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November 15 to 30, 2023
Join us in this pilgrimage to sacred places and holy people.
Living in an ashram can be a transformative experience for individuals seeking spiritual growth and personal development. Ashrams provide a supportive and structured environment for individuals to engage in daily spiritual practices, study sacred texts, and learn from experienced teachers and gurus. Living in an ashram often involves following a daily schedule of meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices, as well as engaging in seva (selfless service) and living a simple and austere lifestyle. This can be a challenging but rewarding experience for those who are committed to the path of spiritual awakening.
Kerala is home to many renowned ashrams that offer spiritual seekers a chance to deepen their spiritual practice and connect with like-minded individuals.
This trip will focus on the visit to
Living in an ashram can be a transformative experience for individuals seeking spiritual growth and personal development. Ashrams provide a supportive and structured environment for individuals to engage in daily spiritual practices, study sacred texts, and learn from experienced teachers and gurus. Living in an ashram often involves following a daily schedule of meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices, as well as engaging in seva (selfless service) and living a simple and austere lifestyle. This can be a challenging but rewarding experience for those who are committed to the path of spiritual awakening.
Kerala is home to many renowned ashrams that offer spiritual seekers a chance to deepen their spiritual practice and connect with like-minded individuals.
This trip will focus on the visit to
- Purna Vidya Foundation, Coimbatore Ashram
- Munar, tea paradise
- Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Amritapuri Ashram
- Verkala Beach Sadhana time
- Sivananda, Neyyar Dam Ashram
- Increased self-awareness and self-understanding
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved mental and emotional health
- Greater sense of inner peace and calm
- Strengthened spiritual connection
- Increased focus, concentration, and clarity of mind
Lets talk about our spiritual tour, When?
November 15 to 30 2023
Notice that November 15 is our meeting in India. You'll probably have to leave home at least a day earlier.
Who can join this experience?
Anyone. You don't have to be a reincarnated Yogi in order to join in. All you need is curiosity, an open-mind, and enthusiasm to explore the unknown on many levels.
How much does it costs?
The cost of the trip is 3,100 $ usd for payments from August 1st. People will be accommodated on a first-come basis so register early.
To save your spot you have to make a 350 $ usd non refundable deposit
What is included in the payment?
The cost includes all accommodations, transportation, and meals during the Yatra (tour). It does not include flight to/from Kochi (our starting and ending point) and your flights to/ from New Delhi. It does not include any additional personal expenses you may incur such as gifts, additional foods, medicines, etc. There may be a few meals that you will pay for during your 'free' time, but the cost of food is minimal.
We finish the Ashram Journey at Sivananda Ashram, Neyyar Dam, the closest airport is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport (TRV)
What should I bring?
Generally speaking you can find almost everything in India. I've seen much more people regret for things they unnecessarily brought than people who regret for things they did not bring. It is a big advantage to travel light. Nevertheless you should bring mostly light cloths. Please make sure to bring only modest cloths. In most of the places we're planning to visit you cannot wear shorts. It is considered an insult in many of these places to walk with low-cut, sleeveless or tight garments. You do not need to bring bed-sheets but you want to bring a towel. You may want to use sandals, as we are going to take off our shoes every time we enter an Ashram/temple/etc). Bring a lightweight rain jacket. You may want to bring with you some small snacks like granola bars if you know that you need to bite something between meals, but again, there are also many snack options available in India to taste the local fare. The mattresses in Ammas Ashram may feel a bit hard for some of you. You may want to bring with you a sleeping bag (not mandatory)
What is the weather in Kerala in November?
Kerala has somewhat pleasant weather in November and the average temperature stays around 27°C (81°F) throughout the month.
What are the communication options during the Yatra?
We will come across some Internet Cafes during the Yatra, but you may not have access to them for parts of the journey. WiFi may be available on occasions, but it is not guaranteed. The best option is to stay 'off the grid' for the whole trip but, if you have to stay connected, a good solution may be to bring your smartphone (make sure it is internationally unlocked and it uses the GSM system). Once you arrive, you can purchase a local SIM card for an affordable price (best to do in airport). Communication can be a little annoying in India... Once you have the SIM card, you'll be able to call and receive calls and use the 2G mobile network for a slow Internet connection. Don't expect miracles. You'll probably be able to send and receive emails, not much more.
