Mountains & Mystics of India
Experience Overview
Journey from the hub of Delhi into the foothills of the Himalayas and discover India’s slower side with this 12-day adventure. With a focus on spirit, mind and body, you’ll spend time unwinding on nature hikes or deep breathing through a yoga class. This region is known for its spirituality and history and you’ll have a handy local leader by your side to teach you about the local culture along the way. Learn about the Buddhist and Sikh faiths alongside the sites of historic importance with visits to Dharmasala, Amritsar’s Golden Temple and Rishikesh. Ride on a UNESCO-listed toy train, explore the home of the Dalai Lama and watch the flag ceremony at Pakistan’s border.
Highlights
- See the Himalayas from a new angle on a scenic ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ‘toy train,’ enjoying the cool mountain air and impressive views.
- Explore the home of the Dalai Lama – Dharmasala. This highland haven is the ideal place for an enlightening experience of Tibetan spirituality, culture and history.
- Observe a unique ‘performance’ of the flag ceremony at India and Pakistan's Wagah border – a daily practice conducted since 1959, drawing crowds for its unconventional ritual.
- Learn about Sikhism on an included visit to one of its most sacred monuments – the luminous Golden Temple in Amritsar.
- Unwind in the self-proclaimed ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ – Rishikesh. Walk along the holy Ganges and explore the famous mural-lined walls of the Chaurasi Kutia ashram.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2112
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Overnight sleeper train,Private vehicle,Public bus,Train,Heritage Train,Metro,Cycle rickshaw,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HHSF
Starts: Delhi, India
Finishes: Delhi, India
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (1), Lunch (1), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights),Overnight sleeper train (1 night),Heritage Hotel (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,815 ($140 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Delhi, India’s capital city known for its Mughal-era architecture and street food scene. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll get to know your leader and fellow trip members. If you arrive early, why not stop by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Humayun's Tomb or the iconic 12th-century Qutub Minar. After the meeting tonight, maybe head out with your group to get to know each other (and the delicious local cuisine).
Optional Activities:
- Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
- Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure (3350 INR)
- Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure (4000 INR)
- Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure (3750 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, your leader will take the group for a guided walking tour around Old Delhi. Climb aboard a traditional cycle rickshaw and be driven through Delhi’s lively streets. In the afternoon, you’ll learn about the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) and visit the Jama Masjid – Delhi's oldest and India’s largest mosque.
Included Activities:
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Delhi and hop aboard a train journeying across the state of Punjab to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, you’ll travel by private vehicle to Shimla – the state’s capital, situated in the lower foothills of the Himalayas. When you arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore the town's quiet charm on an orientation walk with your leader. After, the rest of the afternoon and evening is free to explore at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Shimla - Leader-led walking tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up early for a 30-minute scenic ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 'toy train' – for views of the Himalayas and local villages. After, you might like to head out and shop along Mall Road, visit the Jakhu Temple or shop for specialty wooden crafts at Lakkar Bazaar. Later, you’ll visit the Viceregal Lodge. This is a historic location where the partition agreement that separated India from Pakistan and Bangladesh was drawn up. Set among rolling hills, Shimla offers gentle to challenging walking trails for those wanting to stretch their legs. In the evening, film fans might like to visit the cinema to watch a Bollywood blockbuster.
Included Activities:
- Shimla - Viceregal Lodge
Optional Activities:
- Shimla - Cinema (100 INR)
- Shimla - Jakhu Temple - Free
- Shimla - Lakkhar Bazar - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by private transfer to the small town of Mandi. Situated on the Beas River and once part of the salt route to Tibet, Mandi is a town of both historic and religious significance. Your leader will take you on a guided walk where you will explore the town and its huge sunken shopping centre – the only one like it in India. Later, you might like to spend time at the bathing ghats along the river or hike to hilltop temples. In the evening, sit down to dinner with your group and stay in the restored former palace of the Raja of Mandi.
