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Rudra Yaga at the Kumbha Mela

with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD

February 1—16, 2025

16 days

From $3,200

Excursion Type

Practice Immersion

Location

Prayagraj (Allahabad) and Varanasi, India

Group Size

Max 30

Pre-register

or call 1-800-822-4547 x5

Pre-register
Pre-register

or call 1-800-822-4547 x5

Overview

Join this rare opportunity to partake in the Rudra Yaga at the Himalayan Institute’s campus in Prayagraj (Allahabad), home to the acclaimed Kumbha Mela. Kumbha Mela occurs every 12 years, when the extraordinary alignment of celestial bodies awakens and intensifies the transformative power of the sangam, the confluence of three sacred rivers: Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. This phenomenon at this auspicious time is equated with kumbha, the vessel of immortal elixir. Honoring nature’s design, a spiritual practice such as Rudra Yaga undertaken at this time bears fruit a thousandfold.

excursions rudra yaga 2025 puja with panditji - Himalayan Institute

Rudra Yaga is one of the most powerful group practices for healing ourselves and healing the natural world. Needless to say, we are living in a world run by fear. Anger, violence, uncertainty, and insecurity have shaken our conviction in our leaders and our socio-economic structures. During such tumultuous times, the sages of the Himalayan Tradition prescribe the group practice of Rudra Yaga.

The HI Prayagraj campus is an exceptional sacred space perfectly designed to undertake Rudra Yaga during the Kumbha Mela. Our campus is just a mile downstream from the confluence of the three sacred rivers—close enough to enjoy everything the Kumbha Mela has to offer, and far enough away from a throng of a million plus pilgrims crowding the floodplains of the Ganga. In this paradise, while you participate in the group practice of Rudra Yaga, assimilate your experience by reflecting on the 8-part lecture series with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, entitled, Imbibing the Forces of Protection, Guidance, and Stability.

Another highlight of Rudra Yaga at Kumbha Mela is the pilgrimage to the sacred city of Varanasi. Here, in addition to experiencing the popular sites of Ganga bathing ghats, Vishvanath corridor, and evening aarti at the Ganga, you will have the pleasure of doing puja with Panditji at rare shrines off the beaten track. We take this pilgrimage and practice as an opportunity to share what we have inherited from a thousand year-old tradition of the Himalayan Masters with you.

Key Highlights

excursions rudra yaga 2025 ganga in the distance - Himalayan Institute
Prayagraj
  • Rudra Yaga group practice | Undertake a highly potent 11-day group practice of Rudra Yaga, with daily havan, mantra recitation, and group meditation, under the guidance of Panditji and in the company of like-minded practitioners.
  • Sacred space | Bask in the highly-charged sacred space of Prayagraj, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Home to yajna (group practice) and the sages of the Himalayan tradition for millenia, this space is known as Tirtha Raja, lord of shrines.
  • HI Prayagraj campus | The Himalayan Institute’s campus sits just one mile downstream from sangam (the sacred confluence), and has been potentized by 24 years of practice centered around Rudra Yaga. Beautifully landscaped with thousands of trees, gardens, and over 1 kilometer of Ganga-view waterfront, our 30-acre campus is an oasis of vibrancy and inner peace unlike any other.
  • Day trip to Kumbha Mela | Experience the Kumbha Mela, held every 12 years as a grand gathering of various spiritual traditions of India for millenia.
  • Day trip to key shrines of Prayagraj | Experience key tantric shrines of Prayagraj
  • Day trip to Vindhyachal | Experience the vibrant shakti shrines of Vindyachal
  • 8-part lecture series with Panditji | Imbibing the Forces of Protection, Guidance, and Stability
excursions rudra yaga 2025 sacred grove havan - Himalayan Institute
Lecture Series with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD

Imbibing the Forces of Protection, Guidance, and Stability

  • Session 1 | The Daunting State of the World
  • Session 2 | Sages’ Vision for Initiating a Change
  • Session 3 | Protecting Our Personal Kumbha, the Vessel of Elixir
  • Session 4 | Rudra Yaga — Group Practice for Invoking the Forces of Inner Protection
  • Session 5 | Food for Rudra Yaga — Maitri, Karuna, Mudita, and Upeksha
  • Session 6 | Tonic for Rudra Yaga — Seeing the Creator in Her Creation
  • Session 7 | Walking in the Light of the Inner Guide
  • Session 8 | Living a Safe, Stable, and Enlightened Life
excursions rudra yaga 2025 varanasi - Himalayan Institute
Varanasi
  • Visit Marakandeshwar Mahadev shrine at the confluence of the Ganga and Gomati rivers, associated with the seer of the Maha Mritunjaya mantra, Markandeya
  • Pilgrimage to prominent and lesser-known shrines of Varanasi, including Vishwanath, Annapurna, Vishalakshi (Sri Vidya), Kal Bhairava, and more.
  • Undertake a portion of the traditional pilgrimage route around Varanasi known as the Pancha Koshi Yatra, anchored by visits to Kardameshwar and Kapileshwar shrines, dedicated to the sages Kardama (seer of Sri Sukta) and Kapila (master of Vishoka Meditation).

