India

March 15-30, 2025

Spiritual Serenity: A Yoga Retreat in The Ganges River Valley
Are you craving a transformative journey where yoga and spirituality intertwine amidst enchanting landscapes? Look no further. Immerse yourself in the essence of ancient Indian traditions, as these two sacred cities offer unrivaled spiritual sanctuaries. Prepare to embark on a soul-stirring voyage that will leave you renewed, recharged, and deeply connected to your inner self.

jaipur: the pink city

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a vibrant and enchanting city nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, India. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, Jaipur is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. From its magnificent palaces and majestic forts to its bustling markets and colorful festivals, Jaipur offers a unique cultural experience like no other. Here we will try our hand at block printing and visit some of the best markets in India.

BODGHAYA: GONE BEYOND

Bodhgaya is a sacred place of profound significance for those on a spiritual journey. Located in the state of Bihar, India, Bodhgaya holds the distinction of being the site where Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. This serene destination draws pilgrims from all over the world, seeking inner peace and a connection to the teachings of Buddhism. The Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a magnificent monument that encapsulates the essence of Bodhgaya. As visitors traverse the temple grounds, they are enveloped in an aura of tranquility and introspection. The presence of Buddhist monasteries, meditation centers, and prayer flags fluttering in the gentle breeze further immerses individuals into a spiritual realm that resonates with their own quest for enlightenment. It is in Bodhgaya that one can truly grasp the transformative power of self-reflection and delve deep into their own spiritual journey.

Varanasi: The Divine Tapestry of Life and Death

Next, we venture to Varanasi, the oldest living city on earth and the spiritual capital of India. Known as the City of Light, Varanasi offers an ethereal experience where life and death intertwine. On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, be transported into a realm where time feels suspended, and spiritual devotion reigns supreme.
In Varanasi, allow the sacred energy of this ancient city to seep into your practice. Rise with the sun and practice yoga by the river to invigorate your body and mind. Observe the beauty of a city that embraces spirituality at every turn, from the awe-inspiring Vishwanath Temple to the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti (ritual).
Embrace the mystical atmosphere of Varanasi by taking a boat ride along the holy Ganges River. Witness the devotion of pilgrims as they cleanse their souls in the sacred waters. Explore the heart of the city's labyrinthine streets, where artisans, sadhus, and seekers of spiritual wisdom create a vibrant tapestry. Let the essence of Varanasi envelop you, forever transforming your perspective on life and spirituality.

Rishikesh

Where Ma Ganga makes her entry into the plains of India from the high Himalayas

Abode of Shiva: Rishikesh

Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas and cradled by the flowing waters of the Ganges River, Rishikesh has long been recognized as the yoga capital of the world. This picturesque location is imbued with a sense of tranquility that permeates every corner, making it the perfect backdrop for your spiritual journey. Flowing gracefully through the heart of Rishikesh, the Ganges River holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus. Consciously immersing oneself in its holy waters is believed to cleanse the soul of impurities. Witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a sacred evening ritual performed on the banks of the river, is an experience that awakens a profound sense of spirituality within.

Rishikesh is a melange of spirituality, tranquility, and unmatched natural beauty. Whether it's engaging in yoga and meditation, immersing in the sacred waters of the Ganges, or visiting the ancient temples and ashrams, Rishikesh offers an abundance of spiritual attractions that beckon all seeking inner transformation.

Join me in India

You will never be the same after experiencing Mother India.

Taj Mahal Extension Tour

We are thrilled to be working again with Taj Wonder on an extension tour to visit a wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal. This will happen on 3/14 the day before the retreat officially begins. This includes an extra night of lodging from the 14-15th in Delhi, 3 meals and high speed train transfer to Agra and back to hotel. Cost is an additional $700 for single $500 for double.

A Journey to the Inner Self

This retreat offers more than a physical getaway. It is an invitation to dive within and ignite the spark of spirituality that resides deep within. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a beginner on this path, our retreat caters to all levels of practice. Join us in India as we combine the ancient practice of yoga with the soul-stirring aura of these divine cities. Unleash your inner potential and embark on a transformative journey like no other.

Start date: March15, 2025 **
End date: March 30, 2025 Fly out of Delhi
No. of nights: 14

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

All domestic ground travel
All lodging and 2-3 meals per day
3 Nights in Jaipur
3 Nights in Varanasi
3 Nights in Bodh Gaya
6 Nights in Rishikesh (3/24-3/30)
Daily asana and meditation
Optional add on of Taj Mahal Tour on 3/14/2025 is an additional $700 for single $500 for double.

PRICING:
$3900 per person for double occupancy
$5100 per person for single occupancy

$500 Deposit due to secure your spot.

**Flying into Delhi: the retreat begins on 3/15 at 10AM, your retreat fee includes lodging for the evening of 3/14 as flights generally arrive to Delhi between 9:30PM-2:30AM. We suggested arriving a day early to adjust.

**The Taj Mahal tour is an optional add on one day before the retreat officially begins. It is an additional $700 for single and $500 for double and requires you to arrive two days early. Flights to India arrive in the evening, so for example, you would have to arrive on 3/12/25 to participate in the Taj Mahal Tour on 3/13/25.

FLIGHT DETAILS:
*Flight to India is not included. Flights within the retreat are included. You are responsible for getting to Delhi and back. You can choose any flight you like, suggested flight information will be provided 9 months prior to trip.

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Uploaded by Elizabeth Guardia on 2020-01-08.

Satchitananda. If we all knew who we really were there would only be one of “us” here. Do you know the real reason yoga exists is to explore this very question?
Go beyond. Way beyond your name, beyond your age, all the adjectives in which one may us

MORE ABOUT BRISTOL:

Bristol Maryott is the owner of Jala Yoga and Art in Providence, RI. Bristol is an Advanced-Certified Jivamukti, and prenatal yoga instructor with over twelve years of experience teaching yoga. She is Level 1 authorized by KPJAY and Saraswati Jois in Ashtanga Yoga. Bristol’s practice and teaching is informed by the light and grace of her dear teachers. She is grateful for the tutelage of Jivamukti founders, Sharon Gannon and David Life, as well as senior Jivamukti teachers Lady Ruth & Yogeswari. Bristol also travels to India regularly where she loves to practice with Saraswathi Jois in Mysore. She also has completed an Ashtanga second series intensive with Manju Jois.
Bristol holds an MA in Art History from the Courtauld Institute of Art in London UK and graduated from Yale with a BA in English. She has worked at Sotheby’s in London and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Bristol believes that art and yoga are complementary disciplines exploring consciousness. Bristol wanted to create a space where yoga practitioners could both inspire and be inspired by art.

We are very excited for you to travel with us and meet our wonderful friends in India! Hope you can join us!

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