Kumbh Mela General Information:

Our Amazing Tours:
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Testimonials from Previous Kumbh Tour Participants
Timing of Kumbh Mela
Description of Previous Kumbh Melas
Darshan of the Holy Saints
Procession of Holy Saints
The Kumbh Atmosphere
Legend of Kumbh Mela
Dates of Sacred Bathing Event
Kumbh Mela 2013

Our Amazing Tours:

You have a choice of Swiss tents or hotel in Allahabad, or create your own specialized tour:

TENTS:
CLICK HERE for More about 7-Day to 36-Day Tours in Luxury Swiss Tents:
One-week blocks
Led by our special tour guide Rajiv

HOTELS:
CLICK HERE for More about 13-Day Tour in 4-Star and 5-Star Hotels:
Feb. 1 to 13, 2013
Special Tour in Hotel in Allahabad
Led by Dr. Susan Shumsky and Local Guides

EXTENSION TOUR:
CLICK HERE for Rishikesh and Haridwar Extension Tour:
Feb. 13 to 17, 2013
"Home of the Gods"
Led by Dr. Susan Shumsky and Local Guides

SPECIALIZED, PERSONALIZED TOURS:
CLICK HERE to Choose Individual Specialized Dates

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Testimonials from Participants of Our Previous Kumbh Mela tours:

"I had an awesome experience with the Divine Travels tour to the Kumbh Mela. It was definitely an experience of a lifetime."--Deborah, hairdesigner, Ohio.

"My experience with Susan Shumsky and Divine Travels (to the Maha Kumbh Mela festival in India January 2001) was truly excellent. Everything was well organized, accommodation and meals were very good, and it was possible to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would have been extremely difficult to arrange through any other company. Guiding a diverse group of Westerners through a festival attended by close to 100 million people was a difficult challenge but the Divine Travels staff managed it with great efficiency, patience and kindness. Above all, I was impressed by their constant dedication and concern for the welfare of those on the trip."--Paul Lowe, author, England.

"The tour was very well organized. I was very comfortable and felt really protected amongst 30 million people at the Mela. I felt very included and appreciated by the tour leaders and guides. I traveled alone, but felt welcomed! The accommodations, transportation, and food were remarkably high-end. Our dinner out as a group was one of bonding and excellent food."--Tour Participant.

"It was a not to be missed, life expanding experience. We had special audiences with powerful spiritual leaders, witnessed unique ceremonies, met gurus that we could only have had access to through Rajiv, our tour guide. We were very comfortable, safe, and secure. We were very well taken care of by kind and delightful guides. Highly recommended."--Barbara, artist, NYC.

"I have taken the Kumba Mela tour with Susan Shumsky and I feel it was the best tour tour I have ever taken. The tour was extremely well planed, which in a country like India is quite important, but also had the ability to be flexible, intimate and to respond to everyone's needs. Susan's experience and knowledge of India is extremely valuable and the tour company used in India is of the highest caliber. I myself am planning to take aditional tours with Susan in the future and would recommend her without any hesitation."--Dr. Randy Meltzer.

"It has been a year since I toured India for the Kumbh Mela tour. I think every day I mention to someone something about that experience. I feel so lucky to do this tour with Divine Travels/ Mystical Journeys, because of their ability to organize a trip taking care of all the logistics, making sure our food and water are safe so we don't get sick, but still covering a lot of territory, being flexible, and adventurous. This is not your typical coach riding tour. You get in the heart of the culture, and get in to do things that the average independent traveler could never do. I went on this tour by myself, made many friends, and consider it a life changing experience with nothing but positive things to say. I highly recommend Divine Travels/ Mystical Journeys to guide you so you can relax and focus on the spirit of India."--Angel F., Bellevue, WA.

"Bathing in the Ganges River on the most auspicious day of the Maha Kumbha Mela was like basking in nectar. My consciousnes was lifted and my perceptions awakened. Kumbh Mela was the most deeply moving experience of my life. There is no expression in our language to describe it adequately."--Tour participant.

"At the Maha Kumbh Mela, I communed with God, which I saw as everything contained within myself. It was the awarenes of my path and expanded freedom that brought me to tears of joy. There exists no words to fully explain the depth of that communion. I know only liberation and the utmost kindness was totally re-enforced.--Deborah, hairdesigner, Ohio.

