What is Destination India?

Destination India is a 16-day trip to India that blends the infinite richness of Northern India with the 17th Annual International Yoga Festival A journey that will bring you Home.

As students of yoga and life, going back to the origins of yoga in India will expand your professional growth, strengthen your practice and deepen your spiritual connection to the Self.

Once you arrive in India, all accommodations, transportation, classes and meals are included. Balwan and his team of experienced English speaking staff will accompany you throughout your journey, so you can focus your energy on the boundless learning, creativity and spiritual opportunities that India has to offer!

There will be limited availability for participation in International Yoga Festival, please book early.

What is the International Yoga Festival?

The 17th Annual International Yoga Festival is held at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, India. This yoga festival is truly grounded in the authentic origin of Yoga. Practice and learn from masters of the Traditional Yoga Lineages of India, as well as masters of International well-known yoga schools & styles.

During this one-week Festival, you will have the opportunity to participate in over 70 hours of Yoga classes, meeting other yogis and like minded people from more than 55 countries., participation in workshops, lectures and ceremonies from world-class Yoga teachers practicing multiple styles of Yoga.

 

Do I need a Visa to enter India?

Yes. All visitors to India require a Visa which MUST be obtained before arrival in the country. Visas are issued online. Please follow the link to apply https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

 

What Immunizations do I need before visiting India?

Immunizations are not required to visit India. We encourage all travelers to be current on routine immunizations. Also, we recommend the Tetanus and Hepatitis A vaccine. For detailed information, please contact your physician or visit the CDC website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/

 

How do I shop for Travel Insurance?

Instead of buying a policy through a travel agent or booking site, go to an online broker such as InsureMyTrip.com, which sells coverage from 21 carriers, including CSA Travel Protection, MedJet Assist, and Travelex. Before you buy, talk to a sales rep at the insurer, get a sample copy of the policy, ask if your specific concerns are covered, and make the agent point to the words in the fine print that prove coverage. For medical policies, be sure to ask about coverage for pre-existing conditions. Its not a good idea to buy it from a travel agent, because he or she might be hawking a policy that pays the highest sales commission rather than the best one for you.

 

 

Steps to booking Destination India

How do I handle Money?

ATMs are widespread. In all your time in India, you will never have a problem relying exclusively on ATM machines (Visa). However, do bring a supply of cash (USD) in case of emergencies or unforeseen events. Cash, travelers checks and cards cover all occasions. Have a couple of wallets, one for loose cash that you are using daily, another at the front of your body nicely hidden (in a security bum bag). Put your passport, cards, travelers checks and large cash sums in this one. Find a currency exchange window when you arrive in India. You will typically find money exchange kiosks at the airport from reputable organizations such as the State Bank of India, Travelex and Thomas Cook. Exchange your cash for rupees there; keeping in mind that you may have to provide identification, and clerks may not accept ripped bills.

 

What about my Personal Security?

India is generally a safe place. It is wise to take precautions and always be alert. Always make sure your purse is zipped and wallets are in sealed pockets. In the markets, be vigilant of pick-pockets and distraction scams. Additionally, at the train/bus stations and airports monitor your luggage at all times. All hotel rooms have secure locks and some people prefer to leave their suitcase locked inside the room.

For air and train travel, your bags should be securely locked. It is a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport, visa and tickets.

 

Do the Indians speak English?

Yes, English is commonly spoken throughout India.

 

What is the climate like, and what should I pack?

The weather on this trip will be mostly mild. Temperature varies from 19 to 33C (66F to 91F). February is pleasant with temperate climate. Days are warm and the nights can be cold. A warm jacket or layering is best to accommodate the varying temperatures. Also, we suggest shoes that are comfortable for walking. A head cover may be required for women and men at certain sacred sites and places of worship.

 

Is all Indian food very spicy?

No, India is famous for some of the worlds best food, and here you can enjoy it in all its authenticity. Food hygiene standards in hotels and resorts are world class and a few sensible precautions will minimize any chance of getting sick. As you travel around, you can safely eat at small local restaurants along the way.

 

How to avoid getting sick?

Staying healthy is really just a matter of common sense. Some people may find that their body takes a few days to adjust to the different foods but generally if you observe a few simple rules like only drinking bottled water and eating freshly cooked foods you will probably find that after a short time in India you feel better than you have in years! Be careful with fruit and salads makes sure they are washed well.

 

Will My Phone Work in India?

Please call your service provider to get an international data plan. While in India, use Wi-Fi as much as possible. Turn off Cellular Data and/or Data Roaming to avoid data roaming charges. Your Smartphone will still connect over Wi-Fi just fine, so replace calling with Skype, SMS with WhatsApp, and download a bunch of offline travel apps to use when you’re away from a signal.

 

 

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