal travel necessary
• Make sure to update yourself with your local Travel info to India (COVID 19)
• There is always a laundry place to find to wash clothing if needed.
• Visa or Credit Card that is to be used world-wide in any atm. Check with your bank before leaving!
Apply e-visa online one or two weeks in advance the travel date. Ask Debbie to help with more information about this.
Cancelation Policy
The cancellation policy below will apply for all cancellation scenarios, with no exceptions. This cancellation policy has been designed to be as compassionate as possible in the case that plans change, whilst also understanding our commitment to and cancellation policies with our vendors prior to organise the pilgrim.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing to us, info@ohmat.nl.
Delays & other unforseen circustances.
There will be no refunds nor discounts for arriving late, leaving early, flight cancellations, travel delays or illness. For additional protection due to any unforseen circumstances, it is highly recommend that all participants purchase travel insurance at the time of booking the retreat.
Travel insurance.
Travel insurance can protect participants against participant cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses and the cost of repatriation should the participant become ill or injured. It is strongly recommended that all participants purchase travel insurance, including a 'cancel for any reason' option in order to protect them against the rare chance of cancellation.
We apply the following cancellation policy applies
- For cancellations made more than 90 days prior to the retreat start date, and greater than 14 days after the official booking date, any payments made will be refunded minus the non-refundable deposit (minus any payment online card handling fees).
- For cancellations made 90 days or less, prior to the retreat start date, 100% of your payment will not be refunded, as we have made non-refundable costs for the organisation of the pilgrim.
- Mother India brings out the best, but can also bring out the worst in people. Specially if you have never visited India. So be well aware this is a Spiritual journey where participants seriously seeking for soul impressions. Due to this focus of every day, improper aggressive behaviour, using alcohol and/or smoking during the pilgrim that affects all participants and group is not accepted and we can decide to exclude you from the whole trip, without return of your investment, to protect other members in the group.
How to sign up?
You can sent us simply your email with your wishes to join!
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