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Wellness and Culinary Tour in India

This tour is an exhilarating experience of a wellness retreat and a culinary tour of North India. You will spend 6 days in tranquil Rishikesh enjoying the tranquility of the Himalayas and the serenity of the holy river Ganga. And 5 days are in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur enjoying the magnificent forts and palaces and delicious, authentic Indian cuisine.

Meet the instructors

Rachel
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Highlights

  • Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness
  • Wellness coaching
  • Culinary experiences
  • Meet like-minded people
  • English-speaking guide at all locations
  • 11 nights accommodation
  • Daily meals
  • Airport transfers

Skill level

  • Beginner

10 days with instruction
Group size: 10-14 participants
Airport transfer included: Indira Gandhi International Airport
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Accommodation

Your accommodations on this tour

  • Delhi (2 nights): ITC Maurya
  • Rishikesh (6 nights): Atali Ganga
  • Jaipur (2 nights): ITC Rajputana
  • Agra (1 night): ITC Mughal

Atali Ganga is an oasis surrounded by a reserved forest, and it is a thorough privilege to be so close to nature. If you book, come with the purpose of living in the valley of India’s holiest life force, the Ganga, for the call of the barking deer, or the midnight roar of the leopard, and for that lovely dull ache after a busy day in the great outdoors. Surrounded by reserved forest and with over 200 trees spread over the location, you will enjoy the chic charm amidst Atali’s rustic and rugged ambience.

Program

The Balance Retreat in India is not just about finding another country to experience. This is also about finding yourself and helping you to live more “vibrantly alive”.

Set off on a transformative mind, body, and soul adventure to India with wellness expert, yogi, and author Rachel Grunwell. Over 12 days in India (across some awe-inspiring locations), you’ll experience a beginner’s journey of yoga and mindfulness, taste exquisite food, see temples and other sights of wonder, while you start your own personal wellness journey to uplift your life.

This thoughtfully crafted wellness and culinary tour combines the practices of yoga, mindfulness, and wellbeing learnings in tranquil Rishikesh along with the rich culture and incredible culinary experiences in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Rachel and the Good Food Journey's team are passionate about delivering exquisite travel experiences that you will dream about returning to.

This incredible 12-day wellness and culinary journey begins in Delhi where ancient history meets contemporary charm. The bustling markets, narrow lanes, and aroma of the delicious street food of Old Delhi is a sensory awakening, and a perfect welcome to India.

Your next stop is Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. This is where the magic unfolds, and you begin the transformation to a more uplifted, mindful life. Daily wellness coaching, yoga, and meditation on the banks of the Holy River Ganga is included, while you can also seek out recommended spa treatments and nature trails in the reserved forest of your hotel. There will be some recommended activities to help you rejuvenate your spirit, or you can just nourish your soul with your choice of self-care or another experience.

After 6 days of nature and mindfulness you head to the hustle and bustle of the Pink City of Jaipur, the gateway to Rajasthan's regal splendor. You will explore the majestic forts and palaces of the Rajput era that are adorned with intricate architecture and opulent interiors. You will experience 5-star luxury and enjoy authentic cuisine in the grandeur of a palace.

Your last stop is in Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love and an architectural masterpiece. You will enjoy the ethereal beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at sunrise, as its pristine white marble radiates in the soft morning light.

The ‘Good’ in Good Food Journey stands for the Good they want to do for the community. In keeping with the wellness theme of this tour, for every person who joins, they will gift $100 towards paying for therapy tools and resources to help with patient recovery at Te Whetu Tawera, the Acute Mental Health Unit at Auckland Hospital.

Join Rachel and the team at Good Food Journey on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and culinary delights on this unique wellness and culinary tour to India. It is a small group, and spaces are limited.

Itinerary

Day 1: Saturday, February 8: Arrive in Delhi

On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by the local representative for transfer to your hotel. After checking in, take a few hours to rest and unwind from the long flight. That evening you will go to Akshardham which is arguably one of the best temples in India.

The start of your culinary journey is at an internationally acclaimed Indian restaurant in your hotel. Bukhara, famous for the Mughlai cuisine, is frequented by A-list celebrities and dignitaries from all over the world.

