“To other countries, I may go as a tourist, but to India, I come as a pilgrim.”

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

A country where Yoga is a way of life, a country where mornings start with meditation; India welcomes the world with a promise to heal from within. Right from the Himalayas in the north to the backwaters and the beaches in the south, there is healing and spirituality at every corner of this amazing country. All the spiritual retreats in India are well prepared to host guests from the Western world. Almost all retreats have English-speaking experts, and the sessions too are explained in English, making it easy for guests to be a part of all the experiences.

Parmanand Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh

At the foothills of the mighty Himalayas lies the buzzing town of Rishikesh. With the Ganges River flowing alongside, Rishikesh is the most sought-after yoga destination visited by tourists from across the world and from different parts of India. The International Yoga Festival, held annually in March, is attended by guests from across the world. On the banks of the Ganges river and with the Himalayas as the backdrop, Parmanand Niketan Ashram is the destination for anyone in search of spirituality. A popular destination for guests from the USA, Canada, and Europe, the ashram has a yoga and wellness program to suit every need. The activities at the Ashram include morning yoga, meditation sessions, and workshops on mental well-being. The day here ends with the mesmerizing Ganga aarti (evening prayers done with innumerable butter lamps). The aarti, accompanied by holy chants at the banks of the Ganges River, is a sight to behold. With the cool winds blowing and lights from the many lamps flickering across the wide expanse, the atmosphere is one of calmness and spiritual healing.

Osho Meditation Centre, Pune

A quick drive away from Mumbai, the financial capital of India, lies one of the best spiritual retreats in India – the Osho Meditation Centre. Spread across a sprawling green expanse, the centre is an oasis of peace and tranquillity. Based on Osho’s deep understanding of the human mind and body, and the world around, the Osho Meditation Centre has curated a multitude of individual and group sessions relating to the body, the mind, and emotions. A team of highly qualified and experienced facilitators lead the guests through their sessions in this tranquil environment. While the day passes with quiet meditation which helps in balancing the body and soul, the evenings at the Centre are soul-stirring. The daily evening dance session, where guests are advised to let themselves get lost in the moment of celebration, is the climax of every Osho experience.

Ananda at the Himalayas

Nestled in the midst of the Sal forest at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, for many, the spiritual tour of India begins at Ananda. Among the early spiritual retreats in India, Ananda leaves you with a life-changing experience. Surrounded by tall Sal trees, the Himalayas far away, and the mighty Ganges River down below, the place transforms every soul who spends some time here. Yoga, meditation, and an Ayurvedic menu, all help in healing the guests inside and out. While the enchanting surroundings have a calming effect on guests, the yoga sessions by experts and meditation help in balancing the body, mind, and soul. Days of meditation heal the soul, leaving behind a transformed individual who is ready to face the world with more positivity than ever before. Ananda believes that each individual is unique; hence every program is tailor-made after consultation with experts.

Auroville, Pondicherry

The iconic Matrimandir, a giant gold-plated structure surrounded by a lush green park, welcomes you to Auroville. With guests coming in from over 50 countries, Auroville is truly cosmopolitan in its nature. Among the best spiritual retreats in India, Auroville is therapeutic from the word go. Guests come to Auroville for long stays and enjoy being part of this spiritual and sustainable community. A stay at Auroville changes the way one looks at the world around; it gives every guest a sense of unity and peace. Guests here can be part of community building and can volunteer in many ways alongside attending mediation sessions.

Shreyas Yoga Retreat, Bangalore

Less than an hour’s drive from Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, Shreyas Yoga Retreat is where the corporate biggies and tourists head when looking for peace and calmness. Spread across 25 acres of open land and dotted with tall coconut trees, Shreya Yoga Centre is an oasis far from the hustle and bustle of city life. A boutique spiritual retreat, guests here attend yoga and meditation classes in the open meadow, bringing them closer to nature. A wellness spa with a wide array of Ayurvedic massages soothes every tired soul. The Shreyas Yoga Retreat has also been recognized as one of the finest yoga retreats in the world.