2025 South India Retreat and Tour
A Profound Transformational Experience
Are you ready for a unique blend of cleansing spiritual retreat and elevating tour of sacred sites?
This special adventure begins at a tropical Ayurvedic resort in the state of Kerala and segues to an overland journey to three spectacular locations in the adjacent state of Tamil Nadu.
It’s all designed to give you the best of what India offers: deep spiritual experience; natural healing for body and mind; historic sites and holy sanctuaries; magnificent scenery; friendly people who believe “the guest is God”; ancient wisdom from timeless texts; discussions with spiritual teachers; opportunities to explore, discover, and yes, shop.
South India Itinerary – Main Tour
The tour has been postponed until fall, 2025. The new dates will be announced in the coming weeks.
$5090 double room
Here is our broad itinerary. Day-to-day details will be refined and updated in the coming months.
Kerala Retreat
We convene in a tranquil, beautifully scenic Ayurvedic resort in the tropical southwestern state of Kerala. Located in a secluded coconut grove near the Arabian Sea, the resort features healthy and delicious food and the full range of traditional Ayurvedic treatments for healing, relaxation, and purification. Ayurvedic treatments are an additional cost to tour costs.
We’ll initiate our time together as we always do, on a sacred note: a Ganesha puja performed by well-trained pandits. Then we’ll sink into our peaceful, expansive, transformative 10-day retreat. Leaving space in the daily schedule for individual appointments with Ayurvedic practitioners, walks in nature, and solitude, we’ll have regularly scheduled satsangs (spiritual gatherings) together. We’ll learn and practice various forms of meditation, yoga asanas, and chanting, and also explore the revelatory insights of wisdom traditions such as Vedanta, Yoga, and Kashmir Shaivism. Readings from sacred texts will be recommended in advance for discussion on retreat.
Your retreat leaders have each spent over half a century studying India’s sacred teachings and teaching a wide range of practices to others.
Your Tour Guides
Travel and learn with Phil Goldberg, author of American Veda and The Life of Yogananda, and spiritual teacher Swami Brahmananda on this spectacular journey.
Swami Brahmananda
(aka Brahms, originally David Nowe) spent eight years in ashram settings with his teacher, Swami Muktananda, during which time he received Shaktipat Initiation, practiced Siddha Yoga, and studied sacred texts. In subsequent decades, he taught in a variety of contexts throughout the U.S. and other countries. He has been offering Satsangs in India for the past four years.
Phil Goldberg
Phil Goldberg spent his formative years on the spiritual path studying with and teaching on behalf of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and the Transcendental Meditation organization. Later, he became an ordained Interfaith Minister, public speaker, workshop leader, and author of numerous books, including American Veda, The Life of Yogananda, and Spiritual Practice for Crazy Times. He also hosts the Spirit Matters podcast.
Kanyakumari
Situated on the southernmost tip of India, where three great bodies of water (the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean) converge, Kanyakumari boasts remarkable natural beauty, including exceptional views of both sunrise and sunset. And it’s home to historic and esthetic glories, such as:
The Vivekananda Rock Memorial. One of the most popular tourist attractions in India, the majestic memorial is a tribute to the revered Swami Vivekananda, the first emissary of India’s spiritual wisdom to grace American shores (in 1893). The monument was built on a huge rock, on which Vivekananda is said to have attained his enlightenment. (He swam to it; we’ll take the ferry.) We’ll also utilize our contacts to request a private meeting with swamis from the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda lineage.
Gandhi Mandapam. This magnificent pink memorial to Mahatma Gandhi sits on the site where the beloved freedom fighter’s ashes were kept before they were scattered to the sea. Located in a tranquil setting with dramatic views, it features unique architecture and tributes to Gandhi’s life.
