SACRED INDIA TRIP

SACRED EARTH RETREATS©
For the love of the Earth and building a new future
www.arthurianschool.com

NORTHERN INDIA RETREAT
8-23rd MARCH 2011
Spring Equinox & Equinox Full Moon

SACRED DELHI: GARDENS, TOMBS AND TEMPLES,
AGRA: AKBAR MAUSOLEUM, TAJ MAHAL,
VARANASI ON THE GANGES RIVER,
TEMPLES AND ASHRAMS OF RISHIKESH,
AMRITSAR, THE GOLDEN TEMPLE,
DHARAMSALA: LITTLE LHASA IN INDIA,
NAMGYAL MONASTERY AND THE TIBETAN LIBRARY

EXPLORING THE SPIRITUAL PRINCIPLES OF INDIA:
(with special thanks to CECELIA AMORY)

India teaches us about the “Four Principles of Spirituality”:

The first principle states:

“Whomsoever you encounter is the right one.”
This means that no one comes into our life by chance. Everyone who is around us, anyone with whom we interact, represents something, whether to teach us something or to help us improve a current situation.

The second principle states:

“Whatever happened is the only thing that could have happened”.
Nothing, absolutely nothing of that which we experience could have been any other way. Not even in the least important detail. There is no “If only I had done that differently, … then it would have been different.” No. What happened is the only thing that could have taken place and had to take place for us to learn our lesson to move forward. Every single situation in life we encounter is absolutely perfect, even when it defies our understanding and our ego.

The third principle states:

“Each moment in which something begins is the right moment.”
Everything begins at exactly the right moment, neither earlier nor later. When we are ready for it, for that something new our life, it is there, ready to begin.

The fourth principle states:

“What is over, is over”.
It is that simple. When something in our life ends, it helps our evolution. That is why, enriched by the recent experience, it is better to let go and move on.

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF.
LOVE WITH YOUR WHOLE BEING.
ALWAYS BE HAPPY.


Love
Elizabeth
SACRED EARTH RETREATS©
www.arthurianschool.com
LEARNING FROM ANCIENT CIVILISATIONS
"I share my abundance of knowledge, gifts and love with others-
Salandra Hartwegii (Cup of Gold flower of HAWAII)"

Contact details:
info@arthurianschool.com
telephone +27 - (0)28 273 8277
cell/mobile +27 - (0)78 371 6343


DAY ITINERARY:
(Please note: the order of the itinerary may change if required or so guided.)

Day 01 (Tuesday) 8 March 2011- arrive Delhi and settling in
(moon- new- in Taurus)

• Arrival Delhi international airport
• Meeting on arrival by our travel agent and transfer to our hotel
• Resting at the hotel after the trip and acclimatising to India
• Group evening meeting and meditation on the Four Principles of Spirituality

Overnight in Delhi (Hotel Oakland)

Day 02 (Wednesday) 9 March 2011 - Delhi/Agra
(moon in Taurus)

• Transfer to rail station to board a train to Agra
• Settling into our hotel at Agra

Agra is famous as the home to one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World - the Taj Mahal. This city having been the capital of the Mughal dynasty for over hundred years till 1650 there are many Mughal monuments.

• Visit the beautifully carved, red ochre sandstone tomb that is Akbar’s Mausoleum. It is located at Sikandra, only 13 kilometers (8 miles) away from Agra.

Overnight in Agra (Hotel Trident)
Day 03 (Thursday) 10 March 2011 - Agra/Varanasi
(moon in Taurus)

• Early morning visit to the breath taking Taj Mahal!

The Taj Mahal looms fairytale-like from the banks of the Yamuna River. It's India’s most recognized monument and is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Taj Mahal has a rich history dating back to 1630 AD. It’s actually a tomb that contains the body of Mumtaz Mahal - the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. He had it built as an ode to his love for her. It's made out of marble and took 22 years and 20 000 workers to complete. Words cannot do the Taj Mahal justice, its incredible detail simply has to be seen to be appreciated.

