INDUS DISCOVERIES

Top Five Yoga Destinations in India

Besides natural beauty and diversity, Yoga is one of the buzz-words which are usually associated with India. Yoga is an ancient art of healing and meditation that provides equal solace to your mind and body. This art has become more relevant amidst present circumstances, as people lead very hectic and stressful lives these days. Every year, many travel India to visit Yoga destinations, which offer wellness vacations. Whether you want to regain vitality, lose weight, seek mental peace or try out some natural anti-aging asanas and herbs –Yoga encompasses it all. India’s Yoga retreats offer a perfect blend of comforting ambience, invigorating sessions, and luxurious treatments. Let’s check out the top five Yoga destinations of India.

Ananda in the Himalayas:

Opened in 2001, Ananda is a very popular and highly ranked spa in the word, which is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Narendranagar, Uttarakhand and located in the magnificent palace of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal. This retreat is famed for ancient Yoga techniques and asanas or postures, which are taught here by the experienced instructors. Here, the concept of Yoga is inspired from the Bihar school of Yoga. Particularly known for its Hath Yoga style, one can learn various shuddhi Kriyas, which are practised here, to cleanse and soothe the body and mind. This resort also offers specific Yoga packages, designed for stress management and weight control. Visitors can choose from over 80 treatments and start their yoga classes based on the main five programs: Hatha, Gatyatmak, Kriya, Pranayama, and Advanced Pranayama.

How to reach: Dehradun, which is the capital of Uttarakhand state in India, has the nearest airport and railhead. In fact, you can also fly in by a helicopter, as Ananda also has a private helipad.

Tushita Meditation Centre in Dharamsala:

Tushita Meditation Centre is located in the quaint and tranquil town of Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, which is also the abode in exile of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This retreat is best for those who are looking for something more than the typical yoga and meditation classes. The serene ambience of this place also helps the visitors to relax naturally. Actually, this centre offers various courses in Buddhism and also teaches yoga and meditations techniques. A 17-day Guru Yoga is offered to the recipients of the Kalachakra initiation. This Centre also has various guided meditation programs, which are offered for six days each week. This centre also attracts those who want to study and practise the teachings of Lord Buddha.

How to reach: Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport, which is located in the nearby Kangra valley and Pathankot is the nearest railhead destination.

Spa Niraamaya in Kovalam:

Spa Niaamaya is renowned for its serene ambience and promoted as an ideal meditation destination. Situated on the tranquil beach of Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, this place is away from the hustle-bustle of a city and spread across a huge area. Completed with all sorts of modern amenities, there are 31 heritage cottages in this complex, which are designed to offer the utmost comfort and peacefulness to the visitors. This place is known for its ‘Yoga Nidra’ meditation exercise, which is based on the ancient meditation and relaxation techniques and helps in de-stressing. This resort also offers various detoxification and purification programs with specific treatments for joints and bones.

How to reach: Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest airport and railhead destination.

Ayurveda Yoga Meditation Resort in Coonoor:

This beautiful retreat is nestled amidst the soothing and verdant ambience of Nilgiri Mountains in Coonoor, Tamilnadu. It is surrounded by organic farms and various medicinal plants and herbs. This place runs a Kaya Kalpa program, under which it offers yoga, meditation and Ayurveda packages to visitors. In fact, all these programs can be further customized as per the requirements of the visitors. This place is surrounded by organic farming fields and tress. The whole idea behind this is to bring visitors close to the nature, which further helps in healing.

How to reach: Coimbatore is the nearest airport and railhead destination.

Shreyas Yoga Retreat in Bangalore:

Shreyas Yoga Retreat in Bangalore is meant for those who are looking for a luxurious yoga resort, where each session can be customized as per the needs of the visitors. There is an array of services in the form of yoga classes, meditation sessions and rejuvenation spa among others. The retreat follows the principles of blending spirituality with self-discovery to bring an instant peace to mind and body. Shreyas Yoga retreat is spread across 25 acres of gardens. Experienced instructors teach various Yoga Sutras including Hatha yoga, pranayama and pratyahara.

How to reach: Bangalore is the nearest airport and railhead destination.