SKYLIGHT YOGA > EXPEDITIONS > INDIA > THE HIMALAYAS

THE HIMALAYAN EXPEDTION

SKYLIGHT YOGA: HIMALAYAS 2026

The flag of India with horizontal orange, white, and green stripes and a navy blue Ashoka Chakra in the center.

India

From $3999
Was $4199
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9 Nights / 10 Days

Expedition

Trip Type:

Moderate-High

Activity Level:

Luxury

Service Level:

Max Group Size

15

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RESERVE ONLINE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Arrive at the foothills of the Himalayas through the Great Himalayan National Park gateway, admiring India’s beautiful alpine landscapes.

  • Learn integrative Yoga with Sri Sudarshan Jyotirmayananda, embracing health, happiness, spiritual wisdom, meditation, and cultural heritage.

  • Stay in a five-star immaculate castle featuring gardens, pools, lounges, curated Indian dining, and exceptional luxury comforts.

  • Enjoy nature treks to Solang Valley, Hampta Pass, and Kullu-Manali’s peaks accompanied by an expert guide and astounding mountain views.

  • Discover sacred sites related to Yoga; temples, hot springs, waterfalls, and deodar forests; tour the Rohtang Pass, markets, and explore more!

topographic map of india with rich coloration and the state of himachal pradesh highlighted in the himalayas

    • Drive through the gateway of Great Himalayan National Park and arrive at the foothills of the Himalayas, the world’s highest mountain range.

    • Learn the art and science of integrative Yoga for health and happiness from Sri Sudarshan Jyotirmayananda, disciple of His Holiness Swami Jyotirmayananda, last disciple of H.H. Swami Sivananda.

    • Explore the rich heritage of India, the birthplace of Yoga, a land steeped in culture, philosophy and spirituality.

    • Stay in a bonafide castle at a five star luxury hotel with gardens, swimming pool, fireplace lounges, spacious rooms and cottages, and a fully-curated restaurant menu.

    • Be immersed in stunning landscapes and renown beauty of Northern India, and feel the roaring power of the Beas River descending from the glaciers above.

    • Trek the best alpine hiking routes in the Himalayas guided by Sri Sudarshan, explore the Solang Valley and Patalsu Peak, the famous Hampta Pass, and more.

    • Get up close to the towering peaks cradling the enchanted Kullu-Manali Valley in the Hindukush mountains, the origin of apples and wild cannabis.

    • Go on adventures to Jogini Falls, Sissu Waterfall, and Rohtang Pass, one of India’s most iconic high altitude mountain passes and crucial link for remote Himalayan communities.

    • Roam in dense deodar forests with pine, fir, balsam, chestnut, walnut, and maple trees; musk deer, monal, brown bear, leopard, and snow leopard are seen here.

    • Set out on a sunset pilgrimage to the abode of Goddess Hadimba, and offer prayers at the famously-strange Hadimba Devi Temple nestled amidst mysterious forest spirits.

    • Receive blessings at inner shrines of three temples honoring Mahadeva Shiva, Sri Rama and Rishi Vasistha, and hear their profound Yoga teachings along the way.

    • Take a sacred bath at the most holy hot springs sanctified by Sage Vasistha, great seer and composer of Yoga Vasistha, an exclusive local secret and meditation ritual.

    • Go on day trips and excursions to the first Manu Temple in Old Manali, traditional woodcarving and shopping market, and the best unique sites to visit in Manali.

