10 Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh, India

Why join this retreat?

• Deepen your yoga and meditation practice in the birthplace of yoga
• Explore sacred temples and ashrams in the spiritual heart of India
• Experience adventure with trekking in the Himalayas and Ganga rafting
• Led by a local Indian teacher from the Atri lineage
• Witness powerful rituals like Ganga Aarti and sunrise meditations
• Find inner peace through nature, self-reflection, and ancient wisdom
• Find your spiritual community
• Experience the true beauty of India

From practicing yoga by the holy Ganga to visiting ancient temples and meditating in mystical caves, each day will bring new experiences of peace, self-discovery, and connection with nature. You’ll witness breathtaking sunrises, take part in powerful Ganga Aarti ceremonies, explore sacred ashrams, and even experience the thrill of rafting in the Ganga.

Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh and opening ceremony

• Arrive in Rishikesh and settle into your accommodation. Take in the peaceful surroundings of the yoga capital.
• Evening: Opening ceremony at the Ganga Beach—experience a traditional ritual, take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges, and set intentions for the retreat.
• Sunset meditation: Connect with the energy of the setting sun, calming your mind and grounding yourself in this sacred land.

Day 2: Yoga, meditation, and Neelkanth temple visit

• Morning: Begin your day with an energizing yoga and meditation session, awakening body and mind.
• Excursion: Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking views.
• Mata Parvati Temple: Explore the spiritual significance of this temple and experience its peaceful ambiance.
• Evening: A relaxing yoga and meditation session, helping you unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.

Day 3: Yoga, meditation and Beatles Ashram exploration

• Morning: Yoga and meditation to harmonize body, mind, and soul.
• Excursion: Visit the legendary Beatles Ashram, where the famous band once meditated and wrote music. Absorb the artistic and spiritual energy of this iconic place.
• Evening: Gentle yoga and meditation, integrating the day’s inspiration into your practice.

Day 4: Sivananda Ashram, Ganga Beach, and Ganga Aarti

• Morning: Yoga and meditation to deepen your inner journey.
• Visit to Sivananda Ashram: Learn about one of India’s most respected spiritual centers and its teachings on yoga and Vedanta.
• Relaxation at Ganga Beach: Spend time connecting with nature, listening to the soothing river sounds, and reflecting on your spiritual journey.
• Evening: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, a powerful fire ritual on the riverbanks that fills the air with devotion and spirituality.

Day 5: Devprayag and Vashishta Cave meditation

• Morning: Yoga and meditation to prepare for a day of deep spiritual exploration.
• Excursion to Devprayag: Witness the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, where the Ganga officially begins.
• Vashishta Cave: Meditate in this ancient cave, where Sage Vashishta once practiced deep meditation—an experience of profound stillness and serenity.
• Evening: Reflection and self-study, allowing the wisdom of the day to sink in.

Day 6: Yoga, Neer Waterfall, and free time

• Morning: A revitalizing yoga and meditation session.
• Excursion to Neer Waterfall: Hike through scenic trails to reach this hidden gem, where you can take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
• Afternoon: Free time to explore Rishikesh, shop for spiritual souvenirs, or simply relax at a riverside café.
• Evening: Optional sunset meditation or self-reflection practice.

Day 7: Sunrise at Kunjapuri Temple and trek back

• Early morning: Travel to Kunjapuri Temple, a sacred site offering a breathtaking sunrise view over the Himalayas.
• Trek down to Rishikesh: A peaceful nature trek through forests and villages, allowing you to absorb the tranquility of the Himalayas.
• Evening: Gentle yoga and meditation session to relax after the trek.

Day 8: Yoga and thrilling Ganga rafting

• Morning: Yoga and meditation to energize and center yourself.
• Excursion: Experience the thrill of Ganga rafting, riding through the river’s exhilarating rapids while being surrounded by stunning landscapes.
• Evening: Rest and rejuvenation with optional self-practice or quiet contemplation.

Day 9: Yoga, Ganga Aarti, and special farewell dinner

• Morning: Yoga and meditation to soak in the spiritual energy of Rishikesh.
• Evening: Attend the Ganga Aarti, a final moment to offer gratitude to the sacred river.
• Farewell dinner: Enjoy a delicious traditional meal at an authentic Rajasthani restaurant, celebrating the bonds and memories created during the retreat.

Day 10: Closing ceremony and departure

• Morning: Final yoga and meditation session, embracing the wisdom gained during the retreat.
• Closing ceremony: A heartfelt gathering to reflect, share experiences, and set intentions for your journey ahead.
• Departure: Leave Rishikesh with a renewed sense of peace, clarity, and connection.

Time schedule

The time schedule is not fixed and can change according to location, teacher availability, weather conditions and general situation.

• 06:30 - 07:30 Pranayama and meditation
• 07:30 - 09:00 Asana practice
• 09:00 - 10:00 Breakfast
• 10:00 - 17:00 Excursion
• 17:30 - 19:00 Evening yoga practice / Aarti
• 19:00 - 20:00 Dinner