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Splendor of India: A Cultural Adventure

with Brian Fulp

November 2—15, 2025

14 days

From $4,699

Activity Level

Light

Excursion Type

Adventure

Location

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

Embark on Splendor of India: A Cultural Adventure with Brian Fulp, a once-in-a-lifetime journey into one of the world’s great cultural treasures. This 14-day tour combines India’s iconic landmarks, vibrant bazaars, and serene landscapes with a deep dive into the country’s spiritual and cultural heart.

Highlights include riding elephants to Jaipur’s fort palace, watching the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, exploring the UNESCO temples of Khajuraho, and experiencing Varanasi’s ancient ghats along the Ganges. Your days will be filled with colorful markets, exquisite gems, and rich textiles while savoring authentic Indian cuisine and chai.

Join Brian Fulp, Himalayan Institute’s Retreat Center Director, and a group of like-minded adventurers from NEPA for this expertly crafted tour. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the peaceful Himalayan Institute campus in Khajuraho, your journey will showcase India’s timeless beauty, modern vibrancy, and spiritual essence.

Key Highlights

Jaipur

Enjoy 3 nights at a beatiful heritage hotel in Jaipur, India, the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur is also the gemstone capital of India, employing more than 250,000 people in the gemstone industry. Aside from the famous forts and palaces that you’ll explore here, it’s also known for a variety of textiles, block printing, marble carving, and elephant sanctuaries!

Taj Mahal

One of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal needs no introduction. However, its history is fascinating! Built to house the tomb of the wife of a 17th-century emperor, it took more than 20 years to construct, utilizing more than 20,000 specialty laborers from across India and the Middle East. Our sunrise visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site will take your breath away.

Khajuraho

Amid farmlands and national forests, with lots of hiking trails, the Himalayan Institute’s Khajuraho campus invites you to stroll through our beautiful gardens, meditate at our shrine, enjoy a refreshing walk, or simply relax with a cup of tea on one of our many verandas. Campus is a birder’s paradise, bring your binoculars! Off campus, you can visit the local village and learn about the humanitarian work we do in the area. Additionally, you’ll tour Khajuraho’s elaborate temples from the 11th century that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Varanasi

Located along the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, serving for thousands of years as a preeminent religious and educational center. During your stay, you’ll experience Varanasi’s famous evening Aarti (celebration of light), a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, a visit to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, and a trip to the newly renovated—and stunningly magnificent—Kashi Vishwanath temple.

And More!

Whether exploring India’s capital city, Delhi, taking a day train through the countryside from Agra to Khajuraho, or enjoying a night at Himalayan Institute Prayagraj along the banks of the Ganges River, where the largest human gathering on Earth occurs every 12 years, your trip will be filled with exciting experiences every step of the way!

What to Expect

Expect to be on the move during this action-packed tour exploring the unique fabric of India’s culture and spirituality. Between trains, planes, and automobiles, soak in India’s diversity from the stimulating cities to its simple village life. Traveling to 6 distinct destinations across 14 days, enjoy the exclusive company of like-minded NEPA residents along with your jovial host, Brian Fulp. Brian’s “up for anything” attitude will ensure there’s never a dull moment, and his vast experience traveling through India will guarantee you’re in safe hands.

What’s Included:
  • All transportation, from arrival in Delhi to departure from Delhi
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner throughout the tour
  • Experienced Himalayan Institute Tour leader
  • Expert local guide from start to finish
  • All entry fees, associated scheduled tours, and sightseeing
  • A pre-excursion Zoom call to review itinerary and travel logistics
  • Administrative support and guidance pertaining to trip planning
  • A pre-excursion care package
  • And more!!!

Itinerary

Arrive in Delhi. Meet at the airport and transfer to Hotel Lalit New Delhi.

After breakfast, we’ll take a tour through Delhi. We’ll begin exploring Old Delhi by visiting the Jama Mosque, followed by a bicycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi. Next, we’ll drive past the Red Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit Gandhi Smriti, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, and later visit Humayun’s Tomb. We’ll return to the Lalit Hotel for a relaxed late afternoon and evening.