DETAIL ITINERARY

Begin your journey through the gateway of the Great Himalayan National Park to the majestic foothills of the Himalayas, the world’s highest mountain range. Learn the sacred art and science of integrative Yoga for health and happiness from Sri Sudarshan Jyotirmayananda, disciple of His Holiness Swami Jyotirmayananda, last disciple of H.H. Swami Sivananda. Discover India’s profound cultural and spiritual heritage—the birthplace of Yoga—while staying in a luxurious castle featuring flower and fruit gardens, swimming pool, cozy fireplace lounges, and multi-cuisine restaurant. Explore the world renown beauty of Northern India, from the roaring Beas River to the Solang Valley, Patalsu Peak, and the legendary Hampta Pass. Encounter the natural wonders of the Kullu-Manali Valley and India’s Hindukush Mountains, visit Jogini and Sissu Waterfalls, the Rohtang Pass, and marvel at the dense deodar forests and staggering peaks, where musk deer, monal, and snow leopards dwell. Offer your spiritual pilgrimage by giving respects at Hadimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple; the holy shrines of Shiva, Rama, and Rishi Vasistha; and ritual bathing in the most sacred hot springs. Visit the vibrant Manali market and relax at the castle!

All inclusive yoga expedition and yoga retreat in Manali with event dates May 27 to June 5, 2026, featuring a background of snow-capped mountains and a clear blue sky.

    • Recommended (see below: “Arrival & Departure”)

    • Transfer provided by nearby airport hotels

    • Check-In at hotel, stretch and relax

    • Meals on own. Pick up next day

    • Arrival & Transfer: IXC-Chandigarh International Airport

    • Auspiciousness Invocations: The Himalayan Expedition

    • Private Group Chariot Van Collects All Expedition Members

    • Prayers & Grounding Meditation led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Drive from Chandigarh northward to Kullu-Manali District 

    • Lunch near Mandi in Majhetal

    • Shree Basheshwar Mahadeva Ancient Shiva Temple

    • Continue upward through hillstations of Northern India

    • Cross the territory of Great Himalayan National Park

    • Welcome to Manali! You have now entered The Himalayas!

    • Check-In at 5-Star Castle Luxury Hotel in Manali 

    • Tour Property and Unwind Poolside with Friends

    • The Himalayan Expedition: Opening Ceremony

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Guided Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Introduction to the Manali Experience

    • Main Starting Point for Mountain Adventures

    • Best Views of the High Altitude Himalayan Peaks

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Swimming Pool, Fruit and Flower Gardens

    • Hadimba Devi Forest Temple: Sunset Worship

    • Insights, Prayers & Meditation at the Shrine

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Silent Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Manu Temple Old Manali: 1st Man & 18 Puranas

    • Insights, Prayers & Meditation at the Shrine

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Swimming Pool, Fruit and Flower Gardens

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Guided Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Mall Road Market: Local Handicraft Goods

    • Lunch at Himachali Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Swimming Pool, Fruit and Flower Gardens

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Silent Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Mantras, Forest Walk or Self-Guided Tour

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Full Moon: Meditation, Prayers, Moonrise

    • Shiva + Rama + Vasistha: Ancient Temples

    • The Holy Hot Springs: Sacred Ritual Baths

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Guided Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • The Himalayas Mountain Hiking Adventures

    • Solang Valley Trek: Waterfall & Patalsu Peak Trail

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Shiva + Rama + Vasistha: Ancient Temples

    • The Holy Hot Springs: Sacred Ritual Baths

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Silent Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Sissu Waterfall: Himalayan Highlands Terrain

    • The Rohtang Pass: High Altitude Mountain Motorpass

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Shiva + Rama + Vasistha: Ancient Temples

    • The Holy Hot Springs: Sacred Ritual Baths

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Guided Meditation

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • The Himalayas Mountain Hiking Adventures

    • Hampta Pass Trek: Famous Himalayan Route

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Shiva + Rama + Vasistha: Ancient Temples

    • The Holy Hot Springs: Sacred Ritual Baths

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Silent Meditation

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Free for How & Where Spirit Guides You

    • Lunch at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Free for How & Where Spirit Guides You

    • Yoga Vasistha’s Wisdom Teachings

    • Q&A, 1-on-1, Relaxation and Privacy

    • Shiva + Rama + Vasistha: Ancient Temples

    • The Holy Hot Springs: Sacred Ritual Baths

    • Dinner at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Yoga Vedanta Satsang

    • Guided Meditation

    • Hadimba Devi Forest Temple: Sunrise Worship

    • Raja Hatha Yoga led by Sri Sudarshan J.

