Yoga Retreats
Sivananda Yoga Vidya Peetham
I lead yoga retreats where you practice traditional Hatha yoga, meditation, and karma yoga in nature, following my Guru’s teachings for real self-discovery beyond just physical exercise.
Pricing Guide
Daily Ashram Vacation (Amboli)
Accommodation & Facilities
- Stay Options: Ranging from a bed in a shared dormitory (bunk beds) to a simple private room with attached bath.
- Rustic Standards: Basic wooden cots, thin cotton mattresses, and mosquito nets. Rooms use ceiling fans; No AC or TV available.
- Bathrooms: Western toilets available; hot water availability is generally restricted to specific hours.
Dining Schedule
- Two Meals Only: Follows strict yogic schedule with Brunch at 10:00 AM and Dinner at 6:00 PM. No lunch is served.
- Menu: Simple, spice-free Lacto-Vegetarian food (Dal, Rice, Porridge) and herbal tea twice a day.
Yoga & Instruction
- Asana Practice: Two 90-minute traditional Hatha Yoga classes daily (Morning & Afternoon).
- Satsang: Two 90-minute sessions covering group meditation, chanting, and spiritual lectures.
Mandatory Discipline
- Karma Yoga: Guests must perform 1 hour of selfless service daily (chopping veggies, cleaning, or gardening).
- Schedule: Wake up at 5:20 AM, lights out by 10:00 PM. No alcohol or tobacco allowed.
7-Day European Summer Retreat
Tuition & Core Program
- Lead Instructor: Direct teaching by Swami Govindananda for a limited group size.
- Daily Routine: 4 hours of Asana practice, 2 hours of Philosophy/Scripture study, plus daily meditation sessions.
- Workshops: Specialized sessions focusing on Pranayama, Chakras, or Meditation theory.
Accommodation & Venue
- Location: Eco-retreat centers located in nature (forests/beaches) in Italy or Spain.
- Rooming: Options range from outdoor Camping/Tent space (Base Price) to Shared Twin Rooms in a villa (Higher Price).
- Facilities: Shared European-standard bathrooms and access to meditation decks.
Dining
- Full Board: Includes Brunch and Dinner prepared with local produce, plus tea and snacks.
- Diet: Strictly vegetarian and alcohol-free.
Critical Exclusions
- Travel Costs: Price covers ground package only. Flights, Visa fees, and Airport Transfers are NOT included.
- Equipment: Participants must bring their own yoga mats and meditation cushions.
About Yoga Retreats
I guide these retreats to help you step away from the noise and dive into what yoga really offers. I stick to what my Guru, Swami Vishnudevananda, has shown me: yoga isn’t just a workout, it’s a way to see yourself clearly.
What Makes This Retreat Different
- Not just stretching - it’s a spiritual self-discovery journey
- Space for silence, nature, and time to figure out what’s going on inside
- Anyone tired of surface-level stuff will feel at home
How We Practice
- Five points: Asanas, Pranayama, Savasana, Sattvic food, Positive thinking & Meditation
- Everything from daily meditation, chanting, to karma yoga (helping out, no ego)
- You’ll eat vegetarian, simple meals - honestly, some people find that tough at first, but it really helps calm the mind
Where It Happens
- Main base is our Amboli ashram, surrounded by green hills and quiet
- I also hold traditional Hatha yoga retreats in other countries, especially in places where nature is close by
- For beginners, we run special beginner yoga immersion sessions on certain Sundays
Who This Is For
- Anyone ready for mindful living experience, no matter your yoga level
- It’s honestly not always easy - the discipline can be a shock, but it’s worth it
- Families, solo travelers, and seekers, all welcome
If you’re looking for yoga and meditation in nature, not just a “yoga holiday”, this is for you.
Meet your Expert
Govindananda Saraswati
27 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Hari Om. We’re Sivananda Yoga Vidya Peetham, started by Swami Govindananda after years with his Guru at Sivananda Ashram, Kerala. Used to be in the world of Physics and Education, but spiritual life pulled stronger. Since ’87, it’s been all about sharing yoga and Vedanta—sometimes with jokes, always with clarity. Our joy is seeing folks find their own inner spark, not just follow instructions. Amboli hills, good vibes, living truth.
My Work
Traditional Yoga Courses & Retreats - We run Amboli yoga retreats, teacher trainings (YTTC-1, YTTC-2), and Hatha Yoga Sadhana Intensive.
Deep Dive Philosophy Sessions - Join us for Vedanta philosophy immersion, Upanishads, Yoga Sutras, plus Mudra and Chakra workshops.
Sivananda Lineage Approach - We stick to five yoga principles - asana, pranayama, vegetarian food, meditation, and positive thinking.
Everyone’s Welcome - Beginner or advanced, you just need sincere interest. No fancy poses needed, just commitment.
Ashram Life Experience - Life here means discipline, sattvic meals, nature walks, and real connection—sometimes tough, always real.
