Immerse yourself in the transformative power of yoga in Rishikesh, known as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred Ganges River, this 11-day retreat offers an authentic journey into the heart of yogic practice. Experience daily hatha yoga sessions on the banks of the Ganges, visit ancient Himalayan temples, meditate in sacred caves where sages once practiced, and participate in traditional fire ceremonies under the stars.
Journey Highlights
Daily Hatha Yoga
Morning and evening yoga sessions on the banks of the sacred Ganges River with experienced teachers in the traditional style
Himalayan Temples
Visit ancient temples nestled in the Himalayan foothills, including the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Sacred Cave Meditation
Meditate in the same caves where ancient yogis and sages practiced for thousands of years
Fire Ceremonies
Participate in traditional Vedic fire ceremonies (Agni Hotra) and evening Ganga Aarti on the river
Pranayama & Meditation
Learn advanced breathing techniques and meditation practices from authentic lineage holders
Ayurvedic Healing
Experience traditional Ayurvedic treatments, consultations, and sattvic vegetarian meals
11-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Rishikesh
Arrive in Rishikesh and transfer to our riverside ashram accommodation. Welcome ceremony and orientation to the ashram lifestyle. Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred river—a spectacular ritual of fire, music, and devotion. Light vegetarian dinner and rest.
Foundation of Practice
Begin your day with sunrise pranayama and meditation by the Ganges. Morning hatha yoga session focusing on foundational postures and alignment. Afternoon yoga philosophy class covering the eight limbs of yoga. Evening walk along the river and visit to local temples. Participate in evening kirtan (devotional singing).
Deepening Practice
Morning pranayama and asana practice with emphasis on breath-body coordination. Ayurvedic wellness consultation with traditional practitioner. Afternoon meditation session and yoga nidra (yogic sleep). Evening fire ceremony (Agni Hotra) at the ashram. Group discussion on yoga philosophy and personal practice.
Himalayan Temple Pilgrimage
Early morning departure for Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the Himalayas. Trek through pristine mountain forests. Participate in traditional puja (worship ceremony) at the temple. Picnic lunch with mountain views. Return to Rishikesh for evening yoga practice and Ganga Aarti.
Sacred Caves & Meditation
Visit the ancient meditation caves of Vashishta Gufa where sages practiced for centuries. Guided meditation in the cave with teachings on traditional meditation techniques. Explore the Beatles Ashram and learn about the history of yoga's journey to the West. Evening restorative yoga and sound healing session with singing bowls.
Advanced Practice
Intensive morning yoga session focusing on inversions and arm balances. Workshop on advanced pranayama techniques including alternate nostril breathing and bhastrika. Afternoon Ayurvedic cooking class learning to prepare sattvic meals. Evening philosophy class on the Bhagavad Gita and its practical applications.
River Rafting & Adventure
Morning yoga practice. Mid-morning white water rafting adventure on the Ganges—experience the river's power and beauty from a different perspective. Beach picnic lunch. Afternoon free time for personal practice or exploration. Evening gentle yoga and meditation to integrate the day's experiences.
Silent Retreat Day
Day of noble silence for deep introspection and practice. Sunrise meditation by the Ganges. Gentle yoga sessions throughout the day. Extended meditation periods. Contemplative walks in nature. Journaling and self-reflection time. Evening fire ceremony in silence.
Integration & Mastery
Morning pranayama and asana practice with personal adjustments and guidance. One-on-one session with teachers to discuss your practice and receive personalized recommendations. Afternoon workshop on creating a sustainable home practice. Visit to local markets for authentic yoga supplies. Evening satsang (spiritual gathering) with visiting teachers or monks.
Celebration & Ceremony
Morning yoga practice celebrating all you've learned. Ayurvedic spa treatments and relaxation time. Afternoon preparation for closing ceremony. Grand closing fire ceremony with offerings and blessings. Festive vegetarian feast. Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony as a group. Certificate presentation and sharing circle.
Departure
Final sunrise meditation and yoga practice by the Ganges. Farewell breakfast with the group. Personal blessings from teachers. Departure transfers to Delhi or Dehradun for onward journey. Take with you the tools, insights, and transformations of your practice.
What's Included
Accommodation
- 10 nights in riverside ashram accommodation
- Clean, simple rooms with Ganges views
- Shared or private room options
- Traditional ashram living experience
Meals
- Daily sattvic vegetarian meals
- Ayurvedic cooking principles
- Herbal teas and purified water
- Special dietary needs accommodated
Yoga & Wellness
- All yoga, meditation, and pranayama classes
- Yoga philosophy teachings
- Personal Ayurvedic consultation
- Ayurvedic spa treatments
- Course materials and certificate
Excursions & Activities
- Himalayan temple pilgrimage
- Sacred cave meditation visits
- White water rafting adventure
- Daily Ganga Aarti ceremonies
- Fire ceremonies and rituals
- All local transportation
Your Teachers
Study with experienced yoga teachers who have dedicated their lives to the practice and teaching of authentic yoga. Our teachers come from traditional lineages and have trained extensively in hatha yoga, pranayama, meditation, and yoga philosophy. They combine ancient wisdom with compassionate teaching methods to meet each student where they are.
How to Prepare
Physical Preparation
This retreat welcomes practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced. If you're new to yoga, we recommend starting a basic practice 1-2 months before arrival. Focus on building flexibility, strength, and breath awareness. If you have an established practice, continue your regular routine and arrive ready to deepen.
Mental & Spiritual Preparation
Begin a daily meditation practice, even just 10-15 minutes per day. Read about yoga philosophy—books like "The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali" or "The Bhagavad Gita" provide excellent preparation. Set clear intentions for what you hope to gain from this retreat. Be open to new experiences and ready to step outside your comfort zone.
What to Bring
- Comfortable yoga clothing (modest, covering shoulders and knees)
- Personal yoga mat (mats available if needed)
- Meditation cushion or blanket (optional)
- Journal and pen for reflection
- Reusable water bottle
- Light jacket or shawl for meditation
- Flashlight or headlamp for evening activities
- Sunscreen and sun hat
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Modest clothing for temple visits
- Small backpack for day trips
- Open heart and curious mind
Health & Safety
Please consult your doctor before the retreat, especially if you have any health concerns. Inform us of any injuries or limitations so teachers can provide modifications. The ashram follows strict hygiene practices, and all water is purified. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
About Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and the "Gateway to the Himalayas." Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, this ancient city has been a center of spiritual learning and yoga practice for thousands of years. Sages, yogis, and seekers have come here to practice meditation, study sacred texts, and attain spiritual realization.
The city gained international fame when the Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram in 1968, but its spiritual significance dates back millennia. Today, Rishikesh attracts yoga practitioners from around the world who come to study with authentic teachers and experience the powerful energy of this sacred place.
The Ganges River, considered the most sacred river in Hinduism, flows through Rishikesh with crystal-clear mountain water. The evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, where thousands gather to offer prayers to the river, is one of the most moving spiritual experiences in India. The surrounding Himalayan forests, ancient temples, and meditation caves create an atmosphere conducive to deep practice and transformation.