Our Pranic Earth — A Memorial Day Weekend Retreat — May 23–26

Learn More
HI ONLINE

Sacred Mandakini Valley

Yoga and Trekking in the Himalayas

with Ransom Hare

October 11—25, 2025

15 days

From $4,199

Activity Level

Moderate-High

Excursion Type

Yoga & Hiking

Location

Uttarakhand, India

Group Size

Max 25

Register Online

or call 1-800-822-4547 x5

Register Online
Register Online

or call 1-800-822-4547 x5

Overview

Ignite your inner pilgrim as we embark on a journey to the historic shrines of the Mandakini Valley. Cradled by the Himalayan peaks, this spiritual adventure will lead us through a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, lakes, and rivers, guiding us to unique sacred sites. From the sweeping vistas at Tungnath to the towering mountain presence above Kedarnath, this excursion offers a complete perspective on what makes these mountains so special and why pilgrims have traveled here for millennia to experience a deeper connection to a higher source. If you enjoy hiking, love the mountains, and are spiritually inclined, this excursion is the perfect fit for you!

What to Expect

The most rewarding experiences often require extra effort, and reaching these sacred spaces is no exception. While the inner obstacles will be unique to each individual, our collective journey will involve some long days on the trail, with several thousand feet of elevation gain and altitudes exceeding 12,000 feet. The itinerary has been thoughtfully designed with preparatory hikes to acclimate you for the longer days, nights spent at elevation, and strategic rest periods. We’ll also incorporate yogic approaches to movement, stillness, and self-reflection to provide energetic support and mental clarity, helping you gracefully navigate any challenges. Additionally, our experienced excursions team will offer ample support in the months leading up to the trip to ensure you feel prepared for every aspect of the journey. If you feel called to visit these sacred spaces, we are committed to providing the best opportunity for you to reach them!

Key Highlights

Shrines

A primary impetus behind this excursion are the many sacred sites we’re endeavoring to experience. While these include famous shrines like Kedarnath and Tungnath, they also include over a dozen other lesser known, but highly charged spiritual spaces. Arriving at these unique energetic centers always offers pilgrims something uniquely rewarding, especially when it requires a little extra effort to reach. We’ll lean into breath-connected awareness and trustful surrender to maximize our opportunity to receive the highest gift that each of these spaces has to offer.

Yoga & Meditation

Time-tested systematic techniques of yoga and meditation are the foundation and fundamental thread for our journey together. We’ll work with specific breath connected principles to expand the energetic presence within the body and support directing that awareness inward. This will support a relaxed effort while trekking, quicker recovery in between, and enhance your opportunity for meaningful inner-connection with the sacred spaces that we visit.

Trekking

Long, sometimes arduous journeys are often associated with pilgrimage. These journeys provide opportunities for self-reflection, test our resolve in the face of resistance, help us shed layers of doubt and inertia, and draw us closer to the loving embrace of trustful surrender. As we trek through exquisite landscapes, honoring the call of our soul to experience something more, we’ll discover that the destination is hidden within the journey itself.

Community

This excursion will be highlighted by the meaningful relationships formed and the unique support they will provide on your individual journey. In a small group of like-minded individuals, we’ll practice yoga, meditation, and enjoy the opportunity to develop special bonds through shared meals, stories, ups, and downs. If our past trips are any testament, the community experience is sure to leave one of the strongest lasting impressions on your personal quest.

Itinerary

6-hour drive

Arrive at the Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant) on an early morning flight followed by a lengthy drive to our basecamp for the trip—Himalayan Eco Lodges’ Verdant Valley, Kund. Along the way we’ll stop at one or two shrines associated with ancient Masters of the Himalayan Tradition. We’ll also enjoy lunch along the Alaknanda Ganges at a sister Eco Resort in Jayalgarh. You’ll be greeted at Verdant Valley with chai and treats while your luggage is unloaded and we get you checked in. Enjoy your first of many delicious dinners along with a welcome orientation before bed.

Drive | 1.5 hours each way

Hike | 6-7 miles, 4-5 hours

7,000 feet

After breakfast we’ll get the legs going with a fairly steep hike to the shrine of Kalishila. Our hike will lead us through beautiful forests, with occasional views of the Kedarnath mountain range. It culminates at the shrine, where we’ll enjoy time to meditate in the special place while enjoying sweeping vistas of the mountains and valleys in front of us. Return to Verdant Valley for tea, snacks, and a relaxed evening.

