Top 10 Most Popular Meditation Retreats in Rishikesh

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Rishikesh, a small town in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a pilgrimage destination known for its spiritual significance and the ancient practice of yoga and meditation. It is a hub for meditation enthusiasts from all over the world, who come here to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and learn the art of mindfulness. With its idyllic location by the banks of the holy river Ganges and surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Rishikesh offers an ideal setting for meditation and self-reflection. The town has a plethora of meditation retreats, each with its own unique approach and philosophy, catering to the needs of a diverse range of visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.

For those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the top 10 most popular meditation retreats in Rishikesh offer an opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and focus on the present moment. These retreats offer a range of programs, from short-term to long-term, and cater to people of all ages and backgrounds. The retreats are run by experienced teachers who provide guidance and support to the participants, helping them to deepen their meditation practice and explore their inner selves. The serene atmosphere, the beautiful natural surroundings, and the guidance of experienced teachers make these retreats a truly transformative experience for those seeking inner peace and spiritual growth.

1. Ekam Drishti Yogshala

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Dhalwala, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 3 Days Weekend Meditation & Yoga Retreat

Far from the chaos of the city, sitting on the higher side of the Himalayan foothills, hidden in the greens of the forest lies a beautiful Yoga & Meditation center - Ekam Drishti Yogshala. The team at Ekam Drishti Yogashala is made up of experienced and enthusiastic teachers, who want to give people an amazing experience that can change their lives. Their deep-rooted, wholesome and honest belief is that yoga and meditation can help improve every part of a person's life. Their goal is to use their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world. It is one of the few schools that work on ‘Dosha Balancing’ in addition to Yoga & Meditation.

An extremely efficient team of instructors is available at Ekam Drishti Yogshala. They understand the significance of teaching their students ancient yogic wisdom with accuracy and completeness. The meditation gurus at the yoga shala are Yogi Kirti Ji (Post Graduate in Yoga Therapy, QCI Level-1 certified by AYUSH and IYA, 500 Hours YTTC certified, an expert in Hatha Yoga, Yoga Anatomy, Philosophy, Meditation, Mantra Chanting, and Pranayama), Yogini Neha (500 Hours TTC and regular Meditation practitioner) and Yogi Anil (Masters in Yoga Science and 500 Hours YTTC).

Ekam Drishti Yogshala offers a tried and tested training program on breathing awareness that leads to meditation and Yoga Nidra, guided by experts. This is a weekend program also called the ‘3 Days Weekend Meditation & Yoga Retreat.’ The aim of the retreat is to give you a relaxing escape where you can learn ways to gain self-realization and improve. It is held almost every weekend each month. Since it is a residential program, you will be staying in gorgeous apartments having all the necessary conveniences. You will also get 3 nutritious vegetarian meals during the stay. Your day will begin early with a morning cleanse, followed by yoga and meditation, and then breakfast. In the afternoon there will be more yoga and meditation.

The other attractions of the meditation retreat are a half-day pilgrimage to a sacred site, free Wi-Fi, Yoga materials for the class (block, mat, belt, etc.) and printed study handouts. Holistic healing, different workshops, and Ayurveda massage are also some options you may wish to explore during your stay at the Meditation & Yoga retreat.

Price in sharing INR 5,200 | Private INR 6,240

2. Sanatana Yog Sandesh

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Upper Tapovan, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 7 Days Meditation Retreat

Sanatana Yog Sandesh is a traditional school of Tantra and Applied Yogic Science that offers Yoga, Meditation courses and retreats in India. The name Sanatana Yog Sandesh comes from the words "Sanatana," which means continuity and eternity, and "Sandesh," which means message. This school teaches Yoga and Meditation in the same way it was taught in ancient times, and it aims to serve the spirit of Yoga in its purest form. Sanatana Yog Sandesh is a registered enterprise under the central government of India, and it provides Yoga and Meditation courses and retreats to individuals based on their needs and limitations. The school has a beautiful setup with a spiritual atmosphere where it is easy to forget the outside world and embrace calm and quiet.

