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Breathe Deep Journey: India! Mumbai, Rajasthan, Taj Mahal, with optional Varanasi Extension April 2019
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Welcome to 2019! I am so excited for a new year and new explorations, and I
 want to make it easier for you to join me. So I am reducing the cost on this extraordinary trip to make it more accessible. Also, since this trip was announced only four months before the travel date, I realize that it can be challenging to get the necessary funds together.
So - how about $4285 instead of $5200? India has changed my life since my first visit in 2006. In ways huge and small, India seeps into your blood and will alter your perception of not only the world, but of yourself as well. I hope this price reduction will make the journey easier for you to join.
I really want you to experience India! The Varanasi extension is also reduced from $995 to $695.
Take a look at the itinerary here and be in touch ASAP to sign up. I am purposely keeping this trip small so we can have a more intimate journey. Taking our time at sacred sites. Wandering around the Taj Mahal. Winding our way through the
streets of Varanasi. Visiting special restaurants and homes for meals, shopping in out-of-the-way places and really sinking into the extraordinary experience that is India.
Our agent
Unni Nair, from Royal Indian Voyages (who I have been working with for 10 years!) and our dedicated escort
Sanjeev Joseph, always take the best care of us. From the moment we land to the time to say goodbye, we are taken care of in every way. Always on time, ever-present, able to be flexible and work with the group, we are in good hands in a place that can be, at times, unpredictable! Safety and Be in touch with questions - email [email protected] or text/call 410-979-2096. Happy New Year! You can see the full itinerary here:
This marks my 9th trip to this most remarkable of countries. And I am so excited to revisit Rajasthan - this is one of my favorite destinations in India. When I think of Rajasthan I think of the richness India brings to our senses. The vibrant colors. The delicious food. The vast desert and dunes. The lyrical music. The
 magical scenery. The enormity of Mogul fortresses. The local textiles. The stained glass. Oh my! An abundance of beauty in every way.
This year for the first time I am adding in some unique opportunities for our travelers, including having specially prepared meals in people's homes, volunteering at an animal sanctuary, and an insider's view of Mumbai.
Our hotels are just as much an experience as the tour! We stay in magnificent Indian Heritage Hotels - incredible former palaces and forts,
known for their architecture and royal treatment, historical beauty and modern amenities.
Additionally, as India is the center of the world for sacred sites and spirituality, we find time in the travel schedule for yoga and meditation. Just being present in India fills us with a sense of all that has passed before us. Centuries of rishis, yogis and yoginis have left their mark on every part of this country. You will feel it at every turn.
Just a note about traveling in India - it's not for everyone.
While the country has "Westernized" by leaps and bounds, even since my first trip there in 2006, it can still be a challenge for those not used to this part of the world.
Travel times are "suggestions." We never know when a bridge might be out, cows are blocking the road, or obstacles I can't even imagine. Roads are not always in the best condition. The ride can be bumpy and slow, or fast and harrowing! The sites and scenes can be mesmerizing and alluring, colorful and heartbreaking.
 At times you may be uncomfortable and irritable, at other times you will be awed and humbled. It's such a crazy intense mix of sights, sounds, smells, humanity and even inhumanity - the emotions that arise in India can be extreme. The beauty, astounding. Getting there can be a chore, but arriving is a blessing so deep and profound.
It's hot. It's exotic. It's foreign. The insects and wildlife (think monkeys and bugs I don't have names
 for) are unusual. I
f you want to travel to India, leave your expectations at home. Be open to all experiences and treat them as adventures, surprises, delights. Love everyone you meet.
Only come to India if you are ready to find beauty in everything that awaits you!
So if this interests you, take some time to read through the details below. Feel free to call or email anytime to talk about it.
Namaste and Happy New Year!
Susan
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March 30 - April 13, 2019 + 2 day optional excursion to Varanasi
 MARCH 30: We fly from the US to Mumbai. Most likely we will fly from Dulles International in Virginia, direct. I will advise the group on tickets. See note at the end of this itinerary about obtaining a Visa.
APRIL 1 (MON): ARRIVE MUMBAI
Welcome to India!
