With the Guidance of Shivananda Swamiji
There are lands that we visit. And there are lands that we cross with the soul.
India is one of them.
An ancient, sacred, living land
A land where the Divine does not belong only to the past, but continues to be encountered in temples, rituals, mantras, sacred fires, waters, mountains, and through the presence of those who have preserved and transmitted these teachings across generations.
This journey is a pilgrimage within and through Mother India, following a sacred map rooted in ancient teachings: the map of the Elements.
Earth. Water. Fire. Air. Space.
The elements of creation.
The elements of nature.
The elements that also live within our own bodies.
As we move through them, we will be invited to recognize something very ancient within ourselves.
Something we do not need to learn.
Something we need to remember.
THE FIVE ELEMENTS — A MAP OF RETURNING
The journey takes us through some of the most sacred places of Tamil Nadu and South India, entering into the ancient tradition of the Pancha Bhuta — the five great elements.
Akasha — Space
At Chidambaram, we will encounter Akasha — Space, the subtle field that contains and permeates all things.
Jala — Water
At Jambukeswarar, we will enter into the sacredness of Water, the element of fluidity, purification and life.
Agni — Fire
At Tiruvannamalai, we will encounter Agni — Fire, through the sacred presence of Arunachala, the mountain of Shiva.
THE ELEMENTS WITHIN AND AROUND US
The Elements will not simply be themes of the journey.
They will become living mirrors of our inner experience.
As we move through the sacred landscape of India, each Element will invite us to observe, feel and explore its presence both outside of us and within us.
EARTH — PRITHVI | Grounding • Stability • Embodiment
Earth is the ground beneath our feet and the physical body through which we experience life. As we encounter sacred temples and ancient lands, Earth invites us to root, stabilize and embody. Within us, it represents our physical presence, structure, grounding and relationship with the material world. The journey through the Earth Element asks: Can I fully inhabit my body? Can I feel supported by the Earth? Can Spirit become embodied within Matter?
WATER — JALA | Flow • Purification • Surrender
Water teaches movement. It flows, cleanses, nourishes and transforms without resistance. Through sacred rivers, temple waters, holy baths and the presence of water temples, we will enter into a deeper relationship with this Element. Within us, Water is connected to our capacity to feel, flow, release and surrender. It invites us to soften what has become rigid and allow life to move through us again. What am I ready to release? Where can I allow myself to flow?
FIRE — AGNI | Transformation • Purification • Awakening
Fire is the force of transformation. It illuminates what is hidden and burns what no longer needs to remain. At Tiruvannamalai, beneath the presence of Arunachala, the sacred Fire of Shiva becomes one of the central experiences of our pilgrimage. Within us, Fire awakens courage, clarity, purification and the power to transform. It asks us to surrender the identities, fears and patterns that prevent us from returning to our deepest nature. What is ready to be transformed? What remains when the unnecessary has been burned away?
AIR — VAYU | Movement • Breath Life Force
Air is movement. It is the breath that enters and leaves the body, connecting us to life in every moment. Throughout the journey, through breath, meditation, movement and awareness, Air invites us to reconnect with Prana — the life force moving through us. Within us, Air relates to freedom, circulation, communication and the movement of consciousness. It reminds us that life is not meant to be held tightly. Can I breathe more freely? Can I allow life to move through me?
SPACE — AKASHA | Silence • Expansion • Consciousness
Space is the element that contains all the others. It cannot be grasped, yet without it nothing could exist. At Chidambaram, we encounter the sacred dimension of Akasha — Space — through the ancient worship of Shiva as the formless presence of consciousness. Within us, Space opens the possibility of silence, spaciousness, receptivity and awareness. It is the inner space in which thoughts, emotions, sensations and experiences arise and dissolve. Can I create space within myself? Can I rest in the awareness that holds everything?
ANANDA SIDDHA
ENTERING THE STREAM OF THE SIDDHA TRADITION
We will also have the opportunity to visit Ananda Siddha, entering into contact with a living stream of the Siddha tradition of South India.
The Siddhas are revered within the spiritual traditions of South India as realized beings who devoted themselves to profound practices of consciousness, yoga, healing and liberation.
The word Siddha evokes one who has attained realization — one who has reached a deeper knowledge through direct experience.
And Ananda means bliss.
For our journey, Ananda Siddha becomes a reminder of the possibility at the heart of the path:
to move beyond the noise of the mind and return to a natural state of inner fullness.
Our encounter will not be about collecting another teaching or accumulating another concept.
It will be an invitation into presence. And to allow the experience to speak in its own way.
FROM SPIRIT INTO MATTER
THE JOURNEY IS ALSO A MOVEMENT BETWEEN SPIRIT AND MATTER
We are not here to leave the body in order to seek Spirit.
We are here to recognize Spirit within Matter.
To remember that the body itself is part of creation, and that matter can become a place through which Spirit expresses itself.
This is the return.
Not toward something unknown.
But toward something primordial.
Something that has always been there.
WHO IS THIS JOURNEY FOR?
THIS JOURNEY IS FOR THOSE WHO FEEL AN INNNER CALLING TOWARD INDIA
For those who are not simply looking for a holiday, but for a deeper encounter with themselves.
