6 Peaceful Yoga Destinations in India for Yoga Lovers

India is always proud to claim that yoga originated from here. The various asanas (positions), their benefits and technicalities are all mentioned repeatedly in different Vedic scriptures. In Hinduism, yoga does not only act as a way of reaching peak physical and mental health but also as means to attain heights of spirituality and oneness with oneself. Ancient yogis practised yoga every day, and this is believed to be the secret of their flawless skin, amazing health and longevity. In Hindu mythological stories, meditation has led to people attaining superpowers.

Considering that so many people outside India are now highly interested in yoga, the Government of India and other private organisations have set up various yoga centres in many exotic locations of India. If you’re a true yoga fan, where better to practice it than in the country it came from? If you’re up for it, here are six places you have to visit.

1. Shreyas Yoga Retreat, Bangalore

If you want to learn yoga in luxury, then this is the place for you. It has been named as one of the most luxurious yoga retreats in the world. Packing up a small bag, going to the forest and meditating there isn’t everyone’s cup of tea (although it’s a perfect idea!).

Don’t let its location fool you. Even though the resort is in the IT hub of the country, it stands aloof of all the noise and traffic. Since it’s a luxury resort, you will undoubtedly be given the best treatment only. This resort has taken an extra step to leave its mark on your mind by customising yoga for each of their clients. Based on your needs, they will recommend asanas, and you will be doing these under the guidance of professionals.

They use traditional yoga techniques and don’t invent new forms of asanas themselves. Their staff service has been praised by clients worldwide. So if you’re planning on a luxurious and peaceful vacation this year, register yourself at Shreyas Yoga Retreat.

2. Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh

This beautiful ashram set high up on the hills near the bank of river Ganges is probably the best place to learn yoga in the world. The ashram was established in 1942, and since then, millions of tourists have come here and even stayed.

The compound of Parmarth Niketan is so huge that it houses more than 1000 rooms. Apart from the abundant scenic beauty already existing here, the organisation has beautified it more by planting arrays of flowers. The constant flow of the Ganges and the clean mountain air will purify your soul.

Yoga is the highest priority in this wonderful ashram. Throughout the day, various sessions are held to teach yoga to the visitors. You can also attend the evening aarti (prayer) which is performed to worship the river. It is an important ritual, and you’ll be fascinated by it. Simplicity is the only moral here. Everyone is welcome in the ashram, and the price is also very nominal.

Undoubtedly one of the best ashrams in the country.

3. Tushita Meditation Centre, Dharamshala

Now here is a soul-pleasing yoga centre. It’s the dream land for every nature/yoga lover. But to be honest, it’s much more than that.

Situated in the lapels of beautiful round hills that are full of trees and clean mountainous air, Tushita is the ideal location for a stress-free and private meditation practice. Since it’s a Buddhist centre, there are certain rules that you have to abide by, but none of them will pose a problem for you if you’re willing to set yourself on the path of self-discovery.

Discipline and silence are highly valued in this humble abode. You can even take lessons and attend classes where you’re taught about Buddhist principles of life. There is no other distraction here other than the occasional chirping of the birds or the sound of a truck passing by down the road (which is rare). You are expected to get rid of all distractions to learn more about yourself.

Also, His Holiness Dalai Lama lives close by and therefore, you can expect his presence then and now. Sounds like bliss? Well, head out to Tushita Meditation Centre then.

4. Kalari Kovilakom, Kerala

You might already know that Kerala is one of the most naturally beautiful states in India. But adding to its natural beauty is the fact that people from all over the world come here to get world’s best Ayurvedic treatment. What if along with that, you can learn yoga and meditation as well?

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of opportunity. Clients have stated that a deep sense of peace and healing, both physically and mentally, are evident here. Everything in the resort offered to you, from food to lifestyle, is very traditional. All the dishes are vegetarian and prepared in a healthy manner only. Their Ayurvedic spa treatments are performed by professionals. Besides, yoga and meditation are given the highest priority here. It’s like a relaxation period, away from the stress of the daily world.

Are you up for a stay in this paradise? If yes, then head over to Kalari Kovilakom.

5. Osho Meditation Resort, Pune

Pune is a metropolitan city. Amidst all its crowd, noise and rush, there lies a sanctuary. Osho was a famous and followed personality in the world. He was an Indian mystic, guru and philosopher. His focus was less on religion and more upon spiritual enlightenment through meditation. Therefore, it’s only natural for you to pay a visit to this resort that operates on his principles.

Situated in acres of lush green and well-kept gardens, the resort is pleasing to one’s senses. A calm befalls you the moment you enter its compound. Although it has the structure of a primary ashram, it actually provides luxurious amenities. The amenities might, in fact, shock you. Jacuzzi, gym, sauna and swimming pool are some of the basic facilities. Besides that, there is prominent nightlife including theatres and clubs. Because of all these luxuries, the rent is also quite high.

If yoga in extravagance sounds appropriate to you, this is what you should choose.

6. Ayurveda Yoga Meditation Resort, Coonoor

If performing yoga in a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by the beautiful Nilgiri Hills sounds like the perfect idea to you, come over to this resort.

Even if you’re not that crazy about yoga, the scenery offered by this resort will blow you away. Honestly. This place is so beautiful that you’ll not feel like going back. Once you reach here, all you can see around are forests, plantations and hills. The air is free of any pollution. You’ll be greeted in the morning by the sound of waterfalls nearby and birds’ chirping. It’s no less than bliss.

As is apparent from the name, the resort provides yoga and Ayurvedic therapies. These are in fact the two things that attract the maximum number of foreign tourists to our country. The resort is run by yoga professionals and has been approved as a traditional yoga centre by the Indian Government. Besides that, they also provide certificate courses for yoga. A definite plus!