6,900 ft

After breakfast we’ll drive to our next trailhead for the hike to Makkumath, the winter seat of the Tungnath shrine. This trail is much more gradual than the previous days and will guide us through forests, farmlands, and mountain villages. It will be a great day to assimilate the leg work from the previous day while soaking in the culture and experiencing another unique destination at the shrine of Makkumath. Return to Verdant Valley mid-afternoon and enjoy time to rest and relax in your room, by the river, or amongst the properties gardens.

Drive | 45 min each way

Hike | 5 miles, 3-3.5 hours

8,000 ft.

Following an early breakfast, drive to Sari village to begin the trek to Deoriatal. The trail is mostly paved and ascends approximately 1,300 feet over 2.5 miles, winding back and forth up the mountain with views toward Chandrashila peak. The highlight of this trek comes at the top, when you move through a forest, past a few tea stalls (dhabas), and emerge on the other side of the mountain at a beautiful meadow and lake, Deoriatal. Here, you’ll have magnificent views of the Kedarnath-Chaukambha mountain range while enjoying plenty of time bask in this extraordinary space.

Return to Sari village in the early afternoon and drive forty-five minutes to our meadow campsite with mountain views for the next two nights.

Enjoy an early breakfast before a short drive to today’s trailhead for Tungnath and Chandrashila. The trail is lined with rhododendrons before emerging, where you’ll spend the next few hours of ascent and descent surrounded by snow-capped peaks. This well constructed path is a combination of switchbacks and gradual ascents before reaching Tungnath, the highest Shiva shrine in the world. Chandrashila Peak, lies another mile beyond Tungnath with a fairly steep ascent at the end. Both locations are wonderful destinations to bask in the grandeur of this special space. Return to camp in the late afternoon for a relaxing evening.

After a relaxed morning, return to the eco lodge in Kund for a hot lunch and leisurely afternoon. Resting today will be essential in order to prepare for the long hike to Kedarnath the following day.

Get ready to join many other pilgrims on today’s journey to arguably the most prized Himalayan Shrine in India, Kedarnath. We’ll begin with an early breakfast and a 1.5 hour drive to our trailhead in Gaurikund, which we aim to reach close to 8:00a.m.. Our hike will be approximately 10 miles, on well maintained paths, with nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain. This said, slow and steady wins the race! We’ll take our time, have plenty of stops for tea and snacks, and enjoy the slow stroll towards the shrine of Kedarnath and the massive Himalayan Peaks towering above. It’s not uncommon for pilgrims to finish this trek in the night, so don’t worry about your speed, simply enjoy the walk. When we arrive in Kedarnath, we’ll make our way to modest accommodations for the next two nights, but as usual, warm tea and delicious food will be in abundance.

There’s nothing quite like waking up with warm tea and watching the morning light dance across the snow capped peaks above you. This is precisely how you’ll start your day if the weather cooperates! Following breakfast, you’ll have the option to spend the day relaxing and strolling around the small village of Kedarnath, or let your curiosity and spirit of adventure propel you deeper into the mountains to a place called Chorabari Tal (Gandhi Sorovar), and glacial lake where Ghandi’s ashes were spread. This hike is approximately 5 miles round trip and ascends another 2,000+ feet.

Enjoy morning’s first light once more from the mountain shadows in Kedarnath, while preparing for a long, but relaxed walk back to Gaurikund. After the trek we’ll Transfer by car back to Kund by late-afternoon/early evening where we’ll re-set for the next two nights.

Today is another rest day in Kund, where extra sleep and yoga practice coupled with the nurturing sounds of the river, beautiful gardens, delicious meals, and an evening bonfire will have us ready for a big hike the following day.

Today is where the past week and a half of trekking, acclimatizing, and immersion in sacred space will bear lots of fruit, as we embark on a 10 mile hike with 5,000 feet of elevation gain. This trek leads you through beautiful forest, small villages, and offers mountain views as it leads you to the meadows of Madhamaheshwar. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into modest mountain cottages as our dwelling for the night. This will be another day about pacing yourself and enjoying the long walk in the mountains.

