Travel Category

Yoga is not just exercise but a way of life. The ancient science of health and wellness is centuries old but with time has evolved to suit the needs of the modern day. People from all walks of life choose yoga as the ultimate secret of rejuvenating the body, mind and soul. In the current scenario, post-COVID vacations means getting away from cities and breathe in the pure bliss of nature. India is the holy land of yoga. Yoga retreats are calling with ancient healing techniques amid nature’s bliss. India abounds in yoga retreats where one can learn yoga. Whether it’s a simple ashram experience or luxury getaway, here are our handpicked options.

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS, RISHIKESH

Nestled in the lap of Himalayas, the palatial Ananda in the Himalayas’ is a relaxing yoga retreat. With daily yoga programmes along with customized diets and a host of amenities, the resort enjoys tranquil vistas. Equipped with luxurious Garden Suites, there’s a temptation to simply curl up with a masala chai and enjoy the view.

THE HAVELI HARI GANGA, HARIDWAR

Dodge the crowds thronging around Haridwar’s holy Har Ki Pauri ghat and sink into The Haveli Hari Ganga’s private bathing area instead. It’s said that a dip in the Ganges rinses away negative karma. Morning yoga is instructed in a serene studio adjacent to the holy currents, with a havan, or fire blessing, to follow.

ANAND PRAKASH YOGA ASHRAM, RISHIKESH

Lotus-posed in Rishikesh’s quieter Tapovan is Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram, whose 90-minute morning and evening classes are as popular with residents as they are among those who flock to its broad rooftop studio from further afield. Accommodation is spartan, but the food is sublime and the teachers are excellent.

DEWA RETREAT, RISHIKESH
A swimming pool in Rishikesh is worth its weight in crystal malas, and Dewa Retreat’s is flanked by the exceedingly popular Pure Soul café, offering precious raw cacao-based and maca-laced delicacies. Perched above the Ganges, views from the rooms’ private balconies are spectacular, and if the in-house yoga classes aren’t up to scratch, there are plenty more to choose from in the surrounding ashrams.

THE LEELA PALACE, UDAIPUR
The Leela Palace’s five-day Sojourn into Self programme offers a heady tasting menu of holistic treatments served up at its in-house ESPA—the largest in India. Add in a Vedic astrology reading, daily yoga and blessings at the local Shiva temple, and this is ascetism of a highly decadent order.

THE OBEROI UDAIVILAS, UDAIPUR
Sun salutations facing the sparkling Lake Pichola as dawn lights the horizon is a spiritual experience worth photographing. Chase a morning class with a dip in the infinity pool gazing out the distant throb and pulse of Udaipur.

SIDDHARTH YOG SEVA ASHRAM, VARANASI
Varanasi is one of India’s holiest pilgrimage sites and, with its soaring temperatures and burning ghats, one of its most arresting. Yoga offers a welcome respite, and classes on Yogi Siddharth’s Ganges-facing terrace are one of the most peaceful experiences you’re likely to have at this frenetic destination. That is, if the resident monkeys don’t interfere!

TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA, GOA

Sink into Goa time on Benaulim Beach in the quieter south, where the on-demand yoga menu stretches to whatever appeals, from a gentle session tailored to beginners to a challenging set for more experienced practitioners.

SWASWARA CGH EARTH, GOKARNA
Draw away from the opulence of SwaSwara for a moment to meditate in its private hilltop meditation perch. With sprawling views across the aptly named Om Beach, this is where an open-eyed meditation practice comes into its own.

CARNOUSTIE AYURVEDA & WELLNESS RESORT, KERALA
Panchakarma—an intense revitalising Ayurvedic cleanse—is especially popular at the luxury beachside Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort. With rigorous daily massage treatments, delicious dosha (body type)-specific Indian fare and morning yoga and pranayama (breathwork) by the sea, it’s easy to see why.

NIRAAMAYA RETREATS SURYA SAMUDRA, KERALA
Perched atop a dramatic cliff above Kovalam Beach, days at Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra slide by with hypnotic serenity. Punctuate them with yoga: an invigorating session at sunrise gazing out at the Arabian Sea, and a soothing restorative class as the sun sinks beneath the horizon.

SOMATHEERAM AYURVEDIC HEALTH RESORT, KERALA
This is a place that takes its Ayurveda very seriously, with skilled doctors and a fastidious team of therapists set on restoring burnt-out city types. The sprawling oceanic views from the yoga terrace at Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort’s hill perch certainly complement the artful instruction.

WILDFLOWER HALL, SHIMLA
It’s rumoured that Hindu god—and itinerant yogi—Shiva abides in the Himalayas, so it follows that mortal practitioners take his lead. Classes at Wildflower Hall are instructed one-to-one with yawning views across the soaring peaks of India’s dramatic north.

Spiritual experiences in India is one of the reasons that inspire travellers from all around the globe. In India, traditions are a part of the culture. Spiritual practices quieten the mind, strengthen the soul and teach limitless compassion and wisdom. And, for this you need not take the difficult path. There is a lot to explore in the country. Giving the gift of connecting with the soul, spiritual experiences in India are unlike any other.

Get inspired for your next escape with these hand-picked suggestions for you.

