This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you click through them, at no extra cost to you.
If you’re ready to start planning your next yoga retreat, there are so many possible destinations to consider. However, none can quite compare to India, the birthplace of yoga.
There is something very special and revitalizing about attending an Indian yoga retreat. It doesn’t matter whether this is your first yoga retreat or if you’ve already attended several – India is a mandatory Asian destination for any yogi.
Keep reading to learn more about the best yoga retreats in India, along with some tips to help you plan out your trip, based on my own experience as a certified yoga teacher and savvy solo traveler.
In a hurry? Click here to see my top pick now!
What to Pack for Your India Yoga Retreat:
- The Absolute 8 Best Travel Yoga Mats
- 10 Best Travel Yoga Pants: Versatile, Comfy, & Stylish
- 11 Best Organic Yoga Clothes for Travel or the Studio
- Top 10 Best Yoga Shoes for Travel & Outdoors
- Wander: A Mindful Travel Journal
Why Do a Yoga Retreat in India
There are so many reasons to consider going on a yoga retreat in India or even doing your yoga teacher training in India.
Yoga was developed over 5,000 years ago in India. So, when you visit India for a retreat, you get to enjoy the unique opportunity of practicing yoga at the source. (Note: In recent years a new theory has emerged claiming that yoga has its origins in Nepal, not current-day India.)
But, in addition to visiting the birthplace of yoga, there are other reasons to consider a retreat in India.
India offers picturesque views with lots of green meditative scenery to help you relax and unwind.
While each region offers different landscapes and views, you’ll find beautiful beaches, top-notch resorts, mountain views, and so much more to give you a truly memorable experience.
A few other reasons to consider an Indian yoga holiday include the delicious food, welcoming society, opportunities to visit historical sites, and slower-paced lifestyle in many areas.
Best Places to Do a Yoga Retreat in India
There are several regions to consider when planning a yoga retreat in beautiful India. You’re likely to find some of the best yoga and meditation centers in India if you travel to one of the following cities and regions in the country:
Rishikesh: This Hindu pilgrimage town is known as the yoga capital of the world and offers some of the best yoga retreats in India—and in the planet!
Goa: Located along India’s southwestern coast, Goa is known for its gorgeous beaches and seaside views.
Kerala: Kerala is a popular tourist destination and the 21st largest state in India. This region in southern India has been named one of ten paradises in the world, according to National Geographic Traveler.
Mysore: Mysore is a beautiful region in the south of India. Seen as the cultural capital of the region, you’ll find many temples and monuments to visit here.
Gokarna: Gokarna is a smaller beach town located on the western coast of India. In addition to being known for its majestic beaches, Gokarna is also known for its temples.
Dharamsala: Dharamsala, located in India’s Western Himachal region, is a famous Buddhist city. It is also home to the Dalai Lama.
Best Time to Go on a Yoga Holiday in India
The best time to book spiritual retreats in India is generally between the months of October and March.
During these months, you’re likely to enjoy warm and comfortable temperatures without it getting too hot.
October through March are also generally drier months in India, so you won’t get too much rain.
After March, the temperatures can get quite warm.
And, if you visit India in June, July, August, or September, you’ll want to prepare yourself for rain, as this is the monsoon season in many regions of the country.
How to Choose the Best India Yoga Retreat for You
When you’re searching for the best yoga and meditation retreats in India, there are several factors you should consider to help you choose the right option for your needs and desires.
Level
One of the first things to consider when looking at India yoga retreats is the skill level.
While some retreats are geared toward beginners, others may be better suited for those with extensive yoga experience.
Consider your skill and experience level and that of each retreat before making a final decision.
Yoga Style
It is also important to make sure that the yoga style(s) being practiced at the retreat are some that you are familiar and comfortable with.
For example, if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you may want to choose a retreat offering restorative yoga over something like power yoga.
Type of Retreat
The type of retreat should also be considered before making any decision.
You can find yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats in India, but they will all offer different features.
While some may be more focused on relaxing, others may include more cultural or active excursions, or focus on Ayurvedic medicine and techniques.
Location
Consider the location of each India retreat as well.
Is there any particular region of the country you’ve been wanting to visit?
Will you be traveling from somewhere that makes it easier or more difficult to get to certain locations?
Are you a beach or mountain person?
Other Activities
Some retreats will include different excursions, such as swimming at the beach, hiking in the nearby mountains, or visiting spiritual temples.
Look through the list of any included excursions and make sure they line up with your interests.
