Yoga can be traced back over 5,000 years to its rich Indian heritage. More than just a series of poses and twists, yoga is a lifestyle of living consciously, with the purpose of fostering self-awareness and enhancing the mind and body connection. Traveling to India, the birthplace of yoga, is probably the ultimate experience for any yogi. In the midst of exotic sights and sounds, this country is blessed with an abundance of ashrams and retreats that will surely satisfy your yogi wanderlust.
Photo supplied by Health and Fitness Travel
Bestowed with immense natural beauty, stimulate your senses with diverse landscapes from lush woodlands to the mighty Himalayas in the most idyllic yoga holidays in the country. Whether a beginner or a guru, you’ll find yourself immersing in the centuries old traditions of yoga that embody more than just physical exercise. On top of your practice, prepare for a holistic journey like no other with personalised treatments utilising Indian traditions and Ayurvedic techniques for a complete mind and body experience.
Photo supplied by Health and Fitness Travel
Where to stay in India for the ultimate yoga retreat:
Nestled at the foot of the stunning Himalayas is the luxury oasis of Ananda, set in a Maharajah Palace. It offers an array of wellness programs combining the principles of Ayurveda, yoga and meditation. In between classes, pamper with a variety of spa treatments from a grounding salt scrub to a relaxing aromatherapy massage.
Location: Uttarakhand, the Himalayan north of India
Insider Tip: Ananda is surrounded with enchanting landscapes so an outdoor yoga class at sunrise with birds chirping in the background is an experience not to be missed. Also to deepen your practice, we recommend attending the inspiring Vedanta lectures.
Photo supplied by Health and Fitness Travel
Located in the outskirts of Bengaluru, Shreyas is a 25-acre retreat that specialises in rejuvenation and healing through yoga, meditation and silence—offering a ‘Mouna’ immersion or ‘time spent in silence’ to help you find a deeper sense of calm by letting go of external noise and allowing you to step back, introspect and focus on your practice.
Location: Karnataka in the southwestern region of India
Insider Tip: The resort offers excursions to nearby cultural spots in the area as well as community exercises at a nearby village, school and orphanage.
Photo supplied by Health and Fitness Travel
Tucked away in the secluded countryside of India’s West coast, and a short stroll from the sandy shores of Om beach, lies the eco-friendly boutique retreat of SwaSwara. Surround yourself in nature’s beauty as you practice in your own yoga deck with stunning views of lush greeneries and ocean. Learn how to sync with your natural rhythm and improve focus through the power of silence and sitting meditations.
Location: Gokarna on the west coast of India
Insider Tip: In your luxury villa you have comfortable areas to practice personal yoga, read, relax or do whatever you choose to do. Your diet will also be tailor-made for your own personal needs by a specialist naturopath.
Photo supplied by Health and Fitness Travel
Travel to the majestic Sahyadri range for an inspiring yogi getaway for the senses. This retreat is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the Mumbai streets, with the pure valley air and peaceful atmosphere radiating from the undisturbed natural landscape. With a yoga program suitable for both beginners and experts alike, anyone can discover the practice at their own pace. Enhance your overall well-being with a holistic approach incorporating Ayurvedic therapies and pranic healing to aid you in your yogic journey.
Location: Maharashtra in west-central India
Insider Tip: Atmantan caters only to adults and teenagers 14 years and above. Also, make sure to take part in classes held at the stunning Kriya pavilion where you can absorb the pure atmosphere amid breath-taking views of the horizon beyond the Sahyradi Mountains and Lake Mushi.
Photo supplied by Zoë Wightman
About Health and Fitness Travel
Health and Fitness Travel is a global luxury wellness travel company that originated in the UK in 2010 and is committed to providing healthy holidays that enhance and change lives. Created by Paul Joseph, Adam Heathcote and co-founded in Australia by local Director Samantha Lippiatt as a result of their combined passion for health and fitness travel and offering bespoke holidays to improve people’s well-being to lead happier and healthier lives.
Health and Fitness Travel offers clients a tailor-made seamless service with the very best health and fitness holidays, handpicked by its expert team, together with exclusive and added value packages with the best deals. As leading specialists, Health and Fitness Travel have also created their own healthy holiday collections in various destinations which include Fusion Fitness and Discover Recover, offering clients the best value and holiday experience. For more information visit: Health and Fitness Travel or follow them on Instagram!
