Himalayan Art and Wellness Retreat in Dharamshala

The Divine Hima sits among tea gardens and granite boulders on the slopes of the Dhauladhar mountains, a short drive from the airport and about 25 minutes from the town of Dharamshala. The property is the brainchild of Sanjay Kumbkarni, a geologist turned photographer and poet. He spent two and a half decades wandering the Himalayas, and this place is his tribute to that experience. Every wall has his photographs, and his poetry is scattered around, alongside ancient stone idols that survived the 1905 Kangra earthquake.

The retreat runs on a gentle rhythm: twice-daily yoga sessions covering Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin styles, guided meditation, and pranayama. Beginners are welcome, and the teachers adapt to all levels. There's a day trek to Triund, where you get packed lunch and panoramic views of the Kangra valley and the Dhauladhar range. On another day, you'll visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex in McLeod Ganj and the Norbulingka Institute, with a traditional Tibetan lunch and a momo-making demonstration with the chefs.

The food is all vegetarian, prepared in-house, with a rotating menu of Indian, Himachali, Tibetan, and continental dishes. Meals are served at a relaxed pace, encouraging you to savor each bite. The library is well-stocked, and there are quiet corners throughout the property for reflection. An optional 30-minute massage is included, and extras like a 60-minute massage or tandem paragliding at Bir Billing are available for an additional cost.

Sanjay is known for his warm hospitality, often dining with guests and sharing stories of his travels. It's this personal touch that gives the retreat its distinctive character. Whether you're an artist, a writer, or just someone needing a quiet break, this is a place that invites you to slow down and breathe.

What's included

- Airport pickup and drop-off - 5 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Daily yoga classes (Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin) - Daily meditation classes - 30-minute massage - Group excursions/activities - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Transportation during the retreat - Parking - Luggage storage - Wi-Fi connection

What's not included

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