MAHĀYĀTRĀ
A SHIVA-SHAKTI PILGRIMAGE INTO THE HEART OF NON-DUAL TANTRA
SOUTH-INDIA PILGRIMAGE
TIRUANNAMALAI, KAMAKHYA
1ST - 12TH FEBRUARY 2027
About
The journey into South India is a life changing one. Captivating sacred sites, teachings, rituals, culture & devotion in the land of Shiva-Shakti and Tantric tradition.
This is a pilgrimage into some of the most powerful living spiritual landscapes of India, moving between the sacred mountain of Arunachala in Tamil Nadu and the tantric seat of Kamakhya in Assam.
A journey between Shiva and Shakti — stillness and power, consciousness and creation, silence and life.
The pilgrimage unfolds over 8 nights in Tiruvannamalai, at the foot of Arunachala — the Mountain of Fire, revered as the embodiment of Shiva. A place of deep silence and inner inquiry, it has drawn seekers for centuries in search of truth and liberation. Here we immerse ourselves in the rhythm of the sacred town, its temple culture, and the living presence of the mountain.
From Tamil Nadu, the journey continues to Kamakhya in Assam, where we spend 3 nights in the womb of the Goddess. One of the most important Shakti Peethas in India, Kamakhya is a living center of tantric tradition and the Divine Feminine.
Here Shakti is not a concept but a living presence — creative power, mystery, embodiment, and sacred life force.
We enter this space with respect, awareness, and openness.
Guwahati, where Kamakhya is located, was historically known as Pragjyotishpura, the “city of astrology,” and is considered an ancient center of Vedic astronomy and astrological tradition.
MEET YOUR fACILITATORS
Sara and Margherita met in India, and from the very beginning there was a natural sense of recognition and connection. What started as a simple encounter quickly unfolded into a deep bond of companionship, friendship, and sisterhood.
During a shared experience in India that they ultimately chose not to continue, they became each other’s support system, holding space, strengthening one another, and navigating a moment of transition with honesty and presence. From there, they made the decision to stay in India and continue the journey together.
They spent a month traveling through Tamil Nadu, moving between sacred sites, daily practices, rituals, and moments of exploration. That time became the foundation of their shared path, shaped by devotion, presence, and a deep immersion into the spiritual landscapes of South India.
What unites them is a common dedication to inner work, spiritual practice, and the sincere calling to guide others on their own paths of transformation. This retreat is an expression of that shared journey. An offering born from lived experience, connection, and devotion to the path.
MEET SARA
Sara, founder of Shakti Souls, is an international Yoga & Embodiment Teacher with over 1,000 hours of Yoga Teacher Training, specialising in elemental yoga, somatics, meditation, and Non-dual Shaiva and Shakta Tantra. Her work weaves together movement, ritual, philosophy, mantra, and embodied practice, creating spaces where ancient wisdom becomes a lived experience rather than simply something to be studied.
Over the past decade, Sara has devoted herself to the study of yoga, somatics, Bhakti, mantra, ritual, women's cyclical health, and the philosophical traditions of Tantra. Alongside her teaching, India has become an inseparable part of her own spiritual path.
Through regular pilgrimages across both North and South India, she has immersed herself in the diverse spiritual landscapes of the country. Along the way she has spent time in revered temples and ashrams, participating in daily pūjās, āratis and yagnas, and receiving teachings rooted in India's living lineages.
Among all the places she has visited, Tiruvannamalai became home long before it became familiar. Drawn by the presence of Arunachala and the living Shaiva tradition, she returns yearly to deepen her own sādhanā. Time spent sitting in silence within Virupaksha and Skandashram Caves, participating in temple worship, and studying alongside local teachers has profoundly shaped both her personal practice and the way she now guides others.
Alongside her work as a women's embodiment teacher, Sara has developed a deep devotion to the Shakta traditions and the worship of the Divine Feminine. Through pilgrimages to Devi temples across India, the stories of the Goddess, and years of study and practice, these living traditions have become an integral part of both her personal path and her teaching.
Mahāyātrā is born from a heartfelt desire to share the places, practices, and people that have transformed her own path. This is an invitation to walk these sacred landscapes not as tourists, but as seekers with humility, curiosity, devotion, and an open heart.
MEET MARGHERITA
Margherita is a Yoga and Meditation Teacher with over 500 hours of training in various yoga traditions and a facilitator of transformational journeys. Through her teachings, Margherita creates spaces where movement, breath, ritual, and ancient practices become pathways for self-discovery and inner transformation.