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TIMING OF KUMBH MELA

The Kumbh Mela ("festival of the pot of nectar of immortality") is held every three years in each of four different locations, returning to each of four places every twelve years. An Ardh (half) Mela (festival) takes place six years after the Poorna (full) Kumbh in each location.

Kumbh Mela is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage and bathing festival that takes place at the following 4 locations of India:

-Prayag (near the city of Allahabad, in the state of Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of three rivers Ganga (Ganges), Yamuna and mythical Saraswati.

-Haridwar (in the state of Uttaranchal Pradesh) where the river Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas.

-Ujjain (in Madhya Pradesh), on the banks of Ksipra river.

-Nasik (in Maharashtra) on the banks of Godavari river.

Dates for the Kumbh Festival
(every 12 years in 4 locations)

-In 2013, Maha Kumbh Mela will be held in Allahabad (Prayag), Jan. 27 to Feb. 25. Main bathing date: Feb. 10.

-In 2015, Kumbh Mela will be held Aug. 15 to Sept. 13. Main bathing date: Sept. 13.

-In 2016, Kumbh Mela will be held April 22 to May 21. Main bathing date: May 21.

Bathing at the Kumbh Festival in Allahabad:

The basic point of the Kumbh Mela is for pilgrims to bathe at certain sacred spots on certain auspicious days. A large tented city is erected and pilgrims stay at tents owned by Pandas (religious and spiritual guides) and at various ashrams and hotels. Others will just camp on the ground or visit for the actual bathing day. Some of these bathing days are designated "royal." On all the major bathing dates, the naga sadhus (naked mendicants) will parade and bathe. On all other days there will still be people bathing, other events, and random Processions.

The largest gathering in history -- 100 million people at Maha Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, India. We celebrated a powerful planetary alignment -- January, 2001. This nexus of cosmic energy converges every 144 years, bringing dramatic changes in the destiny of humanity.

We met the radiant Himalayan saints, sages, seers, sadhus, and yogis who make their rare appearance at Kumbh Mela in Prayag, the confluence of the Ganges, Jamuna, and mythical Saraswati Rivers. Kumbh Mela takes place during an auspicious planetary position that is believed to medicate the Ganges waters and turn the river into nectar. Millions Arrive to purify their iner self through holy bathing rituals.

We were blesed to experience Maha (Great) Kumbh Mela in 2001, Ardh (Half) Kumbh Mela in 2007 in Allahabad, and Full (Poorna) Kumbh Mela in Haridwar. Here are some of the highlights of our tour that we took in January, 2001:

"My experience with Susan Shumsky and Divine Travels (to the Maha Kumbh Mela festival in India January 2001) was truly excellent. Everything was well organized, accommodation and meals were very good, and it was possible to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would have been extremely difficult to arrange through any other company. Guiding a diverse group of Westerners through a festival attended by close to 100 million people was a difficult challenge but the Divine Travels staff managed it with great efficiency, patience and kindness. Above all, I was impressed by their constant dedication and concern for the welfare of those on the trip."--Paul Lowe, author, England

"The tour was very well organized. I was very comfortable and felt really protected amongst 30 million people at the Mela. I felt very included and appreciated by the tour leaders and guides. I traveled alone, but felt welcomed! The Accommodations, transportation, and food were remarkably high-end. Our dinner out as a group was one of bonding and excellent food."--Tour participant.

Wave upon wave of bliss. The darshan -- the blesings -- of all the magnificent saints and yogis who come out of their Himalayan caves only once very 12 years in order to bles the people. This is the Kumbh Mela ("the festival of the pot of nectar - amrit kalash - of immortality"). A once in a lifetime, unforgettable event!

Lahiri Mahasaya, the paramguru of the famous saint Paramahansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi, met his guru, the Mahavatar Babaji, at Kumbh Mela.

"It was a not to be missed, life expanding experience. We had special audiences with powerful spiritual leaders, witnessed unique ceremonies, met gurus that we could only have had access to through Rajiv, our tour guide. We were very comfortable, safe, and secure. We were very well taken care of by kind and delightful guides. Highly recommended."--Barbara, artist, NYC.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR KUMBH MELA TOUR

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To watch the Kumbh Mela Processions is to witness the march of the ages. As the holy saints pass by on their various and sundry conveyances -- elephants, horses, palanquins, chariots, cars, and camels -- they are continually transmitting waves of powerful shakti (energy) to all the people who witness this awe-inspiring and most auspicious event. Devotees are overwhelmed by the palpable spiritual vibrations that pervade the entire atmosphere.

