Himalayan Yoga & Meditation Escape in Dharamshala

The retreat at Om Yoga Ashram Himalaya is built around a daily structure that leaves room for both deep practice and genuine exploration. Mornings begin with 90-minute asana classes that draw on Hatha and vinyasa styles, led by teacher Rashpal Singh, who has been practicing since 2001 and also runs teacher trainings in Cape Town. These sessions are followed by pranayama and meditation, then a sattvic breakfast. Midday brings philosophy or chakra study — seven-chakra exploration, mantra classes, and discussion of yogic texts — rather than just more physical work. Evenings feature a second asana class, often gentler, and then kirtan, bhajan singing, and aarti prayer.

Between sessions, the schedule opens up. Treks run to Triund Hill, Galu Mata, and the waterfalls near Dharamkot, with a guide. There are also organized car trips to local sights: the Dalai Lama's temple, Bhagsu waterfall, Norbulingka Institute, the Karmapa temple, tea gardens, and Naddi sunset point. You can also opt for one-on-one consultations in kinesiology, NLP, or meditation to go deeper into whatever brought you here.

The ashram itself is a purpose-built space rather than a converted homestay — something worth clarifying, because the vibe is simple and functional. Rooms have wooden interiors, attached bathrooms, and balconies with mountain views; the common areas include a library, a terrace, and a yoga deck. The whole property is surrounded by trees, with birdsong and the sound of the nearby waterfall as a backdrop. The newly built yoga shala is clean and minimalist, with two twin beds, an attached bathroom, and a balcony in each room.

The location is a genuine draw. McLeod Ganj is the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile, and the presence of the Dalai Lama's temple gives the town a contemplative energy that seeps into the retreat. You're close enough to walk to the temple, markets, and cafes, but far enough that the hillside feels quiet. This is a retreat for people who want to understand yoga as a complete way of life, not just a workout — and the small group size, the teacher's depth, and the Himalayan setting all support that.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation - 3 daily organic sattvic meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Pranayama classes - Specialized workshops (chakra study, mantra, philosophy) - Group excursions and activities - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Professional event photos - Course manual - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Wi-Fi connection - Transportation during the retreat - Parking - Local sightseeing by car - Daily singing bhajan kirtan - Mantra chanting - Seven chakra study - Spiritual study - Unlimited purified water

What's not included

- Airport transfers (can be arranged for ~1500 INR) - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Additional treatments (e.g., NLP/kinesiology consultations)