Day 2: February 9: Delhi

After breakfast at the hotel, Rachel will welcome you and the group will connect. Rachel will set out intentions for the journey together and go through the itinerary. You will then go sightseeing. The contrast between Old Delhi and New Delhi, both with its distinct characteristics, history, and vibe is fascinating.

For dinner, you will enjoy a special culinary experience at Haveli Dharampura, a UNESCO Awarded Heritage Haveli in Old Delhi. You will enjoy the flavourful recreations of tangy and tasty street food of Chandni Chowk at the comfort of your table. Take in the breathtaking view of Old Delhi, participate in a session of kite flying and enjoy sundowners of cocktails and wines on the roof top while watching the sunset. The cultural evening with traditional Indian dance and music is a great welcome to India.

Day 3: February 10: Delhi - Haridwar by train

You check out early from the hotel with a packed breakfast to travel to Haridwar by Shatabdi Express train. On arrival you will transfer to Rishikesh and check in to your hotel.

After lunch, Rachel will take you through the plan for the rest of your stay in Rishikesh. All meals at your deluxe nature resort will be simple, yet tasty and flavoursome Indian vegetarian food.

Day 4: February 11: Rishikesh

Each morning in Rishakesh, Rachel will lead the day with yoga and/or mindfulness teachings. There will also be a wellness workshop or experience each day for 60 minutes. The rest of the day is me-time for you to savour the surroundings, sights, or take precious self-care time to rejuvenate.

After lunch there are a few hours at leisure to rest, so you may choose to join a nature trail and find a spot in the reserved forest around the hotel to practice what you learnt this morning. You can book a spa or a massage at the hotel. Or you can indulge in any of the several adventure sports activities that the hotel has access to. White water rafting, anyone?

Later in the evening you will visit the Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over river Ganga named after Lord Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana. It is made of iron, is about 450 ft long and suspends at a height of 70 feet over the river. Built in 1939, it is one of the most prominent landmarks in Rishikesh. As the legend goes, Lakshmana crossed Ganga on ropes of jute and hence the bridge has been named in his honour. Tourists find it a thrilling experience to cross the lazily swinging bridge that gives a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape and historical temples on either side.

Day 5: February 12: Rishikesh

A highlight today is yoga and meditation on the banks of the river Ganga. After lunch there are a few hours at leisure to rest, so enjoy a spa, adventure sports, or go on a nature trail to practice what you learnt this morning.

In the evening today you will visit Triveni Ghat, situated at the confluence of the three most sacred rivers of India. Triveni Ghat is the most popular bathing ghat in Rishikesh. Before visiting the various temples, most pilgrims take a holy dip here, which according to Hindu mythology, washes away the sins of a person.

The evenings here are stunning. You will participate in the spectacular Ganga Arti (a ritual in which lamps are lit and prayers are offered to the river) accompanied by prayers and chanting. Thousands of lamps floating in the river during the arti present a spectacular view. This experience is serene, divine, and enthralling all at the same time and will be memorable.

Day 6: February 13: Rishikesh

Rachel leads today with inspiration, mindful movement, and coaching. After lunch, you will visit Rajaji National Park, which is 20 km from Rishikesh on the foothills of Himalayas. Spread over 820 sq. km, it is home to more than 500 elephants, panthers, tigers, spotted deer, wild boar, Himalayan bear, sloth, and over 400 bird species.

Day 7: February 14: Rishikesh

Rachel leads today with inspiration, mindful movement, and coaching. After lunch, the rest of the day is free to explore the local markets and the spiritual vibe of Rishikesh. Today is Valentines Day, and if you are travelling with that special someone, they can arrange a romantic candle-light dinner for two.

Day 8: February 15: Rishikesh

Rachel leads today with inspiration, mindful movement, and coaching. For lunch today you will have a cooking demonstration on how to make the simple Indian vegetarian food that you have been enjoying in Rishikesh. These skills will come in handy to impress your friends back home.

After lunch, the rest of the day is free to explore the local markets and the spiritual vibe of Rishikesh. If you enjoyed the Ganga Arti on the Triveni Ghat, they could arrange for you to have that experience again.

Day 9: February 16: Rishikesh - Jaipur

Awaken to a group meditation session in the morning. After breakfast you will drive to Dehradun (1 hour) to board your flight to Jaipur. On arrival, you will transfer to your hotel.

