Pilgrimage to Himachal Pradesh

Judy and Karma have been leading pilgrimages in India since 1995. Their tours are unique because of their special lifelong connections with highly regarded Lamas and Yogis of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Pilgrims are guided warm-heartedly in intimate groups to experience the wide-ranging cultural diversity and scenic wonder of the area. With insider knowledge of the best food to eat at carefully selected restaurants, ethical places to shop and extraordinary encounters with the Tibetan community residing in India, Judy and Karma strive to offer the most comfortable experience possible. You will fly with India’s top airlines (from Delhi to Dharamsala, inc. in price); stay at the cleanest, most personal and memorable hotels available; and travel in the most comfortable and safe AC Innova taxis.

tentative itinerary

Delhi – Day 1, 2

Day 1: We will meet you upon your arrival at Delhi Airport and transfer to our comfortable hotel.

Day 2: We will show you a side of Delhi that we love, thoughtfully tailored to excite your senses and ease you into the Indian way of life. We visit the unique and peaceful Lotus Temple, enjoy an extraordinary Indian lunch experience and go shopping at our favourite Delhi boutiques.

McLeod Ganj – Day 3, 4, 5, 6

On day 3: We will travel from Delhi to Dharamsala.

In McLeod Ganj we will be joined by Ngakpa Karma Lhundup Rinpoche; a Tibetan lay practitioner, translator and McLeod Ganj local. Karma is our old friend and local guide in Himachal Pradesh. We will have the opportunity to visit HH Dalai Lama’s monastery, Tibetan Children’s Village, Nechung Monastery, Tibetan Library and Museum, Tibetan Astrological and Medical Centre, as well as being given a personal introduction to the Tibetan community through Karma. With time to explore the local markets, McLeod Ganj is an excellent place for shopping from books to carpets and many Tibetan and Indian artefacts.

Bir – Day 7, 8

Day 7: Travel by AC taxi (approx. 2 hours) to Sherab Ling, a beautiful Tibetan monastery surrounded by lush forest. We stop en route to visit Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery, hopefully meeting with Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo (depending on her availability).

There are many special experiences to be found in the small town of Bir, a Tibetan enclave predominantly populated by people from the Kham region. In Bir, you can find the eight great stupas and giant mani wheels of Chokling Monastery, and receive blessings from the sacred relics of Dorje Chang Jamyang Khyentse Choekyi Lodro at Dzongsar Labrang.

Tso Pema – Day 9, 10, 11

Day 9: Travel to Tso Pema (aka Rewalsar) by AC taxi (approx. 5 hours).

A unique small town and revered place of pilgrimage, known for the holy caves and lakes of Rewalsar and Kunti Bayo which are sacred to Tibetan Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs alike. We are privileged to visit and receive teachings from Tso Pema yogis and nuns, some of whom reside in caves in the surrounding hills. We attend traditional ceremonies and receive blessings from the Guru Padmasambhava and Princess Mandarava caves.

Norbulingka – Day 12, 13

Day 12: Travel to Norbulingka by AC taxi (approx. 6 hours).

We stay at the breathtaking traditional Tibetan style Norling Guest House, a recreation of the Dalai Lama’s summer palace. Here we have time to rest and relax in the tranquil surrounds and visit workshops of traditional Tibetan artisans.

Delhi – Day 14, 15

Day 14: We will travel back to Delhi from the Norbulingka.

Day 15: We will organise your transfer to Delhi International Airport for your flight home.

Price (AUD) TO BE ANNOUNCED

What is included

Accommodation for 14 nights in clean and comfortable hotels – the last day of the pilgrimage is spent in Delhi before an evening flight home.
Three meals a day – including organic vegetarian breakfasts in McLeod Ganj, traditional Tibetan cuisine and, of course, lots of classic mouthwatering Indian dishes.
Safe and comfortable transport within India – domestic return flight from Delhi to Dharamsala and 7-seater AC taxis.
Entrance fees to sites
Two guides