Over the years, Margherita has devoted herself to the study and practice of Yoga, Somatic practices, and Non-dual Tantra, integrating these teachings into her life, classes, and retreats. She is deeply inspired by ancient cultures, sacred symbolism, and the archetypes that carry timeless knowledge. Her path has also brought her into the mysteries of Ancient Egypt, where she was initiated into the teachings of Isis, an experience that continues to inspire her connection with the sacred feminine.
Her encounters with India have profoundly shaped the way she experiences yoga, devotion, and the sacred. Her first pilgrimage led her to the Himalayas, Rishikesh, Haridwar and Varanasi, where she immersed herself in the sacred rhythms of the Ganges through pujas, aartis, temples, and caves dedicated to meditation and contemplation.
Surrounded by the silence and power of the Himalayas, she experienced a profound connection with Shiva which later brought her to Tiruvannamalai in South India, where the presence of Arunachala deeply touched her heart and continues to call her back toward silence, devotion, and inner remembrance.
Her path has also been deeply shaped by Shakti traditions after having spent time in sadhana at numerous Shakti Peethas and Dasha Mahavidya temples in both India and Nepal. Through these experiences, her connection with the feminine archetypes has continued to unfold, weaving together the Indian Goddess traditions, the Mahavidyas, and the Egyptian mysteries of Isis and Nut. For Margherita, India is not only a place to visit, but a living teacher. A land where ancient wisdom comes alive and where she feels called to return and share these experiences with kindred souls.
MEET BODHI
Bodhi is a classical Tantra and Kundalini teacher, breathwork therapist, pranayama guide, and spiritual facilitator. He began his spiritual journey in 2006 through the practice of pranayama at the age of 15. Over the last 20 years, he has received teachings, practices, and initiations from different masters and lineages, deepening his path in yoga, breath, tantra, mantra, meditation, and inner transformation.
With an MSc in Yoga and Consciousness, Bodhi’s work is rooted in Shaiva and Shakta Tantra, Kundalini practices, Taoist energy work, pranayama, breathwork therapy, past life regression, and healing massage. Since 2019, he has been guiding thousands of men and women through trainings, retreats, sadhanas, and one-to-one sessions.
He has guided many people in different spiritual practices and sadhanas, including Das Mahavidyas, Kali Sadhana, Navratri Sadhana, and Mantra Sadhana. He has also led different teacher training courses related to Pranayama, Breathwork, Classical Tantra, and Kundalini, supporting students to deepen both their personal practice and their capacity to hold space for others.
His approach is grounded, experiential, and heart-centered. He creates a safe and sacred space where people can release old patterns, reconnect with their body and breath, awaken their life force, and return to their inner truth. Through his work, Bodhi invites people into deep healing, self-discovery, and conscious living.
ACCOMODATION
THE VENUES
In Tiruvannamalai we will stay in a quiet and supportive Retreat lodge set in close proximity to the sacred mountain of Arunachala. Surrounded by nature and simplicity, it offers a grounded environment for daily practice, rest, and deep immersion into the spiritual field of the town.
The space is designed to support inner focus and retreat life, allowing a natural balance between structured group activities, silence, and personal integration time.
In Guwahati we will stay in a comfortable and well-located base along the Brahmaputra River, within easy reach of the sacred hill of Kamakhya and its surrounding temple complex.
The accommodation offers a calm and restorative environment during a more intense energetic phase of the pilgrimage.
STEP INTO DEVOTION
EXPERIENCE POWERFUL TEMPLES
IMMERSE IN LOCAL CULTURE
Retreat Highlights & Inclusions:
8 nights accommodation in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, with breakfast and one additional meal per day
3 nights accommodation in Kamakhya, Assam, with breakfast included
Private minibus transport throughout the pilgrimage
Ceremonies, temple visits and sacred site immersions
Teachings, guided sessions and group practices throughout the journey
Daily practices and workshops: Traditional Kundalini, Vinyasa flow, Somatics
Ceremonies and evening kirtans
Philosophy sessions
Meditation, silence, and group integration circles
Continuous guidance throughout the pilgrimage
Teachings with living masters of Tiruvannamalai
Private pujas and yagnas
Arunachaleswarar Shiva elemental temple - Agni element, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Shiva Nataraja Temple and Thillai Amman in Chidambaram - Akasha element, Tamil Nadu
Thillai Kali Temple in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
Arunachala day trekking, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Ramana Maharshi’s ashram and meditation caves, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Dasha Mahavidya workshop
Kamakhya Temple aarti, Guwahati, Assam
Tantric circuit of the Mahavidyas on Nilachal Hill, Guwahati, Assam
Navagraha Temple, Guwahati, Assam
Umananda Ghat, Guwahati, Assam
What’s not included:
International flights
Domestic flights within India
Indian visa fees
Temple donations
Meals not included in the accommodation plan or taken outside the group lodge/arrangements
Travel and health insurance is strongly recommended and not included.
