8 Day Yoga and Adventure Wellness Escape in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The retreat is based at Mala Dhara Eco Resort, a sustainably-built property near Chiang Mai surrounded by rice fields and gardens. The days begin with meditation and a yoga class, often themed around a philosophical concept. Styles vary—Hatha, Yin, and Vinyasa—depending on the day and the group's energy. Afternoons are for excursions: hiking to waterfalls and caves, visiting local temples and markets, and a vegan Thai cooking class. The week's big outing is a day at Elephant Nature Park, an ethical sanctuary where you'll feed and walk with rescued elephants.

What sets this retreat apart from a standard yoga holiday is the level of care and authenticity. Carrie and Zach live and teach what they practice—Carrie's been practicing for 14 years and teaching for seven, with trauma-informed and recovery yoga training, while Zach is a plant-based chef and Reiki Master. Their philosophy is rooted in authentic yoga, which means no fluffy spiritual promises, just a genuine, grounded approach. A big part of that is the sober, alcohol-free environment. This isn't about abstaining for the sake of it; it's about creating a clean space for deeper connection and healing. They even offer scholarships for people in recovery.

Beyond the daily schedule, there's room to personalize your week. You can add on a traditional Thai massage, book a Reiki session, or arrange a Sak Yant sacred tattoo with a local master—a meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. The retreat is small, caped at 18 people, which keeps the group tight and the experience personal.

The location itself is a draw. Chiang Mai is the cultural and spiritual heart of Thailand, with hundreds of temples and a laid-back, creative vibe. Mala Dhara is just outside the city, close enough to forays into town but far enough to feel tucked away in nature. This is a retreat for people who want their yoga vacation to also be an adventure, with the comfort of a well-run, intimate setup.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation in a sustainable earth bungalow or dorm at Mala Dhara Eco Resort - Daily yoga, meditation, and pranayama classes (Hatha, Yin, Vinyasa) - Specialized workshops on yoga philosophy, breathwork, Ayurveda, and meditation - 3 daily plant-based meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) plus desserts, coffee, tea, and snacks - Use of yoga shalas, saltwater pool, farm, steam bath, and all common areas - Visit to Elephant Nature Park - Guided hikes to waterfalls and caves - Vegan Thai cooking class - Group herbal steam and sauna experience - Transport and admission to local temples and markets - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Professional event photos - Parking, luggage storage, and wifi - Nature hikes with a trusted guide

What's not included

- Airport transfers - A few meals when eating out - Transportation to and from Chiang Mai and Mala Dhara Eco Resort - Travel insurance - Massage (optional add-on) - Bike rental (optional add-on) - Sak Yant sacred tattoo experience (optional add-on) - Laundry service (optional) - Reiki healing or Ayurvedic consultations (optional)