While the parade of saints marches towards the Ganges River, the sounds baffle all description -- the shout and cries of ash-smeared sadhus mingle with the neighing of horses, trumpeting of elephants, grunting of camels, bellowing of bulls. Gongs and drums beat, trumpets blare, conch shells blow and bells ring. In the midst of this cacophony, musicians and dancers perform.

"I have taken the Kumba Mela tour with Susan Shumsky and I feel it was the best tour tour I have ever taken. The tour was extremely well planed, which in a country like India is quite important, but also had the ability to be flexible, intimate and to respond to everyone's needs. Susan's experience and knowledge of India is extremely valuable and the tour company used in India is of the highest caliber. I myself am planning to take aditional tours with Susan in the future and would recommend her without any hesitation."--Dr. Randy Meltzer.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR KUMBH MELA TOUR

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA TRAVEL INFORMATION

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA VISA INFORMATION

Kumbh Mela -- This unique event blends religious and cultural features alike. With the entire atmosphere saturated with chiming bells, incense and flower fragrance, Vedic hymns, mantras, beating of drums on horses, camels, and elephants during the Processions of naga (naked) sadhus from different akhadas (orders) in their gold and silver chariots being pulled by devotees, as they show their strength and skills -- pure enchantment for the soul.

Kumbh Fair is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the lucky ones. The crowd and confusion of buyers and sellers, the native groups in every imaginable costume. Some shine in cloths of gold, surounded by followers splendidly arranged, others are les expensively but picturesquely dresed, and many are half or full naked or wildly clad. The melange of priests, soldiers, religious mendicants, half beggars-half bandits, with a smattering of Europeans, exhibit all together an exotic display -- unique in all the world.

"It has been a year since I toured India for the Kumbh Mela tour. I think every day I mention to someone something about that experience. I feel so lucky to do this tour with Divine Travels/ Mystical Journeys, because of their ability to organize a trip taking care of all the logistics, making sure our food and water are safe so we don't get sick, but still covering a lot of territory, being flexible, and adventurous. This is not your typical coach riding tour. You get in the heart of the culture, and get in to do things that the average independent traveler could never do. I went on this tour by myself, made many friends, and consider it a life changing experience with nothing but positive things to say. I highly recommend Divine Travels/ Mystical Journeys to guide you so you can relax and focus on the spirit of India."--Angel F., Bellevue, WA.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR KUMBH MELA TOUR

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA TRAVEL INFORMATION

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA VISA INFORMATION

Mythological legends say that at the begining of creation, all the Gods were under a curse that made them weak and cowardly. Brahma, the creator God, advised them to retrieve the Kumbh (pot) containing the nectar of immortality (amrit). The gods sought help from the demons, and together they churned the primordial ocean to bring up the nectar.

As Dhanvantari, the divine healer, appeared with the "Kumbh" containing nectar in his palms, a great fight ensued between the Gods and demons to wrest the pitcher. During the fierce battle in the sky, a few drops of nectar fell in four different places: Allahabad (Prayag), Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain.

Since then, when the planets align in the same position, pilgrims and devotees converge to commemorate this divine event. Purna (Full) Kumbh Mela takes place every three years in rotation in the four sacred places. Therefore Kumbh Mela in each location takes place every twelfth year. The Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place in the sixth year between Kumbh Melas.

In the four holy places Purna Kumbh Mela takes place at an interval of twelve years coinciding with one round of Jupiter through the zodiac.

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Holy Snan or bathing in the river Ganges is of great importance. It is believed that it washes away all the sins and the cycle of rebirth and death ends as the soul becomes one with God Almighty.

Below are listed the auspicious holy bathing dates at the Kumbh Mela. On the main bathing dates there will be a colorful, magnificent Procession of radiant saints on chariots and elephants at sunrise. As the saints pass by, they impart blesings of divine grace to all the people. Then the glorious saints took their dip (shahi snan) in the Holy River Ganges. This takes place according to tradition, each group proceeding to the river and then bathing in a particular sequence. After all these groups have bathed, then all other people will take their turn to march to the Ganges for their bath.

"Bathing in the Ganges River on the most auspicious day of the Maha Kumbha Mela was like basking in nectar. My consciousnes was lifted and my perceptions awakened. Kumbh Mela was the most deeply moving experience of my life. There is no expression in our language to describe it adequately."--Tour participant.