A Typical Day on Pilgrimage
CLICK ON EACH DAY BELOW
The daily schedule will remain fluid and may vary depending on the energy of the group and the natural rhythm of the journey.
No two days are exactly the same. Our rhythm will gently adapt according to temple schedules, ceremonies, visiting teachers, and the natural flow of pilgrimage. Some mornings begin before sunrise in the temples, while others invite a slower start with practice together at our lodge.
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MORNINGS:
Some mornings we'll rise before dawn to attend traditional pujas, aartis, abhiṣekams, and temple rituals at Tiruvannamalai's sacred temples and ashrams, experiencing the devotional rhythm of the town as it awakens.
On other mornings, we'll remain at our lodge for an intimate sādhanā led by us facilitators, weaving together movement, meditation, mantra, breathwork, and contemplative practice before sharing breakfast together.
AFTERNOONS:
Afternoons are devoted to pilgrimage and exploration. Together we'll visit sacred temples, meditation caves, ashrams, and places of profound spiritual significance, receiving teachings from swamis, priests, practitioners, and local guides who help bring these traditions to life.
Interwoven throughout the pilgrimage will be mythology, philosophy, storytelling, ritual, contemplation, and experiential practices, allowing each place to be understood not only historically, but as a living expression of the Tantric tradition. There will also be moments woven throughout the week to simply wander, rest, journal, or enjoy the atmosphere of Tiruvannamalai at your own pace.
EVENINGS:
Evenings invite a gentler rhythm. We'll return to the lodge to share dinner together, integrate the day's experiences, and gather for bhakti circles, mantra, reflection, meditation, or simply quiet time beneath the presence of Arunachala.
PILGRIMAGE TO CHIDAMBARAM:
One of the highlights of our pilgrimage is a full-day journey to Chidambaram, home to the revered Shiva Nataraja Temple, representing the Ākāśa (Ether) Element.
Here we'll participate in a private yajña and pūjā, receive teachings on the symbolism of Nataraja and the mystery of the Chidambara Rahasya, and immerse ourselves in one of India's most profound expressions of Shaiva philosophy.
We'll also visit the nearby Thillai Kali Amman Temple, honouring another powerful aspect of the Divine Feminine and completing a deeply symbolic day of pilgrimage.
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Fly with us from Chennai to Guwahati to immerse in one of India's most revered centres of Shakta Tantra.
DAYS AT KAMAKHYA:
Our days will be centred around Kamakhya Temple and the sacred landscape of Nilachal Hill. We'll participate in traditional rituals, pūjās, offerings, and ceremonies while receiving teachings on the Daśa Mahāvidyās, Tantric philosophy, and the unique significance of Kamakhya within sOUTH India's living spiritual traditions.
Because our time here is intentionally short, these days are more immersive and structured, allowing us to experience the temple and its surrounding sacred sites as deeply as possible.
EVENINGS:
Each evening we'll return to our accommodation to rest and integrate before gathering for dinner together, often at one of Guwahati's local restaurants, sharing conversation and reflection as we close each day of the pilgrimage.
WHO IS THIS PILGRIMAGE FOR?
A Journey for Serious Seekers
South India offers depth, expansion and transformation like no other. This pilgrimage is designed for those who genuinely feel called to explore India’s living spiritual traditions beyond spiritual tourism, exoticism or contemporary reinterpretations of Tantra.
The intention is not simply to visit sacred places, but to enter into a relationship with them. What matters most is sincerity, openness and a genuine curiosity of the heart.
To preserve the intimacy and spirit of this pilgrimage, participation is subject to a 15 minute introductory call and will be limited to 12 seekers.
This conversation is an opportunity for us to get to know one another, answer any questions you may have, and explore whether Mahāyātrā feels like the right pilgrimage for you. It is not about experience or spiritual achievement, but about ensuring there is a natural alignment between your intention and the spirit of the journey.
This calling may be for you if you:
ARE DRAWN TO TRADITIONAL TANTRA IN ITS ORIGINAL CONTEXT
BRING HUMILITY, OPENNESS AND SINCERE CURIOSITY
FEEL A CALL TOWARD SPIRITUAL EXPLORATION AND TRANSFORMATION
SEEK DEPTH OVER COMFORT AND ENTERTAINMENT
FEEL CALLED TO INDIAS LIVING SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS
VALUE DIRECT EXPERIENCE OVER CONCEPTS OR BELIEFS
PRICING & BOOKING PROCESS
With only 12 spots available, Mahāyātrā is intentionally intimate. An Early Bird rate is available for the first 5 confirmed bookings. To begin your application, simply click ‘Apply Now’ below. You'll be taken to WhatsApp, send us your interest request and we'll arrange your 15 minute Discovery Call.
