8-Day Yoga, Sound Healing & Meditation Retreat by the Ganges in Rishikesh, India

Tarang Yoga Ashram sits on the quiet, forested edge of Rishikesh, just 50 steps from the Ganga. The daily schedule weaves together a full range of yogic practices: Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga; pranayama; guided, active, and silent meditation; yoga nidra; mantra chanting; kirtan; satsang; and deep, restorative sound healing sessions with singing bowls. Teachers are experienced and welcoming, and classes are suitable for everyone from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. The small group setting means you get personal attention, and the philosophy and anatomy classes help you understand the 'why' behind the practices.

The retreat also gets you out into the natural beauty around Rishikesh. There are nature walks, hikes to a waterfall, visits to ancient temples and caves, and the unforgettable experience of the evening Ganga Aarti. You can take a dip in the river from the ashram's private beach, watch Himalayan sunrises and sunsets, and even spot rare migratory birds in the surrounding forest. After dinner, the community gathers for relaxed activities like badminton, bonfires, movie nights, tarot cards, ecstatic dance, and board games, making it easy to connect with fellow guests from around the world.

What really sets this retreat apart is its authentic ashram atmosphere combined with a surprisingly comfortable, budget-friendly stay. You're not in a sterile resort; you're living simply but comfortably, eating nourishing vegetarian meals, and sharing the experience with a close-knit group. The reviews consistently mention the warmth of the staff, the quality of teaching, and the genuine sense of peace and community that guests find here. One reviewer summed it up: 'the best food and the best instructors.'

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation (choose from private or shared rooms) - Welcome drink - Daily 3 vegetarian meals (breakfast/brunch, lunch, dinner) - Morning detox juice - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily 2 yoga classes (Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa) - Daily 2 meditation classes (active, silent, guided) - Daily 1 pranayama class - Daily 1 sound healing session - Daily 1 philosophy/anatomy class - Daily mantra chanting/kirtan/satsang - Yoga Nidra and relaxation techniques - 3 times a week Shatkarma (cleansing techniques) - Twice a week excursions to local attractions and market visits - Ganga Aarti and temple visits - Nature walks and waterfall trek - Access to private Ganga beach - After-dinner activities (bonfire, movie nights, tarot, dance) - Free WiFi and parking - Luggage storage - Certificate of retreat completion - Free Tarang Yoga T-shirt

What's not included

- Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Airport transfers (optional paid) - Ayurvedic massages and doctor consultation - Jungle safari and river rafting - Bicycle rental - Extra nights