Rohit Kumar, the founder of Sanatana Yog Sandesh, is an ERYT 500 Hours certified Yoga teacher. He holds a Master's degree in English Language and Literature and a Bachelor of Law. Rohit's interest in Yoga and Meditation started at a very young age, and he was drawn towards Tantra and Yoga. During his college years, he studied both Yoga and academic subjects and experienced the amazing and profound benefits that Yoga offers. His Yoga studies helped him gain valuable insight into living life in harmony with nature, which inspired him to share this knowledge with others. With love in his heart, Rohit teaches Yoga with sincerity and compassion, hoping to help others experience the transformative power of this ancient practice.

Sanatana Yog Sandesh offers a Meditation Retreat that focuses on mind training. This retreat teaches various meditation techniques such as Antar Mounna, Vipassana, Yoga Nidra, Prana Vidya, Pancha Dharana, Mantra Chanting, and Mindfulness to enhance the abilities of the mind. During the 7-day retreat, participants learn to use these techniques correctly to experience relaxation, withdrawal, concentration, and more. The program also includes topics that introduce participants to the Yogic culture of meditation, such as Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Shatkarma, Meditation, Karma Yoga, and lectures on different important topics. The retreat is designed to help individuals develop their meditation practice and experience the transformative power of meditation in their lives. Participants are required to arrive a day earlier, making the total duration of the retreat 8 days.

The mornings at the retreat start at 06:30 am with the serving of a herbal drink. From 07:00 am is the Hatha Yoga session, which is followed by breakfast. At 11:15 am is the next class which is a lecture on Pranayama and Dhyana. In the evening, there are classes on personal cleaning & Karma Yoga and Asana, Pranayam & Dhyana. Post dinner there is Kirtan, Chanting and video show, etc. Included in the retreat package are shared/private accommodation for 6 nights, vegetarian food (breakfast, lunch & dinner), Wi-Fi, course materials (books, notebook, pen, Jala Neti pot), a private yoga consultation and weekend excursions (temple visit for the Rising sun & other nearby temples, Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula and Rishikesh city).

Price in Private INR 26,914

3. Sanskar Yogashala

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Upper Tapovan, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 7 DaysMeditation Retreat In Rishikesh / Weekly Meditation Courses in Rishikesh, India

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Sanskar Yogashala is a traditional yoga ashram with a modern twist. Their goal is to give people who are interested in Vedic knowledge a one-of-a-kind spiritual, religious, and body-mind experience. They have a wealth of knowledge in Vedic philosophy, yoga, and the Sanatan tradition. The ashram is a clean and comfortable place to stay, with a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The staff is warm and welcoming, making sure that everyone feels at home. When you leave, you will feel full of positive energy for your mind and body.

Yog Guru Naveen Joshi, the founder of Sanskar Yogashala, is an expert in Hatha yoga and Kundalini yoga. He comes from a Hindu Brahmin family and has been practicing yoga since he was a child. He earned a Master's degree in Yogic Science from the Uttrakhand Sanskrit University, Haridwar, and also has a Diploma in Naturopathy. Yogi Naveen learned yoga from his esteemed teacher, Yogi Viswaketu Ji, and is also known as the Little Yogi of Rishikesh. He is invited every year to teach at the International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh. Yogi Naveen has a unique teaching style that combines classical Hatha yoga practices with Mantra Chanting, Active Breathing Techniques, and Kundalini Techniques. Despite teaching challenging classes, Yogi Naveen's sense of humor and positive attitude make his classes interesting and achievable.

The meditation retreat offered by Sanskar Yogashala is an opportunity to train your mind to achieve a state of thoughtless consciousness. Meditation classes are non-religious and teach you how to clear your mind, relax your body and focus inwardly to understand your true self. The duration of this retreat is 7 days which is ample time for you to learn about Kundalini, Nadis (pranic channels), Chakras ( energy circles), secrets of matra chantings, different pranic energies, kriyas, Vedic & Tantric Sadhna, the purpose of kundalini sadhana and how divine energies function in practical.