Itinerary

This is a realistic sample itinerary to show what a potential schedule might look like. Considering the broad hiking possibilities, and leaving room to adapt to a variety of circumstances, the exact itinerary will unfold on a day-by-day basis, with the exception of our fixed arrival time.

Arrive to Himalayan Institute Prayagraj (Allahabad)

Rudra Yaga 11-day group practice and stay at Himalayan Institute Prayagraj

Sample Daily Schedule

  • 5:30am | Chai
  • 6:00am | Morning prayers and group meditation
  • 7:00am | Daily havan (Rudra Yaga group practice)
  • 8:00—9:00am | Breakfast
  • 10am | Lecture, study group or practicum
  • 12:30—1:30pm | Lunch
  • Afternoon | Free time, daytrip, or special activity (eg. local walks, yoga class)
  • 4:00pm | Chai
  • 6:00pm | Evening prayers and group meditation
  • 6:15—7:30pm | Dinner
  • Evening | Free time

Pilgrimage to Varanasi

Departure from Varanasi

Accommodations

excursions rudra yaga 2025 main campus building - Himalayan Institute

Accommodations at the Prayagraj campus are in triple occupancy rooms with attached en-suite bathrooms and 8-person dormitories with attached bathrooms in the main building and guest house. All rooms are single gender; participants will be assigned to a dorm or triple room based on availability. Due to space limitations we are unable to offer single rooms or private rooms for couples in Prayagraj. Accommodations are on a double sharing basis in Varanasi with an option for a single room upgrade.

About Himalayan Institute Prayagraj

excursions rudra yaga 2025 main campus courtyard - Himalayan Institute

The Himalayan Institute’s campus at Prayagraj (Allahabad) was established in 2000 and inaugurated with 21-day Rudra Yaga with over 500 participants at 2001 the Maha Kumbha Mela. Landscaped with gardens, tree-lined hand-laid brick walking paths, and thousands of trees, this 30-acre campus is an oasis of natural beauty and spiritual vibrancy. Overlooking one kilometer of waterfront on the Ganga, the campus is just a few kilometers downstream from the sacred confluence (sangam) of the Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers. The Sacred Grove overlooking the Ganga is the spiritual heart of the campus, and home to the havan kund (ceremonial fit pit) where we’ll practice the Rudra Yaga.

The main building serves as the primary guesthouse, with several guest rooms and dormitories, a dining room, meditation room, and lounge/library, and is located in direct alignment with the Sacred Grove and the Ganga. A second building on campus serves as an office and fulfillment center for Himalayan Institute Publications in India, with guest rooms on its second floor.

Photo Gallery

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Excursion Leader

excursion leader panditji - Himalayan Institute
Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD

Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD, is a modern-day master and living link in the unbroken Himalayan Tradition. He is the successor to Sri Swami Rama of the Himalayas, and the spiritual head of the Himalayan Institute. As the author of numerous books, including his autobiography Touched by Fire: The Ongoing Journey of a Spiritual Seeker, Pandit Tigunait offers practical guidance on applying yogic and tantric wisdom to modern life. For over 40 years he has touched innumerable lives around the world as a teacher, humanitarian, and visionary spiritual leader. You can view more of his teachings online in the library of Himalayan Institute Online.

Pandit Tigunait holds two doctorates: one in Sanskrit from the University of Allahabad in India, and another in Oriental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Family tradition gave Pandit Tigunait access to a vast range of spiritual wisdom preserved in both the written and oral traditions. Before meeting his master, Pandit Tigunait studied Sanskrit, the language of the ancient scriptures of India, as well as the languages of the Buddhist, Jaina, and Zorastrian traditions. In 1976, Swami Rama ordained Pandit Tigunait into the 5,000-year-old lineage of the Himalayan Masters.

Dates & Prices

Date Price
February 1–16, 2025

Priority Pre-Register Online

 from $3,200

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q) What is the Rudra Yaga: Kumbha Mela 2025 pilgrimage with the Himalayan Institute?
A) The Rudra Yaga: Kumbha Mela 2025 pilgrimage is a small group spiritual excursion to the Himalayan Institute’s 30-acre campus in Allahabad, India from February 1-16, 2025. The focus of the excursion is an 11-day group practice of Rudra Yaga which consists of havan (ritual of sacred fire), mantra recitation, and meditation practice led by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait and pilgrimage to Varanasi.

Q) What will the Excursion encompass?
A) The Rudra Yaga: Kumbha Mela 2025 pilgrimage with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait includes the opportunity for continuing spiritual practice at the Himalayan Institute India at Prayagraj including an 11-day Rudra Yaga group practice, mantra recitation, meditation practice, an 8-part lecture series by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, and day trips to nearby significant locations including the Kumbha Mela. The Excursion is focused on spiritual practice and the 11-day Rudra Yaga. In addition there will be time for study, yoga, reading, journaling, and walking. Additionally, we will visit prominent and lesser known shrines in Varanasi and Undertake a portion of the traditional pilgrimage route around Varanasi known as the Pancha Koshi Yatra.

