Kerala is famously known as God’s Own Country and for good reason because it’s the land of everything natural– dense greenery, lush falls, endangered flora and fauna, finger-licking food, and not to forget, the sacred temples. Not only are there temples, but there are several institutions that reinforce ancient practices of yoga, abhyanga, and meditation for you to unwind. With most places rushing towards western living, Kerala is one of the best states that has preserved the culture of India through the ages of time.
If that didn’t entice you enough, here’s another reason you should be in Kerala for your next vacation– climate. Kerala has a pleasant climate throughout the year with the highest temperature hitting 35°C. The pleasant climate paired with some ancient Indian practices is what you’ll be treated to when you’re in Kerala for a yoga retreat. We’ve jotted down a list of all the best retreats across the state so you don’t have to spend hours online. Let’s check them out!
Best Yoga Retreats In Kerala
1. Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, Thiruvananthapuram
First up, we have a retreat center that’s been up and running for more than six decades! Founded in 1957 by Swami Vishnudevananda, this is an international non-profit retreat center that he named in honor of his teacher H.H. Sri Swami Sivananda Saraswati Maharaj. This organization aims to spread the essence of yoga and vedanta. You’ll be taught the four paths of yoga which can help alleviate your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being and eventually lead to self-realization.
With centers or ashrams in over 26 countries, the headquarters of this organization is in Canada. In India, however, they have six centers in five places. They are:
- Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
- Kailash Colony and Dwarka, New Delhi
- Chennai and Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Gudur, Andhra Pradesh
- Neyyar Dam, Trivandrum: In India, this one is the headquarters.
For accommodation, you can select from their AC, Non-AC, single-sharing, and twin-sharing rooms. If you’re traveling in a group, you can even opt to stay in the dormitories. The package includes meals, satsangs, and hatha yoga classes apart from the regular amenities. It’s recommended to unplug and spend time here meditating, practising yoga, or simply relaxing. Upon arrival, you’ll be informed about the timings of all activities and we’d say stick to that or you might miss out on some meals! Workshops and lectures on the theory, philosophy, and psychology of yoga are also held here if you’re interested.
This experience sure might be different, unlike your usual urban experiences, but it definitely will be a refresher. Give this place a chance and you might just start taking annual trips to this yoga retreat in Kerala!
Price: Packages start from INR 510 per person per night
Address: Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, Neyyar Dam, Trivandrum
2. Sharanagati Yogahaus Retreat, Varkala
If you’re looking for some alone time outside of the city, this yoga retreat center in Varkala might be your best bet. They accept bookings in batches and allow a maximum of 15 people in one batch so everyone can experience the peace they seek. But that also means you’ll have to be on your toes always as the bookings get closed quickly. Running for 13 years, this retreat abides by some core principles that you’ll concede with the minute you walk in and feel the change in energy.
No yoga classes or trainers are asking you to inhale and exhale periodically because the organization believes in letting you relax your way. You can practice yoga at your will in the gazebos, meditate, or simply walk in the Yoga garden till you’ve sniffed enough flowers. If, however, you’re a beginner you can seek help from the staff on the property about basic yoga asanas. It’s located close to the desolate part of Varkala Beach so you can stroll over and rest against the crashing waves.
Here, there are 2 houses with a total of 10 spacious, furnished, private rooms with attached washrooms. About food, they don’t have a lavish menu but serve home-cooked vegetarian meals that are simply scrumptious! The ambiance and amenities are minimal but are best if you’re looking for a digital detox. Perhaps, the best part about this organization is that you get to bring your fur friends along with you, provided you take responsibility for them.
Price: Package starts from INR 5,329 onwards per night
Address: Thiruvambadi Road, Varkala
3. Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat, Munnar
Do you want to break free from the chains of corporate and finally be free? Well, it can happen if you quit and start something of your own. But a risk-free option would be to head to this wellness retreat in Munnar that translates to the “beginning of absolute freedom”. The story might resonate or inspire you. The owners of this organization too were from the corporate world before they quit and backpacked to Munnar to start a homestay of their own. As the tourism in Munnar increased, they shifted and introduced a more holistic way of living. This included Ayurvedic treatments and a yogic lifestyle.