The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the magnificent ITC Rajputana Hotel, inspired by the architecture of Rajasthan’s traditional havelis and the romance and majesty of the royal era. Relax by the pool and enjoy the 5-star luxury and hospitality.

Dinner is a culinary experience of authentic Rajasthani food and culture with local folk dance and music.

Day 10: February 17: Jaipur

Awaken to a short group meditation and intention-setting session in the morning. After breakfast you will leave for an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort and City Palace. The intricate carvings, artistic mirror work, and beautiful paintings within the palace reflect the opulence and artistic finesse of the bygone era.

The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore the many local markets, street food, or they can suggest some authentic Rajasthani restaurants. For dinner you will enjoy a Royal Thali at Swapna Mahal, a restaurant in Raj Palace, the oldest palace in Jaipur built in 1727.

Day 11: February 18: Jaipur - Agra

Awaken to a short group meditation session in the morning and intention-setting session. After breakfast you set off on a road trip to Agra. It is a 5-hour drive, but on the way, you will have a few stops to break the journey and take in some local sights such as one of the oldest stepwells that dates to the 8th century and is 13 floors deep. And Fatehpur Sikri, a historical complex that was commissioned by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.

After checking in, you will visit the Agra Fort and enjoy a light and sound show about the history and love story behind the Taj Mahal. Immerse yourself in the lights and be transported to a time where horses come galloping at an emperor’s command!

Your last meal of this tour together will be a memorable one to reminisce about your time together. At dinner tonight you will recreate the ambience, hospitality, and the luxurious ways of the Mughal Emperors in the courtyard of your hotel. The taste and flavours of the food are as authentic Mughlai as it can get.

Day 12: Wednesday, February 19: Agra - Delhi airport

Early morning, you will visit the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Rachel will lead you through a mindfulness session amongst the backdrop of a beautiful sunrise. You will savour this place even more after learning the history behind it. You head back to the hotel for breakfast and after check-out, you will get a transfer to Delhi airport (3-hour drive) for your flight back home.

Instructors

Rachel Grunwell

Location

The 12-day wellness and culinary journey begins in Delhi, exploring its rich history and vibrant markets. In Rishikesh, participants will enjoy daily wellness coaching, yoga, and meditation by the Ganga River, along with spa treatments and nature trails. The journey continues to Jaipur, where the group will experience the grandeur of Rajasthan’s forts and palaces, and concludes in Agra with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal.

Rishikesh

One of the locations of this trip is in Rishikesh at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas and within walking distance to the banks of the Holy River Ganga. Join for daily yoga and meditation classes on the river banks to experience tranquility.

After the morning of wellness and mindfulness, the rest of the day is for you to explore the forest or enjoy white river rafting and many other outdoor adventures.

Food

You will have pure vegetarian food when you are in Rishikesh for the wellness tour. There will be several amazing culinary experiences when you visit Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra which is part of the tour.

The following meals are included:

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Drinks

The following drinks are included:

  • Water
  • Coffee
  • Tea

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

  • Vegetarian
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

What's included

  • 11 nights’ accommodation
  • Daily buffet breakfast
  • All dinners, 7 lunches
  • 5 exclusive culinary experiences
  • Air-conditioned coach for sightseeing and transfers at all locations
  • English-speaking guide at all locations while sightseeing
  • All requisite airport transfers with personal assistance
  • Air-conditioned chair car train fare from Delhi to Haridwar
  • Entrance fees to the monuments as mentioned in the itinerary

What's not included

  • International airfare
  • Domestic flights from Dehradun to Jaipur (approximately 150 USD at current airfares but will be charged at actual cost at time of booking)
  • Alcoholic beverages consumed with hosted dinners
  • Tips and any personal expenses
  • Anything which is not mentioned under Inclusions

How to get there

Recommended Airports

Arrival by airplane

This tour starts in Delhi and you proceed to Rishikesh by train after enjoying the sights, sounds, and food of Delhi. This tour is fully escorted and they will take care of everything from pick up from the airport to drop off at the end of the tour.

Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport Airport transfer included: Indira Gandhi International Airport No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

  • A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
  • The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
  • The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
12 days / 11 nights
from --
Minimum group size

This trip requires a minimum of 10 participants

Availability

Arrival: Saturday February 8, 2025
Departure: Wednesday February 19, 2025

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