Raaga Taala Retreat – Creative Karma

Raaga Taala Retreat 2026

Raaga Taala Retreat and the extended tour, this year we are moving to a new city and the new venue for a totally new experience. As we are committed to bring the best for our participants this year we will host the event at a majestic “Umaid Palace” in Dausa, Rajasthan. Please find below all the information and see the attached application form and presentation document :

The 9th edition of Raaga Taala Retreat will be held from 14th to 5th March 2026 at Umaid Palace – A Lakeside Resort Dausa, Rajasthan. The Palace was built in 1970’s designed under the personal supervision of Thakur Umaid Singh Rathore of Peelwa belonging to the legendary warrior clan of Champawat Rajput’s, originating from the Marwar region near the blue town of Rajasthan, ‘Jodhpur’. The palace is spread over a twenty-acre organic farm, overlooking the rain water reservoir at Village Kalakho, District Dausa. This was once the favorite hunting retreat of the Peelwa family, offering a peek into their legacy. The seven days Retreat is focused on Music/Dance/Yoga and the rich heritage and culture of India. We have Kathak and Bollywood Dance, Sitar and instrumental music, Tabla and Vocal faculty available. Participants can choose any of these faculties to learn and participate for the entire week, every morning there will be Yoga and meditation classes to start your day in a perfect way. The music/dance classes/workshops will be held every single day apart from the day and time of excursions.

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Every afternoon and evening there will be concerts by different artists from India and abroad and a lot of sightseeing to monuments, palaces and local markets in and around Dausa and Jaipur. We will also have Village safari, sunrise concert at the historical monument and much more….

The cost for seven days of Raaga Taala Retreat is 1180 Euros/1020 Pounds/1390 USD for a double sharing room and 1450 Euros/1295 Pound/1765 USD for a single occupancy room. The package includes your stay at the majestic Umaid Palace, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), yoga/meditation classes, all the music/dance classes/workshops, sightseeing, entries to monuments, Jeep Safari, local transportation, airport pick up and drop from Jaipur.

Please see some videos links below :

Here are some video links to give you the glimpse of the last 8 year’s Retreat :

For more information visit our website – www.creativekarma.net/raaga-taala-retreat

For more videos, you can visit our YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCklB1ZomvzY9lQZ5Krx83Cg

Facebook page – facebook.com/raagataalaretreat

After the Retreat, we are also organising an additional 11-night and 12-day Timeless India Tour Tour which will be a journey through India’s cultural Soul, please see all the details below :

🎶 Raaga Taala – Timeless India Tour 2026
“7 Cities. 12 Days. A Journey Through India’s Cultural Soul.”
Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Gwalior, Orchha, Khajuraho, Lucknow, Varanasi

Embark on a rich, immersive journey through India’s musical, spiritual, and architectural heritage. From the sacred ghats of Varanasi to the marble splendor of the Taj Mahal, the Raaga Taala Tour invites you to experience the rhythm of India in its most vibrant form. Each city offers a unique soundscape — of temple bells, folk songs, and ancient chants — woven with history, artistry, and soul.

Itinerary Overview

📍 Day 1: Dausa to Agra (21st February 2026) Dausa — Fatehpur Sikri – Agra (APPROX 2.5-3 Hrs DRIVE)

After the fantastic week at the Raaga Taala Retreat we will leave after breakfast for Agra, On the way, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the Phantom city or abandoned city built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in the second half of the 16th century. Arrive in Agra, check into the hotel and relax for some time. Overnight stay at Hotel in Agra.

📍 Day 2: Agra (22nd February 2026)

Visit with sunrise, The 7th Wonder of the World – TAJ MAHAL is awaiting your arrival today morning. A must see with the rising sun as the Taj Mahal is bathed in the golden rays of the morning sun. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial that has the tomb of his beautiful wife Mumtaj Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. After breakfast, see the Agra Fort soaking in their grandeur and history. Built by Akbar where Shahjahan’s own son Aurangzeb imprisoned Shahjahan. After lunch take some rest and in the evening we will go for Taj Nature Walk: Enjoy a peaceful walk in the Taj Nature Walk and get a different view of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna river. Dinner and overnight stay in Agra

📍 Day 3: Agra to Gwalior (23rd February 2026)
Morning after breakfast early departure for Gwalior. Travel Time: Agra to Gwalior – 4 to 5 hours (~260 km). Afternoon arrival in Gwalior, check-in to your hotel in Gwalior and freshen up. Lunch at your hotel or a local restaurant.

Evening:
Jai Vilas Palace: Visit this stunning palace and explore its museums and vintage car collection.
Sarafa Bazaar: Head to the local market for crafts, jewelry, and local delicacies.

