Experience a transformative spiritual expedition to the North Indian Himalayas, professionally curated to balance intensive yoga practice with cultural immersion. This retreat offers a sophisticated blend of wellness and exploration, featuring a nourishing vegetarian menu and guided visits to historically significant sites. Set against the backdrop of the Himalayan peaks in the "Valley of the Gods," our location offers a unique blend of heritage and tranquility. Away from the noise of civilization, you will find the clarity needed to immerse yourself in learning and practice.
Journey Highlights
Holistic Wellness
Daily yoga and meditation sessions designed to restore mental clarity and physical vitality
Cultural Heritage
Curated excursions to the Nikolai Roerich Estate in Naggar and the revered Bijli Mahadev Temple
Sacred Geography
Guided visits to Rewalsar Lake, a significant pilgrimage site for Hindu, Buddhist, and Sikh traditions, including the meditation caves of Guru Padmasambhava
Natural Wonders
Exploration of the Vashisht hot springs, Jogini Falls, and the geothermal springs of Manikaran in the Parvati Valley
Adventure & Scenery
Opportunities to experience the majestic landscapes of the Solang Valley and the riverside serenity of Manali
13-Day Itinerary
Welcome to Delhi — Arrival & Orientation
Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in and allowing time to rest from your trip, we will convene for a welcome dinner and tour briefing at hotel. This session is an opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and your guide, and to receive an overview of the exciting journey ahead.
Scenic Drive to Manali
Prepare for a visually rich journey of 10–12 hours. As we travel, the landscape transitions into majestic valleys and gorges, ensuring the travel itself becomes a highlight, filled with beautiful, sweeping views.
Wellness and Exploration
This day focuses on gentle activity and rest, allowing time for recovery and connection with nature. Morning soft practice/movement session, followed by a slow, mindful breakfast. In the afternoon, a guided walk/hike to Jogini Waterfall, offering opportunities for relaxation at the base or an invigorating climb to the source, with scenic views of the mountain valleys. Evening practice session, soaking in local hot springs, and group dinner followed by a communal/group circle session.
Morning Practice & Mythological Exploration
Following breakfast, participants will embark on a scenic walk to the town of Manali, a renowned mountain resort and a key gateway to the Himalayas. The walk continues into a magical cedar and deodar forest, steeped in local legend. Here, the ancient tales of the demoness Hadimba come to life — she is now revered as the protective deity of the region, and a unique, pagoda-style temple built in her honor in 1553 stands within this serene forest. The journey then proceeds to the ancient Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, the son of Brahma and the revered progenitor of mankind in Hindu mythology.
Gentle Flow & Free Exploration
This day provides a crucial pause for recovery and personal nourishment. Morning gentle yoga and guided meditation with a restorative focus. Afternoon free time for optional light walks, journaling, or personal exploration. Evening restorative practice and reflection circle. This balance supports deep rest and integration.
Cultural Immersion in Naggar
This day is dedicated to a cultural and historical exploration of Naggar, the former capital of Kullu, offering insights into local heritage and spirituality. Morning practice session, then travel to the historic town of Naggar (approximately one hour). Visit the Roerich House-Museum, the former residence and studio of the renowned Russian artist and philosopher Nikolai Roerich, exploring the museum and art gallery. Ascend to the hilltop Krishna Temple, believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era, and visit the peaceful Tripura Sundari Temple, a classic example of traditional Himachali wooden architecture. The day concludes with a facilitated group circle session.
Spiritual Exploration in Parvati Valley
After morning practice, we journey to Manikaran, a spiritual hub in the Parvati Valley. This day offers cultural immersion at the historic Gurudwara, with optional soothing soaks in the renowned natural hot springs, fostering relaxation and cultural understanding.
Trek to Bijli Mahadev Temple
The morning begins with a 3 km trek to the highly visited Bijli Mahadev Temple. This site holds deep spiritual significance, famous for the extraordinary occurrence of its Shiva Lingam being struck by lightning every 12 years, after which a sacred restoration ritual is performed. The temple is considered an exceptionally potent and energetically charged location.
Recharge & Explore
Gentle morning yoga/meditation practice. A day of choice! Enjoy personal downtime or join our optional guided trip to scenic Solang Valley for paragliding. Community gathering with evening grounding practice.
Rewalsar — A Sacred Convergence
It begins with morning practice, followed by breakfast and a departure for Rewalsar. Participants will explore the sacred Rewalsar Lake, a significant spiritual site where Hindu, Buddhist, and Sikh shrines coexist, honoring the manifestation of Guru Padmasambhava. The afternoon involves circumambulation of the lake and visits to revered monasteries, culminating in evening practice, drawing on the location's powerful meditative energy.
Culmination of the Journey
After morning practice and breakfast, the group will journey on a guided two-hour trek to the historic Padmasambhava Caves, nestled in the mountains. We will gather for a final group circle to share insights and reflections, marking the official completion of the program.
Return to Delhi
Today marks the conclusion of our retreat activities as we transition back to Delhi. After a lengthy travel period (approx. 10–12 hours), guests will be transferred to a comfortable hotel near the airport for necessary rest, allowing for a restful night before taking their connecting flights.
Departure & Airport Transfer
08:00 AM: Final Group Reflection & Gratitude Circle. 09:30 AM: Check-out & Luggage Collection. 10:30 AM: Departure. Please confirm your flight details with staff at breakfast. Safe travel!
What's Included
Accommodation
- 12 nights lodging at Holiday Heights & Spa Manali
- Comfortable rooms with mountain views
Meals
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Welcome dinner and farewell gathering
Yoga & Wellness
- Daily yoga sessions (Iyengar, Hatha, Yoga Nidra)
- One private consultation with Elena
- Somatic practices and breathwork
Excursions & Logistics
- All guided excursions and temple visits
- Delhi airport pickup and drop-off
- Delhi–Manali–Delhi transportation
- Local transportation throughout
Your Retreat Leader
Elena Efanova has been practicing yoga since 2007, with a foundation in Iyengar and classical Hatha yoga. Her teaching integrates alignment-based asana, yoga nidra, somatic practices, and breathwork to create a holistic experience for practitioners of all levels.
What to Pack
Clothing & Layers
Daytime temperatures range from 10–25°C (50–77°F). Evenings and mornings can be cool, so layering is essential. Pack comfortable yoga clothing and a warm fleece or jacket for mountain excursions.
Essentials
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for temple treks
- Warm layers (fleece, jacket) for cool mornings and evenings
- Comfortable yoga clothing
- Rain jacket or poncho (mountain weather can change quickly)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat for high-altitude sun
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal toiletries and any medications