“It is described as a “ Vision of Loveliness “ - “ A poem in stone “ – “ A dream in Marble “ – a tribute of grace to Indian Womanhood and a resplendent Immortal Tear Drop – a Wonder of the World shown by a man’s love and endearment for his wife .They say it is paradise on earth .
The most amazing thing was the feeling of equilibrium, balance and precision which generated in the energy whilst I was there.
The silhouette and total serene calmness that overcomes you is unexplainable. A meditation of ecstasy.
It was truly a life changing experience for me!” Cecelia Amory

• Board train to Varanasi
Marudhar Expres (14854) / AC 2 tier
Agra Fort - Varanasi Jn
Departure 21:10 Arrival 10:30 Duration 13h 10m

Overnight on board train

Day 04 (Friday) 11 March 2011 - Varanasi
(moon in Gemini)

• Arrive Varanasi
• Meeting our travel agent on arrival and transfer to our hotel
• Exploring Varanasi by foot
Varanasi is another sacred Hindu city with a very old history. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, it's believed that anyone who dies here will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. Even a wash in the Ganges River is said to cleanse away all sins.
The fascinating thing about this mystical city is that its rituals are revealed openly to along the many riverside ghats, which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead. Yoga, blessings, massages, shaves, and games of cricket are among the other activities one finds performed along the river edge.
Varnasi Attractions:
Visitors come to Varanasi for a brush with the divine. The most interesting part of the city is its ghats (steps at the water's edge). Take a walk along the river front and watch life flow by. In the evening, head to Dasaswamedh Ghat for the aarti (prayer ceremony). A look at the burning ghat, where dead bodies are cremated on the funeral pyre, is fascinating. The magnificant Vishwanath Temple, built in 1776, is an important Hindu holy place. Varanasi is also well known for its classical dance and music, and yoga.

Overnight in Varanasi (Hotel Hindustan International)
Day 05 (Saturday) 12 March 2011 - visiting Varanasi
(moon in Gemini)

• Early morning : Boat ride on the Ganges

Boat ride at dawn down India's most sacred river, The Ganges. Sun rise at the holy river is a truly tranquil and breath taking sight with pilgrims standing waist-deep in water, praying to the rising Sun. Past these bathing ghats, see the "burning ghats" where the Hindus cremate their dead. This is done with great religious fervour that is a deep and moving experience.

• Excursion to Sarnath

Sarnath, around 20 minutes from Varanasi, is the place where the Buddha delivered his first Sermon ‘Turning of the Wheel of Law’. In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Varanasi, it is a peaceful place where you can wander around the grassy gardens and ruins of Buddhist stupas.

Overnight in Varanasi (Hotel Hindustan International)
Day 06 (Sunday) 13 March 2011 - Varanasi/Delhi/Haridwar
(moon in Cancer)

• Transfer to the airport to board flight to Delhi
SpiceJet SG 119
Varanasi - New Delhi
Departure 16:15 Arrival 17:50 Duration 1h 35m

• Arrive Delhi and transfer to the rail station to board train to Haridwar
Mussoorie Exp (14041) / AC 1 tier
Delhi S Rohilla - Haridwar Jn
Departure 21:30 Arrival 05:50 Duration 8 h 20 m

Overnight on board train

Day 07 (Monday) 14 March 2011 - Haridwar
(moon in Cancer)

• Arrive Haridwar
Ancient Haridwar (the Gateway to God) is one of the seven holiest places in India, and one of the oldest living cities. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, it's here that the holy Ganges River emerges from the mountains and commences its long journey to the Bay of Bengal.
Haridwar is made up of a fascinating and colourful collection of sadhus (holy men), pundits (Hindu priests), pilgrims, guides, beggars, and a diverse population from all levels of society. Every evening, the Ganges comes alive with a surreal glow as hundreds of small lamps are lit and sent floating down the river after prayer.
• Meeting our travel agent and setting into our hotel
• Exploring Haridwar on foot.

