Our 2025 Retreat to India: Pilgrimage of Saints & Yogis

In early January we had a beautiful group of purpose driven women who were ready to step up in how they offered their gifts in the world. Landing into the bustle and fog of Delhi our group was full of excitement and openness to connect with places of great significance for the Sikh, Bahai and Islamic faiths. Our group was surprised by the immense warmth and welcome they experienced from the practitioners of these different faiths. We found connection with these traditions’ commitments to serving others, devotional surrender, and openness to different perspectives. 

Stepping into our first busy Indian market our ladies learnt to haggle with local vendors. We tried new Indian snacks (mostly tasty, some very unexpected flavours), and were overtaken by our inner child when we saw the vibrant range of locally made fabrics and handmade clothing.

We then traveled by train up to Rishikesh, the foothill of the Himalayas. Welcoming the cleaner air and quieter atmosphere, the group was able to drop into a deeper, more subtle space. We did practices dedicated to Shiva the Lord of Destruction, the heart of the mother Shakti, and connection with the immense Prana in this elevated town. In line with our practice we visited Neelkanth, Shiva’s temple dedicated to the release of inner poison, to Kunjapuri temple, the place where Goddess Sati’s heart is said to have fell, and had many moments by the gorgeous Ganga river, getting to pray, play and just admire her majesty.

Our inner children were out again as our ladies oggled at the adorable fluffy cows and cheeky monkeys who were able to persuade (and sometimes force) us into sharing our snacks.

We wrapped up our retreat on the banks of the Ganga in the ancient city of Varanasi. As is typical of Varanasi, the theme of death and renewal was very present. We got to view the oldest continuous cremation ghat in the world, Manikarnika, visit the temple of Kaal Bhairav, Shiva as the Lord of Death, and connect with the energy of saints and Yogis such as Trailanga Swami, Lahiri Mahasaya and Babaji.

We also did a beautiful day trip to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and had the privilege of connecting with the profound teachings of Gautama Buddha. We saw many amazing Stupas, ancient sites and appreciated the simplicity of the Buddhas teachings.

It was a beautiful journey with lots of tranformation, people finding more clarity around their purpose and how they wish to serve in the next phase of their life. If this kind of journey speaks to your soul, we’d love to welcome you on our next retreat ❤️.