Yoga & Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh, India

Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. Can beginners join the retreat?
  • Yes. This retreat was created with you in mind! Our yoga instructors will provide you with modifications to all postures so that you can feel comfortable as you begin your experience with yoga.

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• 2. What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
  • The months of March–April and October–November are generally regarded as being the best for traveling to Rishikesh due to favorable weather conditions. Additionally, both of these months coincide with significant cultural events throughout the region, such as the International Yoga Festival, which takes place every March.

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• 3. Is Rishikesh safe for solo travellers?
  • Yes. Rishikesh is one of the safest cities in all of India. The city has a predominantly alcohol-free and vegetarian lifestyle and there is also a large international student and practitioner community living there.

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• 4. Can I upgrade from a retreat to a Teacher Training Course?
  • Yes! All students who complete the 7-day retreat at Gurukul Yogashala may apply those days towards the 100-hour or 200-hour Teacher Training Course tuition payment (space permitting).

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• 5. Is a longer retreat worth it?
  • A 7-day yoga retreat will certainly help you to reset your body/mind/spirit; however, the majority of habit changes or in-depth transformation, physically and mentally, typically start around 21 days of practice. If you have the ability to stay for the much longer commitment of time at the retreat, the results will be greater and longer-lasting.

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• 6. How do I verify a retreat school is trustworthy?
  • Check to see if they are registered with Yoga Alliance, read about what previous students have said about the experience on either Google or Trustpilot, and see if they have clear, transparent information about their teachers and schedules. Gurukul Yogashala has achieved registration with Yoga Alliance USA and has received a 4.7 rating based upon 1000+ total reviews.

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• 7. What should I pack for the retreat, and is there a dress code?
  • We suggest bringing along some loose clothes made from breathable materials that work well for yoga; cotton pants and t-shirts would work nicely. Because we are a traditional school that respects the local ashram culture we request that you keep your clothing modest (no bare shoulders or knees). Please bring your reusable water bottle with you, your own toiletries, and a light jacket or shawl if your visiting during November through February when the mornings and evenings tend to be on the cooler side here in the foothills of the Himalayas.

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• 8. Can you accommodate specific dietary restrictions like Vegan or Gluten-Free?
  • Of course! The standard kitchen at the ashram serves a well-balanced, 100% vegetarian Sattvic menu. However, our ashram chefs will have no trouble providing you with vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, or any other food allergy needs. Please make sure to inform the admissions office at the time of booking about your dietary needs so that they can make arrangements prior to your arrival for meals.

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• 9. Do I need a specific visa to attend the retreat as an international student?
  • Yes, you must have a valid visa issued to you to travel to or enter into India if you are an international traveler and plan to stay for 7, 14, or 21 days for the wellness retreat. Most international students find it is easiest to obtain an e-Tourist Visa (eTV) via the official Government of India website. Please ensure your passport has at least six months remaining on it from the date you enter India. We can provide an official admission letter if necessary for travel documentation purposes.

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• 10. Is Wi-Fi available at the ashram, and can I work remotely during the retreat?
  • Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout both the accommodations and communal areas of the ashram. However, we strongly recommend that you try not to use your computer or any other devices during your retreat to help you detox from screens and get the full benefits of your time spent at the ashram. If you plan to have to do any remote work while at the ashram, please give us advanced notice so that we can inform you of which areas in our campus would be the most quiet and suitable for your conference calls.

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