Day 1. December 4. Depart U.S. 

Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Delhi, arriving December 5.

Day 2. December 5. Arrive Delhi. 

Arrive at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International airport. Enjoy VIP airport assistance, with a local representative there to meet you after disembarking the aircraft. Transfer to your airport hotel. 

JW Marriott Aerocity, New Delhi 
(Meals aloft)

Day 3. December 6. Rishikesh 

After breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport and fly to Dehradun, then set out on the one-hour drive to Rishikesh, stopping for a buffet lunch enroute. Set on the bank of the sacred Ganges River and at the base of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a world-renowned center for yoga and meditation with deep spiritual significance for local Hindus. 

Check into the five-star Roseate Ganges Hotel, with individual villas each opening to a private balcony, and settle into the rhythm of the journey with an afternoon yoga and meditation session. This evening, take part in a puja (river prayer service) and welcome dinner with your fellow traveling companions. 

Roseate Ganges 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4. December 7. Rishikesh 

Begin the morning with a meditation and yoga session, then set out for the Vashistha Gufa Ashram, a meditation cave on the banks of the Ganges River. Meditate in the cave where learned sages have meditated for centuries, experiencing the peace and serenity of the flowing river. 

After lunch, explore ‘the Beatles Ashram’ inside Rajaji National Park. This now defunct ashram was the home base of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation, and where the Beatles studied in 1968. Stroll the grounds, soaking in the nature, history, and spirituality of the place, then convene at the edge of the park for a meditation session and philosophy discussion overlooking the river. 

At dusk, gather at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram to experience the Ganga Aarti, a nightly devotion in honor of the Ganges River. During this moving ceremony, lamps are set afloat and the air hums with the chants of ancient hymns. Conclude the day with dinner and live music. 

Roseate Ganges 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5. December 8. Rishikesh 

This morning enjoy a yoga and meditation session at Anand Prakash Ashram, immersing yourself in its rich spiritual heritage, serenity, and yoga practice. While there, experience a traditional havan (fire ritual). 

Following lunch, visit the ancient Rishikund holy pond and must-see Trayambakeshwar Temple at 13 stories high. Spend the remainder of the afternoon strolling through some of Rishikesh’s vibrant markets, where you can find colorful handicrafts, spiritual artifacts, and a wide assortment of yoga mats, meditation cushions, and artisanal jewelry. Alternatively, enjoy time at leisure for inner reflection.

Roseate Ganges 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6. December 9. Udaipur 

This morning fly to Udaipur via Delhi, then transfer to your hotel. Often called the ‘City of Lakes,’ Udaipur is a stunning oasis nestled in the Aravalli hills, where majestic palaces, shimmering lakes, and intricate temples create a fairytale ambiance. 

After a late afternoon yoga session, embark on a boat ride on serene Lake Pichola, with breathtaking views of the city’s lush hills and historic landmarks. See the iconic City Palace, the floating Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir, a beautiful island retreat. 

Trident Udaipur Hotel 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7. December 10. Udaipur 

After a morning meditation and yoga session, visit the City Palace, a grand and opulent complex perched on Lake Pichola. Built over a period of 400 years, the palace is a stunning maze of courtyards, terraces, pavilions, corridors, and gardens. Continue to the Crystal Gallery, housing a rare collection of Osler’s crystal. 

Stop for a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a local restaurant offering stunning views of the lake and palace. 

This afternoon, explore the intricate carvings and detailed architecture of the 17th-century Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Spend the remainder of the day meandering through a few of Udaipur’s markets. 

Trident Udaipur Hotel 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8. December 11. Udaipur 

This morning venture to Neemach Mata Temple for a special hilltop yoga session with panoramic views of Fateh Sagar Lake, the Arvalli Hills, and the cityscape. 

After returning to the city in the early afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Rajasthan with a hands-on cooking class in the heart of Udaipur. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before gathering for dinner. 