Main Bathing Dates in Allahabad, 2013:

We have planed our itinerary to take advantage of the main bathing date - most auspicious and important - February 10.

Paush Purnima - January 27, 2013

The full moon in the Hindu month of Paush. This is the last full moon of winter. The sadhus are at the Kumbh Mela and hundreds of thousands of pilgrims have already Arrived. More will come in buses, trains and on foot. Each day the population of Kumbhnagari (Kumbh City) will double.

Ekadashi Snan - February 6, 2013

Ekadashi is the eleventh lunar day (Tithi) of the shukla (bright) or krishna (dark) paksha (fortnight) of every lunar month in the Hindu calendar (Panchang). It is considered a spiritually beneficial day. Scriptures recommend observing an (ideally waterles) fast from sunset on the day beore Ekadashi to 48 minutes after sunrise on the day following Ekadashi.

Mauni Amavasya Snan - February 10, 2013: MAIN BATHING DATE

This is "New Moon of the Saints." For the holy men and women this is their main bathing day where they participate in gilded and naked Processions. It is also a day when new members to various holy monastic orders receive their first initiation. More than fifty million people will bathe on this day.

Basant Panchami Snan - February 15, 2013

This is the fifth day of the bright half of the lunar month and is the begining of spring in North India. Traditionally people wear yellow on this day. It is day when people pray to the Gods for a good bumper harvest.

Rath Saptami Snan - February 17, 2013

Ratha Saptami is a highly auspicious day dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God in Hinduism. Lord Surya, riding a chariot driven by seven horses, is worshipped on this day. Rath Saptami festival is observed on the seventh day of Shukla Paksha in the Magh Month (January - February) in traditional Hindu calendar.

Bhishma Ekadasi Snan - February 18, 2013

It is believed that the Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram (thousand names dedicated to Lord Vishnu) was revealed to the Pandavas on this day by Bhisma, who was lying in a bed of arows after the Great War in Mahabharat. On this day Bhishma Pithamaha, the oldest, wisest, most powerful, and most righteous person belonging to the Kuru dynasty (approx. over 5000 years ago), narated the greatnes of Lord Krishna through Sri Vishnu Sahasranama to Yudhishtira, the oldest brother of Pandavas.

Maghi Purnima Snan - February 25, 2013

This is the full moon in the month of Magha (January - February). Winter is a memory and the moon shines over the two holy rivers.

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The largest single gathering of humanity on earth. Kumbh Mela is a mass Hindu pilgrimage.

In 2013 from January 27, the Poorna (Full) Kumbh Mela will be held in Allahabad, which occurs after every 12 years. February 10, 2013 is the main bathing date.

According to astrological calculations, the Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years and begins on Makar Sankranti, the day when the Sun and Moon enter Capricorn and Jupiter enters Aries. The astrological configuration on Makar Sankranti is called "Kumbha snana yoga" and is considered especially auspicious, as it is said that the passsage from Earth to higher planets is open at that time, thus allowing the soul to easily attain the celestial world. For such reasons, it is understandable why the Kumbh has become so popular among all classses of transcendentalists in India.

Allahabad is an ancient city of India, considered holy because it is built on the confluence (Sangam) of the rivers Ganga, Jamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Allahabad lies on 25.30 N Latitude and 81.55 E Longitude at the height of 98.0M above sea level in the state of Uttar Pradesh, which is the most populated state of India. The time zone is +4.5 G.M.T. During the Kumbh Mela period, a tent city is organized by the government of India for more than a month, where millions of devotees live. Different Hindu religious organizations erect their camps during this period. Stories and scenes from Hindu religious texts are staged by the folk theater groups in different places in the Mela area. Many devotees live in camps and ashrams for the whole duration of the Mela and lead a sacred life. This is called kalpavas and these people are called kalpvasee.

Since we are traveling to India from the West, and since our bodies are unacustomed to East Indian standards of health and sanitation, we will take every possible precaution to ensure our safety.

On our tour you have the option to stay in first-class hotels, or in specially appointed luxury tents. We will not eat or drink anything from street vendors. Our delicious meals will be served in the restaurants of our first-class hotels, which have Western standards, or our specially prepared safe food in the tent city. No salads or raw food will be served. No tap water or well water will be drunk. We will drink bottled mineral water and eat cooked food that has been boiled and therefore sterilized.