Varanasi

In Mark Twain’s words Benares, now Varanasi is older than tradition, older even than legend, and twice as old as both of them put together. The holy city of Varanasi perched by the River Ganga is among the holiest cities in India. Owing to its rich spiritual legacy and history, it is a reflection of authentic India. In Varanasi, people come to wash their sins, seek knowledge and experience spirituality. The river ghats are witness to multiple aspects of life. The ancient temples are the sanctuaries of divine grace. Its people a friendly lot helping all those who are lost. And the sacred Ganges which forms the backbone of the city is the foundation of life and inspiration for many. In the hours leading up to sunset, the ghat comes to life with the vibrant, mystical and magical ritual called the Ganga Aarti. This grand and opulent ceremony is considered as one of the most lively and exciting spiritual experiences of India.

India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers incredible spiritual experiences. The country is a vast treasure for those seeking knowledge and awareness in spiritual terms. In the vast diversity, there are innumerable places and moments that connect you with the divine and a higher calling. Visit some of the popular sacred destinations of various faiths to experience spirituality.

Haridwar

Nestled by the holy River Ganges, Haridwar meaning the "Gateway to God" is one among the holiest places in India. Popular with Hindu pilgrims who come to take a dip in the holy waters of the fast-flowing Ganges River and wash away their sins. Unlike Varanasi, the water is clean and fresh in Haridwar. The evening Ganga Aarti holds ​a special appeal. Another popular attraction is the Mansa Devi Temple. The largest religious gathering in the world, the Kumbh Mela, is held in Haridwar as well. Plan your trip there with this Haridwar travel guide.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, is a popular place to come and meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism. It’s situated a short distance upriver from Haridwar, surrounded by hills on three sides. Rishikesh lures those seeking knowledge and peace with its numerous ashrams and yoga institutes. It especially draws spiritual-seeking foreigners, while Haridwar holds more significance for Hindu pilgrims. Because of their close proximity, many people come to Rishikesh and Haridwar in the same visit. Plan your trip there with this Rishikesh travel guide. There are Rishikesh hotels and guesthouses for all budgets so you can find a great place to stay.​

Amritsar

Amritsar, in the state of Punjab, was founded in 1577 by Guru Ram Das, the fourth guru of Sikhs. It’s the spiritual capital of the Sikhs and gained its name, meaning "Holy Pool of Nectar", from the body of water around the Golden Temple. The exquisite Golden Temple attracts pilgrims from all over the world. It looks particularly arresting at night when it’s beautifully lit up, with its imposing pure gold dome illuminated. The Wagah Border is a popular side trip from Amritsar. 

Amritsar’s most famous landmark, the Golden Temple is lit up beautifully every evening, and visiting it after dark is an entirely different experience altogether.  This trip is generally timed to not only allow tourists to see the temple lit up , but to also witness the sacred Palki Sahib ceremony which takes place every evening. The Holy Book of the Sikh religion, the Guru Granth Sahib, is now regarded as the eternal Guru by the Sikhs, and each evening is carried on a palanquin by devotees to the inner sanctum, where it is placed overnight.

Dharamshala

Nestled in the picturesque Dhauladhar range of Himalayas, Dharamshala is the famous as the holy residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. The Tibetan monk in exile was granted residency in the mountain town in Himachal Pradesh. The divine presence of His Holiness brings visitors from far ends of the world to bask in the spiritual bliss. A hub of Tibetans in exile, the town is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture. 

Goa

Goa has a rich history and culture waiting to be discovered and also beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage churches and convents that are worth visiting.  This walking tour starts by taking you to several of the UNESCO World Heritage churches in the area before exploring Panjim's charming Latin Quarter. This district is renowned for its wonderful Portuguese era architecture - many of the gaily painted buildings have been beautifully preserved and still boast their original wrought iron railings and terracotta tiled roofs.

Safari in the natural forest is expedition to observe the wildlife in its natural habitat. There are several sanctuaries and national parks in India that captivate wildlife photographers to click some of the best views, enclosing candid moments and rare sights.

Corbett National Park
Located in Uttarakhand one of the places for wildlife photography, where the jeep safari goes deep inside the park. It is famous for sightseeing of large carnivorous mammals, and it gives photographers candid moments. There are apparently five different zones in the park consisting of different flora and fauna. The rich biodiversity gives the photographers a notably brilliant chance to catch the candid moments and also splendid photographs. The Himalayan foothill gives it an extra edge over other parks. Catching a tiger before your splendid lenses will not be easy, but you can try your luck. Also Read - Vulnerable Wildlife at Risk As 116 Animals Including 11 Rhinos Dead in Assam's Flooded Kaziranga Park

Ranthambore National Park
The park of Rajasthan has its own place in exploring the wildlife. The park of Rajasthan is famous for luxurious train trips and safari. The most commonly sought animal for photography in candid moments is Bengal tigress with its cubs. Machli, one of the tigress is fond of posing before the cameras. This is the perfect place for clicking candid pictures of dangerous animals. Jeep Safari is advised to deepest to the park for spotting the tigers. Here are some places listed above for clicking perfect candid moments in the wildlife. The photographers are advised to take help of experienced guide and photographers for the best experience.