Is the food going to be very spicy and safe to eat?
We will try our best to make sure the Indian food we get is mildly spiced and that there are plenty of options. We will ONLY be eating in restaurants with clean kitchens and high quality standards. We will provide recommendations for avoiding food-borne illness, such as only drinking bottled water, no ice, no raw vegetables, no street food, etc. before arrival.
Should I get vaccinations?
Please consult your physician regarding appropriate vaccinations. The responsibility for your health during the Ashram Journey and after is solely yours. We recommend that you follow strictly the advice of your physician and the US authorities, such as Travel Vaccination Clinics. Also please check what is needed in terms of Covid restrisctions depending your country.
Am I covered by any insurance?
Sadhana Now does not provide any type of insurance. By choosing to join the tour you are agreeing to take full responsibility for your safety and well-being during and after the tour. We strongly recommend to buy a travel insurance coverage to help you in case of need.
Do I need a visa to India?
Absolutely! Please make sure to start the application process as soon as you enroll for the trip. You can apply for a visa at Travisa.com or through other reputable visa services.
Do I need to exchange money into Indian Rupees before the Ashram Journey?
You should have some amount of Indian Rupees with you when you arrive in India (perhaps $100 dollars worth). However, the rates you'll get from a Money Exchange outside India or in the New-Delhi airport are very bad. You will always get the very best rate from ATM machines in India that are required to give you the current rate. There are ATMs in most places we visit, but sometimes they may be inconvenient (or out-of-order). In those instances, we can help find a reputable currency exchange.
How do I get to the meeting point at Cochin, India?
It depends of course where are you coming from, meeting point will be Cochin, from Delhi and other cities and airlines such as Air India, Spice Jet and IndiGo fly here regularly. We recommend to arrive at Cochin at least a day before our meeting. Please send us your itinerary so we know your plans and maybe hook you up with other friends of the group. If you need some specific advice please contact us. We finish the Ashram Journey at Sivananda Ashram, Neyyar Dam, the closest airport is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport (TRV) in case you want to book you flight from there.
Will I share my room with others?
Yes. We're booking rooms for 2-3 people per room. The best way is to come with your partner/friend and share a room with them, but if you are coming single, we will pair you with a roommate from same gender
Where can I find more information?
If you have any more queries, please, don't hesitate and contact us by email. We'll be very happy to assist you.
November 15 to 30 2023
Notice that November 15 is our meeting in India. You'll probably have to leave home at least a day earlier.
Who can join this experience?
Anyone. You don't have to be a reincarnated Yogi in order to join in. All you need is curiosity, an open-mind, and enthusiasm to explore the unknown on many levels.
How much does it costs?
The cost of the trip is 3,100 $ usd for payments from August 1st. People will be accommodated on a first-come basis so register early.
To save your spot you have to make a 350 $ usd non refundable deposit
What is included in the payment?
The cost includes all accommodations, transportation, and meals during the Yatra (tour). It does not include flight to/from Kochi (our starting and ending point) and your flights to/ from New Delhi. It does not include any additional personal expenses you may incur such as gifts, additional foods, medicines, etc. There may be a few meals that you will pay for during your 'free' time, but the cost of food is minimal.
We finish the Ashram Journey at Sivananda Ashram, Neyyar Dam, the closest airport is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport (TRV)
What should I bring?
