Kerala Backwater Yoga and Zen Meditation Retreat

Sambodhi Yoga House and Zen Centre sits in a quiet suburb of Alleppey, about 20-25 minutes from the railway station and within easy reach of the Kerala backwaters. The property is small — think boutique homestay rather than resort — with a tropical garden, outdoor pool, and open-air spaces designed for meditation and yoga practice.

The daily schedule runs two to three sessions. Early risers meet John at 6am for Zen meditation (authentic Zazen practice with sutra chanting), then move into a 6:30am yoga class with Jessy. The yoga draws from classical Hatha traditions, with adjustments offered to improve your form. Afternoons bring another session at the yoga shala with Jim, who teaches with a focus on movement and presence. The style is traditional — expect pranayama, restorative sequences, and Kundalini elements depending on the day.

One sound healing session is included during your stay, using Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. The group is kept small (maximum 10 people), so you'll get individual attention and a genuine sense of community by the end.

The backwater excursion takes you out on a shikara boat for two hours, drifting through the waterways that Kerala is famous for. If you want more activity, the hosts can arrange kayaking, cycling, or temple visits. John is particularly helpful with logistics — past guests mention he organised transfers to Kochi with sightseeing stops along the way.

Food is served twice daily (breakfast and dinner), home-cooked by the family. The menu is vegetarian with options for vegan, dairy-free, and sugar-conscious diets. Guests describe it as simple, delicious, and far better than typical retreat fare.

The hosts have trained with serious teachers. John studied under K.C. Fabian (a renowned Kerala yoga teacher) and learned Zen from Ama Samy, later training with Iyengar teacher H.S. Arun and Kundalini teachers Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa and Kia Miller. Jessy holds a yoga diploma from Annamalai University and trained in the Sivananda tradition. Jim is an architect by profession who brings a movement-focused approach to his teaching.

What's included

- 3 nights accommodation in Pool Cabana room with A/C and ensuite bathroom - Daily vegetarian breakfast and dinner - Water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily yoga classes (morning and afternoon) - Daily Zen meditation sessions - Daily pranayama classes - 1 sound healing workshop - 2-hour shikara boat cruise through Alleppey backwaters - Access to outdoor swimming pool - Free wifi - Free parking

What's not included

- Airport transfers (available for 3200 INR / approx €35) - Flights - Visa fees - Travel insurance - Lunch - Additional spa treatments or therapies - Optional activities (kayaking, cycling, temple tours, museum visits) - Personal expenses