We will be greeted at the airport by our dedicated escort
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Mr. Sanjeev - our guide in India
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for the entire trip, Mr. Sanjeev Joseph, who has been leading our tours for several years. We go directly to the hotel to rest as our flight will arrive very early morning.
APRIL 2 (TUE): IN MUMBAI
 On this first day in India we will enjoy a very special day of touring with our own private Bombay guide, Ms. Rashida Anees. Rashida is a guide to celebrities, VIPs and those seeking an insider's view of this amazing city. I am honored to have Rashida leading us on our introduction to India. Rahsida is designing a tour specifically for our group which will include hidden gems, cultural highlights and a fabulous meal!
APRIL 3 (WED): We fly to Rajasthan via MUMBAI-UDAIPUR
After breakfast, we depart to the airport to board Air India to Udaipur.  Assistance on arrival at the airport and transfer to hotel. Tonight we will visit the home of local family for a cooking class and authentic Indian meal.
Overnight at the hotel
Oberoi Trident
APRIL 4, (THU): IN UDAIPUR
After breakfast we will visit Animal Aid Unlimited, a dog rescue and animal sanctuary founded by an American family. Here we will learn about animal rescue in India and have a chance to feed baby calves and see the extraordinary work that they do.
After our visit to Animal Aid, we will take a leisurely-paced sightseeing tour of Udaipur city including the City Palace - a majestic architectural marvel towering
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City Palace Udaipur
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over the lake. With its courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, splendid rooms and hanging gardens, this is a stunning site, built in 1651 by MaharanaJagat Singh.
After time for shopping in the wonderful city market palce, we will take a sunset boat cruise on the beautiful placid Lake Pichola. The lake is surrounded by hills, palaces including the beautiful city palace,  temples, bathing Ghats and embankments.
Overnight at the hotel.
APRIL 5 (FRI): UDAIPUR-RANAKPUR-JODHPUR
After breakfast we will drive approximately 6 hrs to Jodhpur, en-route visiting Ranakpur Jain Temples built in the 15th century, situated in the lovely valley of the Aravali.  Ranakpur has grand structures and beautiful sculpture. There are 1444 pillars in the temple different from each other. The magic of light and shade is awe-inspiring.
Upon arrive to
Jodhpur (the Blue city) in the afternoon, we will visit the majestic  Mehrangarh Fort situated on a low sandstone hill, including Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal and and the winding streets filled with unique shops and small temples. Overnight at the hotel
APRIL 6, 2019 (SAT): JODHPUR-JAISALMER
This morning we will have yoga in the beautiful gardens by the pool at the hotel, then breakfast and depart by surface to Jaisalmer Sam Sand Dunes, situated 45 kms west of Jaisalmer. These Dunes varying in size from 3 to 15 kms to a large extent are of shifting sands where wind heaps the sand into hills or deep hollow scopes. In the evening we will enjoy the  sunset with its changing colors and take a short Camel ride. A highlight is a Camp Fire Dinner with Rajasthani Folklore, dinner and drink! The dark sky of the desert also lends itself to incredible star gazing. Overnight in the luxury tents at the
Camp.
APRIL 7 (SUN): IN JAISALMER
After breakfast, depart by surface to Jaisalmer. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Afternoon city tour of Jaisalmer- the last citadel in the desert. The  absolutely beautiful Golden Fort was a regular scheduled stop for the caravans on the ancient silk route. Built in 1156 AD, it is situated on a 76 meter high triangular mound providing astounding views. Other sites include Jain Temples, Gadisar Lake, and the beautiful Havelis (A Haveli is a traditional townhouse or mansion with historical and architectural
significance. The word "haveli" is derived from Arabic hawali, meaning "partition" or "private space"). We will have time to visit the shops and marvel at the architectural beauty. Overnight at one of my favorite hotels in India, the hotel Rawal Kot. (we will have two nights here so you can partake in all it has to offer!)
APRIL 8 (MON): IN JAISALMER
 Breakfast at the hotel. Day free at leisure to enjoy the pool, spa services, shop, rest and reflect on the journey so far. Overnight at the hotel. 