Included Activities:
- Mandi - Leader-led walking tour
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, journey through the mountains by private vehicle along bumpy, winding roads to Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj. A mountain town with a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, you’ll find robed monks strolling between monasteries and prayer flags hung from above. When you arrive, maybe wander the streets and see for yourself. Dharamsala is also known as the home to the Dalai Lama and where the Tibetan government resides in exile. Enjoy an afternoon to explore the town at your own pace, walking through the streets framed by the Himalayas.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, visit the fascinating Norbulingka Institute, developed to train Tibetan refugees in skills needed to preserve the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. Its grounds feature an intricate temple and several workshops where you can see woodcarving, painting and needlework in action. Then, make your way to the Tsuglag Khang complex to see the Dalai Lama’s temple. You may also like to visit the Losel Doll Museum to learn about the daily lives and customs of Tibetan people.
Included Activities:
- Dharamsala - Norbulingka Institute
- Dharamsala - Dalai Lama Temple
Optional Activities:
- Dharamsala - Losel Doll Museum (50 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, travel down the mountains to Amritsar, situated in the heart of the fertile plain known as India's ‘breadbasket.’ Amritsar is the largest city in Punjab and the centre of Sikhism in India. With your group, wander through the rambling streets and bazaars of the Old City on foot before you explore the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), which sits in the middle of a sacred lake. Soak up the soothing sounds of the devout chanting verses from the Sikh holy book – the Guru Granth Sahib.
Included Activities:
- Amritsar - Golden Temple
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Journey to the Jallianwala Bagh this morning – the site of the tragic 1919 massacre that played a vital role in India's independence. Then, head out to the India–Pakistan border to watch the daily flag ceremony that has been followed since 1959. This famous military practice garners crowds every day who come to watch as the security forces of India and Pakistan engage in an elaborate ceremony of bowing, chanting, marching and high kicks. Tonight, you’ll take an overnight sleeper train from Amritsar to Haridwar.
Included Activities:
- Amritsar - Jallianwallah Bagh
- Amritsar - Wagah Border ceremony
Accommodation:
- Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
Disembark in Haridwar this morning, then drive to Rishikesh and check in to your hotel. Later today, you have the chance to go on an orientation walk with your leader to see the mural-lined walls of Chaurasi Kutia – the ashram made internationally famous when the Beatles visited in the 1960s. In the evening, take a stroll along the holy Ganges River, where you’ll hear the ringing of the temple bells and watch as the nightly fire rituals of Ganga Aarti begin.
Included Activities:
- Rishikesh - Leader-led walking tour
- Rishikesh - Chaurasi Kutia 'The Beatles Ashram'
Optional Activities:
- Rishikesh - Yoga Class (600 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You have a free morning to enjoy the calm and tranquil atmosphere of Rishikesh. Maybe take a walk along the Ganges River or relax and unwind in a yoga class – Rishikesh is known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World.' For something more adventurous, there’s also the option to white-water raft down the Ganges! In the afternoon, reunite with your group for a walk through the nearby jungle.
Optional Activities:
- Rishikesh - White Water Rafting (1500 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Bid farewell to Rishikesh and take the train back to Delhi. This is a long journey, so get stuck into a good book or reminisce on your incredible adventure with your fellow travellers. The train arrives back in Delhi at around 11 pm and you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your final night.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for your last day, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to stay an extra couple of days, and it's recommended that you do, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time. If you do extend your stay, maybe check out the great range of Urban Adventures – like the Hidden Gems of Delhi tour.