📍 Day 4: Gwalior Exploration (24th February 2026)

Morning after breakfast at your hotel and visit to Gwalior Fort: Visit the majestic Gwalior Fort, known for its impressive architecture and rich history. Explore Man Mandir Palace, Saas Bahu Temples, and Gupta Temple. Teli Ka Mandir: Visit this ancient temple known for its stunning architecture and scenic views of Gwalior.

Lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch visit Gopachal Rock-Cut Jain Monuments. Gopachal Jain Colossi also called Gop Parvat Jaina Monuments are a group of gigantic and large proportionate Jain rock-cut carvings dated to between the 14th and 15th centuries. Later visit to the tomb of the greatest Indian Musician Tansen, one of the nine gems of Akbar’s court. An extraordinary musician who had an ability to conjure rain or ignite fire by singing certain Raagas. Evening relax at your hotel.

📍 Day 5: Orcha – Hidden Gem of Madhya Pradesh (25th February 2026)

Nestled along the banks of the Betwa River, Once the capital of the Bundela Kings, Orchha is home to stunning temples, palaces, and forts that are marvels of Bundeli architecture. The town’s majestic Jahangir Mahal, a palace built for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, stands as a testament to the opulence of the era. Its elaborate carvings, stunning courtyards, and expansive views of the Betwa River are sure to leave you in awe.

Morning: Travel from Gwalior to Orchha (Approx. 3 hours | 120 km by car). Afternoon: Visit Raj Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, and Jahangir Mahal, offering panoramic views of the Betwa River.Evening: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Betwa River, taking in the stunning architecture of the temples and palaces from a unique perspective.

📍 Day 6: Orchha to Khajuraho (26th February 2026)

Morning after breakfast and departure for Khajuraho.
Travel Time: Gwalior to Khajuraho – 3 to 4 hours (180 km). Lunch on the way.
Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel in Khajuraho and freshen up. Late afternoon visit Western Group of Temples: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temples, famous for their detailed erotic sculptures. Sound and Light Show: Attend this cultural performance to learn about the history of Khajuraho’s temples. Dinner at your hotel and overnight stay in Khajuraho.

📍 Day 7: Khajuraho Exploration (27th February 2026)

Morning after breakfast at your hotel Eastern Temples: Visit the Eastern Group of Temples, which are quieter and also feature exquisite architecture and sculpture. After visiting Khajuraho Museum: Explore the museum dedicated to the art and history of the temples. Lunch at the local restaurant.

After lunch, visit Raneh Falls, a beautiful waterfall with a canyon. Raneh Falls is more than just a waterfall; it’s a stunning showcase of nature’s artistic prowess. Formed by the Ken River, also known as the Karnavati River, this natural wonder features a 5-km-long canyon composed of pure crystalline granite in varying shades of pink, red, and grey.

Evening explore Local Crafts: Visit local markets for souvenirs and traditional stone carvings. Dinner at your hotel and over night stay in Khajuraho

📍 Day 8: Khajuraho to Lucknow (28th Feb 2026)

Early breakfast at your hotel in Khajuraho.Depart for Lucknow by road.
Distance: ~300 km, drive time: approx. 6–7 hours.
Optionally, stop for tea or lunch in Mahoba or Banda along the way.

Afternoon:
Arrive in Lucknow and check into your hotel. Freshen up and relax after the long drive.
Late Afternoon: Begin your exploration with the city’s historic highlights: Bara Imambara – Explore the grand Mughal-era structure and its famous Bhool Bhulaiya (maze). Rumi Darwaza – The 60-foot gateway often called the “Turkish Gate.” Hussainabad Clock Tower (optional stop nearby).

Evening: Head to the Chowk area for a cultural and culinary dive. Visit traditional chikan (embroidery) and ittar (perfume) shops. Taste legendary Tunday Kababi and Awadhi delicacies like galawati kebabs, sheermal, and kormas.

📍 Day 9: Lucknow Exploration (1st March 2026)

Morning after breakfast at your hotel visit:

Chota Imambara – Stunning interiors with Belgian chandeliers. La Martiniere College (exterior only unless guided access arranged) – A unique Indo-European structure.
Residency Complex – A poignant reminder of the 1857 First War of Independence.
Afternoon Lunch at a heritage café or a modern Awadhi restaurant like Oudhyana or Falaknuma (hotel-based fine dining).

Optional relaxing walk in Gomti Riverfront Park or visit the Ambedkar Memorial Park for modern architecture.

Evening: Final stroll through Hazratganj Market for last-minute shopping – bookstores, crafts, and vintage shops. Try some kulfi, paan, or Lucknowi sweets before you wrap up your day. Overnight: Stay in Lucknow.

