Vedic astrology pilgrimage in India

Jyotish, or Vedic astrology, is known as the "science of light." This pilgrimage takes place during the brightest time of the Vedic year: in mid-January, the sun enters Capricorn and begins its six-month journey northward. In Tamil Nadu, this marks the beginning of the month of Thai, which has long been considered an ideal time for new beginnings. You will not only get to know the sun as a Graha, but also experience its transition, celebrated in the villages during the Pongal harvest festival.

Experience the nine Grahas firsthand

With yoga teacher and Jyotishi Lydia, you will encounter the nine planetary forces not just as theory, but through the temples dedicated to them, through rituals, and within yourself. No prior knowledge of Jyotish is required.

Highlights

• All nine Navagraha temples around Kumbakonam with a group ritual
• Full Abhishekam at the Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram
• Girivalam around the sacred Mount Arunachala and the caves of Ramana Maharshi
• Pongal festival with a local village community and a visit to a goshala
• Evening darshan with the dancing Shiva in Chidambaram
• Auroville and the UNESCO temples of Mahabalipuram

Daily guidance

Each day is supported by Integrated Himalayan Kriya, meditation, and mantras. In addition, there are Jyotish teaching sessions with Lydia and English-speaking guides at the temples. A contact person from Smukti will accompany the group throughout the entire journey.

Well-organized

You will stay in boutique and heritage hotels, enjoy purely vegetarian meals, and travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The group is limited to twelve people. January offers the most pleasant weather of the year in South India.

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Frequently asked questions

What can I expect on a spiritual journey?
You will experience nature, immerse yourself in a different culture, and visit sacred sites and places of pilgrimage. You will also engage in meditation, yoga, and energetic practices to help deepen your own spiritual practice.

Can I arrange a personal puja, an abhishekam, or an astrology session?
Yes, these can be organized with local priests or scholars upon request. These personal rituals are optional and intended for anyone who wishes to further deepen their journey.

Do I need any prior spiritual experience?
No. Some participants are just starting out, while others have been on this path for many years. All that matters is an open heart – we will meet you exactly where you are.

Day 1 – Arrival in Chennai

• Transfer from the airport to the hotel
• Orientation and opening circle with Lydia
• Welcome dinner

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Day 2 – Chennai

• A gentle first day to settle in
• Exploring Chennai

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Day 3 – Earth element in Kanchipuram

• Ekambareswarar Temple (Earth element)
• Abhishekam at the Kamakshi Amman Temple
• Visit to silk weavers and onward journey to Tiruvannamalai

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Day 4 – The sacred Arunachala mountain

• Ramana Ashram, Skanda Ashram, and Virupaksha Cave
• Evening Girivalam around the mountain

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Day 5 – Into the heart of Chola country

• Drive through rice paddies and villages to Kumbakonam (approx. 4 hours)
• Arrival at the heritage house in Swamimalai

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Day 6 – The nine Grahas

• All Navagraha temples with group ritual
• Jyotish workshop with Lydia

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Day 7 – Day of Silence

• A full day in a single temple
• Ritual, meditation, and silence

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Day 8 – Pongal

• Harvest festival with a village community
• Time for Jyotish, rest, or more temples

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Day 9 – The cosmic dance in Chidambaram

• Goshala visit for Pongal, optional stop in Vadalur
• Darshan at the Nataraja Temple (Space element)
• Drive to Auroville

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Day 10 – Auroville

• Matrimandir
• Discovering the international community

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Day 11 – By the sea in Mahabalipuram

• Free evening on the Bay of Bengal
• Farewell dinner and closing circle

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Day 12 – Shore Temple and departure

• UNESCO sites including the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Pancha Rathas
• Transfer to Chennai airport