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Daughters of Devi
A Tantra Yoga Pilgrimage To India
October 2-22, 2024
JOIN US FOR A LIFE CHANGING JOURNEY INTO THE LAP OF THE MOTHER DURING SHARAD NAVRATRI.
Navaratri/Durga Puja, is an approximately 5,000 year old Hindu festival of the Goddess that falls on the first new moon after the fall equinox in the lunar month of Ashwin. For 9 nights of Tantric worship of the Divine Mother, devotees come together in community to celebrate the Mother and Her sacred, holy, ancient mysteries of life, death and rebirth. It is believed that during these nine days/nights when one worships the Goddess Durga with a sincere heart and devotion, they will find peace, joy and prosperity as the Mother hears and responds to all her children and removes their troubles. Our journey will begin the day before Navaratri, on Oct 2 and will conclude on Oct 22, 2024 (well after the festival concludes.)
Yaa devi sarvabhuteshu shakti rupena samsthitaa
Namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namaha
I bow again and again to the Goddess who dwells within all beings in the form
of power.
– Chandi Path (Devi Mahatmya)
Shakti is the power of all! Devi, the Goddess, Shakti, can be worshipped in any of her innumerable forms. She, Shakti, animates all and lives within us... the very creation of this universe is due to Her (energy, power, Shakti). Worship and devotion of Shakti offers not only prosperity but, liberation from all bondage. May you be continually showered with Her grace!
The Transforming Power of Pilgrimage
This journey is NOT a retreat, but a pilgrimage for the serious seeker, she who is on a search for the feminine face of God... Devi, in Her many forms. For thousands of years pilgrims have known that reverently journeying to places made holy by saints, seers and rishis and experiencing the sacred, holy presence that still permeates those sites, opens one’s devotional heart of love as nothing else can.
We have lovingly crafted a customized itinerary to maximize our time in the holy temples and sites throughout India with specialized rituals and practices personally led by Aja and local Temple Priests as well as curated incredibly colorful, cultural experiences including our time with the Folk Baul singers and more! Great saints and holy people have sanctified each place we will journey to with their energy and devotion and the collective spiritual energy cultivated within our group will offer each seeker a deeper experience of their own inner nature and the presence of God/dess within.
This pilgrimage is filled with Temple Visits, Tantra Yoga, Sacred Rituals, Chanting, Temple Dance, Ceremonies on the Holy Ganga River, Storytelling, Sacred Songs, Sharing Circles, Shopping, Delicious Foods, Sisterhood and MORE! You will be forever changed after this pilgrimage as you will deepen in ways you never would have thought imaginable. The memories of these experiences will last a lifetime, awakening a heart of devotion and love, the presence of God/dess, at an even deeper level.
The Journey
Oct 2-22, 2024
Puri | Kolkata | Shantiniketan | Varanasi | Chennai
PURI
The Land of Devadasis
Oct 3 - 6, 2024
Highlights:
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Arrival into Bhubaneswar Airport on Oct 2, 2024 before heading to Puri Oct 3
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Welcome Opening Ceremony with Ganesha Puja
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Daily Tantra Yoga & Dance Practice and Classes
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Exploration of the Mahari (Devadasi) Tradition
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Daily Temple/Shakti Peeth visits with offerings of Puja and Prayers
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Visit to Golden Beach
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Visit Raghurajpur Artisian Village for shopping and MORE!
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SRI JAGANNATH TEMPLE
The city of Puri has revolved around Sri Jaggnath temple since ancient times and the main deities worshipped in the temple are Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. Devotees can enter the temple via four gates and only Hindus are allowed inside. This temple complex holds the world’s largest kitchen that feeds around 10,000 devotees a day! Several other small shrines are scattered around the temple’s main complex. This temple is synonymous with the Devadasi tradition. The Devadasi dance at the temple of Lord Jagannath was also known as the Mahari dance. There it was extensively practised by Devadasis or temple dancers (only females) as an ongoing ritual for the pleasure of the Lord. The Devadasis were called Maharis, which literally means (according to some) "one who is deeply in love with the Lord". We will explore this tradition while in Puri.