Price
Finally, don’t forget to consider the price of each India yoga retreat.
Be sure to also factor in flights and other needed transportation to help you make sure that you stay within your budget.
Best Yoga Retreats in India
Wellness & Rejuvenation Retreat with Yoga, Ayurvedic Massages, and Meditation in Goa
Yoga Styles: Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Nidra
Skill Levels: Beginner and Intermediate
Duration: 7 days
Meals Included: Daily vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby Airport: Goa International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: No, but available for $28 per person
Have you been searching for the best Ayurveda retreats in India? If so, I think you’ll want to take a look at this rejuvenating 7-day retreat in Goa.
As one of the top yoga retreats in Goa, this retreat offers the ideal mix of yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic massages to help you improve your overall well-being.
This Ashram India retreat features a 30-minute consult with a local Ayurvedic doctor, six daily Ayurvedic massages, and daily yoga and meditation sessions.
Whether you’re new to practicing yoga or have some experience, this retreat will be a good fit for you as it is geared towards beginner and intermediate skill levels.
Click here for more info and booking.
Or click here to see more yoga retreats in Goa.
Invigorating Yoga & Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh
Yoga Styles: Hatha, Vinyasa, Kriya, Ashtanga, and Karma
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 7 days
Meals Included: Daily vegetarian breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
Nearby Airport: Jolly Grant Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: No, but available for $15 per person from Jolly Grant Airport or $75 per person from Indira Gandhi International Airport
A retreat in Rishikesh is like none other.
Visit the birthplace of yoga with this 7-day retreat where you’ll engage in daily yoga classes, daily pranayama practices, daily mantra recitations, and daily meditation sessions.
In addition to learning new skills and perfecting your craft, the retreat also includes information about Samkhya, Vedanta, and other Indian philosophies.
You’ll also have plenty of free time to travel to some of the local temples and shines or explore the beautiful Himalayas.
Click here for more info and booking.
Or click here to see more yoga retreats in Rishikesh.
Rejuvenating Meditation & Yoga Retreat in Gokarna
Yoga Styles: Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Ashtanga, and Mysore
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 21 days
Meals Included: 3 daily vegetarian meals
Nearby Airport: Goa International Airport and Mangalore Airport
Airport Transfer Included: No, but available for $52 per person from Goa International Airport
Sign up for this 21-day Gokarna yoga retreat to give your mind and body the reset they’ve been craving.
You’ll learn meditation and yoga practices that will help you relieve stress, detox your body, and get some much-needed relaxation.
With daily meditation and pranayama classes, you’ll have plenty of time to improve your yoga skills and connect with those around you. Each day, you’ll also enjoy an Ayurveda massage.
Beyond the benefits of the yoga and pranayama sessions, this retreat provides participants with time to unwind. A special excursion including swimming in the sea is also included with your stay.
Click here for more info and booking.
Ultimate Getaway Amidst Nature with Yoga & Ayurveda in Bangalore
Yoga Styles: Hatha
Skill Levels: Beginner and intermediate
Duration: 3 days
Meals Included: Daily vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby Airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: No, but available for $21 per person
While it may only be three days, this yoga retreat in Bangalore allows you to improve the quality of your life by learning how to keep your mind and body healthy.
With daily yoga, Sukshma Vyayama, and interactive sessions, you’ll be able to alleviate stress and refocus on what’s important.
Two Ayurveda relaxation therapy sessions are also included with your stay to further your quest for self-improvement.
You’ll also enjoy time to hike, swim, or explore the area during this retreat.
Click here for more info and booking.
Revitalizing Waterfall Hiking & Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh
Yoga Styles: Hatha
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 6 days
Meals Included: 3 daily vegetarian meals
Nearby Airport: Jolly Grant Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: Included from Jolly Grant Airport and available for $75 per person from Indira Gandhi International Airport
If you’ve been wanting to visit yoga Ashrams in India, consider this 6-day retreat in Rishikesh. It offers participants the opportunity to engage in many excursions, including a visit to the Beatles Ashram.
Some of the other excursions include vising the nearby Neer and Patna waterfalls, seeing the Bhoot Nath Mahadev Temple and the Kunjapuri Temple of the Himalayas, and going white water rafting (if you attend during the summer).
Of course, in addition to these exciting excursions, the retreat also offers plenty of time to engage in yoga and meditation and to learn about Shatkarma practices.
Click here for more info and booking.
