Self-guided immersion at Santosh Puri Ashram
Uttarakhand, India — on the banks of the Ganga, between Rishikesh and Haridwar

These residential retreats offer a quieter, more introspective way to experience ashram life.

This period is especially suited for those who wish to deepen their personal practice through self-guided sādhana, while remaining supported by the presence of the ashram environment.

Rather than a structured course, the emphasis is placed on developing one’s own rhythm — integrating asana, pranayama, meditation, and self-study into daily life.

Guidance remains available when needed. Those who are new to practice may request sessions to learn the foundations of Hatha Yoga, while more experienced practitioners are free to refine and deepen their existing sādhana.

Sādhanā, Seva & Self-Study

Life during this time revolves around three essential aspects:

Sādhanā — establishing a consistent personal practice
Seva (Karma Yoga) — contributing to the maintenance of the ashram through simple daily tasks
Svādhyāya — self-study, through observation, reflection, journaling, or the study of yogic texts

The ashram library offers a wide range of materials to support study, creating space for deeper introspection.

Daily Rhythm (suggested, subject to change)

4:00 am — Aarti, silent meditation & herbal tea
7:30 am — Asana
9:00 am — Breakfast
10:00 am — Karma Yoga
11:00 am — Svādhyāya (self-study)
1:00 pm — Lunch
3:00 pm — Herbal tea
4:00 pm — Self-guided pranayama & meditation
6:00 pm — Dinner
7:15 pm — Chanting by the dhuni
8:00 pm — Meditation or kirtan
9:00 pm — Lights out

Practical Information

This is a more independent retreat format, with fewer scheduled teachings than during more structured programs. Additional classes may be offered depending on availability — please refer to the full schedule for details.

For visa information, please refer to official government guidelines.

This two-week residential course combines the practice of Hatha Yoga with the study of the Bhagavad Gita, offering an opportunity to deepen both your sadhana and your understanding of yogic philosophy within the supportive environment of a traditional ashram in India.

Each morning begins with Hatha Yoga, including asana, pranayama, and meditation, with classes adapted to the experience and needs of the participants. In the afternoons, Dr. Alaknanda Puri guides the study of the Bhagavad Gita through Sanskrit chanting and practical commentary that connects its timeless wisdom to everyday life.

Rather than approaching the text as a purely philosophical work, the course explores the Bhagavad Gita as a living guide to the art of living. Through Lord Krishna's dialogue with Arjuna, participants are introduced to the paths of Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Jñana Yoga, discovering how these teachings can cultivate greater clarity, purpose, and inner freedom.

Living within the rhythm of the ashram provides the ideal setting to integrate these teachings into daily experience. Alongside study and practice, participants take part in meditation, chanting, seva, and community life, allowing philosophy to become something lived rather than merely understood.

Typical Daily Routine (subject to change)

• 4:00 am – Awakening conch, Aarti, silent meditation & herbal tea

• 7:30 am – Hatha Yoga (asana, pranayama & meditation)

• 9:00 am – Breakfast

• 10:00 am – Karma Yoga (seva)

• 1:00 pm – Lunch

• 3:00 pm – Herbal tea

• 4:00 pm – Bhagavad Gita lecture

• 6:00 pm – Dinner

• 7:15 pm – Vedic chanting by the dhuni

• 8:00 pm – Meditation or kirtan

• 9:00 pm – Lights out

For visa information, please refer to the official Government of India visa website. If you have any questions about the course or your stay, please contact us or complete the registration form.

Spend two weeks immersed in the practice of traditional Hatha Yoga while experiencing the rhythm of authentic ashram life at YogAnga Retreat, nestled between Rishikesh and Haridwar in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Guided by Mandakini Puri, Ganga Puri, and other available teachers, this residential course offers a balanced introduction to āsana, prāṇāyāma, meditation, and yogic living. Whether you are beginning your practice or looking to deepen an existing one, the program provides a supportive environment for steady and meaningful growth.

Each day follows the natural rhythm of the ashram, combining practice, self-discipline, reflection, and community life. Morning yoga sessions are adapted to the needs and abilities of participants, while afternoon prāṇāyāma and meditation allow for a deeper exploration of the inner dimensions of yoga.

An essential aspect of the experience is Karma Yoga—the practice of selfless service. Through simple daily tasks such as gardening, food preparation, or caring for shared spaces, participants discover yoga as something lived beyond the mat.

Time is also dedicated to Svādhyāya (self-study), encouraging reflection through journaling, scriptural study, or quiet observation. The ashram library offers a rich collection of yogic texts and commentaries for those wishing to deepen their understanding.

More than a course, this residential immersion is an opportunity to experience yoga as a way of life—cultivating discipline, simplicity, presence, and inner balance within a traditional spiritual environment.

Typical Daily Routine (subject to change)

• 4:00 am – Awakening conch, ārati, silent meditation & herbal tea

• 7:30 am – Hatha Yoga

• 9:00 am – Breakfast

• 10:00 am – Karma Yoga

• 11:00 am – Svādhyāya (self-study)

• 1:00 pm – Lunch

• 3:00 pm – Herbal tea

• 4:00 pm – Prāṇāyāma & Meditation

• 6:00 pm – Dinner

• 7:15 pm – Vedic chanting by the dhuni

• 8:00 pm – Meditation or Kirtan

• 9:00 pm – Lights out

For visa information, please consult the official Government of India visa website for the latest requirements.

For enquiries or to register, please contact us or complete the registration form.