APRIL 9, (TUE): JAISALMER-BIKANER
Morning after breakfast departure by surface to  Bikaner, east of the border with Pakistan, surrounded by the Thar Desert. Known for the 16th-century Junagarh Fort, a huge complex of ornate buildings and halls, with some of the finest collections of golden work and raised lacquer work with colorful glass inlay.
The main bazaar in Bikaner is located at the back of Junagarh Fort and is filled with sweet shops and juice walas, along with numerous back roads and small alleys filled with
 jewelry shops and textile markets. Here we can purchase traditional Rajasthani scarves and beautiful cotton textiles for a quarter of the price when compared to Jaipur and Udaipur, while enjoying the colorful world surrounding you with vibrant red, yellow and blue textiles and
saris hanging above each shop. Overnight at the hotel
Lallgarh Palace.
APRIL 10 (WED): BIKANER-JAIPUR
After breakfast, depart by surface to Jaipur. During our longer drives (this should be around 3-4 hours with a break for lunch) bring along some good reading material, que up your podcasts, or just rest and chat as we make  our way through the beautiful landscape. Overnight at the
Hotel Alsisar. The rooms, nooks and crannies, hallways and corridors of this hotel are lined with stained glass, magical little courtyards, balconies and seating areas and beautiful doors. You will definitely want to wander around with your camera!
APRIL 11 (THU): IN JAIPUR
Morning after breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the State until 1728. Visit the Jagmandir or the hall of victory glittering with  mirrors, Jai Mahal and Temple of Kali by Jeep.
Afternoon is a sightseeing tour of Jaipur city. Among the principal sights are the Jantar Mantar or the Observatory, The Palace of Winds or Hawa Mahal. Jaipur is also a major center of precious and semi-precious stones, jewelry, cotton textiles and the typical Blue Pottery. You can also
 witness the special Rajasthani Block Printing on the textiles along with Carpet Weaving in one of the Factory Outlets. Overnight at the hotel.
APRIL 12 (FRI): JAIPUR-ABHANERI-FATEHPUR SIKRI-AGRA
After breakfast, depart by surface to Agra en-route visiting Abhanri Stepwell & Fatehpur Sikri.
Chand Baori (step well)
in the Abhaneri village is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Rajasthan. It was built in 9th century AD, it is  one of the largest step-wells in the world. This amazing structure was built to conserve water and provide a respite from the intense heat. It is an architectural wonder with 3,500 perfectly symmetrical, narrow steps. It is this exquisite geometry that draws local and international visitors to it every year. Tucked away in a small village, it is one of India's hidden wonders. Next to the Stepwell is the Harshat Mata Temple. This magical  little temple dates from the 9th-10th century, dedicated to Harshat Mata, who is considered to be the goddess of joy and happiness for the whole village. We will take some time here to meditate on joy and happiness.
We end our tour today with a visit to such an interesting place - it is usually very quiet so we can soak up the history and beauty of this Sufi sacred site,  Fatehpur Sikri,
the deserted capital of Mughal India. Built by Mughal emperor Akbar in honor of Sufi saint Salim Chishti in 1571, this was a fascinating moment in India history, when the Akbar, married to 3 women of different religions, attempted to start his own inclusive religion called Din-i-Ilahi Ultimately he had no takers for his worldly point of view, and the place and movement was abandoned. We will take some time to meditate in one of the wives mini-palaces of your choice. Then onto Agra and the Taj Mahal! Upon arrival check-in at the Oberoi Trident Hotel
13 APRIL 2019 (SAT): AGRA-DELHI
 This morning we visit the glorious Taj Mahal at sunrise. B
uilt by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, this beautiful mausoleum is built of pure white marble and is an architectural marvel. Shah Jahan built the Taj for his wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal, who is interred in the sanctuary. The building was conceived as a garden tomb with the mausoleum rising at the far end of the complex with the river Yamuna flowing below. Beneath the dome are the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jehan. The smaller temples around the Taj are quite impressive as well. We will take our time to wander around this magnificent compound.
