Ashram-Style Yoga and Wellness Week in Rural Karnataka

The Eco Retreat sits on what Kiran calls sacred land — a patch of green in Karnataka where every tree was planted with intention. There's a lake, cows wandering around, birds everywhere, and organic fruit growing right there. The setting is quiet enough that you hear the birds and not much else.

Mornings begin with an hour of yoga at 7am, followed by free time before a vegetarian breakfast made from whatever's ripe in the garden. Mid-morning brings Karma Yoga — light work around the property, weeding or helping with the trees — then a breathing and relaxation session before lunch. Afternoons are unstructured: meditate, read, walk, or just sit. There's a chanting session late afternoon, then an early dinner around 5pm.

Kiran runs the place with his wife Pratheeka. He built it from scratch, starting with a dream of creating a space where people could reconnect with nature. Guests describe him as one of the kindest people they've ever met. You eat meals with his family, help pick coconuts, and get drawn into conversations that stretch into the evening.

The retreat also supports a local program for children with disabilities. Kiran has created a place where they can learn, work, and be part of something. If you want, you can spend part of your day helping out at the school — teaching a bit of English, just being present. It's not required, but people who've done it say it was one of the highlights of their trip.

This is not a polished experience. The accommodation is simple, the village is small, and you're a long way from anything touristy. But if what you want is to slow down, eat well, move your body gently, and spend time with good people in a beautiful place, this is exactly that.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation in shared rooms - 3 daily vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Cooking class - Breathing and relaxation sessions - Karma Yoga activities

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Personal expenses