Spend two weeks immersed in the practice of traditional Hatha Yoga while experiencing the rhythm of authentic ashram life at YogAnga Retreat, nestled between Rishikesh and Haridwar in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Guided by Mandakini Puri, Ganga Puri, and other available teachers, this residential course offers a balanced introduction to āsana, prāṇāyāma, meditation, and yogic living. Whether you are beginning your practice or looking to deepen an existing one, the program provides a supportive environment for steady and meaningful growth.

Each day follows the natural rhythm of the ashram, combining practice, self-discipline, reflection, and community life. Morning yoga sessions are adapted to the needs and abilities of participants, while afternoon prāṇāyāma and meditation allow for a deeper exploration of the inner dimensions of yoga.

An essential aspect of the experience is Karma Yoga—the practice of selfless service. Through simple daily tasks such as gardening, food preparation, or caring for shared spaces, participants discover yoga as something lived beyond the mat.

Time is also dedicated to Svādhyāya (self-study), encouraging reflection through journaling, scriptural study, or quiet observation. The ashram library offers a rich collection of yogic texts and commentaries for those wishing to deepen their understanding.

Celebrate Diwali at the Ashram

This course includes the opportunity to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at Sri Santosh Puri Ashram. Observed on the new moon, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

Traditionally, homes are cleaned and illuminated with ghee lamps to welcome the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, representing abundance, prosperity, and auspicious new beginnings. Celebrating Diwali within an ashram offers a unique opportunity to experience this sacred festival through simplicity, devotion, and community.

More than a course, this residential immersion is an invitation to experience yoga as a way of life—cultivating discipline, presence, inner balance, and spiritual growth within a traditional ashram environment.

Typical Daily Routine (subject to change)

• 4:00 am – Awakening conch, ārati, silent meditation & herbal tea

• 7:30 am – Hatha Yoga

• 9:00 am – Breakfast

• 10:00 am – Karma Yoga

• 11:00 am – Svādhyāya (self-study)

• 1:00 pm – Lunch

• 3:00 pm – Herbal tea

• 4:00 pm – Prāṇāyāma & Meditation

• 6:00 pm – Dinner

• 7:15 pm – Vedic chanting by the dhuni

• 8:00 pm – Meditation or Kirtan

• 9:00 pm – Lights out

For visa information, please consult the official Government of India visa website for the latest requirements.

For enquiries or to register, please contact us or complete the registration form.

With the kitchen as your classroom, this two-week residential course combines the practice of Hatha Yoga with a practical introduction to Ayurvedic cooking, inviting you to discover food as an essential part of a balanced yogic lifestyle.

Set within the daily rhythm of ashram life between Rishikesh and Haridwar, in the foothills of the Himalayas, each morning begins with asana, prāṇāyāma, and meditation, followed by afternoons dedicated to the principles and practice of traditional Ayurvedic cooking.

Guided by Mandakini Puri, you will learn to prepare simple, nourishing vegetarian meals while gaining an understanding of how ingredients, spices, food combinations, and seasonal choices influence the doṣas and overall well-being. More than learning recipes, the course explores how food can become a daily practice of awareness, balance, and care for oneself and others.

The course follows the rhythm of the ashram and participants are welcome to arrive earlier or stay longer whenever possible. As dates are aligned with the lunar calendar, some programs may begin or conclude with a havan (Vedic fire ceremony).

Please note that a small additional contribution may be requested to cover the cost of cooking ingredients and materials.

Typical Daily Routine (subject to change)

4:00 am – Awakening conch, ārati, silent meditation & herbal tea
7:30 am – Hatha Yoga
9:00 am – Breakfast
10:00 am – Karma Yoga
11:00 am – Svādhyāya (self-study)
1:00 pm – Lunch
3:00 pm – Herbal tea
4:00 pm – Ayurvedic Cooking Class
6:00 pm – Dinner
7:15 pm – Vedic chanting by the dhuni
8:00 pm – Meditation or Kirtan
9:00 pm – Lights out

Certificates of participation may be provided upon request.

For enquiries or to register, please contact us or complete the registration form.

Spend the final weeks of the year immersed in the practice of Hatha Yoga while living the daily rhythm of an authentic ashram between Rishikesh and Haridwar, in the foothills of the Himalayas. Concluding with the celebration of New Year's Eve, this three-week residential course offers an opportunity to end the year with reflection, discipline, and renewed intention.

Guided by Mandakini Puri, Ganga Puri, and other available teachers, the course provides a practical introduction to āsana, prāṇāyāma, and meditation within the supportive environment of ashram life. Suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners, classes are adapted to the needs of the participants while leaving ample time for self-practice and personal study.

Beyond the yoga sessions themselves, participants are invited to experience the broader path of sādhana through karma yoga, community living, meditation, Vedic chanting, and the simplicity of a traditional daily routine. The residential format allows yoga to become not only a practice, but a way of living.

Typical Daily Routine (subject to change)

4:00 am – Awakening conch, ārati, silent meditation & herbal tea
7:30 am – Asana
9:00 am – Breakfast
10:00 am – Karma Yoga
11:00 am – Svādhyāya (self-study)
1:00 pm – Lunch
3:00 pm – Herbal tea
4:00 pm – Prāṇāyāma & Meditation
6:00 pm – Dinner
7:15 pm – Vedic chanting by the dhuni
8:00 pm – Meditation or Kirtan
9:00 pm – Lights out

Welcoming the New Year within the peaceful atmosphere of the ashram offers a meaningful alternative to conventional celebrations—a chance to begin the year grounded in practice, community, and inner reflection.

For enquiries or to register, please contact us or complete the registration form.