Best Retreats for Holistic Healing in India

India has always been the land of spirituality. From the ancient times, its divinity and spiritual beliefs have been carried on for ages. Today’s modern time, which is governed by human developments,  is quite forward moving. In such a fast paced environment, one can neglect the feeling of clinging to the past. And why to cling to the past, being forward is actually productive. But amidst this pace, one must not avoid the rich past legacy which still feels right. One such element of the past is Yoga and Ayurveda, of which India stands proud of.

Yoga and Ayurveda took birth in India in the mythological times and its basic nature and values has been the same-complete peace in mind, body and soul. It is not limited to India anymore. World class cities like Paris and Los Angeles have found it as a new trend for the elites. In any way the west adopts it, roots of this ancient practice will always be imbibed in India. Owing to the growing popularity of Yoga and Meditation, several spiritual centers have opened in the country. Listed below is the list of some of the best retreats that provide holistic healing in India.

Ananda in the Himalayas, Narendranagar

Situated in the Himalayan mountain estate of Uttarakhand, Ananda in the Himalayas is a luxury resort. It is not a usual resort where you would check in for a leisurely holiday. The resort was set up in the year 2000 as India’s first spa destination. It focuses on the traditional Ayurvedic and Yoga practices of India and combine it with therapies of International spa. Dedicated to the concept of Ayurveda and Yoga, practices and teachings at Ananda aim to maintain a complete balance of body, mind and soul.

Address: The Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar Tehri – Garhwal, Narendra Nagar, Uttarakhand 24917

[Read More about Ananda in Himalayas]

 Jindal Naturecure Institute, Bangalore

Situated in a lush green, eco-friendly campus of Bangalore, Jindal Nature Cure Institute is a charitable naturopathy hospital. Unlike its counterparts, the hospital believes in offering non-invasive, drug-less therapy to cure specific diseases. The treatment focuses primarily on Ayurveda and yoga therapies. Other regimes like physiotherapy, acupuncture, diet therapy, and Vega therapy are all part of the treatment. Visit this place if you are looking for one of the best wellness retreats in India. At Jindal NatureCure, it is not just about relieving a patient from some medical condition but learning a healthier way to lead life.

Address: National Highway 4, Jindal Nagar, Tumkur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560073   

 Bio Resurge Clinic, Alila Diwa Goa

Founded by Ghem Schimmer, a fitness guru from Australia, who trained the likes of international models and Hollywood stars, Bio Resurge Clinic  is amongst the popular holistic healing centers in India. Students at the institute are made to stay in five star accommodation in optimum luxury. As part of the daily schedule, fitness classes and wellness program are conducted within a duration of 28 days. The programs are designed as per your health which combines with nutritional organic food produce effective results.

Address:   48/10,Village Majorda, Adao Waddo, Salcette, Goa 403713, India

 [Read More about Alila Diwa Goa]

 Tushita Meditation Centre, Dharamshala

As Dharamsala in India, is a major Buddhism-centric place, Tushita found no place better than it to set up its facility. Tushita is actually a center to study and practice Buddhism from the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. Over the time, the center has attained huge popularity among domestic and foreign travelers. At Tushita, aspirants are offered retreat and advanced courses on Buddhist philosophy and traditions. Experienced meditators also have the luxury of meditating in separate huts. Besides meditation, aspirants can also indulge in getting information on Buddhist philosophies. Forr this, the meditation center houses an inhouse library.

Address: Mcleod Ganj, Dharmsala, Himachal Pradesh 176219  

 Ashiyana Yoga Retreat

Located in the beautiful Mandrem beach of North Goa, Ashiyana Yoga Retreat is a spellbinding tranquil space to relax body, mind and spirit. Beautifully reflecting the other side of Goa, which is aloof from its loud party culture, the renowned yoga center is turning out into a popular hotspot for tourists. Yoga and meditation here is not about performing difficult asanas, but it is inclined more on self discovery. Besides connecting to the soul through yoga and meditation, aspirants can also avail the benefits of spa facility at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat.

Address: Junas Waddo, Mandrem, Goa

 Shreyas Yoga Retreat, Bangalore

A quiet getaway from the chaos of a city life, Shreyas Yoga Retreat is one of the best holistic centers in the country. The center is  renowned for its teachings based on the philosophy of Vedanta, which is the bedrock of Yoga and spirituality in India. In precise terms, Yoga and Meditation classes at Shreyas Yoga retreat are primarily based on Ashtanga and Hath Yoga. Along with conducting Yoga classes, the center also focuses on offering rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages. Traditional Ayurvedic massages like Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Udwarthanam, Sarvangadhara and Choorna Pinda Sweda are the major highlights, which one can expect at Shreyas Yoga Retreat.