Road Trip (drive of approximately 6 hours with midway lunch break)

After breakfast we’ll start our road trip to Jaipur, driving past the countryside and Aravalli mountain range with a stop-over for tea and coffee, toilet, and a lunch break. When we arrive in Jaipur we’ll check-in to our heritage hotel. In the evening we will visit Birla Temple. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Today starts with a city tour of Jaipur, “The Pink City.” The origin of Jaipur’s nickname becomes immediately apparent as we enter into the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings that can be seen at every turn. Notable morning destinations are the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal, palace of wind. In the late afternoon and evening you’ll have the option to relax at the hotel or enjoy some local shopping. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Today after breakfast we’ll begin with an excursion to Amber Fort, followed by a visit to an elephant sanctuary. Elephants hold a special place in the hearts and minds of Jaipur, Rajasthan. Here you’ll have a unique interactive experience created specifically for the entertainment and care of elephants. Late afternoon return to the hotel.

Jaipur – Abhaneri (1 Hour 40 Minutes’ Drive)
Abhaneri – Fathepur Sikri (2 Hours’ Drive)
Fathepur Sikri – Agra (40 Minutes’ Drive)

Today after breakfast we start our journey towards Agra; along the way we will visit a few hidden secrets of India. The largest step-well in the world was built over a thousand years ago in the rural village of Abhaneri, in the arid zones of Rajasthan, to provide water all year through. Fathepur Sikri was once the capital of the great Mughal emperor Akbar. We will also visit the Buland Darwaza, the highest gateway in the world. En route we’ll break for tea and coffee, and a lunch break. We’ll end up in Agra and check-in to our hotel.

We start our day at sunrise with a visit to one of the most incredible monuments ever built: the Taj Mahal. A mausoleum made of white marble, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. This transcendentally beautiful monument to love is the crown jewel of Muslim art in India. We will return to our hotel for breakfast. Later in the day we will continue our sightseeing tour of Agra, visiting Agra Fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. It contains the hall of public and private audiences, among many other beautiful structures. Next we’ll visit “Baby Taj,” the tomb that is the precursor to the Taj Mahal. Then we’ll visit Mehtab Bagh, a park originally built by Emperor Babur, on the east bank of the Yamuna River. Here we’ll get an early evening view of the Taj Mahal when its white marble and minarets turn pink under the setting sun. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Train Journey (7:45 a.m. Train)

At 6 a.m. we’ll check-out from our hotel in Agra with Packed or Early breakfast and drive to Agra railway station for our train trip to Khajuraho. We’ll arrive in Khajuraho by 2:30 p.m. and drive 30 minutes to Himalayan Institute Khajuraho, where we’ll settle into our countryside oasis for the next 3 days.

Unwind from your exciting travels at the Himalayan Institute Khajuraho’s 35-acre yoga and meditation retreat center. Surrounded by national forests and rural farmlands, guest houses rest among our own working farm, where we grow dates, dragonfruit, grains, and vegetables, raise cows, and so much more! Enjoy a morning tour of our campus, with time to relax and unwind in the early afternoon. Following afternoon tea, visit a local village and learn about our efforts to provide clean water to nearby communities. Overnight in Khajuraho.

After a relaxed start to the day, we’ll head to the town of Khajuraho to tour its famous temple complex (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Built around 900 CE during the Chandela Dynasty, these temples are known for their intricate carvings and unique architecture. After the tour, we’ll enjoy a terrace lunch at Raja Cafe overlooking the temple courtyard, followed by time to explore the local shops. We’ll return to campus in the late afternoon for tea and a relaxed evening.

Road Trip (drive of approximately 6–7 Hours with midway lunch break)

Today after breakfast we start our journey to Prayagraj; en route we will stop over for tea and coffee, and then a lunch break. We’ll arrive at Himalayan Institute Prayagraj by mid-afternoon with time to stretch our legs at our beautiful campus and take in a beautiful Ganges River sunset. Overnight in Prayagraj.

Road Trip (drive of approximately 3 hours)

After breakfast we’ll drive to Varanasi and check-in to our hotel. In the evening we’ll witness Varanasi’s famous Aarti, a prayerful ritual celebrating light on the banks of the Ganges. The Aarti is a spectacular sight: thousands throng to the ghats to participate in this ceremony, offering lamps and flowers to the river. We’ll return to our hotel for the night.

We’ll return to the ghats in the early morning for a sunrise boat ride. Experience the stunning new architectural feat of Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor, and take in the moving sights of Manikarnika Ghat, the oldest cremation ground in India, where sacred funeral rituals have been performed around the clock for thousands of years. It’s a mystical and spiritual experience as you watch people offering water to the Sun God and devotees taking a holy dip in the Ganges. After the tour, we’ll return to the hotel for a late breakfast.

