7-Day Yoga and Sightseeing Retreat in Rishikesh with Saptkaya Yoga School

The retreat runs for seven days and six nights in Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. Each morning starts with a full practice block—asana, pranayama, and meditation—led by the school’s rotating team of teachers. You’ll likely practice Hatha and Ashtanga most days, but expect variety, because the team includes specialists in Iyengar, Yin, and even yoga therapy. Aishwarya, one of the teachers, is also a nutrition counselor, so there’s someone who can talk to you about diet as it relates to your practice.

Afternoons are where the retreat separates itself from a standard yoga holiday. There’s a guided sightseeing tour that takes in the city’s temples, the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats, and the other tourist spots. Another day, you’ll hike to the Secret Waterfall a short walk from the school and spend time in nature. There’s also at least one dedicated sound healing session, which the team uses to work on emotional balance, and the week includes nature walks through the foothills.

Anyone who’s been to Rishikesh knows the food is a big part of the experience. The in-house kitchen serves three sattvic Ayurvedic meals a day, all vegetarian, all plant-based, using seasonal and organic ingredients. You’ll eat light, which supports the yoga, and you’ll likely leave with cleaner eating habits. The retreat also covers the practical stuff—accommodation, three meals, transportation during the retreat, parking, and wifi—so you can focus on the practice.

The school itself is set in the quiet village of Jamari Katal, on Secret Waterfall Road in Upper Tapovan. It’s surrounded by greenery, close to natural waterfalls, and far enough from the main strip that you get peace, but close enough that Rishikesh’s sights are easily accessible. The vibe is traditional but welcoming—expect an authentic yogic lifestyle experience rather than a luxury spa.

Reviews are strong across the board, with a perfect 5.0 score based on 16 reviews, with guests specifically calling out the knowledgeable teachers and the cooperative staff. If you're looking for a retreat that combines daily practice with actual cultural experiences, and you want a team that genuinely cares about your progress, Saptkaya is a solid choice.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Daily pranayama classes - Group excursions/activities - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Pre and post retreat support from our team - Transportation during the retreat - Free parking - Luggage storage - Wifi connection

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional treatments - Additional activities not included in the itinerary