We invite you to join us this fall for a unique spiritual journey to one of the world’s oldest cultures and civilizations, India, during one of its most sacred holidays, Navaratri. During this special time, we will visit four Shakti Peethas in the northern part of the country and embark on a 13-mile (22 km) barefoot parikrama around the sacred Goverdhan Hill. We’ll conclude our journey with five days in Rishikesh, where we’ll take daily dips in the holy Ganges, consult with an Ayurvedic doctor for a unique check-up and treatments, visit sacred sites, and savor delicious Indian food in local restaurants with breathtaking views of the flowing Ganges.
This invitation is available for only 5 people, and three spots have already been taken!
As legend says, the story of Shakti Peethas begins with the tragic tale of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva. When Sati's father, Daksha, insulted Shiva during a grand yagna (sacrifice), Sati, unable to bear the humiliation, immolated herself in the fire. Devastated, Shiva wandered the universe carrying her charred body, and wherever her body parts fell, sacred sites, known as Shakti Peethas, were established. These locations are believed to embody the divine feminine energy, or Shakti, and are considered deeply auspicious for worship. There are traditionally 51 Shakti Peethas, spread across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. Each Shakti Peetha is dedicated to a specific form or manifestation of the goddess, and visiting them is considered highly auspicious, particularly during significant festivals like Navaratri. Navaratri, meaning "nine nights," is a time when devotees engage in intense prayer, fasting, and rituals to honor the goddess in her many forms - Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, each representing strength, wealth, and knowledge, respectively. The Shakti Peethas, being deeply connected to the goddess’s energy, are believed to be especially powerful during this time. Shakti Peethas are considered to be potent centers of cosmic energy, where the Goddess's power is believed to be most concentrated. They are revered as places of immense spiritual significance and draw millions of devotees from around the world. Pilgrims believe that visiting these Peethas can bestow blessings, heal ailments, and fulfill desires. It’s also a time for devotees to reconnect with the divine feminine and seek empowerment, as Navaratri is a celebration of victory over evil and the triumph of good, which is symbolized by Goddess Durga's battle with the demon Mahishasura.
Who is this experience for?