KONARK SUN TEMPLE
The Sun Temple at Konark is the pinnacle of Odisha Temple Architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 12th Century AD by King Narasimha Deva I and dedicated to the Sun God, the Sun Temple at Konark continues to leave us spellbound with its massive structure, symmetry, precision and intricate detailing. The temple was designed as a chariot of the Sun God driven by twenty four beautifully carved wheels and pulled by seven horses. Apart from its beauty what captivates historians are the scientific precision, for example, the wheels are designed in such a way that one can gauge the time of the day by looking at the shadow cast on the spoke of the wheels by the sun. But it is the walls adornment with many sensuously titillating sculptures, and depiction of sexual activity that catches the eye and tells of a once sexually liberal India that basked in the glory of the Kama Sutra and was believed to be an important natural and spiritual part of life as reproduction and creation is the essence of Devi.
RAJA RANI TEMPLE
Set amidst picturesque settings, Rajarani temple is a perfect symphony of skillful planning, symmetry of form and exquisite craftsmanship. No wonder it is hailed as a masterpiece of Odisha Temple Architecture. Historians speculate that it was called Indresvara Temple and dedicated to Lord Shiva.The temple was built during the later stages of the Somavamsi rule in the 11th century AD. Today the temple today is devoid of any presiding deity, there are telltale signs in the architecture of the temple to corroborate that it was a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the most notable one being the carving of sage Lakulisa just above the entrance door and below the navagrahas.
MUKTESWARA TEMPLE
The temple, built in Kalinga architectural style, has a height of approximately 35 feet. It is considered as a ‘Gem of Odisha’ for its elaborate architecture that comprises intricate carvings, diamond-shaped windows featuring lattice design and sculptures of characters from the popular tales of Panchatantra. Surrounded by an octagonal compound wall featuring intricate carvings, the temple is believed to have been built with a somewhat new pattern that was a development from its predecessors, something that went on to be replicated in the architecture of temples in the city, built later. According to the legends, this temple was built by King Yayati I of the Somavamshi Dynasty – a dynasty that is credited to have built various majestic shrines in Bhubaneswar, which is fondly called as the Temple City of India.
64 YOGINI TEMPLE
“The Yogini cult is a very important manifestation of the creative energy (shakti), the omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent creator, preserver and destroyer of the universe”. (H. C. Das “Tantricism”). The Chausath Yogini Temple, located at a distance of about 20 km from Bhubaneswar in Hirapur, is one of the four surviving Chausath Yogini shrines in India. Of the remaining three, one is located in the Bolangir district of Odisha while the other two are in Madhya Pradesh. The shrine is locally known as Chausathi Yogini, meaning 64 Yoginis (incarnations of Goddess Durga). The presiding deity of this holy place is Goddess Mahamaya, who is considered to be one of the Yoginis. Hence, the shrine is also called the Mahamaya Temple. The daily prayer and rituals in the temple includes the worship of Bhumandala that is the five elements of nature - water, sky, fire, earth and ether. The Yogini practice has been known to include Yoga along with the practice of tantrism, having a strong connection with tribal and rural traditions.
GOLDEN BEACH (Puri Beach): A Blue Flag Certified Beach of India
Golden Beach is one of the principal attractions in Puri where the stretch of fine golden sands invites leisure seekers. Moreover, this beach gets coveted with Blue Flag Certification for its cleanliness. So it goes without saying that the water here is pristine blue in comparison to mainstream Indian beaches. Furthermore, several tourists come to take a purification dip to pay their homage to Lord Jagannath.
RAGHURAJPUR ARTIST VILLAGE
Raghurajpur Artist Village is a beautiful place to visit in Puri for arts and crafts. This village has a single street lined with thatched brick houses and local craftsmen are well versed in Saora art, a traditional practice that is only practiced in Odisha at this time. There are around 150 houses, each of them decorated with colorful paintings and the local artists practice Pattachitra – the ancient art of painting on the palm leaves. They also work on various mediums, including silk cloth, coconut shells, and glass bottles. You will have a beautiful experience and opportunity to learn their techniques and shop their one of a kind art.
KOLKATA
The Land of Kali Ma
Oct 7-8, 2024
Highlights:
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Tantra Yoga Rituals and Practices
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Teachings of worship of Kali Maa
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Shakti Peeth/Temple Visits
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Boat To Belur Math
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Exploring the works of Sri Ramakrishna
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KOLKATA is a centre of devotion to the Tantric goddess Kali and it is here that we will dive into Her teachings! It is a powerful city that buzzes with the energy of Kali Ma. It is a diverse spiritual center and here you will find devotees celebrate Durga puja with fervour, feasts during Eid, participation in the community services of Gurdwaras, and makin merry during Christian holidays – all with full on zest and zeal. This is a diverse city that has something special to offer in each corner – and each place has a distinct story to share. Kolkata is indeed one city that embraces the joy and peace essentially preached by all true religions.