Trident Udaipur Hotel 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9. December 12. Govardhan Ecovillage 

Depart on a morning flight to Mumbai and transfer to Govardhan Ecovillage. Nestled in the picturesque Sahyadri Mountains, this eco-friendly retreat is dedicated to promoting harmony between nature and humanity. It features organic farms, lush gardens, and traditional Indian architecture, providing a peaceful environment for rejuvenation and self-discovery. 

During your stay, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, and workshops focused on sustainability and spirituality. All meals will be vegetarian and served at the village. 

Govardhan Ecovillage 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Days 10-11. December 13-14. Govardhan Ecovillage 

Spend two full days experiencing life at Govardhan Ecovillage, taking advantage of the village’s offerings at your own pace. 

Govardhan Ecovillage 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12. December 15. Mumbai 

The final leg of your tour brings you back to Mumbai, the pulsating heart of India. The streets teem with life, from the bustling vendors of Colaba Causeway to the vibrant stalls of Crawford Market. 

Upon arrival, check into your hotel located on Mumbai’s waterfront. After lunch, discover the city’s highlights, including the Gateway of India, Malbar Hill, and the famous Hanging Gardens offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and Marine Drive. 

Celebrate the conclusion of your transformative journey at a festive farewell dinner. 

Taj Mahal Palace 
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13. December 16. Departure 

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home, arriving to the U.S. on December 17. 

(Breakfast)

JW Marriott Aerocity New Delhi, India
This five-star hotel offers luxury accommodations in close proximity to the international and domestic airports. Amenities include Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, restaurants, bars, an upscale day spa, outdoor pool, and a modern fitness center.

Roseate Ganges Rishikesh, India
One of the best spa resorts in Rishikesh, the five-star Roseate Ganges offers 17 well-appointed villas, each opening to a private balcony overlooking the valley and the forest. Relax in the temperature-controlled infinity swimming pool or walk down to the private white-sand beach on the pristine waters of the Ganges River. A comprehensive menu of spa and yoga services ensures a memorable stay experience for guests seeking physical, mental and spiritual wellness. The hotel has an in-house patisserie & boulangerie, and the signature restaurant serves seasonal, local, organic ingredients.

Trident Udaipur Hotel Udaipur, India
The Trident Udaipur is spread over 28 acres on the banks of Lake Pichola and enjoys wonderful views across the waters to the iconic City Palace. This five-star hotel offers landscaped gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and 24-hour room service.

Govardhan Ecovillage Galtare, India
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of sustainability, spirituality, and holistic wellness. Nestled in the Sahyadri mountains, Govardhan Ecovillage offers a transformative experience unlike any other, inspiring a way of life that respects the environment, uplifts communities, and preserves spiritual and cultural heritage. Govardhan Ecovillage features organic farms, lush gardens, and traditional Indian architecture, providing a peaceful environment for rejuvenation and self-discovery. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, and workshops focused on sustainability and spirituality.

Taj Mahal Palace Mumbia, India
The iconic Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai is India’s inaugural luxury hotel, commanding a regal view of the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea. Since 1903, the five-star Taj Majal Palace Mumbai has hosted illustrious guests, including royalty and dignitaries. Enjoy the opulence of the luxurious rooms and lush gardens, complemented by an array of lounges and dining venues, and the hotel’s signature butler service. The hotel spa, J Wellness Circle, offers a wide array of services inspired by ancient Indian healing rituals.

Program Rates

Standard room, double occupancy: $7,500 per person
Premium room upgrade (Roseate Ganges, Rishikesh), double occupancy: $7,800 per person
Standard room, single occupancy: $9,310 per person

Registration

Please register online or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609-258-8686 with questions. 

Program Rates Include:

Accommodations as listed; VIP arrival at Delhi Airport; VIP assistance at Mumbai Airport; meals as listed in itinerary; exclusive designated venue for yoga and meditation in Rishikesh and Udaipur; all excursions, activities, and sightseeing as listed in itinerary; overland transportation;
services of an English-speaking national guide; all entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary; bottled water and juices at all included meals; domestic airfare in India in economy class; all gratuities.

Program Rates Do Not Include:

Cost of Indian Visa; international airfare; transportation/guide services or additional experiences during the stay at Gordhavan EcoVillage; travel insurance; alcohol, items of purely personal nature.