Midday:

📍 Day 10: Lucknow to Varanasi (2nd March 2026)

Morning after breakfast in Lucknow depart from Lucknow to Varanasi.
Distance: ~320 km : Drive time: Approx. 5–6 hours. Scenic route along the Ganga plains. Take short breaks for tea and snacks.
Afternoon:
Check-in at your Varanasi hotel and freshen up and take some rest after the long journey.

Evening:
Explore the Ghats along the Ganga River:
Walk through the narrow lanes and ancient markets that line the ghats, where local rituals, prayers, and daily life unfold before your eyes.
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat – One of the most memorable experiences in Varanasi. Hundreds of devotees and tourists gather to witness the grand evening aarti, where priests perform a synchronized ceremony with fire, chants, and offerings to the river.

📍 Day 11: Varanasi – Sunrise Boat Ride and Temple Exploration (26th February 2025)

Early Morning:

Sunrise fire puja and music concert at Assi Ghat followed by a Boat Ride on the holy river Ganga: Start your day with peaceful and spiritual rituals and a boat ride along the Ganges River at sunrise. Witness the beautiful rituals, the morning aarti, and the iconic ghats bathed in the soft light of the rising sun.

Breakfast at your hotel and rest. Go out for lunch at the local restaurant. After lunch visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the spiritual aura of the temple. Visit more local temples, stroll through Kashi Vishwanath area, shop at Malliak Ghat market for Banarasi Silk Sarees..

Early evening visit Manikarnika Ghat: Visit Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred and busiest cremation ghats in Varanasi. The sight of ongoing cremation rituals might be intense, but it offers an important glimpse into the sacred cycle of life and death in the city. Watch as the ritual of antyesti (last rites) is performed, and feel the deeply spiritual connection that the city has with death and rebirth.

Ganga Aarti (Optional): If you’re still up for another aarti experience, you can head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the larger, more elaborate Ganga Aarti. It’s a more energetic and vibrant event, often filled with thousands of devotees and tourists. You can choose to enjoy both aartis if time allows.

Dinner: End your day with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Ganga, such as Varanasi Rooftop Café or Shree Cafe, and try local favorites like Banarasi Lassi or Chena Murg.

📍 Day 12: Varanasi – Sarnath

After breakfast proceed for a visit to Sarnath, a world UNESCO world heritage site. Sarnath where Gautama Buddha gave his first preaching to his five disciples after attaining enlightenment. Places to see in Sarnath include Dhamakeh Stupa, Dharamrajika Stupa, Ashokan pillar, Votive Stupas, old Buddhist monasteries and a museum of Sarnath. Once done with the visit proceed back to the hotel and in the evening go out again for the sunset boat ride and visit to the various Ghats. Back to hotel dinner and overnight stay in Varanasi.

📍 Day 13: End of Tour (5th March 2025)

After breakfast check out and proceed to departure from Varanasi for your next destination or return flight.

PRICE PER ADULT For 12 Night 13 Days Raaga Taala Timeless India Tour –

Double occupancy – Euro 1450/Pounds 1250/USD 1710 Per Person
Single occupancy – Euro 1850/Pounds 1595/ USD 2175 Per Person

Tour Highlights

🏛️ Architectural Marvels & Historic Sites

Taj Mahal (Agra)
Sunrise visit to the 7th Wonder of the World, a stunning white marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Explore the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once housed the Mughal Empire’s power.
Enjoy the Taj Nature Walk, offering peaceful views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River.
Fatehpur Sikri (Agra)
Visit the abandoned Mughal capital, including the Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid, showcasing Akbar’s reign and architectural grandeur.
Gwalior Fort
Explore Gwalior Fort, one of India’s most impressive hill forts, with Man Mandir Palace, Saas Bahu Temples, and Teli Ka Mandir.
Visit the tomb of Tansen, the legendary musician of Akbar’s court, famous for his ability to influence nature with his raagas.
Raj Mahal & Jahangir Mahal (Orchha)
Explore Orchha’s historical palaces and temples, including the Jahangir Mahal, offering panoramic views of the Betwa River.
Khajuraho Temples
Visit the Western Group of Temples with intricate sculptures depicting erotic art and Hindu mythology.
Explore the quieter Eastern Temples and the Khajuraho Museum.

🎵 Musical Heritage

Tansen’s Tomb (Gwalior)
Pay homage to Tansen, a master of Hindustani classical music, at his tomb. His raagas were believed to have magical properties like summoning rain or fire.
Sarnath (Varanasi)
Visit Sarnath, the Buddhist site where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon, adding a spiritual dimension to the musical heritage of India.