On our first-class tour to India we will:

- Be accompanied by our American guide, who studied yoga, mysticism, and spirituality for 45 years, and by our local expert guides.
- See the sights of India with experienced Indian English-speaking guides.
- Visit the most holy city in India - Varanasi.
- Experience a sunrise Ganges boat ride in Varanasi and see the sights of the holy ghats.
- Bathe at the holy confluence of Ganges, Jamuna, and Saraswati in Allahabad.
- Receive the blesing of many beloved saints, sadhus, seers, and sages at Kumbh Mela.
- Stay in first-class hotels or first-class tents, according to your choice.
- Travel by air and in air-conditioned coaches.
- Eat in first-class restaurants with Western standards.
- Have an amazing adventure.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR KUMBH MELA TOUR

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The Tent Camp:

In every Kumbh Mela we accommodate Kumbh Mela participants from across the world in a very comfortable way, with hygienic food in tents and camp. These tents are located on the banks of the Ganges River and easily accessible to the Mela - located approximately 3 kilometers away from the main bathing place--the Sangam, and from the holy Mela camps. Because the camp is located on the Ganges, boats might be used to reach the Sangam during the holy dips, if allowed by police. The camp will have jeeps available also, which can be used to drive right into the Mela on days when cars are allowed (not anytime near main bathing dates).

We mainly offer two different categories of tents to the participants, according to their desires. These are deluxe tents and luxury tents which provide you elegant comfort and high levels of service and give you value for money throughout your stay at the event.

The camp is led by Rajiv, our amazing, very special guide in India, who is very successful in helping you gain special, private access to the holy people of Kumbh Mela. Rajiv is not just a tour guide. He is a spiritual guide who will get our group private darshans with the greatest saints of India. There will be separate guides leading small groups, which will consist of 10 to 15 people. Individual walks with private guides will not generally be available.

Our Tents Located are located very close to Kumbh Mela Grounds.
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS OF TENTS AND EXACT LOCATION MAP

7-Day Itinerary: Blocks 1, 2, 3, and 4

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

Block 1: Jan. 24
Block 2: Feb. 7
Block 3: Feb. 13
Block 4: Feb. 22

Early morning arrival at IGI airport, New Delhi
Transfer to hotel and rest all day. Evening explore Delhi City.
Overnight Delhi in one of these hotels: Hotel Radisson Blu, Hotel Country Inn and Suites by Carlson, or Lebua Hotels and Resort.

Day 2: Delhi to Varanasi and Allahabad

Block 1: Jan. 25
Block 2: Feb. 8
Block 3: Feb. 14
Block 4: Feb. 23

After breakfast transfer to the Airport to board the flight for Varanasi.
Reach Varanasi and directly leave for Allahabad by roadways.
Evening explore the Kumbh Mela site.
Flight: Jet Airways. Depart: 10:50am. Arrive: 12:05pm.

Day 3: Allahabad

Block 1: Jan. 26
Block 2: Feb. 9

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site performing Pooja, Yagya.
Rest of the day exploring in and around the Kumbh Mela site.
Evening attend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 3: Feb. 15

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site and today attend the auspicious
Basant Panchami Snan (bath) at Ghats. Rest of the day exploring in and around
the site and obseerve the holy saints and bathing events at Maha Kumbh Mela.
Evening atttend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 4: Feb. 24

Day 4: Allahabad

Block 1: Jan. 27 Paush Purnima

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site and today attend the auspicious
Paush Purnima (bath) at Ghats. Rest of the day exploring in and around
the site and obseerve the holy saints and bathing events at Maha Kumbh Mela.
Evening atttend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 2: Feb. 10 (Mauni Amavasya Snan)

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site and today attend the auspicious
Mauni Amavasya Snan (bath) at Ghats. Rest of the day exploring in and around
the site and obseerve the holy saints and bathing events at Maha Kumbh Mela.
Evening atttend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 3: Feb. 16

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site performing Pooja, Yagya.
Rest of theday exploring in and around the Kumbh Mela site.
Evening attend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 4: Feb. 25

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site and today attend the auspicious
Maghi Purnima Snan (bath) at Ghats. Rest of the day exploring in and around
the site and obseerve the holy saints and bathing events at Maha Kumbh Mela.
Evening atttend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Day 5: Allahabad

Block 1: Jan. 28
Block 2: Feb. 11

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site performing Pooja, Yagya.
Rest of the day exploring in and around the Kumbh Mela site.
Evening attend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Block 3: Feb. 17

After breakfast whole day at Kumbh Mela site and today attend the auspicious
Rath Saptami Snan (bath) at Ghats. Rest of the day exploring in and around
the site and obseerve the holy saints and bathing events at Maha Kumbh Mela.
Evening atttend the aarti at River Ganga.
Come back to Camp and overnight stay.