Haridwar's main attractions are its temples, ghats (steps leading down to the river), and Ganges River. As the sun sets, head to Har ki Pauri ghat to witness the holy Ganga Aarti (prayer) at around 6-7 p.m. every night. This beautiful ceremony creates a warm hue as small candles are floated down the river. Coupled with the chanting of mantras, clanking of bells, and enthusiastic crowd, it's very moving. Haridwar is also a great place to come if you've got an interest in Ayurvedic medicine, as many roots and shrubs that are grown in the Himalayas are readily available there.

Overnight in Haridwar (Hotel Khanna Palace )

Day 08 (Tuesday) 15 March 2011 - Rishikesh
(moon in Leo)

• Drive to Rishikesh (30 mins drive)
• Check into our hotel in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, at an altitude of 365 metres, is on the right bank of the Ganga. It has an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity, interrupted only by the sound of the waters of the Ganga as it spreads out. It is a place of ashrams (hermitages) where solace seekers from all over the world come to spend their time in serenity and calm.
Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, is a popular place to come and meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism. It's situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides. The whole town is considered to be sacred and it is believed that meditation there leads to salvation.
Rishikesh lures those seeking knowledge and peace with its numerous temples, ashrams, and yoga institutes. Despite the growing number of visitors, the town’s lanes and alleys retain a old-world charm, and it remains a wonderful place to relax and unwind amongst nature.
• Exploring Rishikesh on foot.
• The International Yoga Festival will be on in Rishikesh when we visit*

Rishikesh Attractions:
Rishikesh is a delightful place to wander around and explore on foot. Cross either of the two suspension bridges and you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the town and river. Coupled with the sound of the rush of flowing water and distant chime of bells, the experience is not one to be forgotten. In town, Treveni bathing ghat is the gathering place for taking a dip in the holy Ganges river and offering prayers. It's particularly spectacular when the evening aarti (prayer) is held.
Rishikesh Yoga and Ashrams:
Rishikesh is home to the renowned Parmarth Niketan Ashram, one of India's top yoga centers. This well equipped ashram has over 1,000 rooms! Other important ashrams in Rishikesh include the Shivananda Ashram, Yoga Study Center (for Hatha Yoga), Yoga Niketan, Sri Ved Niketan, Sacha Vedic Sansthan, and the famous Transcendental Meditation Center of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi which hosted The Beatles (although, these days, it's inactive). The main spiritual district of Rishikesh is known as Swarg Ashram and it has many ashrams, along with food stalls and shops.
*Rishikesh Annual Yoga Festival:
The International Yoga Festival is held in Rishikesh in March each year and will be on during our trip. The week long festival is one of the biggest annual yoga gatherings in the world. Attendees get to take part in a comprehensive program of yoga classes, and evening discussions with some of India's leading spiritual leaders. There are also vegetarian cooking classes, and the Yoga Aid Challenge charity fundraiser.
Overnight in Rishikesh (Hotel Great Ganga)
Day 09 (Wednesday) 16 March 2011 - Rishikesh/Chandigarth
(moon in Leo)

• Late departure for Chandigarth by road (as stop over for our next visit to Amritsar – approx 4 hours)
• Arrive Chandigarth & check-in at our hotel to overnight

Overnight in Chandigarth (Hotel Aroma)
Day 10 (Thursday) 17 March 2011 - Amritsar
(moon in Virgo)

• Leave for Amritsar early by road (approx 3 hours)
• Arrive Amritsar & check-in at our hotel
Amritsar was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru of Sikhs. It is the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name, meaning "Holy Pool of Nectar", from the body of water around the Golden Temple.

The Golden Temple is also known as Har Mandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib and is built in the centre of the pool and is one of the most interesting temples of the world.