Following our conversation, if we both feel the pilgrimage is the right fit, you'll receive your private booking link where you can choose either the Full Pilgrimage (including Kamakhya) or the Half Pilgrimage (only Tiruvannamalai).
Your place is secured with a 40% non-refundable deposit, with the remaining balance due 60 days before the pilgrimage begins.
By completing your booking, you acknowledge that you have read and agree and agreed to our Retreat Terms and Conditions.
EARLY BIRD PRICES:
Full PILGRIMAGE
€1880
Includes the complete journey:
✓ 1st - 12th February 2027
✓ Tiruannamalai + Kamakhya
✓ 11 nights/12 days accomodation
✓ All breakfasts & dinners (as listed)
✓ All transfers, temple visits & ceremonies
✓ Yoga, Meditation, Myth, Philosophy, Bhakti circles
HALF PILGRIMAGE
€1680
Includes only Tiruannamalai:
✓ 1st - 9th February 2027
✓ Full stay and program in Tiruannamalai only
✓ 8 nights/9 days accomodation
✓ Same inclusions as above
(Option to request single occupancy room in Tiruannamalai for +400 euro more)
REGULAR PRICES:
Full PILGRIMAGE
€2150
Includes the complete journey:
✓ 1st - 12th February 2027
✓ Tiruannamalai + Kamakhya
✓ 11 nights/12 days accomodation
✓ All breakfasts & dinners (as listed)
✓ All transfers, temple visits & ceremonies
✓ Yoga, Meditation, Myth, Philosophy, Bhakti circles
HALF PILGRIMAGE
€1950
Includes only Tiruannamalai:
✓ 1st - 9th February 2027
✓ Full stay and program in Tiruannamalai only
✓ 8 nights/9 days accomodation
✓ Same inclusions as above
(Option to request single occupancy room in Tiruannamalai for +400 euro more)
What This Journey Will Give You
A direct experience of India's living spiritual traditions
A deeper understanding of authentic Tantra and the Shiva–Shakti path
Daily meditation, mantra, ritual, and embodied practice
Teachings from respected teachers and living lineages
Sacred immersion in temples, pilgrimage sites, and places of profound significance
Greater devotion, clarity, and confidence in your own spiritual practice
Lifelong friendships and a supportive spiritual community
Timeless tools and insights to carry home long after the pilgrimage ends
You will leave with far more than memories. You will return home with practices, perspectives, and a deeper relationship to yourself, your path, and the living wisdom of India.
LOVE NOTES
SARAS’ STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“If you are looking for an incredible community and teacher then do yourself a favour and experience Shakti Souls Retreats. Sara is an absolute goddess in this practice and has a true gift to share. I am grateful for the transformative experiences I have had in so many ways.”
- Allana, Australia
“I highly recommend Shakti Souls. It is a divine space for healing and growth on all levels. Sara’s offerings are so empowering and transformative they leave me feeling limitless, curious and incredibly devoted to the spiritual path. Her love and devotion to the path of yoga is inspiring and shines through in all aspects of her teach“
- Janice, Spain
“Sara is the most profound facilitator I have ever experienced. She is truly gifted and effortlessly holds space for all walks of life. Her classes have transformed my relationship with my inner Self and have helped me see through many difficult times.”
- Joao, Portugal
MARGHERITAS STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“This retreat was truly transformative on many levels. It offered a rare space to slow down, reconnect deeply with myself, and step away from everyday patterns in a way that felt both gentle and powerful at the same time. I left with a greater sense of clarity, grounding, and connection — not only to myself, but also to something much larger. It was an experience that continued to integrate long after it ended, leaving a lasting imprint on my path.”
- Manuela, Italy
“This retreat did not ask me to transcend the body, only to return to it. To the breath beneath thought, to the pulse beneath effort, to the subtle currents that restore what the mind cannot. There was nothing to force, nothing to become, only something quieter to notice, and to love.”
- Theo, Egypt
“Margarita is a generous, powerful, and deeply devoted soul — for holding and co-creating this sacred space with such presence, sensitivity, and strength. Through her guidance, wisdom, and embodied teaching, she allowed each of us to safely soften, open, and meet the deeper layers of ourselves. This was not just a journey, but a true initiation — a space where transformation could unfold naturally, where sisterhood was felt deeply, and where the invisible became tangible through shared presence, ritual, and awareness.”
