Incredible India - Sacred Paths of the Himalaya

📍 New Delhi, India

   🏔️ Himalaya Foothills

       📅 23 Oct – 6 Nov 2027

🥾 Easy                   

Price per person

€ 1995

What to expect

• A journey through India's cultures: Explore four fascinating cities, each representing one of India's major religions.
• Rich history and traditions: Explore ancient temples, monasteries and museums that bring India's turbulent history to life.
• A feast for the senses: Taste each region's culinary highlights at authentic local eateries, far from the tourist hotspots.
• Peaceful Himalayan foothills: Escape the intensity of the cities and enjoy fresh mountain air, sweeping views and gentle hikes.
• Two friends, two perspectives: Gain unique insights into the stark contrasts and complexities of this fascinating country.

Travelling Together

You'll be accompanied by two guides: Priyanka, an Indian mountain and tourist guide, and me, Johanna, an International Mountain Leader, founder of Shanti Treks. We met during a mountaineering course in the Indian Himalaya in 2019, and our friendship has grown through many adventures together. Coming from different backgrounds, we share a curiosity about India's cultures, history and contradictions. Together, we are looking forward to offer you a more personal and nuanced perspective on this fascinating country.

Why come with us

• Two guides, two perspectives: Johanna's extensive travel experience and academic background in South Asian Studies, combined with Priyanka's local roots and professional guiding expertise.
• Small groups, personal attention: Two guides ensure a flexible pace, individual support and time to explore without pressure.
• Support from start to finish: Personal guidance before and throughout the journey, with open communication and help whenever you need it.
• Empowering women in South Asia: Supporting aspiring female guides through mentoring, training partnerships and meaningful opportunities in tourism.

Programme

Arrival in Delhi
Saturday, 23 October 
We meet at the hotel in Delhi and you can arrive at any time. In the evening we have a group dinner and talk about the upcoming adventure.

Exploring Islam
Delhi & Agra (2 days)
We begin at Jama Masjid, one of India's largest mosques, before exploring the bustling lanes, markets and fragrant spice stalls of Old Delhi. In the late afternoon, we travel by private transport to Agra (3–4 hours), where we spend the night.

The next morning, we visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the soft morning light makes this iconic monument even more magical. After a relaxed brunch, we explore Agra Fort and stroll through nearby gardens for a final view of the Taj Mahal before returning to Delhi in the late afternoon.

Exploring Sikhism
Amritsar (2 days)
An early train takes us from Delhi to Amritsar in Punjab (5–6 hours). We spend the afternoon exploring lively bazaars and sampling local favourites like creamy lassi and freshly baked kulchas before visiting the magnificent Golden Temple, the holiest site in Sikhism. Here, we learn about the religion's origins, values and traditions.

The following morning, we visit the Partition Museum to explore India's independence, the painful division of the subcontinent and the legacy of British colonialism. The afternoon is free to visit Jallianwala Bagh or return to the Golden Temple, where the peaceful atmosphere, chanting and reflections on the water invite us to linger.

Exploring Buddhism
Dharamshala (3 days)
A private shuttle takes us into the Himalayan foothills to Dharamshala (5–6 hours), home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community in exile. In the afternoon, we explore the colourful streets of McLeod Ganj and visit the Dalai Lama's temple complex, just beside our hotel. With a little luck, we may witness a traditional ceremony.

The next day, we visit peaceful Buddhist monasteries, learning about Tibetan traditions, Buddhist philosophy and the history of the Tibetan community in exile.

For our final day, we head into the surrounding mountains for a full-day hike with sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalaya. Alternatively, enjoy a gentler walk through the hills, visiting remote religious sites and a waterfall. With two guides, we can split into smaller groups and adapt the day to everyone's preferences.

Pit Stop
Shimla (2 days)
Our journey continues by private shuttle to Shimla, once the summer capital of British India and today a popular hill station. In the afternoon, we explore its colonial architecture and stroll along the lively, car-free promenade.

The next morning, we visit the impressive Viceregal Lodge, where important discussions surrounding India's independence and partition took place. Afterwards, we walk back into town with beautiful views over the surrounding hills. The afternoon is yours to explore, relax or climb to the hilltop Hanuman temple overlooking Shimla.

Exploring Hinduism
Rishikesh (3 days)
A private shuttle takes us to Rishikesh, our final destination, beautifully situated along the sacred Ganga. Known as both a major Hindu pilgrimage site and the yoga capital of the world, the town is filled with temples, ashrams and yoga schools. In the afternoon, we walk to a nearby waterfall, with the option to join a relaxing yoga class or sound bath.

The next morning begins with yoga beside the Ganga. After lunch, we explore the riverside temples, lively streets and local shops, with free time to enjoy the atmosphere. In the evening, we experience the traditional Ganga Aarti, a beautiful Hindu ceremony of light and devotion by the river.

For our final full day in Rishikesh, we head into the surrounding hills. Choose between a relaxed walk past temples and waterfalls or a more demanding hike with sweeping views of the Himalayan foothills.

On our departure day, the morning is free for a final yoga session, some shopping or a leisurely café visit. In the afternoon, we return to Delhi by private shuttle and celebrate our journey with one last group dinner.

Departure
Saturday, 6 November
You are free to depart at any time today. If you have the time, come along with us to Kathmandu today as we set off on a two-week trekking adventure in Nepal’s Everest region!

Physical requirements

This trip is different from my usual hiking journeys. The focus here is on exploring and experiencing India through its cities, cultures, and places, rather than trekking long distances. A solid level of fitness is enough, as we mainly explore on foot and include a few gentle day hikes along the way.

Service included

Framework & Organisation

• A group of max. 12 guests
• Organised & insured by a registered travel company
• Two trekking guides (Local & Germany-based)

Personal support 

• Practical advice on flights, visas, vaccinations and packing
• Detailed travel information and an online group meeting before departure
• Personal support by email, phone or WhatsApp

Accommodation

• 14 nights in personally selected, comfortable mid-range hotels, including breakfast
• 3 nights in single rooms and 11 nights in twin rooms
• Optional single-room upgrade for the entire trip: €300

Transport

• All transport between destinations during the tour
• Private airport transfers on arrival and departure

Extra costs on tour

• International flights and Indian visa
• Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
• Personal travel and health insurance
• Optional activities, such as yoga classes

Travel

Arrival/Departure

• Indira Ghandi International Airport, Delhi

Flights

• Direct from major European airports (Munich, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London)
• One-Stop from Europe via Helsinki (Finnair) or Warsaw (LOT)

Airport shuttle

• A private shuttle will pick you up at your time of arrival and drop you for your departure
• Regardless of the day of arrival and departure (i.e. of you arrive early / extend)

Payment Information

A deposit of €150 is required within seven days of booking, with the remaining balance due 30 days before the start date. Payment in instalments is possible; please contact me directly at info(at)shantitreks.com. Please note that the cancellation policy applies as outlined in the T&Cs.