Optional Activities:
- Delhi - Hidden Gems of Delhi Urban Adventure (4100 INR)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Kerry - Traveled, March 2024
If you like slumming it this is the trip for you. If not, choose something else.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/15/2024
Graham - Traveled, March 2024
Very good tour touching upon the essential points interest in the highlands of India
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Laura - Traveled, February 2024
An excellent introduction for my first visit to colourful and contrasting India. The trip was very well organised by our guide Maddy and I met some lovely people to travel with. Now planning more Intrepid trips to other parts of India.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/09/2024
Elisabeth - Traveled, February 2024
The Mountain and mystics tour was one of the most fun and interesting that I’ve done. Going places that I could never plan on my own with an expert tour leader and easy going companions meant I could discover the real beauty of the lower Himalayas. Highly recommended
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2024
Kerry-Lee - Traveled, February 2024
Take a sense of adventure, good walking shoes, and experience the amazing sights of the lower Himalayas, and yes it was cold.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2024
Lesley - Traveled, February 2024
A great trip into a very different part of India which gives a different insight to India. Long journeys but that’s to be expected if you want to travel and see the different places. Parikshit was an amazing guide, put himself out to make sure everyone was well looked after, would highly recommend him as leader without hesitation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/24/2024
Maxwell - Traveled, February 2024
This was an exceptionally good trip. We expected a mass of humanity and we got it in the major cities. However, in the northern parts, a mystical peace was found. Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Viv - Traveled, March 2024
A great trip to very different parts of India. The accommodation was better than I expected. The highlight for me was the time in Amritsar but the whole trip was interesting including the long drives.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2024
Wendy - Traveled, March 2024
An amazing trip, that shows you a less visited part of India. Incredible scenery. Brilliant value. Our guide Abhi was fantastic, looked after us every step of the way!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Mary - Traveled, March 2024
We experienced a lot of highlights of the region as well as some experiences I wouldn't have usually tackled as a tourist (e.g. overnight train). The trip was seamlessly planned and paced, with a good balance of group and free time and smooth logistics of getting between places. Our group leader was really a star at letting us know what to expect for each day and giving us some of the history/context/his own experiences with each place we visited. Ultimately, I know I got magnitudes more out of a trip to India with Intrepid than if I had dared to plan it on my own.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Ross - Traveled, March 2024
The tour we incredibly well organised and run with our tour leader Abhi excellent in bringing the group together and providing great information. Lot of travel but knew this would be the case - overall another excellent Intrepid experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Malamati - Traveled, March 2024
A fabulous opportunity to visit northern India and experience cultural ‘idiosyncracies. A very calm, competent guide in Pramod was a bonus to ensure we enjoyed all aspects of the itinerary.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/18/2024
Zoe - Traveled, February 2024
A fantastic trip! Away from the main touristy places as I’d hoped but amazing nonetheless! Seeing the real India and loved every minute!! My second trip with Intrepid Travel and I’ll definitely use them again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Peter - Traveled, January 2024
Great tour packed full of exciting experiences ,led by wonderful guide Saby using local resource wherever possible. The small group (10) experience enhanced the relaxed understanding of the wonderful country which is India!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/20/2024
Alun - Traveled, January 2024
An outstanding trip superbly managed by Saby our brilliant tour guide. His whole approach in leading, teaching, managing challenges whilst bringing India to life was simply outstanding. Tour brought to life the complexities and contrasts of a beautiful and mystical India but with plenty of time for conversation, fun and refelction. Thank you Saby and thank you Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, January 2024
A phenomenal, immersive trip to a less visited part of India. So many highlights but the combination of history, religion, culture and mountains completely fabulous. Golden temple was my overwhelming and witnessing prayer ceremonies was humbling. I loved it. Saby was a fantastic leader
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Jenny - Traveled, January 2024
A great way to travel and experience the mountain areas of north India. A diverse and busy itinerary with a very knowledgeable tour leader led to many highly memorable moments that only India can deliver.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/16/2024
Sharon - Traveled, January 2024
A trip for those who want to experience some of India without being crowded by tourists. Amazing scenery, and the most friendly locals in India . Loved our camping experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/17/2024
Sandra - Traveled, May 2024
Mountains and Mystics is a fascinating glimpse into the Indian way of life where one glimpses the ancient bustle of Old Delhi, the devoted pilgrimage centres of Amritsar and Rishikesh, the stirring nationalism of the border crossing with Pakistan and the beautiful mountain scenery of Shimla ….. it’s an exciting roller coaster ride from start to finish! Sandra
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/07/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, May 2024
Guide Kuldeep made our trip rich with knowledge and personal stories . Hotels were very conveniently located and staff very pleasant ! Trip was varied and fascinating! I totally recommend it.. not in hot season
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/06/2024
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