Where better to practice yoga than in the birthplace of yoga itself? If you have the opportunity to travel India, which is easily the top destination for yoga worldwide, there is no doubt that it will be life-changing experience. During yoga retreats in India, you will learn about the roots of the ancient practice that many modern-day practitioners are unaware of and can experience a profound awakening, too. So, if your soul is calling you to learn yoga in India, check out the top picks below.
Best Yoga Retreats in India
Whether you want a relaxed yoga holiday on the beach or a silent retreat in the mountains, you’ll find it in this list of the best retreats in India.
Love meditation? Don’t miss these top meditation retreats in India!
4 Day Transformative Jungle Yoga Retreat with Yoga Philosophy in Agonda, Goa
Starting from: $120
This short yoga retreat in Goa is a great way to glimpse the traditional Indian yoga style before embarking on an extended stint at an Ashram. You’ll stay at the Om Yoga Shala in Agonda, Goa, surrounded by the jungle and be just a 10-minute walk to the beach. The setting is incredibly peaceful, making it easy to get in touch with your inner self.
The program includes twice-daily Hatha, Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga, daily yoga philosophy classes, and early morning pranayama sessions. This is one of the most affordable yoga retreats in India, with shared accommodation starting from just $90. Private air-conditioned rooms are available for a higher price, and all packages include three vegetarian meals a day.
READ MORE: 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Goa
7 Day Yoga Nidra (Relaxation) and Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh
Starting from: $450
Suppose you’re more into meditation and stillness than fast-paced yoga styles. In that case, this Nidra Yoga retreat in Rishikesh is for you. The program includes twice daily Yoga Nidra workshops, chanting and pranayama sessions, and gentle Hatha yoga classes. You’ll also practice tension and relaxation exercises to learn how to bring more relaxation into your daily life.
This retreat takes place at the Yoga Vidya Mandiram School in Rishikesh. The schedule is that of a typical Indian Ashram, starting at 5 am and finishing at 9 pm, with three healthy vegetarian meals are provided each day, and the option to choose from shared or private rooms.
8 Day ‘Health and Holiday’ Meditation and Yoga Holiday in Rishikesh
Starting from: $350
This 8-day Rishikesh yoga retreat is one of the best yoga holidays in India, thanks to its relaxed schedule and included excursions. Suitable for all levels, you’ll enjoy early morning meditation and pranayama, followed by a Hatha yoga class then an invigorating Ashtanga class in the evening.
You’ll have plenty of free time during the day where you can join the pre-arranged trips. These include visiting the famous Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram (a Hindu light ceremony), waterfall trekking, and a local market tour. During your stay, you will also receive one complimentary Ayurvedic massage and three organic vegetarian meals each day.
15 Day Yoga Retreat on the Backwaters of South Goa
Starting from: $1,318
Palm Trees Ayurvedic Heritage presents this luxury yet eco-friendly yoga experience in Goa for those looking to pamper themselves at an upmarket beachfront Ayurvedic spa. The retreat is set in a quiet, secluded spot, a short stroll from two gorgeous Goa beaches.
You’ll have unlimited access to the all-level Hatha, Vinyasa and Restorative yoga classes, along with daily mediation sessions. In addition, you will receive two complimentary Ayurvedic massages during your stay and can book more treatments at the spa. Accommodation is in a deluxe cottage where you can choose a shared or private room, and a hearty daily breakfast is included at the onsite riverside restaurant.
14 Day Meditation and Yoga Retreat in Dharamshala, India
Starting from: $964
This tranquil retreat is set in the Himalayan mountain town that is home to the world-famous spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. This deeply sacred location is the perfect backdrop for a 2-week spiritual journey at the holistic Shree Hari Yoga School.
The retreat includes daily Hatha, Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga practices, pranayama, kriya and mudra sessions. You’ll also learn about yoga philosophy and the anatomy of the poses and finish each day with a meditation to integrate your new knowledge. The retreat is suitable for all levels, including beginners and during your stay, you’ll sleep in a private room in a gorgeous treehouse.
3 Day Mindfulness to Self-Realization, Meditation, and Yoga Retreat in Khajuraho
Starting from: $169
Although this is one of the shortest yoga retreats in India, it’s one of the most transformational and is perfect for those getting started on their yoga journey. The program includes morning meditation and Vinyasa flow, then evening Hatha yoga, meditation, and spiritual teachings.
You’ll have time on days 2 and 3 to explore the temples and Tantric sculptures in the nearby city centre of Khajuraho. You’ll stay in a private room at the peaceful Mystical Yoga Center, where nutritious Ayurvedic meals are included.
7 Day Life Transforming Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh
Starting from: $550
This is one of the best retreats for beginners keen to learn about the yogic way of life without the strictness of a traditional yoga ashram in India. The days start early, with pranayama, chanting, and gentle yoga practice. Still, you’ll have plenty of free time during the day to explore Rishikesh and enjoy some local activities like rafting. You’ll then rejoin late afternoon for yoga and meditation before dinner.
As well as learning the yoga postures, you’ll dive into the ancient philosophy and learn about Indian detox techniques. All food is included, including three daily meals full of fresh fruits and veggies. Your accommodation is a private room at Aadi Yoga School, close to the holy river Ganges.
10 Day Ayurveda and Yoga Retreat (Digital Detox Retreat) in Varkala
Starting from: $609
Spend 10 days by the beach in Varkala, Kerala deepening your spiritual practice with daily Hatha and Ashtanga Vinyasa classes as well as Pranayama, Yoga Nidra and meditation. The retreat also includes yoga philosophy and Ayurveda teachings and visits to the countryside and local ashrams.
You’ll stay at the family-run Pachamama Homestay in a shared or private room with your own balcony and stunning nature views. You’ll feast on freshly prepared vegetarian yogic food with the group, and during your free time, you can relax at the beach, a short 10-minute walk from the homestay.
3 Day Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Healing Retreat in The Himalayas, Dharamshala
Starting from: $131
If you seek more balance and restoration, this is undoubtedly one of the best yoga retreats in India. Set in a tranquil Himalayan location, you’ll connect with nature and yourself as you slow down the pace of your life and find stillness within.
This retreat is suitable for all levels and focuses on Hatha yoga and sound healing meditation with Tibetan singing bowls. This is also an excellent retreat for those who want some privacy, as you’ll have a private room at Aranya Yoga Center for a very affordable price. Plus, like most yoga holidays in India, healthy vegetarian meals are included throughout your stay.
Though this round-up has many great options, there are so many more on BookYogaRetreats! Do your research, just because it is India doesn’t mean that all retreats are great!