• Visit the Golden Temple late afternoon

Amritsar Attractions:
The exquisite Golden Temple is what makes this otherwise unremarkable Punjabi city special. This sacred Sikh shrine attracts pilgrims from all over the world who come there to pay their respects and do voluntary service. Incredibly, the number of visitors per year rivals the Taj Mahal in Agra. The main temple looks particularly arresting at night when it is beautifully lit up, with its imposing pure gold dome illuminated. The temple complex is open for almost 20 hours, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. It's well worth two visits -- during the day and night. Heads must be covered and shoes removed when you enter the temple.

Overnight in Amritsar (City Heart Park Plaza)
Day 11 (Friday) 18 March 2011 - Amritsar/Dharamsala
(Moon in Virgo)
• Leave for Dharmsala by road
• Arrive Dharmsala in the afternoon
• Check into our hotel for the next 3 days

Dharamsala is beautifully located on a ridge of the Dhauladhar range. The town rises in levels up the hill from a height of 1250 m to 2000 m! The snow line, not far away and the dramatic Dhauladhar Peaks rise above the town - far below are the misty plains.,

Nestled a short distance from each other in the Kangra Valley, the towns of Dharamsala and MacLeod Ganj are home to the exiled Tibetan Government. The Dalai Lama resides in Dharamsala, and many Tibetans have followed him there. There is a strong Tibetan influence in the area, with culture being the main attraction.
People flock to Dharamsala and MacLeod Ganj to undertake Buddhist meditation and philosophy courses, Tibetan cooking classes, Tibetan language courses, and to receive alternative therapies. Volunteer work is another popular pastime. For sightseeing there are some fascinating museums, temples, gompas, and monasteries. And Tsuglagkhang Complex, the official residence of the Dalai Lama, is a highlight.

Overnight in Dharmsala (Chonor House)
Day 12 (Saturday) 19 March 2011 - visiting Dharamsala
(EQUINOX FULL MOON in Libra)
Tibetan “Butter Lamp Festival”

• Visit Norbulingka institute

Norbulingka Institue is dedicated to handing down tradition and restoring standards by providing training, education and employment for Tibetans. It supports an environment in which Tibetan community and family values can flourish and seeks to create an international awareness of Tibetan values and their expression in art and literature.

Overnight in Dharmsala (Chonor House)
Day 13 (Sunday) 20 March 2011 - visiting Dharamsala – SPRING EQUINOX
Human rights day: South Africa
Harmony day: Australia
UN Earth Day
(moon in Libra)

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries.
Without them, humanity cannot survive.” THE DALAI LAMA

• Visit Namgyal Monastery and Tibetan library
As a result of the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and one hundred thousand Tibetans fled to India and Nepal. Among the original refugees were 55 monks from Namgyal Monastery. After His Holiness the Dalai Lama was granted asylum in the Northern Indian town of Dharamsala, Namgyal Monastery was re-established very nearby the new residence of His Holiness. To this day, nearly fifty years later, the Tibetan religious, artistic and intellectual traditions are being preserved and maintained through the cooperative effort of the Dalai Lama and the Namgyal monks. The curriculum and the rigors of monastic life have been meticulously maintained throughout the journey from Tibet into exile. The novice monks of today must first pass a series of challenging entrance examinations and, if accepted, undertake the traditional years of philosophical study.
Overnight in Dharmsala (Chonor House)
Day 14 (Monday) 21 March 2011 - Dharamsala/Delhi
(moon in Scorpio)

• Transfer to the station to board train to Delhi
Malwa Express (12920) / AC 2 tier
Chakki Bank - New Delhi Departure 10:45 Arrival 19:00 Duration 8h 30m

• Meeting on arrival by our travel agent in Delhi and transfer to our hotel

Overnight Delhi (Hotel Oakland)

Day 15 (Tuesday) 22 March 2011 – Discovering Delhi’s sacred places & nature
(moon in Scorpio)

