Yoga and meditation retreat
Experience authentic yoga and meditation in the world yoga capital — Rishikesh. Retreats here blend traditional Indian practices (Hatha, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Iyengar), pranayama, guided meditation and satsang with time beside the sacred Ganges. Most programs emphasize a sattvic vegetarian diet, daily yoga sessions, evening Ganga Aarti, and optional Ayurvedic therapies.
Who it suits: beginners to advanced practitioners, spiritual seekers, people wanting a digital detox, and those looking for stress relief and improved wellbeing.
Location
Ashrams and retreat centers along the Ganges (near Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Parmarth Niketan), Rishikesh, India
Duration
Typically 3–14 days (common packages: 3, 5, 7 and 14 days). Custom longer stays available.
Best Time to Visit
Best: September–November and February–April (pleasant weather, clear skies, ideal for outdoor sessions).
Good: December–January (cool mornings; bring warm layers).
Monsoon: June–September (heavy rains can disrupt outdoor activities; lower prices but expect humidity).
Pricing
Typical price ranges (subject to variation by season, teacher, and facilities):
- 3-day introductory: INR 8,000–15,000 (~USD 100–190)
- 5–7 day standard: INR 15,000–30,000 (~USD 190–380)
- 14-day comprehensive: INR 30,000–60,000 (~USD 380–760)
- Luxury/individualized programs (private teacher, high-end stay, Ayurveda): INR 60,000+ (~USD 760+)
Many centers include accommodation, three sattvic meals, daily classes and one or two excursions/activities. Ayurvedic treatments, airport transfers and private coaching are usually extra.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Daily yoga classes (Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, or Iyengar depending on center)
Guided pranayama (breathwork) and multiple daily meditation sessions
Evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni/Parmarth — a transformational river ceremony
Satsang and philosophy sessions (Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita, meditation techniques)
Opportunity for Ayurvedic massages, panchakarma, and detox treatments (additional cost)
Nature walks, short treks in the Shivalik foothills and river-side relaxation
Sattvic vegetarian meals prepared to support practice and detoxification
Access to experienced teachers and visiting Indian/International gurus
Itinerary
Arrival, check-in, orientation and light restorative yoga
Settle into accommodation, meet teachers, review program schedule and dietary preferences. Early nights recommended to recover from travel.
Morning pranayama and Hatha yoga session
Focus on breath awareness and gentle asanas; followed by sattvic breakfast.
Yoga philosophy workshop / yoga nidra
Intro to basics of yogic philosophy and a guided deep-relaxation session (yoga nidra).
Guided meditation and Ganga Aarti visit
Evening walking meditation and visit to Triveni Ghat or Parmarth for the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Morning dynamic or alignment-focused asana class; mid-morning tea; pranayama/meditation; afternoon workshop or optional Ayurvedic treatment; evening restorative practice and satsang
Intensity varies by program — beginners get alignment and foundational classes; advanced practitioners join more vigorous flows or teacher-training-level classes. Free time for journaling, river walks or massage.
Closing circle, light morning practice and departure
Final guidance for integrating practices at home, certificate handover (if applicable), and assistance with onward travel bookings.
Safety Requirements
Inform organizers about any chronic medical conditions, recent surgeries, pregnancy, or heart conditions before enrollment
Consult your physician before participating if you have cardiovascular, respiratory, or severe musculoskeletal issues
Stay hydrated; acclimatize to altitude and temperature changes (Rishikesh is at ~330 m but mornings can be cool)
Avoid extreme or advanced practices (inversions, pranayama retentions) without teacher clearance
Practice river safety: do not swim alone in the Ganges; follow local guidance at ghats
If taking Ayurvedic herbs or detox protocols, disclose all medications and allergies to the retreat’s medical consultant
Follow COVID-19 or other public-health guidelines in force; keep vaccination and necessary travel documents handy
Tips
Bring comfortable, modest yoga clothing and a lightweight shawl or sweater for cool mornings
Carry a reusable water bottle (filtered water usually provided) and basic personal medicines
Most centers provide mats — bring your own if you prefer a specific mat or props
Book in advance for popular months (Oct–Nov and Mar–Apr) and for visiting master teachers
Respect local customs: modest dress at temples/ashrams, remove shoes when required, ask before taking photos of others
Limit alcohol and non-sattvic foods during the retreat to get the full benefit
Plan an extra day before or after the retreat to explore nearby Beatles Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev, or short river-side hikes
Carry a government ID for registration (Indian nationals — Aadhar/PAN/Driving License; foreigners — passport)