The retreat at Sanskar Yogashala starts classes bright and early at 6:30 am. The first class of the day is focused on Pranayama and Shatkarma. Following that, they have a Vedic Meditation practice before serving breakfast. Lunch is served at 12:30 pm, giving everyone enough time to rest and relax before the next class. The afternoon class starts at 4:30 pm and includes a yoga practice followed by a meditation session. Afterward, it's time for a nutritious dinner. The retreat facilities include accommodation, 3 Ayurvedic meals, tea and access to the school library.

Price in sharing INR 28,812

4. Sharada Yoga Peeth

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Ram Jhula, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 7 Days Yoga and Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh

Located in the beautiful foothills of the Himalayas, Sharda Yoga Peeth has received accreditation from Yoga Alliance, USA. This yoga school is well-known for its various options for YTTC and meditation programs. The courses are designed to help students/participants, or "Sadhaks", understand the fundamentals and complexities of both and build their practice over a rock-solid foundation. Their programs are suitable for everyone, from beginner to advanced-level practitioners. The tranquil and lively surroundings of the place create an ideal setting to start your personal journey of self-improvement.

The instructors at Sharda Yoga Peeth are experts in the field of yoga and meditation. They possess extensive experience and knowledge. The teachers are well-known for their patient and compassionate approach, which fosters a supportive learning atmosphere for students of all levels and backgrounds. They are dedicated to preserving the values and principles of traditional yoga and motivating students to create a yogic practice that enriches their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being for life.

At Sharda Yoga Peeth, the 7 Days Intense Yoga and Meditation Retreat program aims to help participants attain balance and harmony in their lives by using yoga and meditation techniques. The program is designed to guide individuals toward a better life by reducing inner conflicts and promoting inner peace. Through this retreat, participants can learn valuable tools to help them lead a more fulfilling and balanced life. The main highlights of the retreat are daily yoga asanas, Shatkriyas, Mantra Chanting, Karma Yoga, Yoga & Vedanta Philosophies and relaxation & meditation practices.

When you book the retreat you become eligible for 6 nights of AC/non-AC accommodation and freshly prepared healthy food (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner). There are also some planned adventure activities and visits to temples & shrines.

Price in sharing INR 26,754 | Private INR 32,929

5. Vedansha Institute of Vedic Science

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Tapovan, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 8 Days Vipassana Silent Meditation Retreat

The Institute of Vedic Science and Alternative Medicine, known as Vedansha, offers a complete education in Vedic Science which includes teachings in yoga and meditation, Ayurveda, Vedic astrology and Vastu. They offer special retreat programs that help people manage their emotions, overcome fears, and find harmony and happiness in life. Additionally, their therapy courses can support those dealing with common and non-curable diseases. Vedansha has been a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapy since 2018. They not only teach their students but also conduct global scientific research in yoga and collaborate with European doctors to ensure that their yoga programs are safe and have applied evidence-based results.

The founder of Vedansha Institute of Vedic Science, Yogacharya Sanjeev Pandey, is a 7th-generation Himalayan yogi. He holds a Master's degree in Yogic Science and Human Consciousness and is a qualified Yoga Therapist & Naturopath, as well as a registered E-RYT 500 with Yoga Alliance. Sanjeev began his yoga teaching career in 1995 and has since then continuously expanded his skill set and expertise. He is known for his dynamic teaching style and holistic approach to yoga, which has helped countless students from all over the world to deepen their understanding of yoga and to develop their own personal practice.

Vipassana Silent Meditation Retreat is taught in the tradition of Goenka. It is an 8 days and 7 nights program meant for beginners to advanced meditation practitioners. In Vipassana meditation, a person focuses their attention on different parts of their body and feels the sensations that arise. The goal is to remain objective and calm while noticing the feelings in the body without getting attached to them. The practice emphasizes continuous attention and observation of sensations throughout the body. On arrival, post lunch, you will have a meeting with the master. the master will try to understand your goals & background and discuss the areas of focus and communication channels. After the meeting, you will maintain silence and adhere to the daily schedule. 