Address: Santoshima Farm, Gollahalli Gate, Near-Hesarghatta Lake, Nelamangala, Bengaluru, Karnataka 562123

 Ayurveda Yoga Meditation Resort, Coonoor

Located amidst the perfect natural setting of Nilgiri mountains, Ayurveda Yoga Meditation resort is a beautiful and rejuvenating paradise. Contributing to the legacy of Yoga and meditation in India, the renowned center of Coonoor offers packages on yoga, meditation and ayurveda.

Besides classes on traditional yoga and meditation, aspirants are also offered rejuvenating oil massages, which are a part of the daily curriculum at the resort. One can also indulge in recreational activities like cooking and organic farming here.

 Address: Ayurveda Yoga Villa Palvelichem, Bavali PO, Kartikulam, Wayanad district, Kerala, South India 670646.

 [Read More about Ayurveda in Kerala]

 Yoga Vidya Spiritual Retreats, Kerala

A heavenly abode of spiritual enlightenment, Yoga Vidya Spiritual Retreats in Kerala is one of the selected few, that focuses on Hatha Yoga and meditation. Regular classes on Yoga and meditation, followed by Ayurvedic spas are the prime highlights of any normal day at Yoga Vidya.

Address: Jaiva Eco Campu, Moozhikkulam, Kurumassery P.O. Ernakulam District, Cochin, Kerala 683579

Isha Yoga Center, Tamil Nadu

Situated at the foothills of Velliangiri in Southern India, Isha Yoga Center is one of the top holistic healing centers in India. Yoga and meditation at this renowned center goes beyond physical postures, which are known as Asanas. The center has segregated its teachings into four kinds of Yoga. These are named as Gnana Yoga-Yoga of intelligence, Bhakti Yoga-Yoga of devotion, Kriya Yoga-Yoga of transforming your energy and Karma Yoga-Yoga of selfless action. Besides teachings of yoga and meditation, there is also a rejuvenating center in the premises. It’s aim is to bring vibrancy and balance in one’s life spiritually and mentally.

Address: Thillai Nagar, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620018   

Kalari Kovailakom-The Palace for Ayurveda, Kerala

Renowned as the Palace for Ayurveda, Kalari Kovailakom is one of its kind in Kerala. It has old legends of war associated with it, but its essence is filled of ayurveda and spiritual healing.

You can call it an Ashram, a Spa facility or Ayurvedic resort. Aspirants are offered a combination of herbal messages, dietary food and purifying baths. Besides such daily treatments, aspirants at Kalari Kovailakom are taught the principles of Hatha Yoga, and various Asanas (postures), in order to discipline human body and mind. Breath exercises of Pranayama is also a part of the curriculum here.

Address: Payyallur, Kollengode, Palakkad, Kerala 678506   

 Simon Low, Goa

Giving the ancient tradition of Indian Yoga and meditation a new direction, Simon Low Yoga academy in Goa is a must visit for aspirants. Hailing from London, Simon Low, its founder, believes in the concept of mixing Chinese Yin and Yang, with that of Yoga. His teachings are a mix of anatomy, asana, meditation, pranayama, Chinese medicine and Chi Kung.

Address: Near Palolem Beach, South Goa

Bamboo Yoga Retreat, Goa

Located at the Patnem beach in South Goa, Bamboo Yoga Retreat is amongst the best in the state. With expertise in yoga, meditation, ayurveda and spa, the retreat lures aspirants from different corners of Goa. Practices at Bamboo Yoga Retreat range from Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Hatha to relaxing Yin therapies. Besides variety in Yoga practices, the location of the facility is itself highlighting. With the warm sea in front, softly kissing the sands and making a gentle roar, the ambience feels so relaxing to practice hours long yoga and meditation.

Address: Patnem beach, Goa

 Rishikesh Yog Peeth

The land of spirituality, Rishikesh, which was once traveled by the Beatles, is the home of many renowned yoga centers. Amongst the most prominent is the Yog Peeth, which offer weeks long yoga courses. Owing to the calm and serene location of Rishikesh, practicing yoga here is such a wonderful experience. Besides, guests can also get along with activities like trekking, rafting and local sightseeing. In order to make the stay more relaxing and rejuvenating, the ashram also provides ayurvedic massages.