Other potential visits, depending on the timing and preferences of the group include: Padmanabhapuram Palace, an architectural landmark spread over 6.5 acres;
Bhagavati Amman ( Parvati )Temple, one of 108 Shakthi Peethas dedicated to the divine feminine, with thousands of years of history; Thiruvalluvar Statue, a 133 foot sculpture of the Tamil poet and philosopher Valluvar, author of the sacred Thirukkural.
Rameswaram
Located on a serenely spectacular island strip at the very tip of the Indian peninsula, Rameswaram is a renowned pilgrimage destination. Connected to the mainland by the magnificent Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram is best known for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is not only considered holy by a diverse range of devotees but is also revered by lovers of splendid architecture for its elaborate corridors and sculpted pillars. Among its unique features are 22 theerthams, where devotees take ritual soaks in blessed water (those who wish to partake of this will be properly instructed).
Rameswaram also holds a place in the hearts of those who revere the great Indian epic The Ramayana. In the tale, Lord Rama builds a bridge from this location across the sea to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from her abductor, the demon Ravana.
There are other sites in and around Rameswaram (e.g., Gandamadana Parvatham and Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple), as well as gorgeous beaches for leisurely walks and observing the ritual bathing of pilgrims
Madurai
We’ll travel inland over Tamil Nadu’s lovely agricultural landscape to this ancient city (3rd, possibly 6th, century BCE), which embodies the evolution of culture, civilization, and spiritual tradition.
The centerpiece of Madurai, and the destination of pilgrims from all over India, is the Meenakshi Temple. This mind-boggling example of South Indian temple architecture covers about 700,000 square feet surrounded by high walls and gateways. It contains around 30,000 sculptures sprinkled around dozens of shrines and small quiet spaces. Every day, an average of 20,000 people march in and out of its sanctuaries and vast bustling halls. Visitors invariably find it spellbinding and unforgettable.
We will also visit the house where the venerated spiritual master Ramana Maharishi stayed from 1892 to 1896, when he was a student named Venkataraman. He went to Meenakshi temple every day and, in 1896, attained his celebrated Self-realization after what became known as his “Death Experience.” We might also visit Ramana’s birthplace, the village of Thiruchuli, 45 Km from Madurai, if time permits and the group is so inclined.
Post-Tour Extension
February 5-12, 2025
$1995 double room
Our post-tour takes us deep into the spiritual, cultural, and architectural richness of the state of Tamil Nadu. It will be led by Swami Brahmananda, who will offer spiritual teachings, yoga, and meditations throughout, and by Rao Pantulu, our trusted tour leader, who will share his vast knowledge of the history and significance of sites we visit.
Chettinadu Region and Tanjore
En route from Madurai to Tanjore, we stop in the Chettinadu region, which is known for its 19th-century mansions with furnishings imported from East Asia and Europe. We will enjoy a traditional Chettinadu lunch in a heritage mansion turned hotel and visit a traditional sari weaving factory.
We go to Sri Rangam, one of the oldest surviving active temple complexes in South India. Scattered throughout are gorgeous monuments and wonderous works of art.
At the heart of Tanjore is the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 11th century and adorned with unique carvings and sculptures.
We also visit the Maratha Palace and the Sarasvati Mahal Library with its collection of rare palm leaf manuscripts.
Tiruvannamalai
Ranking high among India’s spiritual centers and pilgrimage sites, Tiruvannamalai and the sacred Arunachala hill were made famous by the great 20th century saint, Ramana Maharshi. Ramana was a leading light of the nondual teachings of Advaita Vedanta and the direct path of Self-enquiry.
Ramana called Arunachala the “Spiritual Heart of the World.” It is said to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. We will allow for plenty of time to explore and experience this sacred city at the base of Arunachala. We will attend the ashram evening aarti, meditate in the hall with devotees, and walk up Arunachala hill to the caves where Ramana Maharishi sat in silence for long periods of time. Swami Brahmananda will guide an exploration of Ramana Maharshi’s teachings.
We will also visit the Temple of Sri Arunachaleshwara, one of the largest temple complexes in India and a popular pilgrimage site. It is said to be located at the heart chakra of the earth and is conducive to deep spiritual transformation.
