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About Ruby

Ruby founded Bhavana Experiences in 2019, after years of personal growth through her travels. Over the years, her journeys have transformed her emotionally, intellectually, and more recently, spiritually. No matter how much she travels, she is always in awe and often left speechless by the new experiences that await her. India, in particular, holds a special place in her heart. The country’s constant novelty and ever-changing experiences keep her excited, as no two days are ever the same. Ruby is eager to share this dynamic and transformative journey with you through Bhavana Experiences.

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Why Bhavana Experiences?

Ruby set up Bhavana Experiences because of her deep love for travelling to India and her desire to introduce others to this incredible place. Bhavana, in the ancient Sanskrit language, means to feel or to cultivate. Ruby's goal is to create guided tours in India where guests feel safe and comfortable, allowing them to relax and fully absorb the magic of India.

From the moment you engage with Bhavana Experiences online to the moment you step off the plane in India, Ruby and her team will be with you every step of the way. She hopes that experiencing India through Bhavana Experiences will broaden your horizons and open your mind.

Kerala backwaters rice fields

Inspiration 

The idea to organise group tours in India came to Ruby in early 2019 when her family visited her in India. She organised an overland tour from Mumbai to Kochi, a budget 'shoestring' adventure that pushed them out of their comfort zones. Most of her family had never visited India before, and the trip was filled with many first-time experiences.

They rode Indian trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws. On the Indian railway, Ruby's dad was so busy chatting with fellow travellers that they nearly lost him. The night buses were bumpy and lacked toilets, but somehow, they all managed to get a fairly good night’s sleep, and the experience was thrilling. Their hotels were basic, but as Ruby assured her family, "It was just a bed!" Most of their time was spent out and about, exploring, trying Indian food, visiting heritage sites, and immersing themselves in Indian culture.

About Our Tours

The India tours offered by Bhavana Experiences aim to bridge the gap between group tours and independent travel. Founder Ruby (she) designed the tours to provide a balance of adventure and comfort, staying in 3-star hotels and travelling only by air-conditioned trains, private mini-buses, or auto-rickshaws. Trains, in particular, offer the freedom to walk around, with toilets and food services onboard. Ruby believes that Indian trains are a fantastic way to experience the country, and since she loves travelling by train in India, she feels that no trip to India would be complete without at least one train ride.

The founder of Bhavana Experiences in Gokarna, Karnataka

What makes our tours unique?

The founder of Bhavana Experiences in Rishikesh

The tour itineraries at Bhavana Experiences are based on experiences Ruby has already had and loved. Throughout her travels, she has met many Indian and foreign travellers, picking up numerous tips on places to see, things to eat, and where to go. This knowledge is reflected in the tours of India. While the tours include some popular tourist destinations, wherever possible, they will also take you off the beaten track for a more authentic experience.

In addition to the personalised itineraries, Bhavana Experiences offers a fully supported way of travelling. From the moment you enquire, to booking and preparing for your trip, and arriving in India, Ruby guides you through the entire process, living by the motto "There are no silly questions."

Once the group is confirmed, a WhatsApp group is created where you can connect with your fellow travellers and receive preparation tips and information from Ruby. Detailed visa application instructions, a packing list, and plenty of handy tips for what to expect during your time in India will be provided. The pre-tour support offered by Bhavana Experiences sets it apart from larger companies, providing a fully supported and guided experience from the moment you contact us.

The care and support provided have been highly praised by past participants, and the community of travellers created is something Bhavana Experiences takes great pride in. Many past groups regularly meet up for reunion gatherings, and the friendships formed on Bhavana Experiences tours are truly special.

The founder of Bhavana Experiences in Wayanad

Bhavana Experiences
 collaboration

To ensure that the tours of India run smoothly, Bhavana Experiences works with an experienced Indian travel agent and group leader, Paul, who has been in the tourism industry in India for over 25 years. So far, Bhavana Experiences has completed 11 tours of India and hosted over 75 individuals, with several repeat visitors. To help you budget appropriately, almost everything is included in the cost of the tours, except for a few meals and optional activities.

You can continue reading about Bhavana Experiences over on Wise here.

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