 Address:Krishna Cottage, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304, India

[Read More about Yoga in Rishikesh]

Atri Yoga Centre, Rishikesh

Nestled on the divine lands of Rishikesh in Uttarkhand, Atri Yoga Centre is one of the most renowned Yoga training centers in the world. Bein settled amidst lower Himalayan ranges, the place feels just perfect for practicing yoga. Highlighted ones are the practices that involve yoga asanas, mudras, bandha and shatkarma. The courses at this yoga center are divided into 200 and 500 hours, after which a full transformation of body, mind and soul is achieved. The disciples of Arti Yoga Center are also offered a degree of certification of Yoga upon successful completion of their respective courses.

Address: Laxman Jhula Rd, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137

 Amrutham Ayurvedic Village Resort Trivandrum

Built in a traditional Kerala style, Amrutham Ayurvedic Village Resort is a secluded yet luxurious wellness treat that follows the rules of traditional Ayurveda and Yoga. Being surrounded by lush greenery and tranquility of Kerala, meditation here is a complete bliss. Amrutham village resort has a term called Shoonyata, which means ‘Zeroness’, or moment of silence, this is what the resort claims to offer, the absolute silence of inner peace. With meditative programs like  Svastii, Niraamaya, Yoga Sutra and Svastii one day retreat, the resort caters to body detox, purification, immunity build up, weight reduction, beauty care and slimming down.

Address: R.K.N.Road, Panangode, Venganoor.P.O, Thiruvananthapuram 695523, Kerala, India.

[Read More about Amrutham Gamaya Ayurvedic Village Resort]

 Neeleshwar Hermitage, Kerala

Built by local craftsmen of Northern Kerala, Neeleshwar Hermitage is an epitome of glorious peace.  Those fellows built it according to traditional Keralan Vastu principles, close to the Indian ocean coast. Such calm and invigorating surroundings soothe every peace lover and are best suited for spirituality and self realization. Like a hermit, the resort still lives in the ancient traditions, which would be obvious by the Ayurvedic practices offered at the resort. It includes Ayurvedic spa, Yoga and meditation. Besides, guests also enjoy authentic and delectable Kerala cuisines, for which the state is renowned.

Address: Neeleshwar Hermitage, District Kasaragod, Northern Kerala, 671314, India

[Read More about Neeleshwar Hermitage Bekal]

 Surya Samudra, Kerala

Away from the busy seasides of Kerala, Surya Samudra is a solitary and luxurious confinement, which reflects the vibrant civilization of this part of India. Perfect for yoga aspirants, the resort provides private retreats in its facility. Under this, it boasts of Spa Niraamaya, which has a wide range of natural and holistic therapies. Perfect for rejuvenation of body, mind and soul,  the resort specializes in sports massage, Swedish massage and reflexology. Besides, guests at the Surya Smudra resort are enlightened with yoga and meditative sessions at the isolated ambience of the beach.

Address: Surya Samudra, Pulinkudi,Mullur, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695521    

[Read More about Nirmaya Retreat – Surya Samudra Kovalam]

 Vana Malsi Estate, Dehradun

In the lap of the mighty Himalayas, lies a rejuvenating spot, Vana Malsi Estate that explores each and every aspect of wellbeing. This covers physical, mental, spiritual and emotional side of a person. Set amidst a sprawling forest cover, the resort aims to bring its guests close to nature, which helps in achieving self realization effectively. At Vana Malsi, each guest is treated separately with different wellness programs depending upon his requirement. This includes wellness via Ayurveda, Yoga, Natural Therapies, Spa, Fitness, Aqua and Sowa Rigpa.

Address: Mussoorie Road, Dehradun 248 001, India   

 Oberoi Wildflower, Shimla

Himalayas have always been the epitome of spirituality. It’s magnetism is so, it attracted saints and sages in the ancient times, and today, urban dwellers are rushing towards it, for spiritual peace.  Oberoi Wildflower in Shimla, is a luxury hotel in the lap of the Himalayas, surrounded by forests of pine and cedar. Owing to its location, the mountain resort, is a perfect paradise for rejuvenation. The resort is famous for its holistic treatments that are based on Asian, Ayurvedic and Western therapies. Prime spa facilities include body scrubs, body massages, Ayurvedic treatments, body treatments and beauty treatments.