KALIGHAT TEMPLE
The great Kalighat Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali in Kolkata is a famous pilgrimage centre that sees thousands of devotees each day. What’s more, this temple dates back to the 15th century and that is why it is also one of the best historical places to visit in Kolkata. It is also one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of the country and that’s why you’ll see visitors from all across the globe paying homage at this temple.
DAKSHINESWAR TEMPLE
One of the holiest places around Kolkata, the Dakshineshwar Temple, is one of the famous tourist attractions in Kolkata. Located near the Bally Bridge on the banks on the River Ganga, it’s a vast temple spread across 25 acres of land. It’s a really impactful place where the great philosopher Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, received his enlightenment.
BELUR MATH
One of the most important pilgrimage places near Kolkata is the Belur Math. This is an incredibly amazing temple which celebrates unity in diversity by encompassing a medley of Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, and Christian architecture in its design structure. Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda, the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
SHANTINIKATAN
The Abode of Peace
Oct 9-12, 2024
Highlights:
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Daily Tantra Yoga Practice and Meditation
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Visiting Shakti Peeth Temple and Offering of Flowers to Maa during NAVRATRI.
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Chanting Durga Suktam daily during Navratri.
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Devi Durga Homam in one of the Shakti Peeths
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Private Baul party at our resort and vist to one of the famous Baul folk musicians home
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Excursion to one of the best art galleries and studios in Bolpur Shatiniketan
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Hot Water Spring at Bakreswar
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SHANTINIKETAN is a unique blend of education, art, and culture, nestled in a serene landscape. The prestigious institution founded by Rabindranath Tagore, has been added to UNESCO's World Heritage List making it it the 41st UNESCO World Heritage Site in India and the third in West Bengal. Situated in the tranquil Bolpur subdivision of Birbhum district in West Bengal, India, Santiniketan stands as a beacon of the vision and contributions of Maharshi Devendranath Tagore and his illustrious son, Rabindranath Tagore. Beyond its academic and cultural significance, Santiniketan captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty that includes lush green forests & sprawling fields creating a serene environment and idyllic setting that exudes tranquility.
MAA KANKALITALA TEMPLE
Maa Kankalitala Temple is one of the Shakti Peethas in West Bengal located in the interiors of Bolpur District, West Benga. This temple is an extremely auspicious place of worship and is visited by many pilgrims every year due to its auspiciousness. The main deities worshipped here are Maa Parvati and Lord Shiva. The major festivals celebrated here are Navratri and Shivratri.
BAKRESWAR
Bakreshwar is renowned both as a place of power for Goddess worship and for the Shiva temple devoted to the crippled sage Ashtavakra. Sati’s third eye fell here, or at least the place between her eyebrows. Adi Shakti is commemorated at this powerful Shakti Peeth in a temple dedicated to the form of Devi Durga as Mahishamardini Bhairavi. At the heart of Bakreshwar, the spiritual traditions of Shiva and Shakti merge, creating the perfect place for tantric practice.
Bakreshwar is also known for its scenic beauty and as a legendary place of healing. The Phaphra river is said to be the Remover of sins and the sage Mahamuni Ashtavakra found enlightenment here after submerging himself in the water. People suffering from all kinds of ailments come here, seeking physical respite in the therapeutic hot springs and divine grace through the temples.
SHIVA TEMPLE AT BAKRESWAR
The legend of Lord Shiva’s Temple here is that Ashtavakra (8 curves), a crippled sage meditated upon Lord Shiva for 10,000 years. Pleased with him, Lord Shiva cured him of his physical deformity. From then on it is believed that those pilgrims who prayed to Sage Ashtavakra in this temple would be blessed with many boons.
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HOT WATER SPRING at BAKRESWAR
In addition to the Holy temples, Bakreswar is also famous for it's kund (hot water spring). There are several hot water springs in Bakreswar in West Bengal with varying degrees of hotness including agni kund, Bhairav kund, Khar kund, Dudh kund and Surya kund. One of them has good dressing room facilities and you can dip yourself in the warm pool before proceeding to the temple. Devotees believe that these hot water springs have curative powers. They are often seen dipping their hands and feet into it just to absorb the healing divine energies.
