Rishikesh & Himalayas Retreat 2027

 

Are the teachers well-qualified?

All teachers are highly qualified with years of experience in practicing yoga, meditation and breath work .

 

Will language be my barrier as English is not my first language? Absolutely no, all students are coming from different parts of the world, so English is likely the second language they spoke. The courses are very easy to understand and the teachers will help you with everything.

 

Is the food suitable for vegans?

Food served at our Yogshala is 100% vegetarian, not vegan. If you have a special diet or any kind of health issue then you need to inform us before your arrival so our chef can prepare food for you.

 

What food is served?

 Three fresh, sattvic vegetarian meals daily. Emphasis on prana-rich foods including fruits, vegetables, rice, daal, mild spices. Ideal for cleansing, rejuvenation, and mental clarity. All meals are nourishing, and locally sourced. We accommodate most dietary preferences with prior notice, including vegan and gluten-free options.

 

Do I have to worry about Malaria?

In Rishikesh, there is a very low risk of one's having malaria. So you shouldn't worry about taking any vaccination, if you want you can bring mosquito repellents, lotions, etc.

 

What are the main hiking destinations?

•  Deoria Tal (2 438 m) - lake trek
•  Tungnath Temple (3 470 m) & optional plus depending on the weather Chandrashila (3 690 m)
•  Kartik Swami Temple (3 050 m)
•  Cultural and spiritual visits: Ganga Aarti, DevPrayag, Dhaari Devi Temple & Saari village walk

 

Weather in Rishikesh & Recommended Clothing?

Depending on the season you are joining us:

December-January is the coldest month, the temperature in the day can be 12-20 degrees, and at night it can go down 7-12 degrees, as we do not provide room heaters, so if you are joining the course from December-early till February end we recommend you bring warm clothes.

 

February and March are not too cold or hot as it's the ending month of winter and the start of summer. So it's good to travel in a normal jacket or windcheater with other clothes.

 

April to July is hot weather - light cotton and breathable clothes are recommended, as the temperature can rise to 40 degrees.

 

August to September is the rainy season. Still, if you plan to come during these months umbrellas/raincoats are recommended or you can buy them from the local market. 

 

October and November are again the ends of the rainy season and the start of winter cold and woollen clothes, jackets, etc. are recommended.

 

If you are joining us for the Himalayan retreat then we recommend you bring some warmer pants (so not only leggings) because it can get quite chilly at in the night and mornings. please bring a windproof jacket (windcheater). We will be hiking in the mountains, where the weather can change quickly.

 

Which Type of visa do I need to apply for?

You should apply for a tourist visa as it is easy and granted by the Indian embassy in a short period, the purpose of visiting India should be yoga retreats or Ayurveda retreats. Students may give our school address as well as a contact number for Indian reference. Contact details for the Indian embassy in your country can be found. In general order, the visa expiry date is counted from the day visa is issued. Please verify it with the concerned embassy. To avoid a last-moment mess try to apply for your visa at least 2 to 3 weeks before your travel date.

 

What should I bring with me?

Most of the general items you will need during your stay in India can be easily found in the nearby shops or the Rishikesh market. What we suggest you bring is any specialty item that you can't live without, like a specific personal care item or favourite snack from your country.

 

Packing List – what to carry?

• Mandatory documents: ID-Proof like Aadhaar, Drivers license or passport (original and photocopy).
• Backpack for the day hikes and hiking shoes
• Rain gears
• Warm layers of clothes: three layers for spring season (after april), four layers for autumn, five layers for winter
• Three T-shirts and two quick dry trek pants
• Snacks/medical kit/toiletries
• Trekking poles and headlamp (non-obligatory)
• caps (sunprotection/warm one)/sunglasses/optional towel/woolen socks/gloves/balaclava or neck gaiter/sunscreen lotion/moisturizer/lip balm/toilet tissues/sanitary napkins
• You can bring your own yogamat for hygiene reasons and to feel comfortable, but mats are also provided
• All the mentioned items are non-obligatory and only a guideline. You know yourself and your needs (related to cold etc.) best. Please bring your own water bottle so you can refill it with filtered and fresh mountain water!

 What's included in the retreat?

9 days / 8 nights combining ashram and mountain accommodation

 Daily guided yoga and cleansing practices

 Guided hikes to Himalayan sites including Deoria Tal, Tungnath & optional Chandrashila, Kartik Swami, and spiritual sites like DevPrayag, Dhaari Devi Temple

 Sattvic vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), filtered water and tea

 Yogic materials, nature excursions, Ayurvedic Massage

 Airport pickup from Jolly Grant Airport (DED) and all retreat transportation

 

What levels of experience do you welcome?

Suitable for all—beginner, intermediate, and advanced practitioners—with instruction provided in English in groups up to 10/12 participants.

 

Where will we stay during the retreat?

 3 nights at Yog Niketan By Sanskriti

4 Nights at Atharv Yogshala (nestled in an ashram), just outside Rishikesh

 4 Nights at an Hotel in the mountains

 Rooming options: single or shared twin with ensuite

 Free Wi‑Fi, laundry access (chargeable)

 

How do I get there?

Fly to New Delhi Airport. A complementary transfer will be offered from the airport to Rishikesh. If you are used to travel in India you can also take a train or Bus from Delhi.

 

Are there optional extras?

Yes - optional extra Ayurvedic massages. One is included in your package.

 

Why choose this retreat?

•  Deep immersion in Himalayan landscapes, culture, and spiritual energy
•  Holistic experience combining yoga and hiking in the nature to spiritual places
•  Small group size for meaningful connection and personalized guidance
•  Transformative potential for body, mind, and soul renewal

How physically demanding is the hiking?

Our hikes are moderate in difficulty. Participants should be comfortable walking for 3–5 hours on uneven terrain. We'll take plenty of breaks and go at a mindful pace.

 

Do I need to be experienced in yoga or hiking?

No prior experience is necessary! Our instructors guide all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Just bring a willingness to move, breathe, and explore.

 

What kind of yoga do you teach?

We offer a blend of Sri Vidya Tantra, Hatha, Vinyasa, and restorative yoga, complemented by pranayama and advanced breath work. Classes are tailored to support your body for the hiking.

 

Is this retreat suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely! Many participants come solo, and we create a welcoming, inclusive community. Shared and private room options are available.

 

What is the weather like in the Himalayas?

Weather varies by season. Expect cool mornings and evenings, with mild to warm days. Rain is possible, especially in summer. We'll provide seasonal tips with your booking confirmation.

 

Is there wifi?

During the hikes cell service can be limited, and Wi-Fi be spotty, but in the Ashram and Hotel you can connect to free wifi. This retreat is a chance to unplug and reconnect with nature and yourself.

 

What is the group size?

We will keep the group small (14 people) to ensure a personalised and intimate experience.

 

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