Pondicherry
This quaint town on the Bay of Bengal is a quiet contrast to India’s hustle and bustle. It was the last French colony in India, a heritage reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Early in the 20th century, the sage Sri Aurobindo took refuge here following his imprisonment by the British as he fought for India’s freedom.
Turning from politics to spirituality, Aurobindo developed his Integral Yoga teachings and, along with The Mother (Mirra Alfassa), established an ashram in Pondicherry. His central theme was the establishment of divine life on earth through spiritual evolution. After Aurobindo’s passing in 1950, The Mother established Auroville, a utopian community dedicated to realizing human unity.
We will visit the main ashram buildings, the Maha Samadhi shrines of both spiritual leaders, and ashram shops. In the evening, we will enjoy a stroll along the coastline promenade, a favorite activity of residents.
Chennai
Enroute to Chennai, our final destination, we stop at Mahabalipuram, the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage rock monuments built between 6th to 8th centuries CE. The ancient temples on a cliff above the ocean are architectural wonders reflecting the glory of past kingdoms.
We arrive in Chennai in the afternoon, in time for last-minute shopping. In the evening, we will enjoy our traditional farewell dinner and sharing.
February 12, 2025 – Breakfast and checkout
After breakfast, AVT will provide transport to Chennai Airport for international destinations. For those wishing to stay on in Chennai to explore on their own, we can assist in arranging lodging.
Your AVT Team: Phil, Karen, Brahms, Rao
Praise for American Veda Tours
“The AVT leaders know and teach India from all aspects. I immediately knew I was in excellent hands! They have the experience to adapt to everything India gives you. It allowed me to be open to the wonders and spirituality of this beautiful country. “
“I had been reluctant about taking a trip to India, but AVT changed all that, thanks to their artfully crafted tours — and now I’ve been on two! They handle everything from nice hotels, good eats, spiritual ceremonies, education, and traditional tourism with aplomb and sensitivity. I blossomed under their tutelage and had two of the best travel experiences of my life. I can’t recommend AVT enough.“
“American Veda tours refreshed my spiritual practice and added depth through exploration of various gurus’ lives and deeply spiritual sites. Traveling with open-hearted, like-minded people made the experience even more meaningful. The leaders provided humor, a bounty of information, spiritual practice and care in a country with so many contrasts that can touch one’s heart on every level. ”
“For decades, I wanted to visit India, the homeland of my guru. But the idea of navigating India without support seemed overwhelming. Enter American Veda Tours run by the brilliant Phil Goldberg; Karen Mindt Howell, who keeps her eye on the pilgrims who bond like family; a swami and a tour guide who know the Vedas inside and out. My wife and I had an unforgettable spiritual journey, and friends and memories to last more than one lifetime. ”
“The spiritual and heart-opening experience American Veda Tours was more magical and healing than I could have imagined in an entire lifetime. So grateful to be on this spiritual journey with AVT; until we meet again. Travel well! ”
“AVT is much more than a tour! A well-planned and designed travel experience that provides experiences that are nothing short of transformational. You are not a tourist but a traveler among friends with our expert guide, Rao and spiritual satsang with Phil and Brahms, organized and guided by Karen. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a great adventure.”
Inclusions
- 19-night stay in standard rooms, double occupancy basis
- All domestic transportation, including transfers to and from airports
- Two meals per day at other locations. Beverages included: coffee, tea
- Two bottles of water on the coach during drives
- All sightseeing activities as per itinerary
Exclusions
- Single Room Supplement
- Meals other than mentioned above
- Beverages other than mentioned above, including soda, alcohol, bottled water with dinner
- Ayurvedic treatments (panchakarma) or massages
- Personal services such as telephone calls and laundry
- Tips at restaurants, hotel baggage carriage and room cleaning, etc.
- Gratuities to your coach driver, assistant, and tour guide