Included in the Vipassana Silent Meditation Retreat are daily meditation sessions, consultation with the master and a customized plan to be followed every day, 1 aura check-up, excursions into the Himalayas, 3 vegetarian meals daily, accommodation for the retreat duration, a string of beads (mala) energized by a Yogacharya, Dr. S.K.Pandey, study materials, meditation cleansing kit and 1 school t-shirt. If you are willing to pay more you can avail of airport transfer, extra Ayurveda procedures, consultation from an Ayurveda doctor, extra excursions, detailed Aura check-up, detailed Horoscope assessment and extra nights accommodation.

Price in sharing INR 32,997 | Private INR 37,122

6. Rishikesh Yogi Ashram

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 7 Days Silent Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh

The Rishikesh Yogi Ashram is much more than just a Yoga school that offers YTTC in Rishikesh. It is a place where individuals can find inner peace and reconnect with their true selves, while also developing a deep connection with nature. Ashram's yoga training is internationally recognized and certified by Yoga Alliance. The team at Rishikesh Yogi Ashram is dedicated to helping individuals enhance their yoga knowledge and unite their body and mind, ultimately leading them to reach the highest level of yoga known as the "Samadhi" Enlightenment. The Ashram strives to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can discover their full potential and achieve their goals with compassion and guidance.

Rishikesh Yogi Ashram boasts enigmatic and humble teachers. They are lovely souls, completely invested in understanding and adapting to the needs of their pupils. They will treat you like a part of the family - strict when necessary and lenient to make you feel comfortable. The team consists of Acharya Ankur Atri (Yoga Philosophy Teacher with 10+ years of experience), Yogi Sandeep Atri (Lead Teacher with 8+ years of experience), Katharina Austermann (Yoga Teacher, Anatomy & Physiology with 8+ years of experience), Yogi Sri Hari (Philosophy & spirituality Teacher with 15+ years of experience), Swami Buddhi Prakash (Yoga philosophy & life practice with 45+ years of experience) and Yogi Manoj Badhani (Hatha Yoga Teacher with 10+ years of experience). 

The 7-Day Silent Meditation Retreat is a special program that caters to both beginners and advanced practitioners of meditation. It is an intensive meditation retreat course that allows individuals to explore the beauty of meditation, Hatha Yoga, and non-dual teachings. The retreat is designed to provide a unique and potent experience of deep silence, recuperation and transformation through time-honored and spiritual practices. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities such as asana, pranayama, yoga Nidra, yogic cleansing processes, and meditation practices. The program is created with compassion, aiming to create a nurturing and supportive environment for individuals to grow and discover their inner selves. All individuals who join the retreat are welcomed with open arms and encouraged to explore their own path of meditation and yoga practice.

The retreat is usually held twice a month. Included in its package are individual rooms with attached bathrooms, 3 pure vegetarian meals every day, a Shatkarma kit, a Yoga mat & belt, a meditation book, one notebook & pen, 1 copper water bottle, 1 hand towel, 1 local sightseeing trip, free Wi-Fi and Silent Meditation course completion certificate.

Price in Private INR 32,929

7. Maa Yoga Ashram

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Tapovan, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 5 Day Yoga Meditation Retreat In Rishikesh

Maa Yoga Ashram is a well-established yoga school that has been providing healthcare and Ayurvedic treatments for over 100 years. The ashram is associated with Maa Yoga Ashram Global Aids Research Foundation (AGARF), an NGO recognized by the Govt. of India that focuses on researching and developing over 900 herbs for the treatment of chronic diseases. The ashram is dedicated to helping its students attain lasting happiness by nurturing their bodies, mind, and spirit. The ultimate goal is for students to live fulfilling and satisfying life. The yoga teachers at the ashram are deeply committed to their students and provide excellent guidance. The ashram is a clean and uncluttered space, radiating a peaceful and serene environment. Maa Yoga Ashram believes in the power of holistic healing and strives to provide a supportive community for all who wish to join.