BAULS OF BENGAL
The Baul are a group of mystic minstrels influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, Vasinavism, Tantra and Sufi Islam, yet are distinctly different from them. They hail from Bangladesh and the neighboring Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura and Assam's Barak Valley and Meghalaya. They belong to an unorthodox devotional tradition and don't identify with any organized religion nor with the caste system, special deities, temples or sacred places. Like many of the Bhakti and Yoga traditions of India, the origin of the Baul wisdom reaches back into the dim twilight of history. Through the lineage which still passes on the songs and teachings of Baul, a great lamp of timeless wisdom has been brought all the way from the distant past to illuminate the present and it shines as brilliant as ever. There is much that still unknown about what the Baul tradition may have looked like so long ago, but even in the thousands plus years of traceable history, the practitioners have taken on many forms and have inspired many of the other Bhakti and Yogi tradition of India. The Baul songs cover a wide variety of poetic expressions and their way with words is a very playful use of the Bengali language. Each stanza is rich with puns and metaphors and sometimes the lyrics appear very simple but hidden in them is meaning so deep and with so many layers that a whole life-time of studying Baul may not reveal the whole essence. This tradition is far more than joyful singing, it is a sadhana.
VARANASI
The Land of Lord Shiva
Oct 13 - 17, 2024
Highlights
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Sri Yantra Puja at Vishalakshi Temple
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Morning Sunrise Boat Ride on the Holy Ganges River
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Famous Evening Arati (offering of lamps to Ma Ganga) at Main Ghat
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Beautiful Nighttime Offering of 108 lights and Mantras to Ma Ganga from Boat
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Giving offerings at Shiva and Shakti Temples
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Chanting in Durga Temple
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Meeting of Sadhus, Gurus and famous scholars in Varanasi
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Visit Hanuman Temple for chanting
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Shopping for silk sarees, mala and bangles on a special shopping day
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Visiting creamation ground at Manikornika Ghat
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Offering puja in the Kashi Viswanath Temple
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A city that has seen the world turn, tides change and generations of humans born and die. Varanasi or Kashi, which has been standing the tests of time for over 5,000 years is said to be one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. What draws millions of pilgrims from all over the world to the city of Varanasi is the fact that it is one of the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. Called the spiritual capital of India, this magnificent city of learning radiates endless energy. Despite being witness to ancient civilizations come and go over centuries, Varanasi is still alive, unabashedly colorful, vibrant, and wonderfully rich in history and legends.
Varanasi city is also one of the Shakti Peeth as well as one of the twelve Jyotir Linga sites in India. In Hinduism it is believed that those who die and are cremated here get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of birth, death and re-birth. Not only does the city attract countless pilgrims, it's a place where many choose to spend their last days. Belief goes that the one who dies here attains eternal salvation.
Varanasi, also known as Benaras or ancient Kashi, is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva. It is situated on the banks of River Ganges, which is believed to be a Goddess with the power of washing away all of one's sins. As pundits here will tell you, whatever is sacrificed and chanted here, or given in charity reaps its fruits thousand times more than those good deeds performed at other places because of it's power.
Visiting Varanasi is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many reasons:
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Varanasi, the holy ‘City of Light’ shines bright, both physically and metaphorically. It is believed that a single dip in the holy waters of the Ganges can wash away a lifetime of sins.
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According to legend, Varanasi was founded by the Lord Shiva and was his favorite abode. In one verse of the ancient religious text of the Skanda Purana, Shiva says, “The three worlds form one city of mine, and Kashi is my royal palace therein”
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In Varanasi, the most natural and inevitable cycle of life and death is celebrated and revered with much gusto. Also known as 'Maha-smashana' or 'The Great Cremation Grounds', the holy city humbles you by bringing you face to face with the balance of life and death.
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A boat ride across the sacred Ganges perfectly captures the spirit of Varanasi. Countless candlelit paper boats with flowers carrying people’s prayers, float their way across the waters. Countless pilgrims take a holy dip in the waters, others meditate in solitude and the rest bow their heads in prayer along the Ghats. As the sun goes down the evening ritual of worship called the Ganga Aarti unfolds.
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Varanasi was the original hub of art, culture, spirituality and music. Many prominent Indian saints, philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians live or have lived in Varanasi. Several major figures of the Bhakti movement were born in Varanasi, including Kabir and Ravidas.
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Varanasi is home to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most important places of worship in the country. It is considered to be one of the twelve Jyotir Lingas of Lord Shiva and holds great significance in the spiritual history of India.