Day 6: Returning Allahabad to Varanasi

Block 1: Jan. 29
Block 2: Feb. 12
Block 3: Feb. 18
Block 4: Feb. 27

After breakfast leave for Varanasi by private vehicle.
Reach Varanasi and set out for sightseeing of Varanasi.
Explore places like Banaras Ghats, Kashi Vishwanath Temple etc.
and visit the Varanasi city.
Evening back to Hotel Clarks Varanasi & Overnight Stay.

If staying for more blocks, then continue to enjoy Kumbh Mela Allahabad.

Day 7: Varanasi to Delhi and Departure

Block 1: Jan. 30
Block 2: Feb. 13
Block 3: Feb. 19
Block 4: Feb. 28

After breakfast transfer to the Varanasi airport to board the flight for Delhi.
Reach Delhi and direct transfer to the International airport to board the flight
for onward journey.

Tour terminates

If staying for another block, then continue to enjoy Kumbh Mela Allahabad.

END OF TOUR

What Is Included?

- Accommodations in tents as described or of similar category, in case those are sold out at time of registration.
- Vegetarian Meals: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in tents per person.
- Local English speaking escort and guide.
- Assistance on arrival and departure.
- Land Transportation within India, as mentioned in itinerary.
- Private airport and hotel transfers by air-conditioned vehicles.
- Private air-conditioned vehicles for land travel.
- Visit to Kumbh Mela venue during the royal baths by walk.
- Visit to various temples and Ashrams during the trip.
- Personal meeting with various Saints and Holy people during the trip.
- Interstate permit fee, gasoline, parking, toll taxes, passenger tax, drivers allowance, and parking fee.
- All luxury taxes on accommodation and value added taxes on food and beverages.
- Government service tax.

What Is Not Included?

- Airfare and other travel expenses from home to India.
- Airport departure taxes.
- Visa handling fees (A visa is required to visit India, and must be obtained in advance of travel. CLICK HERE FOR INDIA VISA INFORMATION
- Any beverages (hard & soft), table drinks, items of personal nature such as laundry,
telephone calls, travel insurance, health insurance, etc.
- Any video or camera fees at monuments.
- Tips and gratituity to drivers, bellboys, representatives, guides and escorts.
- Any International Airfares.
- Airfares within India, Delhi-Varanasi-Delhi or otherwise.
- Consultations, treatments, astrological readings, etc.
- Charity & Donations at Temples, Ashrams and astrological centers.
- Accident, trip cancellation, and baggage insurance; medical treatment/ emergency rescue expenses or insurance;
- Voluntary donations and charity to holy people in camps at Kumbh Mela or at temples.
- Lunches and dinners in Delhi and Varanasi.
- Any meals other than those stated in itinerary.
- Anything not specifically mentioned above.

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Day 1: Feb 1:
Welcome to Delhi

Make your own arrangements to fly from home to Delhi, India, ariving in the late evening. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel in the heart of Delhi, followed by the Traditional Indian Welcome at the airport. Overnight at Hotel Park (5-Star). Website for hotel: http://www.theparkhotels.com/new-delhi/the-park-new-delhi.html

The Park, New Delhi, highly rated among the luxury five star hotels in Delhi is situated in the heart of the city centre's business and entertainment hub - Connaught Place. The Park, our luxury five star hotel in New Delhi, redefines avant-garde hospitality. Stylish spaccess coupled with discreet luxury and impeccable service renders this New Delhi hotel a unique flavor. Lined with handpicked contemporary art throughout the public and private spaccess, this Delhi hotel provides an elevated standard of style, design and décor. State-of-the-art technology and amenities for commerce, leisure and relaxation makes The Park, New Delhi hotel an ideal choice for guests seeking accommodation in Delhi.

