21-Day Multi-Style Yoga Teacher Training and Wellness Retreat in Varkala, Kerala

The 200-hour curriculum is comprehensive. You'll learn over 50 Hatha and 20 Ashtanga poses, but the course goes well beyond physical practice. Pranayama includes advanced techniques like Bhastrika and Suryabheda, while Shatkarma (yogic cleansing) covers Jala Neti and other purification practices. Philosophy sessions explore the four paths of yoga, the chakra system, and the guru-disciple relationship. You'll also study anatomy, teaching methodology, and get hands-on teaching practice.

A unique part of this training is its focus on mantra meditation and emotional detoxification. Led by Sai Naresh, who has studied at Shivananda Ashram and in Mysore, the program uses specific mantras and kriyas to address emotional blocks in the body. Guest lecturer Ivan Bava, an internationally recognized spiritual teacher, brings his ALO Healing method to the course, while Mayank Goswami's background in modern anatomy and Jyoti's blend of yoga and Reiki add depth to the teaching team.

The days are full but balanced. Mornings begin with Hatha yoga at 7:00 am, followed by pranayama and chanting, then breakfast. Afternoons are for philosophy, alignment, and anatomy, with a long lunch break. Evenings include Ashtanga practice and meditation. Weekends include excursions, and there are evening activities like kirtan and movie nights.

The location is a big part of the experience. Varkala is called the 'Jewel of Kerala' - a cliff-top town with unspoiled beaches and a lighthouse. The academy sits in a quiet garden, but you're just a 30-second walk from the cliffs and coastline, where you can swim or watch the sunset. The training encourages responsibility - you wash your own clothes and clean your room - which builds a sense of community and simplicity that many guests find authentic.

What's included

- 20 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Certificate upon successful completion - Registration with Yoga Alliance (RYT-200) - Weekend/day off excursions - Evening activities: kirtan, movie night - Course manual - Yoga mats, blocks, straps, bolsters - School t-shirt/tote bag - Wi-Fi connection

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional treatments - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Airport pickup and drop-off (€40 per person)