VISHALAKSHI TEMPLE
Vishalakshi Temple is dedicated to the Vishalakshi Maa (means wide eyed Devi) or the Goddess Parvati, the consort of the Lord Shiva. Vishalakshi Temple is also known as the Vishalakshi Gauri Temple. It is a most famous Hindu temple located at the Meer Ghat on the bank of the holy River Gange in the Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The Vishalakshi Temple is considered as a Shakti Pitha, the most holy temples devoted to the Hindu Divine Mother, Adi Shakti. It is considered that the earrings or eyes of the Mata Sati have fallen in the Varanasi at this sacred spot.
KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Vishwanath Gali, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. It is a place where Hindus travel to attain Moksh or salvation. It is to Sanatana Dharma what the Vatican is to the Catholic Church, and Mecca became to Islam.The temple has earned the name of Golden Temple due to the gold plating done using one ton of gold.
DURGA TEMPLE
Right adjacent to Durga Kund, there is located another sacred shrine in Varanasi - Durga Temple. Erected in the 18th century, the temple is sacred to Goddess Durga. It was a Rani Bhabani of Natore - a Bengali Queen who built this Hindu temple in Varanasi. An interesting fact is associated with the idol of the presiding deity of the temple. It says that the image of Goddess Durga is not built by anyone; it is believed to have emerged on its own.
BHARAT MATA TEMPLE
Dedicated to Mother India, it is situated in Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth. It was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. The statue marble of Mother India shows undivided India with mountains, plains and oceans in exact proportions.
TULSI MANAS TEMPLE
Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is said to be built on the site where Goswami Tulsidas wrote the epic 'Ramacharitramanas'. It was built in 1964 by a philanthropist family.
SANKAT MOCHAN HANUMAN TEMPLE
Sankat Mochan in Hindi means reliever from troubles. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is one of the sacred temples of the Hindu god Hanuman. This temple has the unique distinction of having Lord Hanuman facing his Lord, Rama, whom he worshiped with steadfast and selfless devotion. Some astrologers believe that worshiping Hanuman can neutralize the ill-effect of Mangal (Mars) and practically any planet that has an ill effect on human life.
CHENNAI
The Cultural Capital of South India
Oct 17 - 22, 2024
Highlights:
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Daily Tantra Yoga and Meditation
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Visit to Kanchipuram "City of 1000 Temples"
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Visit to Kapaleeswarar Temple & Ekambareswarar Temple
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Visit to Parthasarathy Temple & Ashtalakshmi Temple
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Visit to Mangadu Kamakshiamman Temple, Mahabalipuram & Shore Temples
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Beach Visit
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Cultural Exploration
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Shopping at Bazaar
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Closing Ritual Ceremony
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the largest city and current capital of Tamil Nadu. Located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, it is one of the major cultural, economic and educational centres of South India. This city has been a perfect keeper of artistic, religious and culinary traditions of South India over the years. Chennai is culture-rich with carnatic music, delicious food, serene beaches and popular temples. It is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in India. The city never fails to mesmerise its visitors as it offers a unique experience.
KAPALEESWARAR TEMPLE
Dedicated to Arulmigu Kapleeshwar- form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal- form of Parvati, Kapaleeswarar is one of the most popular Shiva temples in Chennai. Built by Pallavas in the 7th century, the marvelous architecture resembles Dravidian style, featuring wood carvings, stone carvings, decorated pillars and Gopuram at the doorway.
There are 6 daily puja services in the temple such as Kala Santhi (morning), Uchchikala (Mid-day) Sayamkala (Evening) and Ardhajama (late Night), which allure devotees throughout the year. But maximum footfall is seen during major festivals like Panguni and Arubathimooval.
EKAMBARESWARAR TEMPLE
This temple a very popular temple on the list of Hindu temples in Chennai. In Ekambareswarar Temple, the Lord Shiva is worshipped with full grandeur and devotion, along with other Gods like Ganesha, Vishnu, Shakthi, Surya and Goddess Kamakshi. Along with these, there is a separate temple, within the same complex, dedicated to Nabagraha-the nine planets. This temple was built in 1680 by Alanganatha Pillai- a worker under the British Raj and was counted as Allingall’s Pagoda in the city maps till 18th century.
PARTHASARATHY TEMPLE
One of the most prominent Vishnu temples in Chennai, Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. In fact, it is the only temple in Chennai, where different avatars of Lord Vishnu, namely, Krishna, Varaha, Rama and Narasimha are worshipped, under one roof. The temple has separate entrances for Rama and Narsimha. Parthasarathy Temple has spectacular sculptures, inscriptions and murals dedicated to different events of battle of Kurukshetra.
