Himalayan Yoga & Healing Week in the Rishikesh Jungle

My New Life Yoga Retreat Centre sits about 15–20 km from the Tapovan/Laxman Jhula area, in a wooded spot that feels properly removed from town. The setting is basic but comfortable: shared luxury tent-cottages with coolers, cupboards, attached bathrooms and geysers for hot water. There's no pool or spa — this is a practice-focused week, not a resort stay.

Each day starts early with a 90-minute yoga class. Rakesh Vats teaches both Hatha and Ashtanga, adjusting to the group's experience level. After breakfast there's pranayama and meditation, then free time through the hottest part of the day. Afternoons might include a nature walk, trekking in the foothills, or optional Ayurvedic treatments (panchakarma detox, for example, is available for those who want deeper cleansing). Evenings often mean a trip to the river for the Ganga Aarti ceremony, which Rakesh considers an important part of the week.

The food is worth mentioning in detail because it's central to the retreat's philosophy. Everything is cooked fresh each day: lentils, rice, chapati, vegetable curries, herbal teas. All of it is vegetarian and prepared in pure desi ghee, following sattvic dietary principles — light, easy to digest, meant to support the body during intensive practice. Meals are served communally, eaten together in silence or quiet conversation.

What sets this retreat apart from similar offerings in Rishikesh is the combination of small group size (maximum 12), the jungle location away from tourist traffic, and Rakesh's 15-plus years of teaching rooted in traditional Himalayan lineage. Guests aren't rushed through a programme; there's time to rest, reflect and let the practice settle. Several reviewers mention returning home with measurable changes — weight lost, chronic symptoms eased, sleep improved — alongside the less tangible sense of having slowed down properly for the first time in years.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation in shared luxury tent-cottages - 3 daily vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Filtered water and herbal teas throughout the day - Welcome drink on arrival - Daily Hatha or Ashtanga yoga classes - Daily pranayama sessions - Daily guided meditation - Group excursions and activities (nature walks, trekking, Ganga Aarti visits) - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Free parking - Free WiFi

What's not included

- Airport transfers - International or domestic flights - Travel insurance - Additional Ayurvedic treatments (panchakarma, massage, etc.) - Additional activities not listed in the itinerary - Personal expenses - Laundry (available at extra charge per kg)