• Early morning sunrise visit to the Garden of Five Senses (New Delhi)

The Garden of Five Senses is a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the madness of Delhi city. However, it's no ordinary garden. As its name suggests, the Garden of Five Senses has been specifically designed to awaken all five senses. The sprawling 20 acre site beckons with a vibrant display of thoughtfully landscaped plants and flowers, waterfalls, rocks, quirky sculptures, murals, ceramic bells, and spiral walkways. The amphitheater often has live music. There's also a food court that serves a variety of cuisines to tantalize the taste buds.
• Visiting Qutab Minar (South New Delhi)

Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, is an incredible example of early Indo–Islamic architecture. It was built in 1206, but the reason remains a mystery. Some believe that it was made to signify victory and the beginning of Muslim rule in India, while others say it was used to call the faithful to prayer. The tower has five distinct stories, and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Quran. There are also a number of other historic monuments on the site.
• Visiting Humayun's tomb late afternoon (New Delhi)

Humayun's Tomb looks a bit like the Taj Mahal, because it was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal's creation. The tomb was built in 1570, and houses the body of the second Mughal emperor, Humayun. It was the first of this type of Mughal architecture to be built in India, and the Mughal rulers followed it up with an extensive period of construction all over the country. The tomb is part of a greater complex that is set amongst beautiful gardens. It is best viewed in the golden light of late afternoon.

• Visiting Bahai (Lotus) Temple at sunset (South New Delhi)

The Bahai Temple is commonly referred to as the Lotus Temple, as it's shaped like a lotus flower. It's particularly pretty at night, when it's attractively lit up. Made out of white marble, the temple belongs to the Bahai Faith, which proclaims the unity of all people and religions. Everybody is welcome to worship there. The tranquil gardens and ponds surrounding the temple are also a great place for a relaxing picnic


• Sound and light show at the Red Fort (Old Delhi)

Delhi's most famous monument, the Red Fort, stands as a powerful reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled India. Its walls, which stretch for over two kilometers (1.2 miles), were built in 1638 to keep out invaders. However, they failed to stop the fort being captured by the Sikhs and the British. To take your imagination back to the ancient era, a one hour sound and light show of the fort's history is held each evening.

Overnight in Delhi (Hotel Oakland)

Day 16 (Wednesday) 23 March 2011 - flying home
(moon in Sagittarius)

• Transfer to the International airport to board onward flight back home
Cost of retreat
R15 400 / $2053 / £1400
Included:
 Accommodation (double occupancy)
 All breakfasts
 All airport transfers by air conditioned chauffer driven car
 Intercity transfers and sightseeing by air conditioned chauffer driven car
 Boat ride in Varanasi
 English speaking Indian Guide for each destination
 Spiritual trip facilitator- Sacred Earth Retreats- Elizabeth Bardin- teaching the Four Spiritual Principles of India at the places we visit through earth meditation
 Toll taxes, parking and fuel
 All applicable taxes
 All Train fares
 All entrance fees (where applicable) for above itinerary: Garden of Five Senses, Qutab Minar, Humajuns Tomb, Bahai (Lotus) Temple, Red Fort sound & light show, Akbar’s Tomb, Taj Mahal, Sarnath, Ashrams and Temples of Rishikesh, the Golden Temple, Norbulinka Institute, Namyal Monastery & Tibetan Library
Exclusions:
 Extras at the hotel
 Meals other than breakfast ($10-15 per day)
 Personal Purchases
 Tipping ($80 for the trip)
 Domestic flight Varanasi/Delhi (approx. $120 depending on availability)
 International Airfares to and from Delhi (approx. R5600/R6300 return for South Africans depending on availability)

SACRED EARTH RETREATS©2011

Contact details:
info@arthurianschool.com
telephone +27 - (0)28 273 8277
cell/mobile +27 - (0)78 371 6343