11-Day Yoga Teacher Training & Wellness Escape by the Arabian Sea in Varkala, Kerala

The 100-hour course covers the core pillars of yoga teaching: asanas, alignment, teaching methodology, anatomy, and the philosophical groundwork that underpins the practice. Each day includes a mix of physical practice and classroom time, with a strong focus on hands-on experience. By the end of the 11 days, you'll have practiced teaching sequences, given and received adjustments, and built a foundation in yogic philosophy that goes beyond the physical postures. The course is registered with Yoga Alliance USA, so upon completion you can register as an internationally recognised teacher.

The teaching team is led by Yogi Pankaj, founder of Pankaj Yogpeeth and a Rishikesh native. He has taught for more than ten years across India and internationally, and he leads the hatha classes, alignment workshops, teaching methodology, and anatomy sessions. Swami Atma Jnanananda Giri, a homeopathic doctor who has lived in Rishikesh for over a decade, teaches meditation, Yoga Nidra, and philosophy. He brings a scholarly depth to the Bhagavad Gita and the Mandukya Upanishad, helping students understand yoga as a way of life rather than just exercise. Guest teachers, like Joa Gomez who led a recent 100-hour training and is praised by graduates for his mobility work, often join the faculty. Kavita, who teaches pranayama, is also singled out in reviews for the quality of her breathwork sessions.

The setting is Rachana's Black Beach Resort, a relaxed property a short walk from Black Beach and the main Varkala Cliff. You'll be accommodated in clean, simple rooms with air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. The resort has a garden, a small library, and a dedicated yoga shala where daily practice takes place. Varkala itself is quieter than Goa or Rishikesh, which means fewer distractions and more headspace for study. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International (TRV), about 45 kilometers away, a one to one-and-a-half hour drive.

The food is a highlight. Three daily sattvic vegetarian meals are prepared fresh and include Kerala specialties like Vegetable Stew and Beetroot Thoran. The kitchen handles vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets easily. A weekly nature hike and excursions to local sites are also part of the package, giving you a taste of the region beyond the training space. For anyone wondering if a 100-hour immersion is enough to start teaching, the school is clear: this is a serious course, but it's structured so a busy person can complete it. Reviews from past participants consistently mention the strength of the teaching team and the supportive community that forms over the 11 days.

What's included

- 10 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Welcome drink - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Teacher training course and certification - Certificate upon successful completion - Registration with Yoga Alliance/Professionals/International/etc - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Free excursions to sites of interest - Course manual - Pre and post retreat support from our team - Weekend/day off excursions - Yoga mats, blocks, straps, and bolsters - School t-shirt/tote bag - WiFi connection

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional treatments - Additional activities not included in the itinerary