    • Breakfast at Inhouse Restaurant

    • Drive from Kullu-Manali southward to Chandigarh

    • Lunch near Bilaspur

    • Continue southward to Chandigarh

    • Dinner at Chandigarh Restaurant

    • The Himalayan Expedition: Closing Ceremony

    • Departure & Transfer: IXU Chandigarh International Airport

IMAGE GALLERY

  • Built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style and perched at an elevation of 2003m/6572ft, it is the premier luxury resort in the Kullu-Manali valley of North India’s Himalayas. The five-star luxury Castle and duplex garden Cottages are set in the midst of apple and cherry orchards, overlooking resplendent mountain peaks and waterfalls plunging across rock faces. As spiritual aspirants in this privileged backdrop, we find inspiration whilst looking inward and upward towards vibrant, propitious and lofty peaks of wisdom. Here grandeur, elegance and style have effortlessly combined to create intimacy and warmth without pretension. A refined blend of inimitability and characteristic eccentricity will find appeal with connoisseurs of tradition and those looking for discernment and sophistication.

  • Passing through the flagstone-paved cul-de-sac, beyond urn-topped gateposts, you have crossed the threshold into our world of royalty. The Himalayan Castle’s stark Gothic façade, with its battlements and buttresses, looms ominously before you. Stepping inside the vestibule leading to the hall, the visitor is greeted by meticulously restored antique art and vintage furnishings complementing the Medieval arches and wood paneling. Light streams through the atrium glass onto the Pompeii inspired marble floor intensifying the drama further. The sheer splendor and superlative style is carried forward into the other public rooms exhibiting cast-iron fireplaces and hand-carved Gothic chimneypieces. The Parlour, Refectory dining room and the Conservatory on the premier étage overlooking the rambling gardens and pool are fine illustrations of good taste and workmanship. The elaborate clover trelliswork in The Parlour epitomizes feminine sophistication. In contrast, a masculine sentiment is portrayed in the Refectory with its coffered wooden ceiling opening onto a magnificent vaulted veranda. The remarkable Turret on the east houses the spiral staircase leading up to the residence chambers.

    Each member’s Himalayan Castle Suite is elegant and supremely comfortable, enjoying a fireplace, an antique four-poster bed and armoire with exceptional views. All have ensuite marble bathrooms with shower cubicles, bathtubs, vanity mirrors and bespoke bath amenities. A preserved Victorian scheme is integrated with contemporary design to facilitate and enhance luxury comfort. The Royal Suite boasts the Castle’s only chamber residence with a balcony looking over the whole gardens, pool, and Kullu Manali valley.

    Further above the lofts at the terrace level, the Turret culminates at the Crow’s Nest. Here, the grandeur of the Castle becomes even more evident, with considerable chimneystacks soaring over the high-pitched roofs. The performance has now reached a crescendo as the Crow’s Nest allows rewarding 360° panoramas of the grounds and the spectacular Manali landscape.


  • Interspersed around the swimming pool and orchard garden are eight exceptional Cottages offering brilliant and unrivalled vistas of the spectacular Manali area. Each shared duplex Cottage comprises two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms complete with marble counters and shower cubicles, drawing room with an operational fireplace, dining area, as well as a kitchenette. The Himalayan Cottages are a seamless depiction of luxury and poise with immaculate polished hardwood floors and interiors replete with gracious furnishings. Spring mattresses, in-room safes and smart televisions are de rigueur in the bedrooms. For the upper bedroom there is a private balcony, and a restored Victorian rolltop bathtub occupies a vantage position in the dressing area. The well thought-out kitchenette in the Cottage comes with a stove burner, refrigerator, microwave oven, toaster, tea/coffee maker, cookingware, chinaware, glassware, and cutlery. Complimentary bath amenities are provided bespoke from natural plant extracts and essential oils. The terraced nature of the property and informal garden presents individual nooks around the Cottages.