Reservations and Payments: To reserve a space, please register online at: https://journeys.princeton.edu/booking/start/25-12-04-AUT/tour or contact the Princeton Journeys team at 609.258.8686/journeys@princeton.edu. Balance of payment is due four months prior to departure.

Air Arrangements: U.S. domestic and international airfare is not included in the program rates. You are welcome to book your air transportation through your local travel agent, an online travel site or the airline of your choice.

Insurance: As a service to its travelers, Princeton University automatically provides Princeton Journeys participants traveling internationally* with basic medical, accident, and evacuation coverage under a group emergency travel protection plan. It is highly recommended that you supplement this basic protection with your own additional coverage, as well as trip cancellation/interruption or baggage coverage. Information on additional insurance will be emailed to you upon receipt of your reservation.

*Please note, only U.S. residents are covered under the group emergency travel plan. Foreign national travelers should purchase insurance separately.

Group Size: This program is limited to 20 Princeton Journeys travelers.

What to expect: In addition to daily yoga practice, which is tailored to accommodate all skill levels, this trip involves a certain amount of physical activity such as some uphill hiking, stair climbing and walking on uneven surfaces. Travelers must be in good physical health and able to walk on uneven surfaces to participate in the tour.

Disclaimer: Princeton University is pleased to facilitate travel opportunities for its alumni and friends through Princeton Journeys. Princeton Journeys works with tour operators to make available interesting and enriching travel opportunities for the Princeton family. Please note that neither the University nor Princeton Journeys conducts tours, nor does either act as an agent for guests interested in tours. Princeton Journeys acts as a facilitator with tour operators, and tour participants contract directly with tour operators to make arrangements for completing travel. Princeton Journeys encourages you to familiarize yourself thoroughly with the tour operator’s cancellation and refund policies, and also to investigate available services such as trip cancellation insurance. Neither the University nor Princeton Journeys is responsible for changes to trips or travel arrangements or for losses or additional expenses resulting from or relating to travel. Princeton Journeys’ complete terms, which you are required to agree to before enrolling in a tour, can be found at: alumni.princeton.edu/connect/princeton-journeys/terms-and-conditions.

Cancellation Policy and Refund: The tour deposit of $1,000 per person is non-refundable. The final invoice will be sent 120 days prior to departure and is due upon receipt. Cancellations shall not be effective until they are received in writing and confirmed by Princeton Journeys.

The following cancellation fees will apply:
If a written request is received within 120-75 days prior to departure: 50% of the trip price will be refunded.

If a written request is received within 74 –-60 days prior to departure: 25% of the trip price will be refunded.

If a written request is received less than 60 days prior to departure no refund shall be issued.

No refund shall be issued after the tour has commenced, or for leaving the tour early. No refunds shall be issued for missed meals, sightseeing or any unused services.

Responsibility: Tour participants assume the responsibility to select a tour that is appropriate for his or her abilities and health. Authentic Asia acts only in the capacity of agents for the hotels, airlines, bus and ship lines or owners of contractors providing accommodations, transportation or other services. As a result, all coupons, receipts or tickets are issued subject to the terms and conditions specified by the supplier. By acceptance of tour membership, the participant agrees that neither Authentic Asia nor any of its subsidiaries shall become liable or responsible for personal injury or illness, damage to person or property, loss, delay or irregularity caused by person not controlled by it, such as (without limitation) airlines, bus, and shipping companies, suppliers of accommodations or other services, or resulting from any acts of God, defects in vehicles, strikes, wars, whether declared or otherwise, civil disturbances, medical or customs regulations, acts of terrorism, epidemics, government restrictions, criminal or negligent acts of others, weather, or any other circumstances over which Authentic Asia has no control. Authentic Asia is not responsible for any additional expenses or liability sustained or incurred by the participants as a result of the abovementioned causes.

Tour participant acknowledges receipt of a copy of these Terms and Conditions and signifies acceptance of, and consents to all of the terms and conditions set forth herein, when registering for, or making payments on this tour.