We will return to the hotel for breakfast, and then visit
Agra Fort
built by Emperor Akbar over the years 1565 - 1573 with its maze of courtyards, mosques, and private chambers. While the architecture is Muslim, we will see Hindu influences as well.
Those continuing to Varanasi will board an overnight train in the evening to make our way east (see details below). Those not going to Varanasi will
depart by surface to Delhi. Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Overnight at the Hotel Oberoi Maidens
14 APRIL 2019 (SUN): IN DELHI (for those not continuing to Varanasi)
After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi Among some of the most interesting highlights of your city tour of Old and New Delhi are the Red Fort (from outside only), the Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk and Raj Ghat in the old city area and the Government Buildings, a drive through the majestic Rajpath to the India Gate, the Humayun's Tomb and the Qutab Minaret. Late this evening you will depart for the US from Delhi Airport.
Cost:
WAS $5200.
NOW $4285! for shared room*
If you do not sign up with a roommate I will do everything I can to match you up with another single traveler. If there is not another person available you will be responsible for the single supplement.
Single supplement: $900
RATE INCLUDES:
- Accommodation: twin bed in shared room with breakfast for total of 13 nights at the hotels foreseen below or similar.
- Assistance on arrival/departure at airport/hotels by our representatives.
- All transportation using one air-conditioned deluxe coach.
- Gratuities for driver and helper.
- Hotel gratuities.
- All currently applicable entrance fees to the monuments covered in the itinerary.
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Camera fees at the monuments.
- Services of locally appointed English speaking guide for sightseeing tour.
- Gratuities for local tour guides.
- Dedicated Royal Indian Voyages Escort throughout the tour.
- Amber Fort by Jeep/Jaipur.
- Camel ride at Sam Sand Dunes with Camp Fire Dinner/Jaisalmer.
- Cooking Class with Dinner/Udaipur
- Airfare on domestic sectors Mumbai-Udaipur sector
- Farewell Dinner in Agra & Delhi.
- 2 bottle mineral water every day per person during sightseeing tours and inter-city transfers.
- All Currently Applicable Government Taxes.
RATES DO NOT INCLUDE:
- Airfare from the US.
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Visa to India.
- Meals other than breakfast or specified above.
- Alcoholic drinks.
- Gratuities for dedicated guide Mr. Sanjeev.
- Medical & Travel Insurance.
- Expenses of a personal nature such as laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.
- Any other services not listed above.
VARANASI OPTIONAL EXCURSION
APRIL 13 (SAT): AGRA-VARANASI
Remain in Agra whilst the rest of the group not taking Varanasi Extension leave for Delhi. Optional early dinner at one of the restaurants or hotel. Evening departure transfer to Agra Railway station to board train Marudhar  Express 8:25 pm-8:45 am, to Varanasi. You have not experienced life to its fullest until you travel by overnight train in India! Watch sleepy India pass by and witness sunrise over the fields as people begin their day. This is also a unique opportunity to meet Indians and tourists alike as we travel together across the country. Overnight on board Train.
APRIL 14 (SUN): ARRIVE VARANASI
Arrive at 8:45 am in the spiritual capital of India - Varanasi - said to be the oldest city in the world, and founded by Lord Shiva. We will settle into our hotel and venture out in the afternoon for an
excursion  to
Sarnath, the fabled place bears testimony to its great past where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his disciples expounding the principles of Buddhism.
In the evening we will have front row seats to the spectacular ceremony that is the closing of the Gats (the temples) in a fiery musical ritual that has been going on for thousands of years.This is the Ganga Aarti at Holy River Ganges. 
After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we will have some dinner and visit the Pilgrim Bookstore (looks just like breathe books!) for a music performance. On our last visit we had a serendipitous magical evening of music at The Pilgrim. This is not to be missed.
You can see a snippet of it here. Overnight at the
Hotel Maden.
APRIL 15 (MON): IN VARANASI
 This morning we will head out in the dark, through the winding alleys of Varanasi, to take a sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges. This is a site you will never forget. We will see the holy ritual of Indians burning bodies of their loved ones who have passed on. See the Temples opening for the day of prayers. Witness the ritual bathing in the holy waters. And we will set lotus flowers and candles into the water with prayers and wishes.
