| A beautiful alpine town called Gangotri is where we begin the 19km trek to the main Ganges river source and we walk through a huge mountain ravine, to a place known as Gaumukh, which means ‘cows mouth’. Sadhus seeking the ultimate wisdom and enlightenment have wandered this route for centuries, and we will always meet some on our own journey.
The legend goes that Shiva, the great Lord, the original awakened one of Hindi folklore, created the Himalayan mountains, or more correctly is the mountains, and out of his matted dreadlocks flowed the Ganga and other 3 rivers of Life, literally sustaining millions of people for countless eons.
The river Ganga in particular was created at the original request to Shiva, by a local king, desperate to be reunited with his 3 sons killed on a mission to seek the secrets of life. The rivers were thus created by Shiva so that their ashes could be scattered in the life giving waters, as the legend says they will attain eternal life and thus the King could meet his sons in his next life.
Now it is a regular event where the ashes of thousands of cremated bodies are tossed into the river, or people even believe that simply being at the river can give you immortality or conscious awareness as we move through various lives.
This is one of the last bastions of wilderness, untouched by human greed and free from the ‘matrix of illusion’ that we are normally surrounded in. In fact the entire Himalayan range is relatively free of any human distortion, so we can easily access our own inner truth and release the heavy burdens from our past.
This is the land where the cosmic energies of the creator God are anchored and where a great portal is open to access a doorway to heaven, or Shamballa. It is here that the universal cosmic rays are most strongly felt, as we are at the crown chakra of the earth, and ‘The Will of God’ can be known here, if we are open and ready.
Lotus Magik always endeavours to provide for your every comfort from the provision of all amenities such as deck chairs, cutlery & crockery, sleeping & dining tents, delicious food, mineral water, and we will leave no stone unturned to ensure your safety. Also, all Lotus tours are with small groups, with a maximum allowable of 20 people only.
I have given below a brief outline of the itinerary, the main highlights. None of the places we visit are 'touristy' per se. You will see many Indian pilgrims, for this trip is truly a pilgrimage, you will see few Western 'tourists', but maybe some back packers and western pilgrims. If you can seriously see your self in India, please call, email or fax us now.
RISHIKESH. A totally vegetarian town, the land of the Rishi's, or wise men. Stay at Parmath Niketan, a famous ashram with a famous Guru. Witness the Arti ceremony on the banks of the river. Walk around this beautiful village at the foothills of the Himalaya and see why for yourself why people go there! Great shopping and friendly people here.
GANGOTRI. There is a famous temple here dedicated to Shiva, set among the fir and cedarwood forest, on the banks of the Ganges river. This is the starting point for our 19km trek to the Ganges source.
GAUMUKH/GANGES SOURCE. Literally known as the place where life began, as per the Indian Vedas, the book of knowledge. An absolutely stunning walk, surrounded by huge mountain peaks and always following the massive river ravine. Donkeys are available if you think you cannot make the walk. We will stay up near the source in a permanently set up camp with all facilities.
SRINAGAR. Visit a traditional agricultural village and meet these super friendly locals and interact with them! The whole village will be there to greet us! Very beautiful fertile area, with large rolling green hills and of course a river!
SYALSAUR. From here we visit a number of highlights including Kartekeya swami (Ganesha's brother) temple, which is a beautiful walk through thick jungle. From the top is an incredible 360 degree view! Visit Deviraya Tal, a stunning alpine lake. Experience a 'Pooja' (blessing/purification) at Kalimath temple, dedicated to the Goddess Kali.
CHOPTA. Another camp in the forest, with stunning views of the mountains. Walk to Tungnath temple, another Shiva temple where we will probably meet the local Sadhu. For those who are fit and keen, you can take a further steep walk to the summit above, for breathtaking views of the whole Himalayan range!
BADRINATH. The other most sacred spot of India, ranking up there with Gaumukh. The temple here is dedicated to lord Badrinath and it is one of the most holiest places for Indians to visit. High up in the mountains, here we are on the border of Tibet and you will get to visit another village where there is a mixture of both Tibetan and Indian cultures. Beautiful scenery here as usual and a stunning drive in and out of a huge river gorge.
DWARHAT. From here we get to take an easy walk through a traditional farming village to see Maha Avatar Babaji's cave and ashram. Beautiful scenery, powerful energy!! There are many stories and legends surrounding the mystical feats of Babaji and you will no doubt get your own experience here!
NAINITAL. Beautiful lake resort town. Very laid back place and many great restaurants and places to wander around. Take a cable car to the top for nice view!
Cost includes: (see below for cost with and without airfares)
* All hotels in Bangkok and India as mentioned on twin sharing basis. Breakfast in Bangkok also included. (single room extra $650USD)
* Services of professional camping staff and cooks, with dining tents, toilet tents with seat, chairs, mats, sleeping tents.
* All meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner in India. (excludes lunches/dinner in Bangkok)
* All sightseeing with local English-speaking guides.
* All entrance fees to the monuments and temples.
* Enough mineral water for everyone during the trip.
* Hotel and porter tipping – (however extra tips for our own Indian crew is requested, suggested US $30 per person)
* DVD copy of the tour
Experienced Indian group leader with extensive knowledge of area and customs, complete with an entire ’team’ providing for all porters, drivers, assistants etc. throughout the entire journey.
NB: We need to have a minimum of 9 people booked to take this tour (max of 15 people) If for any reason we do not get the necessary numbers, we will refund your deposit IN FULL. The deposit is only non-refundable if you decide to pull out of the tour on your own accord. Please refer to our terms and conditions for the full information on this tour.
Cost excludes;
• Donkey hire.
• Snacks/lunch in transit.
Cost appreciation for tour is $6,583 all inclusive including airfares, taxes and all arrangements in India as above. ($4,500 excluding airfares). For airfare booking, please contact Sara Maire at Fine Travel on phone (09) 921 5178 or (09) 410 0588 or email sara.maire@finetravel.co.nz
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Payment Schedule (land travel only)
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Amount
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DEPOSIT due anytime from now
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$1,500
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2nd install (due by 30 May 08)
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$2,000
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FINAL instalment due no later than 25th July 2008
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$1,000
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FULL Payment
www.lotusjourneys.co.nz
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$4,500
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