Looking to escape to a peaceful yoga retreat on this International Yoga Day? Look no further because we have listed below our top favourite yoga retreats and ashrams around the globe, where ceremonial gatherings, yoga sessions, clean diet and restorative breath-work work collectively to unify the mind, body and soul. By Akriti Sharma
Sen Wellness Sanctuary, Netolpitiya, Sri Lanka
Sen Wellness Sanctuary is a highly acclaimed yoga retreat, established by Dr Sam Kankanamge, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. With state-of-the-art au naturel accommodation options in cabanas or huts, this wellness haven offers ultimate luxury surrounded by trees where you can unwind to the sounds of rustling leaves and birdsongs. Their daily yoga classes include Kundalini, Vinyasa and Yin yoga.
Sanará, Tulum, Mexico
Sanará in Spanish means–‘you will heal’. This luxury yoga retreat on Tulum beach aims to revitalise, both, mind and body with its immersive wellness experiences. The ocean-front yoga studio, beach garden sanctuaries, conscious kitchen offerings and dynamic itinerary of activities make it the ultimate holistic hangout spot for zen-seekers.
Absolute Sanctuary, Koh Samui, Thailand
This laidback wellness retreat, managed by AUMA Hospitality, offers a spiritual enclave with its 22 one-to-one yoga and detox programmes across 15 categories. Guests can enjoy nutritious superfood meals, and comprehensive wellness consultations ranging from a few days to a month-long intensive package.
Blue Spirit, Nosara, Costa Rica
Located on top of a hill with majestic views of the Pacific and Guiones Beach in Nosara, Blue Spirit is popular for its serene surroundings, vibrant international community of yoga teachers, sages and the holistic lifestyle it offers. They run week-long retreats that are focused on cultivating mindfulness, self-reflection, healing and relaxation.
Wildflower Hall, Shimla, India
With breathtaking Himalayan backdrop, this haven of tranquillity offers rejuvenation like no other. The one-to-one yoga classes at Wildflower Hall are conducted by experienced practitioners; the asanas revolve around posture correction, breathing techniques, etc. After the yoga class, you can go for a walk to the forest around the property, or enjoy local Himalayan delicacies by a bonfire in the evening.
Tri, Galle, Sri Lanka
A quiet hideaway in the South of Sri Lanka, Tri offers the ultimate tropical getaway with immersive yoga sessions. The resort offers the physical and spiritual practice of Quantum Yoga, and dynamic healing through breath-work and meditation taught by founder and yoga instructor, Lara Drummond.
Shambala Gatherings, Bergslagen, Sweden
This quaint retreat is nestled in the wild forest of Bergslagen. From invigorating yoga sessions to relaxing spa therapies–they will recharge every inch of your body. You can take long walks in the forests, enjoy water meditation, kirtans or simply go on a hike to nearby places and immerse yourself in the goodness of nature.
Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand
Modelled on nature-inspired architecture and tasteful interiors, this luxurious wellness retreat overlooks the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Their wellness programmes include yoga, meditation, traditional Ayurvedic massages, personal mediation classes and pranayama practices amongst others for deep relaxation.
Como Shambala Estate, Ubud, Bali
This serene Balinese retreat is nestled in a rainforest valley. You can take private yoga sessions in a calm estate adjacent to River Ayung. They have wellness experts visiting from all over the world to teach reflexology, Pilates and nutrition among other things.