Address: Shimla Kufri Highway, Chharabra, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171012     

[Read More about Wildflower Hall, Mashobra]

 Swaswara, Karnataka

Located at a serene beach, Swaswara is a luxury wellness retreat that is among the best in the south of India. At Swaswara, life is all about positivity and healthy habits. Yoga at this beach side facility, is based on four basics- Asana (postures), Pranayama (breathing techniques), Mantra (sounds and vibrations), Dharana (concentration) and Dhyana (relaxation). Besides yoga and meditation, holistic healing at Swaswara also concentrates on Ayurvedic treatments. This includes techniques for stress management, excercises for increased fitness and regulated diet.

Address: Om Beach, Donibhai,, Uttara Kannada, Gokarna, Karnataka 581326    

[Read More about Swaswara Gokarna Karnataka]

 Bihar School of Yoga, Munger

Renowned as one of the oldest yoga institutes in India, Bihar School of Yoga works in order to create a sphere of yogic science. The institute works by blending academic and scientific methodology with a spiritual vision. Disciples are offered complete Yogic training and education in the form of certificate courses. All this is done in a traditional Gurukul or ashram environment, which gives an impression of ancient style of yogic teachings, that involved the Guru (teacher) and Shisya (disciple) to meditate aloof from the civilized world. The spirit of Seva (selfless service), Samarpan (dedication) and Karuna (compassion) are the key attributes inculcated in the disciples of this renowned school.

 Address: Ganga Darshan, Munger, Bihar

 Osho International Meditation Resort, Pune

Breaking the clichés of traditional meditation in India, Osho International Meditation Resort is the new trend in the world of spirituality. The institute has itself created theories and principles, which are meant to accumulate stress from our body and mind. As per Osho, it’s founder, there lies a concept of Zorba, which he resembles it with Lord Buddha. Zorba enjoys life as it is, away from the spiritual image of Lord Buddha. Thus, the institute works on different and unique theories that are quite intriguing. Besides, the center boasts of lush green and calm surroundings. Overall, the center is one of the best holistic healing centers in India.

Address: 17, 1st Lane, Koregaon Park, Pune, Maharashtra 411001  

 Ramana Maharishi Ashram, TiruvannaMalai

Also known as Sri Ramana Ashram, is the epicenter of the philosophies of Vedanta, in the south of India. The ashram was also home to modern sage and Advainta Vedanta philosopher, Ramana Maharshi from 1922 and 1950. At Ramana Maharishi, visitors can take part in daily pujas and chantings, which usually take place at the Samadhi (shrine) of the legendary Ramana Maharshi. As a part of teachings, the disciples are taught the principles of Vedanta and put them in their day to day life.

 Address: Sri Ramanasramam, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu 606603, India

 [Read More about Tour of Saints of South India]

 Auroville, Pondicherry  

Auroville, a place where humanity resides with all its positivities and  harmony, is amongst the most popular holistic centers in India. It is not the usual tourist spot in pondicherry, where tourists can just admire for sometime and return. In order to understand it, one need to soak up its bliss by living there. The major portion of life at Auroville is dedicated to achieving good health through ancient forms of Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga and natural healing. Techniques of such forms foster to the physical, mental and spiritual needs of a human life.

 Address: Bommayapalayam, TamilNadu, India

  The Art of Living International Centre, Bengaluru

Contrasting to the fast pacing image of Bangalore, the Art of Living International Centre is a treat to those who aspire for peace and tranquility. Built on a hillock, the meditation center offers  tranquil natural surroundings, which are apt for hour long meditations. Incorporating different forms of traditional yoga, programs at Art of Living are a series of yogic asanas. These practices are renowned to lose weight and cure diseases like Insomnia, asthma, diabetes, migraine and hypertension. Besides Yoga and meditation, guests at Art of Living also avail the benefits of Ayurvedic Spa. Here, it is known as Panchakarma.

Address: 21st km, Kanakarapura Road, Udaipura, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560082

 Ramamani Iyenagar Memorial Yoga Institute, Pune

Heart and soul of Iyenagar Yoga, Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute is one such institute that needs to be visited by every aspirant of this art form. The institute was founded in 1975 by Yogacharya B.K.S Iyengar. Suited for practitioners of all forms of Yoga, Iyengar Yoga comprises eight aspects, which are known as Yama and Niyama, Asanas, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. In order to make its disciples more versed with this form of Yoga, the institute includes a library, that has around 8000 books on subjects like human anatomy, philosophy, modern medicine, ayurveda, physiology and yoga.