    Classical architectural details abound throughout the Cottage exteriors. The oiel de bouef, relieving arches with keystones, tuscan columns, oriel and bay windows, cavetto window sills, astragal mouldings framing the doors and fenestration are among the numerous elements adding allure to our charming Cottages.

    Our commitment to the fragile Manali environs has also been given due regard, simultaneously enhancing guest experience. The roofs have been coated with vermiculite facilitating insulation. Hermetically sealed double glazing and application of insulating plaster in our interior walls has further helped in conserving energy and limiting sound travel. The Cottage Suites are the idyllic retreat for a well deserved holiday.



LUXURY ACCOMODATIONS

EXPEDITION LEADER

Sri Sudarshan Jyotirmayananda, Founding Preceptor at SKYLIGHT YOGA and disciple of His Holiness Swami Jyotirmayananda, seamlessly unites science and spirituality for optimal integrative health. Training under his revered Guru, he emphasizes a balanced approach to enlightenment in daily life. Author of Attention To Yoga, he leads intensive certifications and corporate wellness initiatives, translating the ancient Yogic ways into simple focused actions for the modern day. Sri Sudarshan offers profound spiritual guidance, insight and support, enriching both the Yoga and travel experiences while enlightening the pathways for all spiritual aspirants.

2026 India Expedition’s spiritual teachings will focus on the Yoga Vasistha. It is the most complete single scripture on Yoga Vedanta, the wisdom of Yoga, and for attaining inner freedom and spiritual bliss. The immortalizing, nectarine knowledge found within its 32,000 verses details the subtlest Reality within the paradoxes of existence.

The Himalayan Expedition is home to significant key sites from the epic Indian scripture, the Ramayana, and is especially auspicious for all devotees of Mahadeva Shiva, Bhagwan Rama, and Rishi Vasistha. Our unique venue in the Kullu-Manali valley of the Hindukush mountains, is where Hanuman obtained the exact special Ayurvedic herbs and medicinal remedies for curing Lakshmana. Here, the great seer, Guru Vasistha came to bathe in the hot springs. There is no other journey where you can receive these powerful impressions.


What can you expect when you travel on a SKYLIGHT YOGA EXPEDITION?

  • Immersive Journeys, Explorations, Spiritual Adventures

  • Wellness Vacations, Culture & Ecology, Conscious Tourism

  • Best Pristine Nature, Unimaginable Destinations, Iconic Venues

  • Exquisite Meals, Healthy Seasonal Cuisine, Curated Dining Menus

  • Guided By Experienced Yoga Practitioners & Expedition Leaders

  • Comfortable, Luxurious & Boutique Choice Accommodations

  • Exclusively Crafted & Unrepeatable All-Inclusive Itineraries

  • World-Class Service, Personalized, Attention To Detail

  • The Best Hospitality, Knowledgeable Team & Local Guides

  • Private Groups (usually 16 or fewer) Intimate Sizes

  • All Inclusive Excursions & Optional Activities

  • Opportunities To Self-Explore & Make Friends For Life

  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed


SKYLIGHT YOGA EXPEDITIONS are joyful journeys that transcend travel. We revitalize lineages of spiritual explorers. Our original Yoga Expeditions are rare invitations to inhabit pristine sanctuaries where pure energy, ancient wisdom, and natural grandeur all converge. Designed for discerning seekers, we curate unmatched itineraries to cultivate deeper awareness and balance of body, mind, and spirit. Through these profound immersions into Yoga, nature and adventure, every itinerary is bespoke and custom, offering unique experiences along with freedom to reflect, evolve, and discover yourself. Travel with professionals and learn from skilled practitioners while enjoying luxurious accommodations, healthy international cuisines, and personal guidance and instruction from Sri Sudarshan, founder and expedition leader. Travel at your highest potential and awaken to spiritual freedom! Explore the inner and outer worlds and see the power of spiritual community, nature and Yoga spreading throughout your life, and your world!