Q) Where will I stay?
A) While in Prayagraj, participants will stay at the Himalayan Institute campus in triple occupancy rooms with en-suite bathrooms and 8-person dormitories. Rooms are located in the main building and guest house. All rooms are single gender; participants will be assigned to a dorm or triple room based on availability. Due to space limitations we are unable to offer single rooms or private rooms for couples in Prayagraj. In Varanasi, accommodations are in hotel rooms on a double sharing basis with an option for a single room upgrade.

Q) Where will I meditate?
A) The Sacred Grove, overlooking the bank of the Ganga, is an ideal setting for meditation. Participants can also find multiple quiet spaces on our 30-acre campus which are suitable for meditation.

Q) Where is the Himalayan Institute’s Prayagraj campus located?
A) Himalayan Institute’s secluded 30-acre campus is located just outside the city of Prayagraj in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Prayagraj is accessible by train or plane. Daily flights are offered between Delhi and Varanasi, from which our campus is a scenic 3 hour drive or directly from Delhi to Prayagraj. Prayagraj is also well connected to Delhi by train. Our campus is ideally situated along the bank of the Ganga a short distance away from Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and Sarasvati rivers. More details about our campus can be seen on the campus map in the Accommodations section.

Q) What is the weather like in Prayagraj?
A) The month of February is the transition time from winter to spring. The weather is generally pleasant in February but mornings and evenings can be cold. Expect daytime highs in the 70s or 80s and overnight lows in the 40s to 50s. Cool, foggy mornings are expected so be prepared with layers, thermal base layers, hat, scarf, etc. See the suggested packing list for complete list of recommendations. Sturdy walking shoes and a day pack are recommended for day trips.

Q) What type of meals can I expect?
A) Freshly prepared vegetarian meals will be served three times per day. Vegetarian breakfast, lunch, supper, and homemade chai in the morning and afternoon are included in your stay. Meals are prepared with fresh ingredients from local growers using wholesome vegetable oil and are gently spiced. Meals and chai are self-serve, buffet-style, at specified times.

Q) Do you serve gluten-free and dairy-free (vegan) meals?
A) Limited dairy-free and gluten-free options are generally available at meals.

Q) Is laundry service available?
A) Laundry service will be available for a fee.

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. 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 and hotels, and hotels in the city. Registered participants will receive a list of hotel options.

Q) How do I get to Prayagraj?
A) Multiple airlines offer daily flights between Delhi and Prayagraj or Varanasi. It is also possible to take a train from Delhi to Prayagraj. The group airport pickup on February 1, 2025 will be from the Prayagraj Airport. The group departure will be from the Varanasi Airport on February 16, 2025. Additional changes will apply for transportation requests outside of the group arrival or departure.

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) 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 or health professional in order to make an informed decision based on your own personal preferences and health history.

Q) Are there any natural ways to enhance my health before going to India?
A) Himalayan Institute Chyawanprash is highly recommended in preparation for your pilgrimage to India, and anytime. 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.

* 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 lodging, to alpine tents while camping. 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 do I need to bring?
A) Here is an overview of recommended items: Sturdy walking shoes, a sleeping bag, clothing for layering including a coat or jacket for warmth on cold nights and mornings. If you plan to use yoga or meditation props, bring them with you, or bring a towel to use instead of a yoga mat to save space and weight in your luggage. Bring soap, shampoo, and personal toiletries for bathing when on our campus. Laundry service, for a fee, will be available, or you may choose to hand-wash laundry and air dry. 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. Toilet paper can be found in India but isn’t always available. Even if found, the quality is likely to be different than what you are used to. Toilet paper will be provided. The best thing, however, is to adjust to and practice “elimination management” Indian style—using water to rinse and a small towel to dry, rather than toilet paper, which often clogs septic systems and toilets.

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, plunging necklines or backs, sleeveless tops, form-fitting clothing, and short skirts or miniskirts. Men are asked to refrain from wearing muscle shirts. When visiting temples, long pants are appropriate for women and men. For women, long loose skirts are another option.

Q) Where can I change money?
A) Change currency into Indian rupees before exiting the Customs area at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted; therefore, plan to bring cash for exchange. The 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?
A) 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. 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.Additionally a “pay phone” is also available for use while on campus for emergency and occasional calls to home and business.

Q) Is Internet available on campus?
A) Limited Internet access will be offered on campus.

Q) How do I register for this trip?
A) Register online or call 1-800-822-4547 x5.

Q) What if I need to cancel?
A) Requests for cancellation must be made in writing 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 exceptions 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.

Pre-register

New Year's Retreat—Invoking the divinity of inner beauty and joy with Sri Chakra Puja.

Learn More