Spiritual Journey Through Nothern India
Delhi, Rishikesh, Varanasi, Agra (Taj Mahal)
with Joan Hyman & 108 Journeys
February 11 - 24, 2028
Delhi, Rishikesh, Varanasi, Agra (Taj Mahal), February 11 - 24, 2028
An unforgettable journey into the birthplace of yoga, where ancient wisdom, sacred traditions, and spiritual discovery come alive.
India is a place that awakens the senses, opens the heart, and invites us to look beyond the familiar. It is a land where spirituality is woven into everyday life, where ancient rituals continue along sacred rivers, and where the teachings of yoga have been passed down for thousands of years.
Join Joan Hyman for an extraordinary 14-day journey through Northern India, thoughtfully curated to immerse you in the rich traditions, culture, and spiritual heritage of this remarkable country.
Join us for an unforgettable experience in India.
Rishikesh
Our adventure begins in Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred Ganges River. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh has drawn spiritual seekers, sages, and yogis for centuries.
Here, we will deepen our yoga practice through asana, pranayama, meditation, and philosophy while experiencing traditional Vedic fire ceremonies, sacred chanting, kirtan, and teachings from India's spiritual traditions. Our days will offer a balance of practice, reflection, and exploration, including a trek into the surrounding natural landscape, visits to local ashrams, and time to experience the vibrant energy of Rishikesh.
Varanasi
From the peaceful foothills of the Himalayas, our journey continues to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and among India's most sacred destinations.
There is truly no place quite like Varanasi.
As the sun rises over the Ganges, we will travel by boat along the river, witnessing the extraordinary rhythms of daily life unfolding along its ancient ghats. We will wander through winding streets, explore temples and bustling markets, and experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremonies, where fire, music, devotion, and prayer come together in a powerful expression of faith.
Our time in Varanasi will also include encounters with local spiritual teachers and an exploration of the teachings of Sant Kabir, offering a deeper understanding of India's diverse philosophical traditions.
Taj Mahal
Before concluding our journey, we will visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the world's most celebrated monuments, and have an opportunity to reflect on the beauty and richness of everything we have experienced.
This is more than a yoga retreat. It is a journey of discovery — an invitation to step outside your everyday life, immerse yourself in another culture, deepen your spiritual practice, and experience India through the eyes of a yogi.
Whether India has been calling you for years or you are ready to explore the deeper roots of yoga, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience the traditions that have shaped the practice we love.
Come with an open mind, an adventurous spirit, and a willingness to be transformed.
India has a way of staying with you long after you return home.
The Itinerary
Note: The itinerary and its timings are approximate. Adjustments may be made as necessary and/or appropriate.
Package Includes
We take care of everything from the moment participants exit the airport in India until they return to the airport in India which are as follows:
Rooms
3 Meals ( at property )
Domestic Travel
All Transfers ( cabs, buses , flights )
Welcome Kit
Welcome Souvenir
Retreat Activities ( Kirtans, Fire ceremonies, Philosophy sessions (Bhagwad Geeta), Conch sessions),
Trek with Trek leaders
Varanasi activities ( ashram visits and sessions , boat ride )
Tickets to Taj Mahal and local guide
Visit to an NGO working with less fortunate kids.
Local sightseeing
Well versed Story Teller for background and deep spiritual stories of each place.
Laundry
CPR and First aid trained staff
Photography and videography of the event.
Accommodations
FAQs
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Yes, almost all foreign nationals need a visa to travel to India. Here are the key points:
Who needs a visa: Most non-Indian citizens require a visa before traveling to India, regardless of their country of origin.
e-Visa (most common option): Citizens of around 165+ countries are eligible for India's e-Visa, which can be applied for online before travel. It covers tourism, business, medical visits, and conferences.
Visa on Arrival: India offers visa on arrival to citizens of a very limited number of countries (mainly Japan, South Korea, UAE, and a few others), and only at select airports.
Who is exempt from a visa:
Nepali and Bhutanese citizens do not need a visa to enter India — they can travel freely without one.
OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cardholders do not need a separate visa; the OCI card itself serves as a lifelong visa.
