These days, I meet an increasing number of people interested in what I call “transformative travel,” or journeys that combine inner and outer exploration, and provide you with a new perspective. For those travelers, I always suggest a trip to India, a birthplace of holistic wellness. As a frequent visitor to India and a travel advisor, here is a two-week itinerary I created to experience the country’s ancient therapies in breathtaking locations.
Days 1-3: Sun Salutations in New Delhi
Courtesy of The Leela, New Delhi.
India’s bustling capital city may not seem like the obvious place to find inner peace, but spiritual traditions run deep here. You can visit the spartan home where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days, or lend a hand at a Sikh Temple’s community kitchen, where food is cooked and served to more than 10,000 people daily. My team and I can also arrange a surya namaskar, or sun salutation session in the Lodhi Gardens, along with a private workshop to balance your chakras — the seven energy centers that are central to Hindu mindfulness practices. Afterward, you can retire to the lavish, non-ascetic comforts of The Leela Palace New Delhi.
Days 4-5: Yoga and Sound Healing in Agra
VSanandhakrishna/iStockphoto/Getty Images
The colossal majesty of the Taj Mahal is worth a trip in itself. But you can also practice morning yoga and pranayama (controlled breathing) classes nearby, and enjoy views from your room at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, where one of the spa treatments uses singing bowls to balance your energy.
Days 6-8: Ayurvedic Exploration in Ajabgarh
SMIT SANDHIR/Getty Images
Tucked amid the rugged slopes of the Aravalli mountains, the village of Ajabgarh is home to a stately 17th-century temple and fort complex, and Amanbagh, an opulent garden resort that was once the private hunting lodge of Sir Jai Singh Prabhakar, the maharaja (prince) of Alwar. Here, you can take a deep dive into Ayurveda, the guiding principles of traditional Indian medicine that have been practiced for more than 5,000 years. A personalized assessment with an in-house practitioner is followed with specific recommendations for optimizing your health, including the use of certain spices and herbs.
Day 9-11: Organics and Astrology in Jaipur
Peter Zelei Images/Getty Images
The “Pink City” of Jaipur is known for its elegant architecture, grand royal palace, and vibrant bazaars. You can also visit an organic farm run by a family of nobles; take a guided hike in the Aravalli foothills; and meet with an expert in nadi jyotisha, an ancient Indian practice of reading palm leaves. Spend the night at the exquisite Rambagh Palace, a former residence of the maharaja of Jaipur.
Days 12-14: Spiritual Retreat at Ananda in the Himalayas
Courtesy of Ananda in the Himalayas
Set in the remote foothills of the Indian Himalayas, Ananda is one of the world’s most peaceful and enchanting wellness retreats. The 100-acre property, overlooking the river Ganges, provides a uniquely serene setting for pursuing harmony of mind, body, and spirit. Classes and one-on-one sessions in Ayurveda, yoga, and the Hindu vedanta philosophy are offered here. You can also book a private consultation with a physiotherapist, candle meditation workshops, and a Tibetan healing treatment with organic oils.
Marion Miller is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in India trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Miller by contacting her at mmiller@micato.com.