Address: 1107 B/1, Hare Krishna Mandir Road, Model Colony, Shivaji Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411016

 Ashtanga Institute, Mysore

Strictly focusing on Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and Hath Yoga, Ashtanga Institute is one of the most popular holistic healing centers in India. Both of these Yogic practices are meant to enforce perfection of body and mind, which inturn will lead to spiritual growth. Highly suited for practitioners of Yoga of all kinds, the courses at Ashtanga Institute are categorized as short term courses. The sole objective of offering such dedicated yoga courses is that the disciples adopt these practices, even after retiring from the institute.

 Address: 235, 8th Cross Rd, Vani Vilas Mohalla, Mysuru, Karnataka 570002

Vipassana International Academy, Igatpuri

Vipassana, which is actually one of the most ancient techniques of meditation in India, is the prime highlight of this international academy of yoga and meditation in Nashik. Owing to this, Vipassana International Academy is one of the most popular meditative centers in the world. The center today has enrolled tens of thousands of students, nationals as well as internationals. In the process of self purification through Vipassana, one begins with achieving control over his breathing. This is primarily done for a better mind concentration, which culminates to improved quality of life, spiritually and emotionally.

Address: Vipassana International Academy, Dhamma Giri, Igatpuri 422 403, Maharashtra, India

 Krishnamurti Foundation, Chennai    

Founded by the world renowned spiritual leader, Jiddu Krishnamurti,  Krishnamurti foundation is amongst the most devoted ones in India. Based on the philosophies of self realization of J. Krishnamurthi, the institute offers retreats of meditation that simply connects to the inner self. The serene atmosphere and calm surroundings of the facility provide the best condition for yoga and meditation.

 Address: 124, 126, Vasanth Vihar, Grenways Road, R A Puram, Chennai, 600028  

 Isha Yoga Centre, Velliangiri mountains

Renowned as the Kailash of South, Velliangiri mountain is the site of Isha Yoga Center, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. Settled in the lap of nature, meditation at the yoga center is such an eternal bliss. The four major paths of Yoga-Gnana (meditation), Karma (action), Kriya (energy) and Bhakti (Devotion), are brilliantly covered under the Hatha Yoga practices of it. The tradition of Hatha Yoga is very ancient and is a major part of the curriculum, both theoretically and practically.

 Address: Velliangiri Foothills, Semmedu, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641114

Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh

Situated in the lap of Himalayas, along the banks of the sacred Ganges, Parmarth Niketan is the largest of its kind in Rishikesh. The ashram is renowned for offering a clean and sacred atmosphere. Daily activities at Parmarth Niketan include that of Vinyasa yoga, Hath Yoga and Yog Nidra. Besides Yoga, students at Parmarth Niketan also take part in prayers and meditation classes that include daily Kirtan, Ganga Aarti of which Rishikesh is famous for. Nature cure and Ayurvedic treatment are also a part of the curriculum of Parmarth Niketan. All this makes it one of the most popular among aspirants from foreign lands.

Address: Swargashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304, India

[Read More about Ashrams in Rishikesh]

 Shivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram, Kerala

Settled amidst tropical surroundings of the western ghats in Kerala. Shivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram is one perfect destination for yoga and meditation. Life at this Vedanta ashram involves classical yoga and meditation in styles of Bhakti, Hatha, Jnana, Karma and Sivananda, which is followed by Ayurvedic spa and relaxation. Following such a schedule, living in the ashram is more like a Yoga vacation, as  it offers a great scope of relaxation, just like a beach holiday.

Address: Neyyar Dam, Trivandrum, Kerala 695572

 Amma’s Ashram, Amritapuri

Spiritual center of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi, also known as Amma, Amma’s Ashram is a world renowned holistic center. Following the principles of its founder, the Amma, the ashram offers yoga retreats to guests of different countries. At Amma’s ashram, people from different countries, race and religion can be found, who are united by the common goal of spirituality and harmony.  Amongst the most personally accessible alive spiritual leader, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi gives regular darshans to her devotees, which is also the reason of its heavy tourist influx.

 Address:  Amma’s Ashram, Amritapuri, Near Police Station, Karunagapalli, Kerala 690525, India

Ankit Kumar

Love to travel! But confused how to. Well, Ankit Kumar has answers to all of your queries. A travel writer by profession, Ankit offers all the necessary information on travel to your favorite holiday destination through his write-ups. So just read on!!