What better place to seek inner peace and self-discovery than in India, the birthplace of meditation?
4 Day Learn to Meditate Retreat in Arambol, Goa (Photo: Tripaneer)
Between its serene landscapes and spiritual sanctuaries, it isn’t difficult to see why India makes for one of the most popular destinations in the world for a meditation retreat. From the tranquil shores of Kerala to the majestic Himalayas, meditation retreats across the country provide a unique opportunity to deepen your practice and reconnect with your true self. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious beginner, these retreats combine ancient wisdom with modern wellness practices to create transformative experiences. If you’re stuck for inspiration or overwhelmed by the sheer number on offer, we’ve rounded up five of the best meditation retreats in India, based on itinerary, value for money, customer rating, and company reviews, in order of duration.
4 Day Learn to Meditate Retreat in Arambol, Goa
This short, sweet course is the perfect introduction to meditation, Set in the serene coastal paradise of Arambol, Goa, this retreat offers an immersive experience designed to enhance focus, intuition, and inner peace through daily yoga, breath meditation, sound healing, and mantra chanting. Guests can enjoy varied activities like art therapy, bodily movements, and rejuvenating mud baths, as well as three Ayurvedic meals every day. Accommodations range from mixed dorms to private rooms nestled within the lush coastal landscape. From £285, multiple starting dates
6 Day Meditation Retreat in Nainital, Uttarakhand
Previous customers rave about this transformative meditation retreat in the stunning foothills of the Himalayas. Designed to deepen your understanding of meditation and spirituality by prioritizing real experiences over theories, the retreat guides you through the layers of the mind and the four paths of yoga—Gyana, Bhakti, Karma, and Kriya—to help you discover your journey. Days are filled with sessions focussed on meditation, mild stretching, and self-inquiry, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking nature. Accommodation and organic vegetarian meals (with options for intermittent fasting) are included in the price. From £186 per person, available all year.
15 Day 150 Hour Meditation Course in Rishikesh, India
This two-week Beginner Meditation Course at Real Happiness Meditation Ashram in Rishikesh boasts exactly the sort of location that encourages spiritual growth. Designed for those new to meditation and spirituality, the program offers insights into traditional Indian techniques, including Vedic Meditation, Kundalini, and Chakra practices. Days involve active and passive meditations, mantra chanting, and Vipassana, as well as yoga and pranayama sessions. The retreat includes accommodation, daily vegetarian meals, and excursions like waterfall visits and sunrise yoga in the Himalayas. From £673 per person, available all year.
21-Day Meditation and Mantra Chanting Retreat in Kerela
21-Day Meditation and Mantra Chanting Retreat in Kerela (Photo: Tripaneer.com)
Set in an eco-friendly resort in Kerala in the spectacular stunning Sahyadri Mountains, this luxurious retreat offers a personalized meditation and mantra chanting experience suitable for all skill levels. With daily yoga sessions, Ayurvedic meals, and cooking classes, all while surrounded by nature, it’s practically impossible to return with anything less than mental clarity, enhanced self-awareness, and improved emotional well-being. The 20-night program includes excursions to local temples, beaches, and backwaters, enriching your spiritual journey too, making it the perfect escape to recharge your mind, body, and soul. From 1,861, available all year
30 Day Re-Discover Yourself: Yoga and Meditation, Dharamshala
For those who want to commit to more than a few days, this 30-day retreat promises to be the ultimate transformative experience. The program offers personalized modules of yoga, meditation, and energy work that facilitate profound self-discovery and healing. Participants can expect therapeutic yoga sessions, intensive self-awareness training, and various meditation practices, including Kundalini and Chakra sound meditations. With 29 nights of accommodation and nutritious meals included, guests can also enjoy nature walks, laughter meditation, and community-building activities. From £3,567, available all year