Your day at this retreat will begin as early as 6 am and will include activities like attending satsangs, hatha yoga, karma yoga, and chanting before you can finally retire to your room. Speaking of rooms, there are 16 rooms you can choose from. Eight furnished luxury rooms come with balconies so you can enjoy slow mornings. If you want something more lavish, there are luxury suites, studio cottages, and duplex cottages that you can select.
Price: Package starts from INR 11,000 per person per night
Address: Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat, Moolakada, Pallivasal
4. Rome’s Wellness, Wayanad
Who rules the world? Girls! Well, that’s quite right at this all-women retreat center. Also, after all that women do and go through, they deserve a break. A vacation where they get time for themselves and indulge in things like meditation, exercise, yoga, or simply sit by the trees and relax. The owner of this wellness retreat has been spiritually inclined since her childhood and decided to pursue it for a living. Not only did she establish a retreat center, but she also made it exclusive for women to help them deal with their mental and physical maladies using natural remedies instead of expensive medication.
So not only can you rejuvenate here, but you can also improve your health by participating in their weight loss challenge. They even have a team of doctors and medical professionals who conduct tests before diagnosing a treatment. If you want to talk or discuss your woes with someone, you can always approach their pretty seasoned therapist.
The accommodation here is minimal with no AC rooms. That doesn’t mean the rooms are unfurnished, they come with all the basic amenities like TV, WiFi, beds, and workstations, and are extremely comfortable. Surrounded by nature, this place is a blend of silence and all sounds natural simultaneously. A little attention, ladies? The property has a “Cleopatra Room” that you can go to for massages or a nice spa. Besides that, there’s a library and a boutique you can visit.
Address: Nadavayal – Nelliyambam Road, Nadavayal
5. Agnihotra Yoga Retreat, Varkala
Last but not least is yet another yoga retreat on the quieter shores of Varkala. Agnihotra Yoga Retreat is famous for Homa Therapy which is designed for detoxification and refreshment. The construction of this retreat center is what might entice you the most. Unlike the usual rooms built in a rather rustic style, the rooms here have an older charm. The roof is made with banana leaves and the floor is made of polished cow dung. Trust us, it’s not as icky as it sounds. The homestay here is called Yogashala.
Your package will include pick and drop from the Thiruvananthapuram airport, accommodation at Yogashala, sattvic food, daily yoga sessions, pranic energy healing, fire meditation, and a houseboat trip to Alleppey amongst others.
Price: INR 1,800 onwards per person per night
Address: Secret Garden, North Cliff, Varkala
Summing Up
Whether you do it to stay fit, stay sane, or simply to keep up with the trend, yoga, in its essence, is crucial for everyone regardless of age. And what better than doing yoga with a view and in your comfort? That’s exactly what vacations are for in Kerala. So plan your next vacation quickly and head to some of the best yoga retreats in Kerala.
FAQs
What Do People Do On Yoga Retreats?
Yoga retreats are meant for you to relax and unwind from a hectic schedule. Typically on such retreats, you get to participate in different recreational activities that are therapeutic. One such activity is practising yoga asanas that release stress.
Which State In India Is Famous For Yoga?
Rishikesh is a city known for yoga and meditation. It’s also referred to as the yoga capital of India.
Can A Beginner Go On A Yoga Retreat?
Yes, yoga retreats are meant for everyone who wishes to relax and reset. Yoga retreats are designed to cater to every individual’s need so even if you’re a beginner, you can attend one.
How Do I Choose A Yoga Retreat?
There are certain things you must remember before you choose a yoga retreat:
- Destination
- Food in the retreat
- Style of yoga
- Recreational activities other than yoga
What Are The Benefits Of Yoga Retreats?
There are several benefits of attending a yoga retreat:
- You experience a digital detox
- Connect more with nature and yourself
- Treat minor illnesses like body aches with consistent yoga practice
- Develop a habit of fitness and improved health