Diplomatic/Official passport holders from certain countries may have visa-free arrangements under bilateral agreements.
For US, UK, EU, Australian, and most other nationals: They are eligible for the e-Visa and should apply online before travel at the official Indian government e-Visa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in).
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The recommended international airport is New Delhi (DEL). Our journey commences from New Delhi
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Rishikesh generally enjoys warm days around 30–33°C and cooler nights around 16–18°C, while Varanasi is hotter, with daytime temperatures around 33–36°C and nights around 18–20°C. Both destinations are usually dry, making light clothing, sun protection, and sightseeing in the mornings or late afternoons ideal; a light layer is useful for cooler evenings in Rishikesh.
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Yes, wifi is available in hotels and Ashram
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India requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. India also requires travelers coming from countries reporting active polio cases to show proof of polio vaccination. If you're traveling from the US, Canada, UK, or Australia, neither of these apply to you directly.
It is recommended to check with your health care provider for India recommended vaccines you may need to be administered .
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Rishikes, Delhi and Varanasi are safe destinations for international travelers. To ensure the group's safety, 108Journeys team members will be present to accompany the group at all locations. All of our team members speak fluent English, Hindi and local languages.
Our complete team is CPR and first aid certified and we will carry basic first aid with us.
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Filtered water is available at all locations. In case filtered water is not available, our team will provide mineral water bottles to the group at all times. As mentioned in above checklist, participants are also recommended to carry reusable water bottles with them.
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Food throughout the retreat is generally fresh, flavorful, and well-suited to a wellness-focused journey. During our ashram stay, meals will be traditional Indian sattvic food. Vegetarian dishes prepared with simple, nourishing ingredients that support yoga and meditation practices. Please note that Varanasi is a deeply sacred city, and many areas have restrictions on non-vegetarian food and alcohol. For the group's comfort and safety, our ground team will guide participants to trusted restaurants and dining options throughout the trip.
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The retreat includes a moderate amount of physical activity. In Rishikesh, there is one trekking day featuring a hike of up to approximately 2-3 hours each way on uneven terrain.
Varanasi trip and 1-day Taj Mahal visit will involve a moderate amount of walking, approximately 2–5 km per day depending on the itinerary. Some areas, especially Varanasi’s old-city lanes, temple approaches, and the Taj Mahal grounds, involve uneven paths, stairs, crowds, and standing for extended periods.
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This journey is an invitation to experience India beyond the usual tourist trail. It is a blend of yoga, culture, spirituality, and meaningful discovery. Begin in Rishikesh, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, where yoga, meditation, and the calming presence of the Ganges create space to slow down and reconnect with yourself. Continue to Varanasi, one of the world's oldest living cities, where ancient temples, sacred rituals, evening Ganga Aarti, and the rhythm of everyday life offer a glimpse into India's deep spiritual traditions. Along the way, discover the stories, flavors, and vibrant culture that make India so unique, before witnessing the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal.
The journey concludes with a day of gratitude; an opportunity to give back to the local community and express gratitude for the experiences, people, and lessons that have shaped our journey. Through a meaningful act of service, we hope to create a moment of connection that reminds us that travel is not only about what we receive, but also what we can give.
Come with curiosity, an open heart, and a willingness to embrace the unfamiliar. You may arrive seeking a deeper yoga practice, but leave with a richer connection to India, new perspectives, and memories that stay with you long after the journey ends.
Packing list
Documents & Essentials
Passport & Visa: Ensure your visa is up-to-date.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for health, trip cancellation, and emergencies.
Photocopies of Important Documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, etc.
Local Currency: Indian Rupees (INR). You can exchange currency at the airport. Exchanges will also be available in major cities but carrying cash around USD 300 worth of INR is recommended
Clothing
For days in Delhi , Rishikesh, Varanasi
Do carry loose-fitting pants, long skirts ( beyond knees ), kurtas, loose fitted modest shirts / t-shirts for city visit and temple visits.
Slippers/crocs for hotel rooms and ashram
Modest Yoga wear for yoga sessions in ashrams
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Scarf or Shawl: Useful for covering your head in temples during the prayers service and keeping warm during early mornings and late evenings.