ASHTALAKSHMI TEMPLE
Situated by the Elliot Beach, Ashtalakshmi Temple is a religious wonder and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful temples in Chennai. The uniqueness of the temple is that, it is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and her eight forms, each representing success, offspring, prosperity, wealth, courage, bravery, food and knowledge. This is one of most artistically designed temples to visit in Chennai with four floors, marvellous structures, pillars and intricate roof design.
MANGADU KAMAKSHIAMMAN TEMPLE
The Mangadu Kamakshiamman Temple is located in Mangadu, a suburb between Kundrathur and Poonamalle in Chennai. The term Mangadu means Mango forests or Mangroves. The temple is dedicated to Hindu goddess Kamakshi Amman. Lord Shiva had asked her to perform some severe penance and the place where the temple stands now is where Kamakshi Amman performed her penance. Lord Siva was so moved by her devotion, that he appeared before her and married her. So there’s a belief that unmarried girls who pray to goddess Kamakshi here get married soon. This belief makes it one of the most famous Amman temples in Chennai.
KANCHIPURAM
Kanchipuram is one of the seven holy cities in the country. It was a city of learning for both Tamil & Sanskrit and was believed to be visited by Hsuan Tsang. In ancient times it was called Kachi. Once upon a time it had over 1,000 temples, but today there are around a hundred left. It is also known for its silk sarees. One of the temples we will visit, Ekambaranatha, is ancient temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. This temple has one of the tallest towers in South India and a 3500 year old mango tree inside that has 4 branches each yielding different variety of mangoes.
MAHABALIPURAM
Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a bank of Bay of Bengal. It is renowned for its various stone-carved monuments and ancient temples dating back to 7th & 8th centuries - mainly developed during the reign of Pallava Dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE). There are rock-cut temples and Mandapams (pavilion for public rituals) depicting incidents of the legends, Hindu epics and mythology. There is also Panch Ratha (chariot-shaped) temples built during the reign of the Pallavas dynasty. These five temples are named after the five Pandava brothers and their wife Draupadi in the great Indian epic Mahabharata. In addition there is Arjuna's Penance, a magnificent relief carved out in the mid-17th century that depicts the austerities performed by Arjuna (one of the Pandava brothers) to obtain Lord Shiva’s weapon (Trishul).
SHORE TEMPLE
Made from granite, the temple has three sanctums, two of which are dedicated to Lord Shiva and one to Lord Vishnu. These sanctums to date remain the best examples of single rock-cut structures. The temple also houses a number of smaller shrines that complement the larger structure.The actual name of the temple is not known, but given the close proximity to the sea, it is called the Shore Temple. The fascinating fact is that the existing temple is the only one remaining of a complex of seven shrines. The others are considered to be the submerged temples of Mahabalipuram.
In addition we will see The Five Chariots – A Unique Architectural Beauty & Arjuna’s Penance, a giant rock-cut relief considered to be the largest of its kind in the world. This place is also called the ‘Descent of the Ganges’ owing to the fact that the structure showcases the symbolic events of Hindu mythology in which Ganga comes down to earth. The architecture and history of this place attract a large number of historians, scholars, and academics who are enthusiastic about the cultural past of India.
VARAHA CAVE TEMPLE
Varaha Cave Temple is a rock-cut cave temple located on the Coromandel coast. The temple is quite ancient dating back to 7th century BC and the perfect example of Indian rock-cut architecture. This is a hidden gem of South India and yet another UNESCO World Heritage site. There are very dominating elements of Buddhist designs throughout the temple. The temple in itself is small yet the influence that the art holds is immense.
Daily Schedule
Day 1: Wednesday, Oct 2, 2024
Arrival at Bhubaneswar Airport. Our guide will assist you with your luggage and transfer to the hotel. Resting and then gathering together for introductions + optional local sight seeing and walking tour to the nearby bazaar
Day 2: Thursday, Oct 3, 2024 (Navaratri begins)
Drive to Puri (2 hours) Check into hotel + Vedic Welcome Ritual. Local sight seeing +
Evening Official Opening Navaratri Ceremony at the hotel
Day 3: Friday, Oct 4, 2024
Morning Tantra Yoga + Full day local sight seeing and shopping
DAY 4: Saturday Oct 5, 2024
Visit 64 Yogini Temple (1 hour 20 min drive) + Other temple visits
Day 5: Sunday, October 6. 2024
Morning Tantra Yoga + Konark Sun temple + Special evening ritual at the Ocean
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Day 6: Monday, October 7, 2024
Early morning hotel check out. Flight from Bhubaneswar to Kolkata (1 hour 10 min flt.) Hotel check in + Evening gathering
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Day 7: Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Sight seeing in Kolkata- Kalighat-Dakshineswar and boat to the Hooghly river to Visit Belur Math.