For those who feel drawn to:
- ancient spiritual traditions and sacred teachings;
- temples, places of power and pilgrimage;
- Shiva, the Mother and the living wisdom of India;
- meditation, mantra, darshan and spiritual practices;
- exploring the relationship between Spirit, Matter, Body and Consciousness;
- reconnecting with the natural Elements within themselves;
- stepping beyond familiar patterns and opening to transformation;
- experiencing India not only as a destination, but as a living spiritual presence.
You do not need to arrive with answers.
You do not need to have a particular spiritual background.
You simply need an openness to receive, to experience and to listen.
Perhaps there is something within you that has been calling for a long time.
Perhaps this is the moment to answer.
THE JOURNEY — ESSENTIAL ITINERARY
MAIN PILGRIMAGE – SOUTH INDIA | February 8–23, 2027
THE SACRED ELEMENTS JOURNEY
8 FEBRUARY — ARRIVAL IN CHENNAI
Arrival in Chennai and beginning of the pilgrimage.
9 FEBRUARY — CHENNAI → PONDICHERRY
Explore Chennai, visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, then travel to Pondicherry and visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram.
10 FEBRUARY — PONDICHERRY → CHIDAMBARAM → TRICHY
Travel toward Trichy with a sacred stop at Chidambaram, where Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja and connected with Akasha — Space.
Overnight in Trichy.
11 FEBRUARY — TRICHY
Visit Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval, associated with Water.
12 FEBRUARY — TRICHY → MADURAI
Travel to Madurai and visit the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple.
13 FEBRUARY — MADURAI → RAMESHWARAM
Travel to sacred Rameshwaram.
14 FEBRUARY — RAMESHWARAM
Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, experience the sacred waters of Agni Theertham and the traditional 21-well ritual, visit the Five-Faced Hanuman and travel to Dhanushkodi.
15 FEBRUARY — RAMESHWARAM → KUMBAKONAM
A long travel day through Tamil Nadu, with a visit to Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram.
Approximately 285 km / 6–7 hours.
16 FEBRUARY — KUMBAKONAM
Explore the sacred Navagraha Temples, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies, together with Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and other important temples.
17 FEBRUARY — KUMBAKONAM → TIRUVANNAMALAI
Travel to sacred Tiruvannamalai and Arunachala.
18 FEBRUARY — TIRUVANNAMALAI
Girivalam — the sacred circumambulation of Arunachala.
19 FEBRUARY — TIRUVANNAMALAI
Visit Arunachaleswarar Temple, entering the field of Agni — Fire, and experience the sacred presence of Arunachala.
A journey toward the Heart of Shiva.
20 FEBRUARY — TIRUVANNAMALAI
Visit Virupaksha Cave, Ramana Ashram and encounter Ananda Siddha.
A day dedicated to deepening the inner journey.
21 FEBRUARY — TIRUVANNAMALAI → VELLORE
Travel to Vellore.
Visit the Lakshmi Temple and Mahadeva Malai, with an opportunity to encounter the Siddha tradition.
22 FEBRUARY — VELLORE → KANCHIPURAM
Travel to Kanchipuram.
Visit Ekambareswarar Temple, associated with Prithvi — Earth, and Kamakshi Amman Temple.
23 FEBRUARY — KANCHIPURAM → CHENNAI
Return to Chennai, with the possibility of visiting Pallikondeshwara Temple at Surutupalli, where Shiva is traditionally depicted resting in the lap of Maa Parvati after consuming the poison of the Samudra Manthan.
OPTIONAL SHIRDI EXTENSION | February 24–27, 2027
A PILGRIMAGE INTO THE ESSENCE OF WHO YOU ARE
An optional extension to Shirdi, a sacred pilgrimage destination associated with the life and teachings of Sai Baba.
23 FEBRUARY — KANCHIPURAM → CHENNAI
Return to Chennai, with the possibility of visiting Pallikondeshwara Temple at Surutupalli, where Shiva is traditionally depicted resting in the lap of Maa Parvati after consuming the poison of the Samudra Manthan.
24 FEBRUARY — CHENNAI → SHIRDI
Flight to Shirdi and beginning of the final sacred passage of the journey.
25–26 FEBRUARY — SHIRDI
Days in Shirdi, immersed in the sacred atmosphere and spiritual presence of Sai Baba.
27 FEBRUARY — SHIRDI → DELHI
Flight to Delhi and departure.
Contact us for more information about.
CONSCIOUS CONTRIBUTION
Details & Pricing
MAIN PILGRIMAGE – SOUTH INDIA February 8 - 23, 2027
A Journey for A Select Few
To ensure an intimate and profound experience, space is limited. Each participant will be accompanied on a personal and collective process of awakening, healing, and reconnection with their own Soul.
Total Estimated Cost per Person:
- Twin-sharing accommodation, including domestic flights: €2,741
- Single accommodation, including domestic flights: €3,081
OPTIONAL SHIRDI EXTENSION February 24 - 27, 2027
A Journey for A Select Few
An optional extension to Shirdi, a sacred pilgrimage destination associated with the life and teachings of Sai Baba.