Kabini- Nagarhole National Park
It is one of the most popular haunts for those who love to explore the wilderness and enjoy getting up close with nature. It has a lot to offer right from the Jungle Safari, boating to trekking in Nagarhole Forest. The nature walk in the forest is a must if you want to reconnect with the surroundings and nature all over again. The jungle safari is a wonderful opportunity for all the environmental enthusiasts to mingle among the variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy the royal feel of an elephant safari for the view is just spectacular with dense forest all around and at times spotting various animals in their natural surroundings makes the ride worth it. A trip to Kabani can introduce you to the world of misty forests, valleys and watercourse.

Bandipur National Park
Located in Karnataka, this park is famous for its wildlife riches which is 874 square km, and covers many endangered species of animals and flora. Bandipur National Park along with Mudumalai National Park, Wayanad National Park and Nagarhole National Park forms the Nilgiri biosphere reserve. Bandipur is one of India’s first and finest Project-Tiger reserves, and also southern India’s most famous. Its priceless tiger and leopard habitat is home to three rivers and represents in part the best remaining haunt of the endangered Asiatic elephant, Indian wild dog and a plethora of life in all its sublimely understated forms and colours This reserve is the largest protected area in South India and the region with highest number of wild elephants in South Asia.

Periyar Tiger Reserve
Also known as the Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve is situated in the hills of the Western Ghats and is home to no less than 1800 flowering plant species, 143 species of orchids, 35 mammal species, and 265 bird species. Other than the Royal Bengal Tigers that reside here, this sanctuary also boasts a substantial population of the Malabar Giant Squirrel, the endangered Lion-Tailed Macaque, Asian Elephant, Leopards, and Smooth-Coated Otters. Visitors to one of India’s finest wildlife sanctuaries can enjoy trekking, elephant rides through the jungle, and boating on the Periyar Lake.

India is one of the top destinations for tea lovers. Lovers of the magical brew are in for a treat in India and the neighbouring Sri Lanka. India has a history of tea cultivation. There are many places that grow tea on the many lush hill slopes. From being one of the largest producers of tea to offering some amazing experiences for tea lovers, there is a lot on offer. The pleasant weather, gradient of slopes and the traditional approach of tea cultivation makes India very popular for tea.

1. Darjeeling

The British and Indians have at least one thing in common; their undying love for tea. This love brough the first seeds of tea to the hill station of Darjeeling in the British Raj. Acting on a whimsical thought of growing tea near where he resided, soon a string of people started imitating him, and voila, we now have a thriving market for Darjeeling tea which is demanded the world over! Stay at the Glenburn Tea Estate or ensure that you save up to stay here as it’s worth every Rupee! Another option is Makaibari Tea Estates.

The black variety of tea which is harvested in Darjeeling, India, is considered the best variety of tea and Darjeeling is also known as the champagne of teas. The weather is the major factor that contributes to the flavor of the tea.

2. Munnar

Munnar is best known for its tea gardens. As you drive through, you will find well manicured tea plantations on either side of the lane. With different shades of green, they look beautiful. You will get many postcard perfect images amidst these. Most of them are private properties and don't allow visitors. There are plantations which allow tourists with some offering tea tasting experience too. 

3. Assam

The largest tea growing area in the world is found in Assam. Also, Assam is the largest contributor of tea in India. In fact, contrary to myths that we started growing tea only after it was procured from China; tea has always grown in Assam. The locals would pluck the leaves, make a decoction and drink it. This fascinated the Britishers who then started their own plantations in Assam. The Assam tea is also renowned the world over. Some of the stay options include the Wild Mahaseer Tea Planter Bungalows or Burra Sahib’s Bungalow.

4. Himachal Pradesh

Himalayan tea is grown in the Kangra region. Places such as Palampur came especially into existence when Dr. Jameson planted the seedlings here. It was a hit with the British and today tea estates still exist. One can stay in tea estates such as the Darang Tea Estate or can opt for a tea tour at the Wah Tea Estate.

5. The Blue Mountains (Tamil Nadu)

In the Nilgiris too, tea estates have been established since 1835. The Nilgiris Teas are known for their delicate fragrance. In and around Coonoor are tea estates. The Badagas, a local tribe were made to work in the plantations during the British Raj because their lands were taken over by them for tea estates. Spread throughout the Nilgiris, tea estates are to be found in Wayanad, Anamalai region, and Nelliyampathy amongst many other areas. The O’land Estate is located 40 minutes from Ooty. Tenerife Plantation is an option for those visiting Coonoor.

India, rich in holy places, traditions and rituals, offers incredible spiritual experiences. The country is a vast treasure for those seeking knowledge and awareness in spiritual terms. In the vast diversity, there are innumerable places and moments that connect you with the divine and a higher calling. Discover the spiritual treasure with some unforgettable experiences. From sacred temples and enormous religious pilgrimages to yoga ashrams and beyond, spiritual experiences in India offer visitors healing, wellness, and the chance to forge a deeper connection with their surroundings. Begin your year afresh—and embark on an inspiring discovery tour of India’s most peaceful corners.

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