6-Day Himalayan Hatha & Waterfall Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh

The retreat is run by a small team of local yoga teachers, each with formal training in yogic science. Monika leads the pranayama and meditation sessions and holds an E-RYT 500-hour certificate from Yoga Alliance USA. Shubham focuses on traditional Hatha asana, and Ajay teaches Ashtanga Vinyasa and works on alignment. Between them they cover the daily classes, and given the small group size, they can adjust the practice to what you can actually do.

A typical day starts early. The 7 a.m. wake-up is followed by a ninety-minute Hatha yoga and pranayama class on the yoga deck, with views of the mountains. Breakfast is served at 9:30, and then the group heads out for the day's excursion. These vary — one day might be a hike to Neer Waterfall, another a sunrise visit to Kunjapuri Temple, and another a trip to Vashistha Cave with yoga on the beach by the Ganges. There's also a visit to a local market and an evening Ganga aarti ceremony. Lunch is at 1:30 p.m. back at the ashram, and the afternoon is free until the 4 p.m. Ashtanga Vinyasa, aerial yoga, or yin yoga class. Meditation and chanting follow, an Ayurvedic massage at 6 p.m., and dinner at 7:30.

What makes this different from a standard yoga retreat is the daily excursion component. It's not just about time on the mat — you're out walking, seeing temples, and getting a feel for Rishikesh. The aerial yoga is a particular draw for some guests; it uses a hammock to support inversions, which can be easier for people who struggle with balance in regular inversions. Reviews from prior guests specifically mention enjoying these outings and the variety of activities.

The accommodations are straightforward but comfortable. Rooms come with attached bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The campus has a yoga shala, a terrace, and a small kitchen. It's a working yoga school, so the atmosphere is simple and functional rather than luxurious. There's a daily Ayurvedic massage included, which is a real selling point given the price.

What's included

- 5 nights accommodation - 3 daily vegetarian meals - Daily yoga asana classes - Daily meditation and yoga nidra classes - Daily pranayama and shatkarma classes - Daily Ayurvedic massage - Daily excursions and nature hikes - Transportation during the retreat - Free pick-up from Dehradun Airport - Wi-Fi connection - Pre and post retreat support - Professional event photos - Luggage storage

What's not included

- International flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Optional activities not in the itinerary - Additional treatments - Personal expenses