Dr. Amrit Raj, the founder of Maa Yoga Ashram, comes from a long line of Ayurvedic doctors and is himself a fourth-generation practitioner. He is a certified 200/500-hour yoga teacher recognized by Yoga Alliance, USA. Dr. Raj has delivered numerous lectures, seminars, and classes on Ayurveda and yoga in several renowned institutions around the world. His words resonate in Hindu temples, ashrams,  yoga studios, spas, and colleges. He is also an Honorary Visiting Professor at Dinacharya Ayurvedic Institute located in New York. Dr. Raj is a benevolent and dedicated teacher who has given stress-management series to oncologists in the USA earning him a special mention on relaxdoc.com. He is deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with his students, and he inspires them to live healthy and fulfilling life.

The 5-Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh provides a comprehensive program that emphasizes practicing asanas, pranayama, and meditation. Although this is primarily a yoga retreat, meditation is an important part of it. Participants will engage in a different yoga style each morning through asana practice, followed by a lunch break. In the afternoons, they will expand their understanding of Yoga philosophy and history in Rishikesh and conclude each day with a guided meditation led by experienced yoga teachers. Moreover, participants will have ample free time during the week to discover the stunning natural surroundings of the yoga retreat in Rishikesh, such as nature walks and chances to unwind.

The retreat package covers accommodation and meal charges for the duration of your stay. They also offer a variety of activities to keep you engaged and entertained. The activities include nature hikes, natural hot springs, group meditation sessions and so much more.

Price in Private INR 24,995

8. Siddhant School Of Yoga

Location of Meditation Retreat Centre - Upper Tapovan, Rishikesh

Retreat Name - 7 Days Vipassana Retreat in Rishikesh India

Having a yogic lifestyle and practicing yoga regularly can help address a person's problems. However, it's essential to have a suitable environment and location to begin the journey of yoga and practice it consistently. Siddhant School of Yoga is an institution registered with Yoga Alliance that provides a warm, friendly and idyllic environment to practice yoga and meditation. Their courses and retreats are scientifically designed and useful for spiritual, practical, and professional growth. They offer an immersive experience of India's rich traditional yogic culture, and their retreats are well-designed to help individuals discover a new dimension of their lives.

The founder of the Siddhant School of Yoga, Acharya Siddhant, embarked on a spiritual journey that took him to various places in search of enlightenment. Eventually, he settled in Rishikesh, where he engaged in intense spiritual practice. During this time, he frequently visited great Sadhus and yogis in the Himalayas to discover distinctive spiritual practices and unlock the secrets of life. These techniques made a lasting impression on Siddhant and led to his spiritual transformation. Acharya Siddhant emphasizes Hatha Yoga, Meditation, Yoga philosophy, and Pranayama as these practices aid in the development of the right understanding and attitude of gratitude, leading to complete personal growth.

Vipassana Retreat of Siddhant School of Yoga is a special package to learn and understand Vipassana, the pure form of meditation. It emphasizes the correct observation of the mind. However, beginners may find it challenging to watch the mind directly. Therefore, Vipassana Meditation is a technique that allows practitioners to observe and witness the mind indirectly through the body's sensations. The term Vipassana means to see things as they really are, and this type of meditation is all about observing sensations without any judgment. To prepare practitioners for the deepest practice of Vipassana, Siddhanta Yoga School provides yoga practices during their retreat. They offer the right understanding and authentic practice of the Vipassana technique to ensure that practitioners have the correct experience of meditation.

The Vipassana retreat spans over 7 days and is held once every month. Usually, it runs from the 10th to the 16th of every month. Since this is a residential program, the school takes care of your food and accommodation. They offer both shared and private rooms. The rooms have attached washrooms with all Western amenities. All three major meals of the day are also catered by the school. The food is vegetarian and tea is provided twice a day. You will also have access to Wi-Fi, a 24/7 supply of filtered drinking water, course study materials, a cleansing kit, one yoga bag, a short excursion and one free Ayurvedic massage.

Price in sharing INR 32,846 | Private INR 41,078