After our boat ride we will meet with a wonderful local teacher Smirti for a session of breath work and yoga. 
Then back to the hotel for
breakfast and a sightseeing tour of the holy Temples of Varanasi including Durga Temple and Bharat Mata Temple, inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, which has one of the most perfect relief of India carved out of marble. At the Tulsi Manas white marble Temple, the whole Ramayana is inscribed on its wall. In the e
vening we will visit a private home for a cooking class and our farewell dinner. Overnight at hotel.
APRIL 16 (TUE): VARANASI-DELHI
This morning after breakfast, we will fly to Delhi. Optional hotel room to rest before evening flight to the US. We can also go to an airport hotel for dinner and arrive back in time to fly home.
Cost:
WAS $975.
NOW $675 for sharing room. Add $175 for single.
RATE INCLUDES:
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Accommodation: twin bed in shared room with breakfast for total of 3 nights at the hotels foreseen below or similar.
- Additional breakfast in Varanasi on arrival on Apr 14.
- Assistance on arrival/departure at airport/hotels by our representatives.
- All transportation using one air-conditioned Medium Car or deluxe coach.
- All currently applicable entrance fees to the monuments covered in the itinerary.
- Services of locally appointed English speaking guide for sightseeing tour.
- An accompanying Royal Indian Escort.
- Boat ride at Holy River Ganges/Varanasi.
- Evening Aarti at Holy Ganges/Varanasi
- Air-conditioned sleeper class train tickets Agra-Varanasi sectors.
- 1 Cooking class with Dinner.
- Music performance in Pilgrim Book store.
- 1 Yoga Class.
- 2 bottle mineral water every day per person during sightseeing tours and inter-city transfers.
- All Currently Applicable Government Taxes.
RATES DO NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals other than breakfast.
- Alcoholic drinks.
- Optional hotel room in Delhi before flight.
- Camera fees at the monuments.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Airfare on domestic sectors Varanasi-Delhi sectors.
- Medical & Travel Insurance.
- Expenses of a personal nature such as laundry, beverages, telephone calls etc.
- Any other services not listed above.
To reserve your place on the trip, please send an $800 deposit to Breathe Ayurveda, 20 Clarks Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136. Once the initial deposit is made, the balance can be paid in increments, if desired. Final payment is due 45 days prior to departure, February 13, 2019. Early Bird payment is due by January 31. Checks or cash are preferred. Credit Card and PayPal payments are possible, with an additional 3% service fee.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees come into effect at time of deposit. I recommend that you consider purchasing cancellation insurance. This will cover you if you need to cancel unexpectedly. Please note that insurance companies may differ in what they consider a insurable risk. I recommend Insure My Trip .
If you cancel your booking, it will result in the following charges:
- More than 90 days prior to departure: $200
- 61 - 89 days prior to departure: Full deposit
- 60 - 30 days prior to departure: 50% of total price
- Less than 30 days prior to departure: 100% of total price
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Ready to Go?
Remember that you must have a valid passport and that the expiration date is several months beyond the trip dates.
I will advise you on the airline tickets. The round trip price range is usually around $900 to $1200 for coach, $3500 + for business class. I will email you flight details and suggestions and you will purchase your own ticket. The flight, with one stop, is usually around 15 hours total travel time.
LINKS:
As we get closer to the trip I will advise on packing, offer travel tips and arrange a get-together for those of us in the area, so we can meet before we travel together!
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Here are some things members of the previous India group had to say about their trip
"Wonderful memories!" J.B.
"Thinking about how much I enjoyed the trip. I will never forget it and have so many tales to tell." J.C.
"I'm grateful for the entire experience, and of embracing the beautiful spirit of new friends." G.C.
"I am grateful for the journey and would not trade the memories for anything." S.C.
"I would love to take this moment on behalf of my husband and myself to tell you all what a great privilege it was to share this very special experience with each one of you.
You were all our teachers....along with India!" R.R.
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