The luxury rooms & suites are models of personal touch and superior amenities and services. Access to indulgent restaurants, a day gym, spa and salon and spacious banquet rooms guarantee a gamut of innovative and inspired moments. Agni, the celebrated spot for party hoppers is rated as the 'Hottest Place to Visit' by Wall Paper magazine. Aqua, the poolside restaurant/bar has been designed as a cool, classical white outdoor space with an iridescent blue pool. Aura, the Spa, a perfect sanctuary to explore the deep recess of relaxation at this Delhi hotel, has been rated as amongst the top 10 spas of India.

Day 2: Feb 2:
Explore Delhi

Morning at leisure. Afternoon temple tour of Delhi. Visit holy temples including Chattarpur, Yogamaya and the amazing, new Akshardham Temple complex.

Transfer to hotel. Overnight at Hotel Park (5-Star).

New Delhi: The new capital designed by Sir Edward Lutyens. An interesting drive in the one passing through the impresive Rajpath from the World War I memorial arch, the India Gate towards the Presidential Palace. Visit Humayun's Tomb built in 1565 AD, Safdarjung's Tomb, the Qutab Minar, 72 meters high and the most curious antique, the uncoroded Iron Pillar, which dates back to the 4th century AD.

Old Delhi: The 350 year old walled city was built by Emperor Shah Jehan in 1648 as his capital. Opposite the fort are the black and white onion dome and minarets of the Jama Masjid, the most elegant mosque in India. Raj Ghat is worth a visit where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948.

Chattarpur Temple: Barely 4km away from Qutub Minar stand the ostentatious and opulent temples of Chattarpur. Made of shining white marble - the stone favored by Delhi's nouveau riche Delhi - these temples are very popular with the city's Hindus and the queues during Durga Puja have to be seen to be believed. The main temple is dedicated to godes Durga.

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the esence of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeles spiritual mesages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India's glorious art, values and contributions for the progres, happines and harmony of mankind.

The grand, ancient-styled Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blesings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colosal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteers. The complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.

Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme God, the abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads where divine bhakti, purity and peace forever pervades.

The beautiful monument built without steel, consists of 234 ornately carved pillars, 9 ornate domes, 20 quadrangled shikhars, a spectacular Gajendra Pith (plinth of stone elephants) and 20,000 murtis and statues of India's great sadhus, devotees, acharyas and divine personalities.

The monument is a fusion of pink stone and pure white marble, where pink stone symbolizes bhakti in eternal bloom and white marble that of absolute purity and eternal peace. Akshardham was created by HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj in fulfillment to the wish of his guru, Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj, the fourth sucesor in the spiritual hierarchy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. In only a short timespan of five years Swaminarayan Akshardham became a reality through the blesings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, 300 million man hours of epic services rendered by 11,000 volunteers, sadhus and artisans and the immense sacrifice, austerities, prayers of hundreds of thousands of young and old devotees of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

Some features:

Monument: Swaminarayan Akshardham reflects the esence and magnitude of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeles spirituality.

Hall of Values: Universal values for mankind presented through audio-animatronics and light and sound diorama presentations from the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Giant Screen Film: A giant screen film on an 85' x 65' screen that vividly portrays an 11-year-old child-yogi's epic pilgrimage of India.

Boat Ride: A 12-minute fascinating boat-ride experience of 10,000 years of India's glorious heritage. Learn about the discoveries and inventions of the rishi-scientists of India, see the world's first university of Takshashila and sail through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora.

Musical Fountain: An intriguing combination of a large stone step-well and a Vedic yagna kund with a colorful musical fountain that echoes Vedic sentiments and prayers.

Garden of India: Sixty acres of lush lawns, gardens and exquisite bronze statues of India's child gems, valorous wariors, national figures and great women personalities inspire visitors with values and national pride.

Day 3: Feb. 3:
Delhi to Varanasi

After breakfast transfer from hotel to Airport in time to connect your flight to Varanasi. Arrive Varanasi, upon arrival meet and transfer to your Hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Varanasi. Evening attend the Aarthi at the Ghat. Overnight Taj Gateway on Ganges (5-Star).

Day 4: Feb. 4:
Varanasi to Allahabad

CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS OF HOTEL

Early morning excursion to River Ganges for boat ride, if flight schedule will allow. Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast drive to Allahabad. Arrive and check-in at your 4-Star Hotel Kanha Shyam.

