Wildland Adventures and Spiritual Life of India

Beginning early next year, travelers seeking spiritual history and authentic Indian culture can delve into a 10-day journey through ancient traditions in the holy universe of India. With Wildland Adventures, culture-seeking families and spiritually-centric travelers can book Diving into Immortality, an immersive tour of India, Feb. 9–18, 2019, culminating at the Kumbh Mela, or The Festival of the Urn. Located in Allahabad, the 45-day sacred gathering is considered the Hindu capital of religion and piety.

Explore from the holiest cities and historic sites of New Delhi and the hustle and bustle of of Old Delhi to the Sikh religious center of Amritsar. Rest on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi and reflect before ending in Allahabad for an unforgettable celebration.

Begin in New Delhi with a stay at Claridges, showcasing the city’s past as a British colony with modern Indian gardens. Enjoy local cuisine and a tour through the National Handicrafts Museum with local guides and children. Observe religious ceremonies and engage in immersive Hindu traditions while discovering the importance of these religious sites to the Indian culture and history.

© Paop | Dreamstime.com

Watch the kids delight in the massive pilgrimage to the Palki Sahib Ceremony in the Golden Temple of Amritsar while more than 10 million believers gather together to wash sins away and purify their mind, body and soul. You’ll even get to take part in the Aarti Ceremony on the Ganges in Varanasi, honoring religious deities. Experience the ceremony like a local with ghee-soaked candlewicks being lit and sent afloat along the water.

Next, trek through the cremation grounds of Shiva, the deity that destroys evil, moving from the revered land of the living to the houses of the dying — all before the grand finale of Ardh Kumbh Mela.

Enjoy your accommodations at Suryauday Haveli, along the river and conveniently located to the Ganga Ghats, famous steps leading to the river. Step outside for some air and watch the occasional rituals of life and the afterlife honoring Mother Ganga.

Next stops include luxury tented camp sites and glamping in the heart of the Kumbh. Join expert guides as they navigate through the city and various sacred bathing rituals. Add on to your tour and join in the search for the elusive Bengal tiger, known to roam in the surrounding farming community.

Between the mix of modern luxury and comfortably rustic stays; authentic, local experiences; and expert guides through the some of the holiest sites in the world, your family will be well versed in the Indian culture, beliefs and ancient deities. Pricing ranges per person, $2,375–6,395.