Yoga & Heritage Tour of North India

After breakfast, set off on a full-day guided tour of both the historic and modern faces of Delhi. Begin in Old Delhi, where you’ll board a traditional rickshaw for a ride through Chandni Chowk’s narrow lanes, absorbing the sights and scents of spice markets and local life. Visit the magnificent Red Fort (Lal Qila), once the main residence of the Mughal emperors, and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Then stop at Raj Ghat, the serene memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. In the afternoon, explore New Delhi, built by the British as the imperial capital. Drive past the grand government buildings of Lutyens’ Delhi, stop at the war memorial of India Gate, and explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Humayun’s Tomb, a Mughal architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal, and the Qutub Minar, a soaring 12th-century minaret. Return to your hotel in the evening to unwind.

This morning after an early breakfast, begin your spiritual and wellness journey with a drive north to Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the Ganges River. En route, make a short stop in Haridwar, one of India’s holiest cities, where you can witness pilgrims bathing in the sacred river at Har Ki Pauri ghat. The full journey is around 250 km and takes 4 to 5 hours by road. Upon arrival in Rishikesh, check in to Veda5 Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat, an award-winning eco-wellness resort surrounded by forested hills and fresh mountain air. In the evening, you may choose to attend the spiritually uplifting Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where fire lamps, hymns, and chants create an unforgettable riverside ritual.

Over the next six days, immerse yourself in a holistic wellness experience at Veda5, combining traditional Ayurveda, yoga, and natural healing practices. Each morning begins with a cup of herbal or Ayurvedic tea, followed by a guided nature walk along forest trails or the Ganges. Participate in a morning yoga session (60 mins) led by certified instructors in open-air pavilions. After a nourishing Ayurvedic breakfast, meet with a resident Ayurvedic doctor for a personal consultation, where a tailored treatment plan is designed for your dosha (body constitution). Mid-mornings include rejuvenating therapies such as Abhyanga (herbal oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead), steam baths, or detox rituals, depending on your needs. Enjoy a wholesome Ayurvedic lunch, followed by leisure time for swimming, reading, or joining workshops on Ayurvedic cooking, lifestyle practices, or guided spiritual talks. In the late afternoon, attend a second yoga or meditation session, designed for deep relaxation and stress release. End each day with a delicious sattvic vegetarian dinner, nourishing both body and soul. The peaceful natural surroundings and healing atmosphere help you disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself.

Enjoy one final peaceful morning at Veda5 Retreat with a rejuvenating yoga session followed by a wholesome Ayurvedic breakfast. After checking out, begin your scenic drive back to Delhi, descending from the Himalayan foothills into the plains of northern India. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours (250 km). Upon arrival in the capital, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a relaxed evening. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to unwind at the hotel or step out for a gentle evening walk in the nearby district.

After breakfast, start your journey into the princely state of Rajasthan with a drive to the regal city of Jaipur, famously known as the “Pink City.” reaching by late afternoon. Upon arrival, check in to your beautifully restored heritage hotel. Spend the evening at leisure—relax amidst the courtyards and arches of the property or head into town for a casual market stroll.

Today is yours to spend as you please. You can relax at your hotel, enjoy spa treatments, or continue shopping in Jaipur’s vibrant markets. For those interested in local crafts, opt for a half-day excursion to the artisan villages of Sanganer or Bagru, located about 20–25 km from Jaipur. These villages are globally known for their block printing techniques, handmade paper, and dyed textiles. Meet local craftsmen, try your hand at printing, and gain insight into traditional Rajasthani artistry. Return to Jaipur in time for a quiet evening.

After breakfast, begin your drive to Agra, the city of the Taj. En route, stop at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri, a red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar and abandoned due to water scarcity. Explore its grand gateways, mosques, and the beautiful tomb of Salim Chishti. For nature lovers, you may add an optional stop in Bharatpur to enjoy lunch and a short cycle rickshaw ride through Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, known for migratory birds and wetlands. Continue your journey and arrive in Agra by early evening. Check in to your hotel and relax.

Rise early for a magical sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, where the morning light bathes this symbol of love in soft golden hues—an unforgettable moment. Return to your hotel for breakfast, then head to the impressive Agra Fort, a blend of red sandstone and marble palaces that once served as the seat of the Mughal Empire. After lunch, begin your drive back to Delhi (approx. 210 km / 4.5 hrs). Arrive in the evening and check in to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay and a chance to reflect on your journey.

Enjoy your final breakfast in India. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a short walk or souvenir shopping. At the appropriate time, you’ll be transferred to Delhi International Airport for your return or onward flight, bringing your enriching wellness and cultural journey through northern India to a peaceful close.

Q1. What is included in the Soul & Splendor tour of India?
This 16-day tour includes private guided sightseeing, yoga and Ayurveda retreat at Veda5 in Rishikesh, cultural visits in Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, luxury accommodations, transfers, and wellness-focused meals during the retreat.

Q2. Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to India?
Absolutely. It’s an ideal introduction to India’s spiritual and historical richness, combining famous sites with peaceful, wellness-focused time in nature.

Q3. What kind of wellness experiences are offered at the retreat?
The retreat includes personalized Ayurvedic consultations, daily yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic therapies (like Shirodhara and Abhyanga), sattvic meals, and spiritual workshops.

Q4. Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, this tour is fully customizable. Extra days can be added, wellness treatments can be tailored to your needs, and other destinations like Kerala or Varanasi can be included.

Q5. When is the best time to take this tour?
October to March is ideal, with cooler weather perfect for both sightseeing and wellness travel across North India.