Today’s hike ascends about an hour up the mountain from Madhamaheshwar and leads us to a beautiful alpine lake that reflects the 23,419 ft Chaukhamba peak in its waters. It’s the perfect opportunity for ourselves to reflect on and digest the experiences that have led us to this point on our journey. We’ll spend the rest of the day enjoying this mountain oasis and enjoy another peaceful night in this special atmosphere.

After an early breakfast, begin the long and relaxed stroll down the mountain and through the woods back to the trailhead. Return to kund for one last night along the Mandakini River, and enjoy a special farewell dinner from our host team there.

After a relaxed morning we’ll make the 5-6 hour drive back to Rishikesh where we’ll enjoy a relaxed evening in our hotel and have the opportunity to get fully re-organized for our journey home.

Following a leisurely breakfast we’ll say our goodbyes and make our way to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant airport for flights back to Delhi.

Accommodations

Accommodations will vary from a charming mountain eco lodge, alpine tents, basic mountain huts, and a 4-star Hotel. See itinerary for day-to-day details.

We offer single accommodations for travelers who value their privacy, or double occupancy accommodations with shared rooms and tents.

Photo Gallery

View More Photos

Excursion Leader

Ransom Hare

Ransom, Director of Himalayan Institute Excursions, has over a decade of experience leading international trips and pilgrimages. He’s a dedicated yoga practitioner and faculty member for our 200 YTT and 500 YTT programs, specializing in breath training, relaxation, and meditation.

Ransom’s spiritual journey was profoundly shaped by pilgrimage, beginning with his first trip to India in 2009. His passion for exploring extraordinary spaces and facilitating deep transformation makes him an ideal excursions leader, both domestically and abroad. Additionally, his wilderness first responder training certification supports the safety and well-being of our participants while his Leave No Trace Master Educator training promotes sustainable recreation in the natural places we visit.

As a trusted guide, he leads the way for those seeking transformative experiences on our excursions, harnessing, through yoga and meditation, the profound potential of nature and sacred spaces to accelerate enrichment in our lives.

Dates & Prices

Date Regular Registration
October 11—25, 2025

Register Online

 from $4,199

Closes April 30, 2025
Accommodation Type Regular Registration
Shared $4,199
Single $4,999

Call 1-800-822-4547 x5 or email [email protected] for more information.

Download TPA

Packing List

Download Packing List

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) How difficult are the treks?
A) The treks are rated as moderate to difficult with some days being more challenging than others. A high degree of physical fitness or thorough preparation is required to have an enjoyable experience on this excursion.

Q) How many days are we trekking?
A) We will be trekking for a maximum of 10 days.

Q) How long are most of the treks?
A) The treks vary in length, from 4-10 miles. Our longest treks will be approximately 10 miles (16km), . Altitude will make the distances feel significantly longer.

Q) What are the hiking trails like?
A) Most of the hiking trails on thi excursion are well maintained stone paths, with a few being a mix of packed dirt and rock. The trails generally offer stable footing, but some places offer flatter rocks for your feet to land than others. Plan to bring shoes with good foot and ankle support.

Q) How many nights are we camping?
A) We will be in alpine tents for 2-3 nights.

Q) What will the weather be like? Should we expect rain?
A) Mid-late October in the Mandakini Valley is considered to be peak weather. The monsoon should have passed by this point, but snow is unexpected. The skies are generally clear, with afternoon clouds, the day times are pleasant with temperatures between 55-75 degrees, and the nights are still bearable with temperatures between 25-50 degrees fahrenheit depending on elevation. However, weather can change rapidly in the mountains so it’s always good to be prepared with waterproof jackets and pants for potential rain or snow.

Q) What is the highest altitude on the trek?
A) The highest altitude on the trek is Chandrashila Peak, at 13,100 feet elevation. This is an acclimatizing hike, as we will descend shortly after reaching the summit. Our highest altitude for sleeping is approximately 11,500 feet at Kedarnath and Madhamaheshwar.

Q) What about altitude illness?
A) The trip is designed to allow us to gradually acclimatize, with several hikes that have us hiking to higher elevations and sleeping at lower elevation. We will discuss ways to maintain your body, mind, and breath to support the acclimatizing process. None-the-less, we recommend consulting with your doctor regarding the altitude before you travel.

