Applications are now open to join a group tour from New Zealand to India for what is being billed as a two-week spiritual odyssey through the heart of Bharat.
The trip being organised by the Hindu Council of New Zealand together with the Hindu Organizations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum is scheduled from March 14 to 28, 2024.
Organisers say the journey takes inspiration from the auspicious inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and the recent restoration of the Kashi Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi. Guided by Shri Pravinbhai Patel, the pilgrimage promises a not-for-profit exploration of significant sites across the country.
The journey unfolds through the vibrant tapestry of New Delhi, Kurukshetra, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Mathura, Vrindavan, Agra, Prayag Raj, Kashi (Varanasi), Sarnath, and Ayodhya, culminating back in the bustling heart of New Delhi, say organisers.
Pilgrims will meet spiritual luminaries such as Sadhvi Ritambhara, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev, Swami Chidanand Muni, and Dr. Chinmay Pandya.
“Highlights of the sacred voyage include VIP Darshan at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Akshardham Temple, Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh and Varanasi, a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, Holi celebration in Varanasi, and engaging press meets in Rishikesh and Varanasi,” says Guna Magesan, President of Hindu Council of New Zealand.
The estimated expenses for the two-week pilgrimage, covering travel, accommodation, and meals, would be about NZ$ 1,800 per person, which organisers say must be paid to Hindu Council of New Zealand (Account 03 1555 0054234 00). For more information, call at +64 210 345 621, or email hindu.nz@gmail.com.
“Any amount remaining will be returned to pilgrims or given to a charity. Please note that international airfare (about $2,000), must be paid to the travel agent directly in New Zealand,” Magesan says.
The delegation will have 25 to 30 participants, and with over 50% of spaces already confirmed, organisers say they are anticipating high demand for the remaining slots.
Tentative Programme
March 14-15: Delhi
March 16: Kurukshetra
March 17-18: Rishikesh
March 19: Haridwar
March 20-21: Vrindavan
March 22: Mathura and Agra
March 23-24: Varanasi and Sarnath
March 25-26: Ayodhya
March 27: Lucknow
March 28: Evening flight to New Zealand from Delhi
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