For most people, India is an exotic destination filled with tigers, temples and the Taj Mahal. While this is true, India is also a very diverse land with varying terrain, cultures, food and languages (there are 22 official languages spoken in the sub-continent). The North with its palaces and deserts is vastly different than the South, which has lush tropical foliage, beaches, and towns which reflect their Dutch and Portuguese influences. It’s as if there are a multitude of “countries” within India’s borders.
Every time I go to India, I try to explore a different region. During my most recent trip, I ventured to Rishikesh, in the heart of the Himalayas. Although only a 45 min flight from New Delhi, Rishikesh is a haven for the nature lovers and the active adventurers. The air is fresh, the waters of the Ganges are crystal clear and you’re surrounded by the beauty of the lush mountains. It’s also the birthplace of yoga, so of course you’ll find a plethora of instructors, schools, and swamis. The International Yoga Festival is held here every March and brings in 2,000 attendees from over 100 countries.
I’m pretty adventurous myself, but I’m not in my 20s any longer so I wanted to ensure I came back home in one piece! My first priority was safety and picking a tour operator with a great reputation and a solid track record, so I selected Aquaterra Adventures and the Atali Ganga resort.