Q) How can I prepare for this pilgrimage?
A) Physical fitness and overall good health are important elements for an excursion like this. If you haven’t already, we suggest that you begin a regular practice for conditioning your body. Aerobic exercise is especially helpful to prepare for trekking and high altitudes. One method is fast-walking, building up to a steady pace on inclines, hilly terrain, or stairs, and increasing distance. We highly recommend walking regularly with your day pack (filled) and trekking poles and pushing yourself on some longer hikes whenever possible. Also, the yogic breathing techniques (pranayama) of kapalabhati, bhastrika, and nadi shodhanam (alternate nostril breathing) are also good preparation, as is the practice of agni sara to energize the solar plexus and help sustain vitality. These practices are best done regularly, starting with a few repetitions and progressing gradually according to your capacity. If you don’t know these techniques, we recommend that you take a pranayama or hatha yoga class with a qualified instructor. The Himalayan Institute’s HI Online digital education platform provides articles and videos on some of these techniques, including contraindications.

Q) How do I get to India?
A) From the United States: Many U.S. and international airlines offer flights to New Delhi, India. On the East Coast, a good number of flights depart from or connect at New York (JFK or EWR in Newark, NJ). Other major airports throughout the U.S. also offer flights to India. A number of flights stop in Europe where passengers change planes to a new flight number. From other countries: Numerous flight options to/from Delhi from other countries around the globe are available. Depending on the departure city, many flights from Europe are non-stop to Delhi.

Q) Where can I stay for my overnight in Delhi?
A) There are a range of accommodations available in Delhi including airport lounges, airport hotels, and hotels in the city. For quick access to and from the airport, we recommend booking a hotel in Aerocity, approximately 10 minutes for the airport.

Q) How do I reach my hotel from the airport?
A) You can arrange pick-up and drop-off through most of the hotels near the airport. Otherwise, when you exit the airport terminal, look for a pre-paid taxi stand, sucha as MeruTaxi, provide your destination address, and pre-pay for a hassle-free taxi experience. Do NOT follow anyone offering taxi services outside of the pre-paid taxi stands. Uber is another commonly used option in India.

Q) How do I get from New Delhi to Dehradun?
A) Non-stop flights between Delhi and Dehradun are offered daily and are approximately 1 hour long. The group pick-up on October 11, 2025 will be from Jollygrant Airport in Dehradun on morning arrival flights. Exact details will be provided in our travel packet upon registration. Note that transfers outside the main group pick-up from the Jollygrant Airport at the designated time on October 11, 2025 are not included in the cost of the trip.

Q) Do I need a passport or visa?
A) A Passport valid at least 6 months after your return date and India visa are required. It is recommended that there be at least 3 blank pages in the back of your passport. Each individual is responsible for obtaining their passport and visa. Those residing outside of the continental U.S., check with your local Indian consulate for visa requirements in your country of residence.

Q) Where do I apply for my visa?
A) US citizens can apply for an e-visa (recommended over paper visas) through the Government of India website – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. Indian e-visas can be obtained for a period of 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years. We strongly recommend reviewing the sample visa form before beginning your application – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/images/SampleForm.pdf.

Q) What immunizations do I need?
A) No immunizations are required for the areas we’re traveling to in India. You may check the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization websites for their list of recommended vaccines. These vaccines are optional and the decision to get them is strictly a personal choice. We encourage you to discuss immunization with your doctor.

Q) Are there any natural ways to enhance my health before going to India?
A) Himalayan Institute’s Alchemy in Action products and Chyawanprash are highly recommended in preparation for your journey to India, and anytime. Alchemy in Action: Experience the Synergy of Total Wellness: Spanda Gold, Clear Being, and Vibrancy Now come together to unlock your body’s true potential. Spanda Gold targets occasional inflammation from life’s normal stressors in healthy individuals at its core, restoring balance and promoting holistic wellness. Clear Being supports and enhances your body’s innate cleansing capacity, while nourishing you. And with Vibrancy Now, you can revitalize your body and mind, replenishing energy and clarity. Embrace the power of this transformative trio and embark on a journey towards total well-being! Chyawanprash: Described in ancient Ayurvedic texts, Chyawanprash is a synergy of specifically selected herbs and fruits in a nutritive tonic. The principle herb Amla (Amalaki) is one of the world’s most concentrated naturally occurring sources of antioxidant Vitamin C. A spoonful a day of this 2,000 year old formula is a tasty way for people of all ages and constitutions to nourish mind and body, while supporting healthy immune function.* Take it regularly for several months before your departure to strengthen and build your immune system. For more information or to order call 800-822-4547 (press 4) or visit the online shop at shop.himalayaninstitute.org. and build your immune system.