Day 8: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Early morning check out. Train to Shantiniketan. (2 hour 30 min journey)
Day 9: Thursday, October 10, 2024
Visit Konkalitala Shakti Peeth. Puja and homam
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Day 10: Friday, October 11, 2024
Visit Bakreswar Shakti Peeth, Labhpur and Sainthia. Lunch will be at the Bakreswar ashram. (3 hours round trip by car) Final evening of Navaratri.
Day 11: Saturday, October 12, 2024 (Vijayadashami)
Morning Gathering + Local sight seeing and shopping + evening private Baul party at the resort.
Day 12: Sunday, October 13, 2024
Morning check out from hotel. Train to Varanasi (8 hour 30 min by train - we will reach Varanasi in the evening)
Day 13: Monday, October 14, 2024
Morning Tantra Yoga + Visit Assi ghat + Durga Temple and other local sight seeing. Evening aarti at the Main Ghat of Varanasi.
Day 14: Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Visit Vishalakshi Temple for bangle offering/puja + Kashiviswanth Temple Puja and free time/shopping.
Day 15: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Morning Tantra Yoga + Visit Hanuman temple + Shopping & free time.
Day 16: Thursday, October 17, 2024
Hotel Checkout - Flight from Varanasi to Chennai
Day 17: Friday, October 18, 2024
Morning Tantra Yoga + Chennai local sight seeing
Day 18: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Drive to Kanchipuram "City of 1000 Temples" (2 hours drive)
Day 19: Sunday, October 20, 2024
Drive to Mahabalipuram (1 hour drive) + temples, sight seeing & beach
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Day 20: Monday, October 21, 2024
Final day in Chennai - Morning Tantra Yoga + Local sight seeing, shopping and evening Closing Ceremony.
Day 21: Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Hotel check out and departures back to home country from Chennai International Airport.
What Is Included?
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21 days and 20 nights of accommodation.
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All accommodations in 4 star hotels or guesthouses. The hotels are chosen because of their character and relevance to where we are. On this tour, our goal is to be as much a part of India as we can. All rooms will have your own bathroom.
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All Ground Transportation within the tour. All transfers and sightseeing by an air-conditioned vehicle. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced with good knowledge of the road conditions and well trained.
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Domestic Indian Flight, Air Conditioned Sleeper Train, Private Air-Conditioned Cars, Tuktuk, Auto, Rikshaw, Boat Ride in the Ganges.
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Domestic flights: Bhubaneswar to Kolkata and Varanasi to Chennai (15kg checked baggage allowance included, additional weight payable direct at time of check-in)
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All applicable taxes and tolls as per govt regulations.
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Breakfast is the only meal that is included.
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Professional Indian tour guide.
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All sight seeing tours and entries to monuments and sacred sites.
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All visits to shrines, temples and group pujas (ceremonies).
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All Yoga & Meditation Classes, Lectures and Rituals.
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Histories and incredible stories of the Vedic culture (made applicable to today’s times)
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Meeting with Sadhus and Gurus to receive blessings.
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Private Baul folk music party and meeting
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Seva (Opportunities to serve the local people).
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Parikrama (Pilgrimages through and around temples and holy places).
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Personal tips throughout the tour. (You may offer additional if led to)
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Group airport pick up and drop.
What Is Not Included?
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International flights to and from INDIA
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Meals other than breakfast (please allow a comfortable budget of $250 - $400 USD for dining)
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Any extra arrangements, upgrades or pre/post tour/room bookings
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Insurance. We strongly advise participants to book travel insurance to cover for health, luggage, personal possessions and cancellation for ANY reason.
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Expenses of personal nature, e.g. laundry, room ser, excess baggage fees.
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Camera & video charges for professional photography (if used)
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Special ceremony costs (some personal pujas may not be covered and are optional)
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Vedic Astrology Sessions
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Personal shopping
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Medical Requirements
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Visa fees
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Anything not specified in the Itinerary or Inclusions.
What Is The Investment?
$4,650 USD Per Person for Double Accommodations
$5,000 USD Per Person for Single Room Accomodations
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Non Refundable DEPOSIT of $900 USD is due upon acceptance to hold space.