🌿 Spiritual Immersion

Varanasi Ghats & Ganga Aarti
Experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges, where ancient rituals and vibrant life unfold before you.
Witness the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, an iconic, synchronized ceremony honoring the sacred river.
Manikarnika Ghat (Varanasi)
Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, the busiest cremation ghat in Varanasi, to observe the sacred cycle of life and death, offering a deeply spiritual experience.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi)
Explore the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, a sacred site for Hindus for thousands of years.

🌍 Cultural & Culinary Delights

Lucknow
Discover the rich Awadhi culture with visits to the Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, and Rumi Darwaza.
Taste world-famous Tunday Kebabs, Galawati Kebab, Sheermal, and more in the bustling streets of Chowk.
Orchha
Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Betwa River, offering unique views of the palaces and temples.
Explore Sarafa Bazaar in Gwalior for local crafts and delicious street food.
Khajuraho Market
Visit local markets for souvenirs, traditional stone carvings, and local handicrafts.

🏞️ Natural Beauty & Peaceful Retreats

Raneh Falls (Khajuraho)
Experience the stunning Raneh Falls, a natural wonder with pink, red, and grey granite canyons formed by the Ken River.
Taj Nature Walk (Agra)
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Taj Nature Walk, offering an alternative and tranquil view of the Taj Mahal, especially at sunrise.

🗺️ Rich History & Unique Sites

Jai Vilas Palace (Gwalior)
Explore the opulent Jai Vilas Palace, home to a vast collection of vintage cars and historical artifacts.
Sarnath (Varanasi)
Visit Sarnath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, adding spiritual depth to the tour.

This tour is designed to not only showcase India’s architectural grandeur and musical heritage but also immerse you in its spiritual and cultural soul. It’s an unparalleled journey through history, art, music, and divine landscapes.

🏨 Balanced Itinerary

Smooth pacing with a mix of exploration and relaxation.
Curated local meals and comfortable hotel stays.
The Raaga Taala Timeless India Tour 2026 is a personalized blend of India’s architectural marvels, heritage, spirituality, music, and nature, designed to provide an enriching, immersive experience of India’s soul.
Dates – 21st Feb to 5th March 2026
Cities in the tour include:
Fatehpur Sikri/ Agra/ Gwalior / Orchha / Khajuraho / Lucknow/ Sarnath / Varanasi

HOTELS –

Agra – Hotel Clarks Shiraz Or Sarovar Premiere Or Similar hotel
Gwalior – Hotel Clarks Inn Suite Or Krishnakant Heritage or Deo Bagh or Similar
Orchha – Lemon Tree Or Orchha Palace Or Bundeli Kothi or Similar
Khajuraho- Hotel The Lalit/ Clarks Inn or Isabel Palace or Similar
Lucknow – Hotel Fortune Park BBD Or Regenta Central Or Clarks Avadh or Similar
Varanasi – Hotel Ramada Plaza or The Clarks or Similar

INCLUSIONS :

Arrival and departure assistance.
Chauffeur driven AC vehicle throughout the journey.
Accommodation on Single and Double occupancy Basis.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Accompany language guide.
Entrance to the monuments.
Cultural program in Varanasi.
Boat ride in Varanasi.

EXCLUSIONS –

Any expenses of personal nature.
Tips to the driver, guides etc.
Visa
Flight
Train or bus
Laundry
Non Alcoholic and Alcoholic Beverages
Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

PRICE PER PERSON
EUROS/USD/POUND
NOTE
BEDDING
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
€1,850/$2,175/£1,595
PRIVATE ROOM FOR ONE PERSON
1 KING OR QUEEN SIZE BED
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
€1,450/$1,710/£1,250
ROOM FOR TWO PEOPLE IN A ROOM
DOUBLE BED
( KING SIZE ) OR TWIN BEDS ( TWO SEPARATE BEDS )

The cost for seven days of Raaga Taala Retreat for Indian participants is INR 90,000/- plus GST for a double-sharing room and INR 1,15,000 plus GST for a single occupancy room. For a single day – INR 13,500 plus GST for a double-sharing room and INR 17,000 plus GST for a single occupancy room.

The package includes your stay at the majestic Umaid Palace in Dausa and Jai Niwas Palace in Jaipur, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), yoga/meditation classes, all the music/dance classes/workshops, sightseeing, entries to monuments, Jeep Safari, local transportation, airport pick up and drop from Jaipur.

Evening concert ticket Rs. 2000 (including dinnner)

Afternoon concert ticket Rs. 1,200/- (with high tea)

For any further assistance feel free to reach us anytime. Thank you.