Warm layers like sweatshirts primarily for Rishikesh and Delhi during early morning and evenings
Warm cap for covering head and ear, Hand gloves (if needed, not mandatory)
Sunglasses ( recommended but not necessary )
Good quality rugged sports shoes or trek shoes ( if you are already bringing a good quality sports shoes then the same be used in mountains as well as in plain areas like delhi , varanasi , rishikesh )
Sunscreen - High SPF to protect from the strong sun.
Health & Hygiene
Medications: Prescription meds, a basic first-aid kit, and any over-the-counter drugs you might need (anti-diarrheal, pain relievers, etc.). Please consult your doctor.
Vaccination Records: Please check with your health care provider for India recommended vaccines you may need to be administered .
Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: For hygiene on the go.
Insect Repellent
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, feminine hygiene products.
Electronics & Accessories
Universal Power Adapter: India uses Type C, D, and M plugs.
Portable Charger/Power Bank: To keep devices charged during long travels.
Smartphone & Charger: Consider an international SIM card or an Indian SIM for local data.
Camera & Batteries: To capture the stunning landscapes.
Earplugs , Eye Masks , travel neck pillows: Useful for bus journeys
Miscellaneous
Reusable Water Bottle
Travel Backpack/Daypack: For day trips and treks.
Lightweight Towel: Quick-dry towel for ashrams and hotels.
Snacks: Energy bars or nuts for long journeys or remote areas.
Books/Kindle ( at your own discretion )
Handy pocket flashlight / headlamp
Modest Jewelry: Avoid flashy items to blend in and stay safe.
Do carry a handbag to carry electronics/warm layers ( shawls etc )/ hygiene products etc and things you need handy for day trips as the luggage shall be put in the luggage section and may not be accessible.
Book now
Single Room*
Early Bird $5,200
Ends September 1, 2027
USD $5,400 p.p.
A 500 USD NON-REFUNDABLE deposit is due at registration.
Shared Room
Early Bird $4,400
Ends September 1, 2027
USD $4,600 p.p.
A 500 USD NON-REFUNDABLE deposit is due at registration.
We are pleased to offer financial assistance where possible, reach out to Joan to discuss your possibilities.
Terms and conditions
To book and secure your place, we request a non-refundable 500 USD deposit.
Once the payment is made, your place will be reserved (you will receive a confirmation email)
The balance should be paid before December 20 2027. If you book your place after that date, the full payment for the retreat will be requested.
You must accept the booking conditions at the moment of registration.
Cancellation Policy
The deposit won’t be refunded under any circumstances.
If you cancel at any moment before December 20 2027, we will refund the 50 % amount of the full retreat price.
If your cancellation takes place after December 20 2027, your payment won’t be refunded.
At any moment, you could hand your booking over to some other person who would like to join the retreat.
In the unlikely event that the retreat has to be canceled, we will refund the full amount.
‘Cancel for any reason’ Travel insurance is highly recommended
About Joan Hyman
Joan Hyman is an internationally recognized yoga teacher, educator, and founder of The School of Yoga. With decades of experience teaching and leading yoga trainings and retreats around the world, Joan is passionate about sharing the deeper teachings of yoga and creating meaningful experiences that extend far beyond the physical practice.
For the past twenty years, India has held a special place in Joan's heart. Her journeys there have profoundly influenced both her personal spiritual path and her approach to teaching yoga. Since 2012, she has been leading groups of students to India, inviting them to experience the rich culture, ancient wisdom, and living traditions that have shaped the practice of yoga.
For Joan, India is more than a destination. It is a place of profound transformation, where the unexpected becomes a teacher, familiar perspectives begin to shift, and something deep within us awakens.
She believes India offers a unique kind of alchemy — one that opens the heart, challenges the mind, and invites us to see ourselves and the world through a different lens.
Through her retreats, Joan creates space for students to step outside their everyday routines, immerse themselves in the spiritual roots of yoga, and embrace the beauty of the unknown.
Her hope is that students return home not only with unforgettable memories, but with a deeper connection to themselves, a more open heart, and a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of yoga.