YOGA EXPEDITIONS

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“Open Your Practice To The World”
Spiritual Inspiration Meets Global Exploration

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE

Roundtrip airport transfers and ground transportation in an air-conditioned private group tourist van is included. International flights arrive/depart at New Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM) or other major airport, and connecting domestic flights arrive into Chandigarh (IXC) Airport. Pickup is included at IXC-Chandigarh Airport or nearby airport hotels on May 27, 2026 (pickup time 6:00am-9:00am). Dropoff is included at IXC-Chandigarh Airport departing on June 5, 2026 (dropoff time 6:00pm-9:00pm) for connecting international flights on June 6 (Midnight-3:00am).

Hotels near Chandigarh Airport for early arrival on May 26, 2026: Radisson Hotel Chandigarh Zirakpur or Radisson RED Chandigarh Mohali or Wyndham Chandigarh Mohali
- Upon your landing in India, we recommend a day to reset, and to be ready for pickup and driving northward early the next day. (15 passengers)
- The drive between Chandigarh <> Manali is 6-7 hours approx. Stops for food, rest, washrooms, and temples are planned along the route.
- Discretionary: alpine terrain, we do not recommend this trip if you are prone to dizziness. This journey is not for the faint of heart!

Contact us if you have any questions and we will be happy to assist your welcome to India and the Himalayas!

DATES & PRICES

  • 5-Star Luxury Castle Accommodation: 9 Nights / 10 Days

  • Indian Vegetarian Meals: 10 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 10 Dinners

  • Transportation: Private Group Vehicle & Professional Driver

  • Yoga, Health & Wellness Sessions: Guided by Sri Sudarshan J.

  • Group Practice: 9 Meditations, 9 Classes, 9 Satsangs

  • Private 1-On-1 Guidance & Personalized Attention

  • Exploring The World Of India’s Mystic Spirituality

  • The Himalayan Expedition Featured Daily Itinerary

  • Highlights, Local Tourism, Sightseeing Excursions

  • Exclusive Access, Admission, Special Visitations

  • Best Indian Cultural Heritage & Nature Adventures

  • Roundtrip Airport Transfers: IXC-Chandigarh Airport

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Included Benefits:

  • Physical Fitness: Improved vitality, flexibility, strength, and overall fitness through hatha yoga exercises, consistency, and hiking in the mountains!

  • Mental Clarity: Enhanced focus, calmness and mental clarity from daily meditation practices and techniques for utilizing latent powers of mind.

  • Spiritual Growth: Deeply profound connection to oneself and creation through guidance, wisdom, and pure energy at sacred pilgrimage sites.

  • Community Building: Beginning of special lifelong friendships with like-minded and good-hearted individuals having meaningful shared interests.

  • Stress Relief: Intentional space to heal yourself, connect to the source of life, and learn to reduce stress while recharging in a loving, peaceful setting.

  • Airfare: International & Domestic

  • Insurance: any, travel, medical

  • Visa: tourist e-visa required

  • Extras: food/drink on own

  • Gratuities: recommended

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

A person holding a green apple and a glass of orange juice, with a basket of apples and a bunch of bananas on the table

LIABILITY POLICY

Respect people, nature, and yourself. Use discernment. Medical and/or travel insurance is not required. It may be recommended. Expedition Members participate at-will and hold the leaders and operators free from any liabilities. Terms and conditions are detailed in Members Agreement while making a reservation.

PAYMENT TERMS

  1. Make a Deposit or Full Payment to reserve and secure your spot.

  2. Remainder Payment, if applicable, is due by March 1, 2026.

    • paid by invoice -or- venmo @skylightyoga

CANCELLATION POLICY

  • 100% fully refundable before January 1, 2026

  • 50% half refundable before March 1, 2026

  • 0% not refundable from March 1, 2026

2026

The Himalayan Expedition

Limited to 15 Spots. Book Now!

Reserve With Deposit