Final balance is due in full no later than Sept 1, 2024.
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Minimum monthly payments towards trip are required (information available upon acceptance.)
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Deposits are non refundable. Please obtain travel insurance in case you need to cancel for any reason. Full Terms and Conditions provided prior to registration payment. Payments are accepted via Credit Card or Zelle.
How Do I Apply?
We would be delighted to share this potent pilgrimage with you, into the lap of the Divine Mother in the Sacred, Holy lands of Ma India, over the potent time of Navaratri, where Ma Durga, the great Mother will help us to remove any limitations and obscurations that prevent us from shining the Divine Light that we carry within our hearts.
Note: The energies of India can be intense, and we are journeying together for 3 full weeks, so you are asked to tune into your need for rest and to pace yourself accordingly. There are NO mandatory activities and there may be times that you prefer to retreat to your room rather than participate in the scheduled excursions and rituals. We will be tuning into the eternal wisdom of these sacred portals and activating a lot of Kundalini Shakti, so by simply by being part of the group field, you will receive the blessings and insights of this holy land and what your soul has called you to India to receive. So, do not feel overwhelmed by the depth and breadth of what is offered on this journey as you will be supported in following your flow.
With that said, due to the intensity of this journey, there are requirements in order to attend.
We are limiting the journey to only 12 sincere seekers/devotees (not including staff and guides).
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In order to be considered for this pilgrimage, you must have either completed Embodying The Goddess 12 Week Online Journey within the past 2 years OR have attended a 5-7 day in person Embodying The Goddess Retreat within the past 2 years and have a regular, daily spiritual practice.
If you do not meet the above requirements, but are a sincere seeker or devotee of the Mother and are already initiated into a living spiritual tradition or indigenous practices, we will consider your application. Practices, living traditions etc may include being initiated into a traditional Yoga or Tantra lineage, an African Traditional Religion/Spiritual Tradition such as Ifa, Vodon, Akon, Santeria, Candomble, Kemetic Mystery School etc, a Buddhist or Taoist lineage or initiation into another esoteric tradition or Mystery School. You must already have a daily, devoted Sadhana (spiritual practice).
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To apply, please be sure you have read the FULL itinerary above and then email us at goddesstempleoflove@gmail.com if this journey feels resonant to you and include in your email the following information:
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NOTE: We recognize that this is a significant investment for everyone -- time, funds, energy, focus -- and we want to make sure this pilgrimage is in full alignment with you and us.
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Subject: Daughters of the Goddess India Pilgrimage
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Full Name:
Date of Birth:
City, State, Country currently residing:
Social Media handles :
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HAVE YOU COMPLETED ONE OF THE ABOVE REQUIREMENTS AND IF SO, WHICH ONE(S)? (IF NOT, PLEASE DESCRIBE THE SPIRITUAL TRADITION YOU ARE INITIATED INTO.
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WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT DAILY SPIRITUAL PRACTICES?
WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT PHYSICAL WELLNESS PRACTICES?
HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUT OF THE COUNTRY BEFORE?
WHAT DO YOU DESIRE TO RECEIVE FROM EMBARKING UPON THIS JOURNEY?
WHAT DO YOU DESIRE TO ADD TO THIS JOURNEY?
ARE YOU CURRENTLY BEING TREATED FOR ANY MENTAL OR PHYSICAL AILMENTS/DISORDERS ?
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS JOURNEY THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ADDRESSED ON THE WEBSITE (FULL DETAILED ITINERARY WILL BE SENT OUT TO ACCEPTED APPLICANTS ONLY)
ARE YOU PREPARED TO MAKE YOUR DEPOSIT IF ACCEPTED TO SECURE YOUR SPACE (ARE YOU FULLY RESOURCED TO TAKE THIS JOURNEY WITHOUT PUTTING YOURSELF IN A FINANCIAL BIND?)
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Note: Registration is extremely limited. It is handled on a first-come, first-served basis, based on those who meet the requirements to attend. Registration will close when the slots are filled, so please apply soon to ensure your participation.
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"I am everywhere, infusing everything. To find me, become absorbed in intense experience. Go all the way. Be drenched in the energies of life. Enter the world beyond separation. The light of a candle reveals a room. The rays of the sun reveal the world. So does the divine feminine illumine the way to me."
-Banter verses 20-21 The Radiance Sutras interpretation of the Vijnana Bhairav Tantra
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