- Marta, Italy
BODHIS’ STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“Working with Bodhi has been truly life changing. I came to breathwork carrying stress, grief, burnout, and a deep sense of disconnection. Through Bodhi's compassionate guidance, especially during the chakra sessions, I found a way back to myself. I react less, sit comfortably in silence, remember to use my breath when life gets challenging, and stay calm in stressful situations. I even find myself smiling more. I'm deeply grateful to Bodhi for creating such a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. I wholeheartedly recommend this journey to anyone seeking greater peace, balance, and connection.”
- Ranah, Spain
“My first session with Bodhi was so informative and inspiring that I knew I wanted to continue. His practical and simple approach has helped me become more connected to my body, feel more grounded, and reconnect with my creativity and personal practice. I truly appreciate your generous heart, the way you share your knowledge so openly, and your caring and supportive nature. I am truly grateful to have met you on my spiritual journey and for the opportunity to continue learning and growing through your guidance..
- Hansa, Mauritius
“Bodhi is a very kind and knowledgeable teacher. I’ve learned so much in his course and truly enjoyed every moment of it. He gives everyone the space to learn, encourages questions, and makes sure everyone feels heard. That makes the experience truly special.”
- Claudia, Germany
FAQ’S
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Mahayatra means “The Great Journey.”
Beyond the external pilgrimage through the sacred landscapes of India, it represents an inner journey of transformation, devotion, self-discovery, and connection. Throughout this experience, we are invited to explore ancient wisdom, deepen our spiritual practices, and cultivate a deeper relationship with ourselves, with others, and with the sacred.
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Yes - The journey includes both external exploration; immersing yourself in the culture, sacred sites, temples, landscapes of India and dedicated time for inner practice.
Each day there will be opportunities for Sadhana and teachings within our accommodations, including philosophy, meditation, bhakti, mantra practices, asana and other spiritual teachings led by each of us.
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The Mahayatra journey will be a small and intimate experience, with a maximum of 12 participants plus your teachers and guides. Keeping the group small allows us to create a deeper sense of connection, support, and community throughout the journey, while also offering space for personal experiences and meaningful interactions.
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You can apply for your Indian e-Tourist Visa through the official government portal here: Indian e-Visa official portal
We recommend applying in advance to ensure your visa is approved before your departure date.
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Your private transfer to Tiruvannamalai will depart from Chennai Airport on February 1st at 9:00 AM.
If you are joining the full retreat, the journey will conclude at Guwahati Airport. From there, you can take your flight back home or continue your travels in India.
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A private transfer will take you from Chennai Airport to the first retreat venue in Tiruvannamalai on February 1st. The same arrangement will be provided at the end of the journey, with a private transfer to Guwahati Airport on February 12th.
You will receive all necessary information before arrival, ensuring a smooth and supported experience from the moment you land.
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Yes, we recommend carrying some cash with you during the journey.
While many places accept cards, having cash available can be helpful in smaller local places, markets, temples, or in situations where access to payment machines may be limited.
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There is no requirement to wear traditional Indian clothing.
However, when visiting temples and sacred sites, we kindly ask participants to dress respectfully according to local customs.
This includes avoiding black clothing, wearing comfortable and loose-fitting clothes, covering the shoulders, and wearing pants, skirts, or dresses that extend below the knees.
We also recommend bringing clothing that allows you to comfortably participate in meditation, ceremonies, yoga, and spiritual practices.
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Yes - Before the journey, we will send you a detailed packing list with practical recommendations.
You will also be added to a dedicated WhatsApp group where you will receive important updates, travel information, reminders, and ongoing support before and during the retreat.
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Yes - Although this is a guided pilgrimage with a full program of experiences, teachings, and visits to sacred places, there will also be dedicated free time.
These moments are an important part of the journey, allowing you to rest, integrate your experiences, connect with other participants, explore your surroundings, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere of India.
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Single room accommodation may be available upon request only for the stay in Tiruannamalai and depending on availability. If you would like to have a private room, please let us know in advance when applying and we will provide the available options and any additional cost.
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Meals included in the journey will be nourishing and vegetarian based.
We recommend approaching meals with openness while respecting your own dietary needs. Please inform us in advance about any allergies or dietary requirements.
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We strongly recommend having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, travel interruptions, lost luggage, and any unexpected situations during your journey.
Having appropriate insurance allows you to travel with greater peace of mind and fully enjoy the experience.
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The journey is open to participants with different levels of physical ability.
However, traveling through India may involve walking, early mornings, changes in routine, and visits to sacred places where some physical activity is required.
We recommend coming with a flexible mindset, comfortable walking shoes, and an openness to embrace the rhythm of the journey.