Generally speaking you can find almost everything in India. I've seen much more people regret for things they unnecessarily brought than people who regret for things they did not bring. It is a big advantage to travel light. Nevertheless you should bring mostly light cloths. Please make sure to bring only modest cloths. In most of the places we're planning to visit you cannot wear shorts. It is considered an insult in many of these places to walk with low-cut, sleeveless or tight garments. You do not need to bring bed-sheets but you want to bring a towel. You may want to use sandals, as we are going to take off our shoes every time we enter an Ashram/temple/etc). Bring a lightweight rain jacket. You may want to bring with you some small snacks like granola bars if you know that you need to bite something between meals, but again, there are also many snack options available in India to taste the local fare. The mattresses in Ammas Ashram may feel a bit hard for some of you. You may want to bring with you a sleeping bag (not mandatory)
What is the weather in Kerala in November?
Kerala has somewhat pleasant weather in November and the average temperature stays around 27°C (81°F) throughout the month.
What are the communication options during the Yatra?
We will come across some Internet Cafes during the Yatra, but you may not have access to them for parts of the journey. WiFi may be available on occasions, but it is not guaranteed. The best option is to stay 'off the grid' for the whole trip but, if you have to stay connected, a good solution may be to bring your smartphone (make sure it is internationally unlocked and it uses the GSM system). Once you arrive, you can purchase a local SIM card for an affordable price (best to do in airport). Communication can be a little annoying in India... Once you have the SIM card, you'll be able to call and receive calls and use the 2G mobile network for a slow Internet connection. Don't expect miracles. You'll probably be able to send and receive emails, not much more.
Is the food going to be very spicy and safe to eat?
We will try our best to make sure the Indian food we get is mildly spiced and that there are plenty of options. We will ONLY be eating in restaurants with clean kitchens and high quality standards. We will provide recommendations for avoiding food-borne illness, such as only drinking bottled water, no ice, no raw vegetables, no street food, etc. before arrival.
Should I get vaccinations?
Please consult your physician regarding appropriate vaccinations. The responsibility for your health during the Ashram Journey and after is solely yours. We recommend that you follow strictly the advice of your physician and the US authorities, such as Travel Vaccination Clinics. Also please check what is needed in terms of Covid restrisctions depending your country.
Am I covered by any insurance?
Sadhana Now does not provide any type of insurance. By choosing to join the tour you are agreeing to take full responsibility for your safety and well-being during and after the tour. We strongly recommend to buy a travel insurance coverage to help you in case of need.
Do I need a visa to India?
Absolutely! Please make sure to start the application process as soon as you enroll for the trip. You can apply for a visa at Travisa.com or through other reputable visa services.
Do I need to exchange money into Indian Rupees before the Ashram Journey?
You should have some amount of Indian Rupees with you when you arrive in India (perhaps $100 dollars worth). However, the rates you'll get from a Money Exchange outside India or in the New-Delhi airport are very bad. You will always get the very best rate from ATM machines in India that are required to give you the current rate. There are ATMs in most places we visit, but sometimes they may be inconvenient (or out-of-order). In those instances, we can help find a reputable currency exchange.
How do I get to the meeting point at Cochin, India?
It depends of course where are you coming from, meeting point will be Cochin, from Delhi and other cities and airlines such as Air India, Spice Jet and IndiGo fly here regularly. We recommend to arrive at Cochin at least a day before our meeting. Please send us your itinerary so we know your plans and maybe hook you up with other friends of the group. If you need some specific advice please contact us. We finish the Ashram Journey at Sivananda Ashram, Neyyar Dam, the closest airport is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) Airport (TRV) in case you want to book you flight from there.
Will I share my room with others?
Yes. We're booking rooms for 2-3 people per room. The best way is to come with your partner/friend and share a room with them, but if you are coming single, we will pair you with a roommate from same gender
Where can I find more information?
If you have any more queries, please, don't hesitate and contact us by email. We'll be very happy to assist you.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- If cancelled 30 or more days before the starting date, there will be a 50% refund.
- There will be no refund for cancellations done with less than 30 days notice.
- Deposit is non refundable.
-If governmental restrictions do not allow that the Ashram Journey to take place will be rescheduled.
- If cancelled 30 or more days before the starting date, there will be a 50% refund.
- There will be no refund for cancellations done with less than 30 days notice.
- Deposit is non refundable.
-If governmental restrictions do not allow that the Ashram Journey to take place will be rescheduled.