Meditation, Naturopathy, & Yoga Retreat near Auroville in Tamil Nadu
Yoga Styles: Karma, Bhakti, and Raja
Skill Levels: Beginner and intermediate
Duration: 7 days
Meals Included: Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby Airport: Chennai International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: No, but available for $37 per person
You may also want to take a look at this yoga retreat in Pondicherry.
The daily schedule is designed to meet the needs of each individual and features yoga classes, panchakarma therapies, lectures to help you make necessary lifestyle changes, and more.
During the evenings, you can participate in hydrotherapy sessions and Bajans.
There are also a variety of excursions included with this India meditation retreat, such as visiting Pondicherry beach, a beautiful botanical garden, and Hindhu temples.
Click here for more info and booking.
Cultural, Yoga, Food, & Cooking Experiences in Udaipur
Yoga Styles: Hatha
Skill Levels: Beginner
Duration: 3 days
Meals Included: Daily authentic Indian meals
Nearby Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport
Airport Transfer Included: Yes
When you’re looking to do yoga in India, don’t forget to consider this 3-day retreat in Udaipur.
As one of the top India retreats, prepare yourself to learn more about Indian traditions and culture as you forge new, lasting relationships.
In addition to the yoga classes, you can also participate in cooking classes, go boating on the nearby lake, and enjoy a cultural dance performance.
You’ll also receive a guided tour of local attractions, such as the Jagdish Temple, Pearl Hill, and City Palace.
Click here for more info and booking.
Chill Out & Relaxing Yoga Holiday in Canacona, Goa
Yoga Styles: Hatha, Power, Dynamic, Restorative, and Ashtanga
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 7 days
Meals Included: Daily vegetarian buffet brunch and dinner
Nearby Airport: Goa International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: Yes
This Bamboo Yoga Retreat takes place at one of the top 10 yoga centers in India, according to Conde Nast Traveller Magazine.
Your retreat experience is fully customizable, allowing you to set your own schedule and decide whether you want to do some extra yoga practices, relax at the beach, or sightseeing around the area.
Each day a morning meditation and yoga class and an afternoon sunset yoga class are offered for participants to attend if desired.
Click here for more info and booking.
All-Inclusive Ayurveda Rejuvenation Retreat at Top-Rated Center in Rishikesh
Yoga Styles: Hatha, Kundalini, Yin, Restorative, and Nidra
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 5 days
Meals Included: Daily Ayurvedic breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
Airport Transfer Included: Yes
You’re certain to love this luxury yoga retreat in India that takes place at Veda5 in Rishikesh.
Experienced Ayurvedic doctors work in the Veda5 spa and clinic and will be available to provide personalized care and advice. A one-hour Ayurveda daily treatment is included with your stay.
Some other key features of the retreat include daily mindfulness or pranayama meditation sessions, daily chanting and yoga group sessions, and excursions around the area visiting temples and touring local villages.
Click here for more info and booking.
Relaxing Ayurveda & Yoga Retreat in Kerala
Yoga Styles: Hatha
Skill Levels: All
Duration: 4 days
Meals Included: Daily Ayurvedic vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Nearby Airport: Cochin International Airport
Airport Transfer Included: Yes
If you’ve been searching for the best Ayurveda retreat in India, then this 4-day retreat with 36 Palms may be exactly what your body needs and deserves.
You’ll stay in a gorgeous beachfront property in Kerala, where you’ll receive an initial checkup and consultation with the Ayurvedic doctor on site.
Then, each day, you’ll also enjoy a one-hour Ayurvedic massage and delicious vegetarian Ayurvedic meals.
In addition to the daily yoga classes, there will also be time to explore the area and see some buildings with colonial architecture.
This is certainly one of the best yoga retreats in South India.
Click here for more info and booking.
Each of these top yoga retreats in India offers you the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit.
Give yourself some time away from life’s daily stressors and book one of the amazing yoga holidays in India shared above.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
Travel insurance is very important and you should never leave home without it! I use and recommend SafetyWing travel medical insurance for travelers, remote workers, and nomads.
They cover overseas medical assistance in case of accident or illness, travel delay or interruption, lost checked luggage, emergency medical or political evacuation, natural disasters, and personal liability, at very competitive prices.
You can subscribe online here for a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days, or opt for a monthly subscription instead.
Read More:
- Top 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Rishikesh, India
- Top 12 Best Yoga Retreats in Goa, India
- Top 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Sri Lanka
- Top 10 Peaceful Yoga Retreats in Nepal
If you like it, Pin it!
