10-Day Yoga Nidra & Deep Relaxation Retreat in the Himalayas

Most yoga retreats pack the schedule with activity; this one does the opposite. The central practice here is Yoga Nidra — a guided lying-down meditation that brings you into the state between waking and sleeping, where the nervous system can actually reset. You'll do it twice a day, once after morning asana and again in the early afternoon, so the effect compounds over the ten days.

The rest of the day is structured but unhurried. Mornings start at 7:30 with 90 minutes of asana and pranayama — the physical and breath practices that prepare the body for stillness. After the first Yoga Nidra session and breakfast, you have a few hours free: time to walk down to the Ganges, explore Lakshman Jhula, or just rest in the garden. Afternoons bring a second Yoga Nidra session followed by a philosophy class that explains the theory behind what you're experiencing — not abstract concepts, but practical context for the practices you're doing. The day closes with evening meditation before dinner.

Sunil Sharma runs the retreat and leads most sessions. He's been teaching yoga for over 25 years, specialising in pranayama, Yoga Nidra, and meditation. Reviews mention that he embodies what he teaches rather than just explaining it, and that he's good at reading where each person is without pushing. The group size — capped at 14, often smaller — means he can adjust guidance to individuals rather than teaching to the room.

The location is Jonk Village in Swarg Ashram, one of the quieter neighbourhoods of Rishikesh. You're close enough to walk to cafés and the bridge at Lakshman Jhula, but far enough from the main tourist strip that mornings are birdsong and temple bells rather than traffic. The Ganges is a few minutes' walk away — cold, fast-moving water coming down from the Himalayas, good for sitting beside if not for swimming.

Food is sattvic vegetarian — three meals a day, simple and clean, designed to support the practice rather than distract from it. Accommodation is basic but comfortable: private or shared rooms with attached bathrooms, A/C, Wi-Fi, and a terrace.

What's included

- 9 nights accommodation in private or shared room - 3 daily sattvic vegetarian meals - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily asana classes - Daily pranayama classes - Two daily Yoga Nidra sessions - Daily meditation classes - Yogic philosophy sessions - Free excursions to local sites of interest - Course manual - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Wi-Fi connection - Yoga mats and props

What's not included

- Airport transfers - International flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Additional treatments or private sessions - Activities not included in the itinerary - Personal expenses