Day 5: Feb. 5:
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 6: Feb. 6 (Ekadashi Snan):
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Ekadashi Snan bathing date. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 7: Feb. 7:
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 8: Feb. 8:
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 9: Feb. 9:
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 10: Feb. 10 (Mauni Amavasya Snan):
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Mauni Amavasya Snan main bathing date. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 11: Feb. 11:
Allahabad

In Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela. Overnight at 4-Star Hotel.

Day 12: Feb. 12
Allahabad to Varanasi:

After breakfast drive to Varanasi. Arrive and check-in at your Hotel. Evening attend the Aarthi, if time will allow. Overnight Taj Gateway on Ganges (5-Star).

Day 13: Feb. 13
Varanasi to Delhi:

Early morning boat ride on Ganges, if time will allow. Transfer from Hotel to Airport in time to connect your flight to Delhi. Arrive Delhi, upon arrival meet and transfer to International Airport to connect your return flight. Extension tour available to the Himalayas: Haridwar and Rishikesh.

END OF 12-NIGHT / 13-DAY TOUR

What Is Included?

- Accommodations in hotels as described or of similar category, in case those are sold out at time of registration.
- Daily Breakfast in hotels in Delhi and Varanasi.
- Daily Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner while in Allahabad
- Local English speaking escort and guide.
- Assistance on arrival and departure.
- Land Transportation within India, as mentioned in itinerary.
- Private airport and hotel transfers by air-conditioned vehicles.
- Private air-conditioned vehicles for land travel.
- Visit to Kumbh Mela venue during the royal baths by boat, if allowed by police.
- Visit to various temples and Ashrams during the trip.
- Personal meeting with various Saints and Holy people during the trip.
- Interstate permit fee, gasoline, parking, toll taxes, passenger tax, drivers allowance, and parking fee.
- All luxury taxes on accommodation and value added taxes on food and beverages.
- Government service tax.

What Is Not Included?

- Airfare and other travel expenses from home to India.
- Airport departure taxes.
- Visa handling fees (A visa is required to visit India, and must be obtained in advance of travel. CLICK HERE FOR INDIA VISA INFORMATION
- Any beverages (hard & soft), table drinks, items of personal nature such as laundry,
telephone calls, travel insurance, health insurance, etc.
- Any video or camera fees at monuments.
- Tips and gratituity to drivers, bellboys, representatives, guides and escorts.
- Any international and domestic airfares.
- Consultations, treatments, astrological readings, etc.
- Charity & Donations at Temples, Ashrams and astrological centers.
- Accident, trip cancellation, and baggage insurance; medical treatment/ emergency rescue expenses or insurance;
- Voluntary donations and charity to holy people in camps at Kumbh Mela or at temples.
- Any meals other than those stated in itinerary.
- Anything not specifically mentioned above.

Optional Post-Tour Extension
Feb. 13 to 17, 2013
4-Night, 5-Day Tour

"Rishikesh: Home of the Gods"

Feb 13, 2013

Arrive Delhi from Varanasi, upon arrival meet and transfer to Hotel Kempinski. Website for hotel: http://www.kempinski.com/en/delhi/ambience-hotel/welcome

Feb 14, 2013

After breakfast leave by car to Rishikesh enroute visit Haridwar. Arrive Rishikesh and check-in at your Hotel: Vasundhara Palace. Evening attend the Aarthi at the Ghat.

Feb 15, 2013

After breakfast, full day sightseeing tour of Rishikesh visiting various temples and Ashrams, such as Shankaracharya Temple, Swarg and Gita Bhawan Ashram, Sivananda Ashram, Parmath Ashram, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's former Ashram.

Feb 16, 2013

After breakfast leave by car to Delhi. Arrive and check-in at Hotel Kempinski: http://www.kempinski.com/en/delhi/ambience-hotel/welcome. Rest of the day free.

Feb 17, 2013

Transfer from hotel to Airport in time to connect your return flight. Check-out from hotel: 12 Noon.

END OF 4-NIGHT / 5-DAY EXTENSION TOUR

The tour includes:
-Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
-All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by private air conditioned car
-Interstate permit fee, toll tax, passenger tax, drivers
-Allowance and parking fee-assistance on arrival and departure

The tour does not include:
-Meals other than breakfast
-All personal expenses such as telephone, laundry, drinks, tipping and camera fee
-Entrance fee to the monuments
-All other items not mentioned above

For more information or to register for this tour
on our secure server, CLICK HERE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR KUMBH MELA TOUR

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA TRAVEL INFORMATION

CLICK HERE FOR INDIA VISA INFORMATION