After eating, we’ll proceed to Sarnath, which is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Through our tour guide and the archeological museum we’ll learn about the history of this place and what makes it so special, as we observe droves of Buddhist pilgrims paying their respects. Afterwards we’ll visit the silk-weaving and handicraft emporiums of Varanasi, and learn about the families who have been honing these unique skills for many generations. We’ll have a relaxed late afternoon at the hotel, and a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight stay at a hotel in Varanasi.

Late Morning Flight to Delhi.

Post-breakfast check-out and drive to the airport for a domestic flight to Delhi.

Accommodations

Accommodations will blend the comfort of 4-star hotels in Delhi, Agra, and Varanasi with the charm of a heritage hotel in Jaipur, and the exquisite simplicity of our Himalayan Institute campuses at Khajuraho (a welcoming retreat nestled against national forest hills) and Prayagraj (a lush oasis along the sacred Ganges River). The variety of accommodations during your journey will certainly be a highlight!

Photo Gallery

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Excursion Leader

Brian Fulp

Brian Fulp has been an integral part of the Himalayan Institute since 1979. He played a crucial role in bringing the Institute into the digital age by developing its first website, HimalayanInstitute.org. As the leader of the Web Department for over a decade, Brian's expertise in digital platforms significantly expanded the Institute's reach and influence, laying a strong digital foundation for the future.

In 2008, Brian became Director of Local Operations, where he oversaw the care of the Institute’s 400-acre campus, including its multiple buildings, groomed hiking trails, and Sunset Pond. In 2014, he found his true calling as the Director of the Retreat Center. In this role, Brian actively promotes the Himalayan Institute’s mission to inspire, educate, and empower individuals. With a dedicated team, he works to integrate the Institute’s values of sustainability, harmony, well-being, and conscious simplicity, ensuring a nurturing and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Brian is also deeply committed to the local community. He has served as President of the Honesdale Rotary, chaired the Chamber of the Northern Poconos and the Honesdale Roots & Rhythm Music & Arts Festival, and is a member of the YMCA Board of Trustees and the Lions Club. Additionally, he consults for Honesdale High School’s Interact Club, fostering the next generation of community leaders.

Family is Brian's foundation. The unwavering support of his wife and children fuels his passion and joy, driving him to excel in all his endeavors.

Dates & Prices

Date Price
November 2—15, 2025

Reserve Online

 $4,699

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

Download TPA

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I get to India?
A: We recommend flights out of Newark or JFK, as they have the most options at the best prices. There are typically three non-stop flight options via United, American Airlines, and Air India. There are also other great options with 1 layover via Lufthansa, Emirates, Etihad, and others.  In an effort to coordinate travel, we will likely recommend specific flights as the time of the tour approaches.

Q: Do I need a passport or visa?
A: A passport, valid at least 6 months after your return date, and an Indian 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. Important information regarding passport, visa, and other travel logistics is provided in the Travel Packet you will receive upon registration approval.

Q: Where do I apply for my visa?
A: U.S. 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 applying for a 1-year or 5-year visa and reviewing the sample visa form before beginning your application – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/images/SampleForm.pdf

Q: Where will we be staying?
A: Accommodations will include 4-star hotels, heritage hotels, and double- or triple-occupancy rooms or dormitories at our two Himalayan Institute Retreat Center guest houses. Accommodations at hotels are on a double-sharing basis.

Q: What type of meals can I expect?
A: Vegetarian meals will be served throughout the excursion. Inquire about special dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options.

Q: Will I be able to do laundry?
A: Most of the hotels we are staying at offer laundry services for a fee, including Himalayan Institute Khajuraho November 9–12. Hand-washing laundry in your hotel room is always an option as well.

Q: What is the expected group size?
A: We expect a group of 15 to 20 participants.

Q: What is the culture like and how should I dress?
A: Due to cultural customs in India, the Tour Organizer encourages participants to bring modest clothing and refrain from wearing shorts above the knee, sleeveless tops, and form-fitting items. When visiting temples, long pants are appropriate for women and men.

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: All of our accommodations will have access to Wi-Fi. For cellular data, we recommend inquiring about international phone plans with your U.S. carrier.

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Harvest Moon Festival - Apple Picking and Family Fun! - Tuesday 9/17

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