Contact us for more information about the price. Simply fill out the form below 💛
The above contribution does NOT include:
Any personal expenses like phone calls, laundry, drinks etc., camera fees, rickshaw rides in Varanasi or Puri, Airfare - (outside of the 3 sectors), any meals other than those mentioned in the includes section, any Abhishek or Pooja cost
*Anything else not mentioned in the include section.
** For more details on what’s included and what’s not included in the main pilgrimage price, please see the Q&A section below.
Contact us to join (LIMITED SPACE)
GUIDED BY SHIVA. HELD BY THE MOTHER.
We will journey through Mother India under the guidance of Shiva and the Mother.
Shiva as consciousness, presence, transformation and silence. The Mother as Earth, nourishment, life, matter and love.
The journey thus becomes an encounter between two great dimensions of existence:Spirit and Matter.
Shiva and Shakti.Heaven and Earth. Knowledge and experience.
And in between, there is us. Called to recognize that these forces are not merely archetypes or concepts.
They live within us.
FAQ
1. About the pilgrimage
What makes this pilgrimage different from a traditional tour?
Unlike a traditional tour, this pilgrimage is a journey of inner exploration, healing, and reconnection with your true essence.
Do I need previous experience with meditation or spiritual practices?
No prior experience is required. The program is designed to be accessible while allowing depth for those already familiar with this work.
What can I expect from the practices and experiences with Shivananda Swamiji?
Guided by Shivananda Swamiji, you will be invited into a deeper connection with yourself and the sacredness of each place we visit.
Through teachings, meditations, sacred practices, rituals, and darshan, you will be supported on your own unique journey of inner exploration, healing, and spiritual transformation.
2. Travel & Practical Information
Where should I fly, and are airport transfers arranged?
Arrival in Chennai International Airport (IATA code: MAA): https://www.goindigo.in/airport-directory/india/chennai-maa.html
All arrival and departure transfers are arranged.
Do I need a visa for India?
Yes, Standard Travelers must obtain either an e-Tourist Visa online before traveling or a regular paper tourist visa through an Indian Embassy or Consulate.
Types of Indian Tourist Visas
- e-Tourist Visa: Available in different validity periods:
- 30-day e-Tourist Visa: Double-entry (non-extendable).
- 1-year e-Tourist Visa: Multiple-entry (max stay of 180 days per calendar year).
- 5-year e-Tourist Visa: Multiple-entry (max stay of 180 days per calendar year).
Get your Visa HERE: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
Important Entry Rules
- Entry Points: e-Tourist Visas are only valid for arrival at designated international airports and seaports. You generally cannot enter via land borders with an e-Visa.
- e-Arrival Card: All foreign nationals should complete an online e-arrival card (such as via Indian Visa Online) shortly before arrival.
- Official Website: Always apply directly through the official India eVisa Portal to avoid third-party agency scams.
What accommodation and meals are provided?
- Main Pilgrimage: Accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis in Chennai, Pondicherry, Trichy, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kumbakonam, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore and Kanchipuram.
- Extended Shirdi option: Accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis in Shirdi for participants joining the optional extension.
3. Booking and participation
What is included in the pilgrimage price?
The pilgrimage package includes:
- All arrival and departure transfers.
- Accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis in Chennai, Pondicherry, Trichy, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kumbakonam, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore and Kanchipuram.
- Accommodation on a bed-and-breakfast basis in Shirdi for participants joining the optional extension.
- Ground transportation for all transfers, journeys and visits specified in the itinerary.
- All applicable taxes for the included services.
What is NOT included in the pilgrimage price?
The following expenses are not included in the pilgrimage package:
- International and domestic airfare (domestic flight estimates are provided separately).
- Lunches, dinners and any meals other than those specifically included.
- Personal expenses such as telephone calls, laundry, beverages and personal purchases.
- Camera or photography fees at temples and other locations.
- Rickshaw rides in Tiruvannamalai, Rameshwaram and Kumbakonam. These costs will be shared among participants at the time of travel.
- Abhishekam, Puja and other temple ceremonies or rituals.
- Tips and gratuities for drivers, guides and other staff.
- Any additional services or expenses not expressly mentioned under "What Is Included."
How do I reserve my place, and are payment plans available?
To reserve your place, simply fill out the form in the Pricing section above or email us at info@newlightcollective.com.
Payment plans are available. Feel free to contact us for more details, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
We understand that plans can sometimes change. If you need to cancel your participation, please contact us as soon as possible at info@newlightcollective.com.
Cancellation fees depend on how close to the departure date you cancel. Full details of our cancellation and refund policy will be provided before your booking is confirmed.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, please reach out. We'll be happy to assist you.
Can I join the pilgrimage if I am traveling alone?
Of course! You are very welcome to join us, even if you’re traveling on your own. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded people, share meaningful experiences, and make new connections along the way.
If you’re traveling alone, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help you find the best accommodation option.
Still have questions?
We understand that joining a pilgrimage to India is a meaningful decision, and you may have questions that are not answered here.
Please feel free to reach out through the contact form above. We’ll be happy to help you find the information you need.