*The statements made here have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If taking any medication, consult with a healthcare practitioner before using this product. Do not use during pregnancy or lactation unless recommended by a healthcare practitioner. As with any herbal preparation, consider size, age, weight, constitution, and lifestyle as guidelines for use.

Q) Is the water safe to drink?
A) Bottled (mineral) water is recommended when staying in hotels in India and it can be purchased directly from the hotel or other local sources. Bottled or boiled and filtered water will be provided for the duration of the trip.

Q) What medicines should I bring with me?
A) If you are taking prescription medication, bring an adequate amount with you. Although some medicines are available in India, their supply and quality are not reliable. Bring homeopathic or herbal remedies or your choice. Consult in advance with your health practitioner regarding other medications and recommendations for known allergies, possible altitude sickness, diarrhea, or general stomach upsets.

Q) Where will we be staying?
A) Accommodations will vary from 4-star hotels, charming mountain lodges, alpine tents while camping, to basic mountain huts. See itinerary for day to day details. Accommodations are based on single or double occupancy shared rooms/tents depending on your reservation.

Q) What type of meals can I expect?
A) Freshly prepared vegetarian meals will be served throughout the trek. Inquire about special dietary needs including gluten-free and vegan options.

Q) Will I be able to do laundry?
A) It may be possible to do hand laundry on portions of the pilgrimage when there are stays of more than one night, and weather conditions are favorable for drying.

Q) What is the expected group size?
A) We expect a group of 20-25 participants.

Q) What do I need to bring?
A) For this trekking excursion it is very important to be properly equipped with appropriate mountain gear. Please carefully follow the Packing List.

Q) What is the culture like and how should I dress?
A) Due to cultural customs in India, the Tour Organizer asks women to refrain from wearing shorts above knee length, tops with spaghetti straps, halter tops, tank tops, plunging necklines or backs; form-fitting clothing; and short skirts. On mountain trek days and when visiting temples, long pants are appropriate for women and men. For women, long loose skirts are an adaptive piece of western clothing. Leggings are recommended for underneath long skirts, particularly if temperatures are cooler.

Q) Where can I change money?
A) Change currency into Indian rupees before exiting the Customs area at the Delhi airport. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted, therefore, plan to bring cash for exchange. State Bank of India, near the baggage claim area (across from carousel 14) and before the Customs exit, is recommended for currency exchange. Count your rupees before leaving the window and be sure you are given an encashment certificate for your transaction. Retain this encashment certificate to use for exchanging any excess rupees at the end of your travel.

Q) Will we have access to a phone or internet?
A) Phone connections and service in the mountainous areas is unreliable and generally poor. Phone connections in the city of Dehradun are stronger and generally more reliable. Several local telephone carriers are located in the international arrivals area of Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Inquire about options and cost at Airtel or Idea upon arrival in India. Outside of Delhi, these services will likely be unreliable and not work. If you plan to use a local SIM card in your GSM mobile phone, have your local service provider unlock the phone before your departure for India. CDMA phones may require additional attention to avoid roaming charges with a local SIM card. Check details with your service provider.

Q) How do I register for this trip?
A) Register online or email [email protected] / call 1-800-822-4547 x5 to request a mail-in registration form

Q) What if I need to cancel?
A) Requests for cancellation must be made in writing (by email or mail) to the Tour Organizer. See the Tour Participant Agreement for complete terms and conditions and applicable cancellation charges. As a non-profit we are unable to offer expectations to our cancellation policy – we therefore require participants to purchase trip cancellation insurance in the event you need to cancel your reservation due to any reason.

Register Online

Our Pranic Earth — A Memorial Day Weekend Retreat — May 23–26

Learn More