7-Day Yoga & Wellness Escape in the Himalayan Foothills of Rishikesh

The retreat runs for seven days and six nights at Agni Yoga India's ashram in Tapovan, Rishikesh. Mornings start with a pranayama session that flows into a hatha yoga class, then breakfast. The middle of the day is left open for excursions, which are included in the price and change based on the group and season. After lunch, there's an ashtanga vinyasa class, followed by a meditation session. Dinner is at 7 PM and lights out at 10 PM, giving the day a steady rhythm that's easy to settle into.

The excursions are where the retreat goes beyond the mat. There's a guided hike to a nearby waterfall, a sound healing session, an aerial yoga class, and a trip to watch the Ganga Aarti, the evening fire ceremony on the Ganges. You also get a chance to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, which involves an early start but is worth it. The retreat closes with a mantra chanting session, which the teachers use to bring the group together on the last evening.

The teaching team is a big part of the experience. Rohit, who grew up in Rishikesh and studied yoga sciences at two universities, leads the hatha and vinyasa classes. Lavish, with six years of experience in pranayama and philosophy, handles the breathwork. Priyanka, the youngest teacher, leads ashtanga and is praised in guest reviews for her energy. Lakhiram, who trained at the Himalayan Yoga Institute in Haridwar, runs the meditation and kirtan sessions. Together, they cover a broad range of yoga in a single week.

The location itself is a major draw. Tapovan is a leafy neighbourhood in Rishikesh, close to the local market and the Ganges. The ashram lobby looks out onto mountain views, and the property has enough open space for classes and outdoor activities. It's not a luxury resort—the accommodation is simple—but the setting is peaceful and green, which is what most guests come for. You're close enough to town to wander out for a chai or a massage, but far enough to feel removed from the noise.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation at the ashram (shared or private room) - 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners, plus snacks - Daily hatha yoga and pranayama sessions - Daily ashtanga vinyasa and yin yoga classes - Daily meditation sessions - Sound healing session - Aerial yoga class - Waterfall hike with a guide - Rishikesh sightseeing excursion - Ganga Aarti visit - Himalayan sunrise trip - Mantra chanting session - 1-hour treatment - Transportation during the retreat - Free parking and luggage storage - 24x7 wifi

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Travel insurance - Flights - Visa fees - Additional activities not in the itinerary - Additional treatments