India is a country that has been an epicentre of spiritual activity for centuries. It’s been home to rich culture, spirituality, and natural beauty. Yoga is no exception to this rule. The practice of yoga can be traced back thousands of years in India, with many different forms being practiced today.
Yoga isn’t just for hippies anymore! With its physical health benefits and mental clarity, it’s become popular among the wealthy elite looking at more holistic ways of living their lives- especially those with stressful careers or lifestyles that take them away from home often.
We will explore a few different places to practice yoga in India. If you want to experience the legendary practice at its home ground, these locations might appeal to someone looking to get away from it all and focus on their wellbeing.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is a town located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is often referred to as “The Gateway to Yoga.” This small town has become world-famous for its yoga retreats, ashrams, and teacher training courses. The Beatles even traveled here in 1968 to study with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. So if you’re looking for an intensive yoga experience where you can learn from some of the best teachers in the world, Rishikesh is your place! With plenty of options for accommodation and food, it’s also one of the most affordable places to practice yoga in India.
Goa, Maharashtra
Located on India’s west coast, Goa is a former Portuguese colony known for its laid-back beaches, lush green hills, and delicious food. It’s also one of the most popular places in India to practice yoga. The combination of beautiful surroundings, ample accommodation options, and a wide range of yoga classes make Goa an attractive place to practice yoga. And if you need a break from your practice, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, surfing, and hiking.
Kerala, South India
Kerala is often referred to as “The Land of Coconuts” for the abundance of coconut trees in the region. In addition, this southern state is home to some of the best beaches in India, tranquil backwaters perfect for cruising by boat, and lush green tea plantations.
Kerala is also a great place to practice yoga- many of the best retreats and ashrams are located here. The beaches make for a fantastic backdrop to your meditation experience. In contrast, the quiet atmosphere makes it easy to focus on yourself and find inner peace. And if you’re looking for some fun after practicing yoga all day, there are plenty of other options as well! Kerala has one of India’s most vibrant nightlife scenes with plenty of clubs, pubs, bars, and restaurants. You can party into the early hours every night until the sun comes up again over palm trees lining golden sandy beaches.
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala, located in the north of India in Himachal Pradesh, is home to the Dalai Lama and is often referred to as “The Little Tibet.” This picturesque town is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and is surrounded by forests, meadows, and rivers. Dharamshala is an excellent place for those looking for a more spiritual yoga experience. There are plenty of ashrams and meditation centers here to learn about Buddhism and Tibetan culture. And if you need a break from your practice, there’s plenty to do, including hiking, rafting, and skiing in winter.
Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore, located in the south of India, is home to one of the most famous yoga schools globally- The Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute (more commonly known as “The Mysore Palace”). This school was founded by K. Pattabhi Jois and is often referred to as the “birthplace of Ashtanga Yoga.”
If you’re looking for a more traditional yoga experience and want to learn from one of the masters of Ashtanga Yoga, then Mysore is your place! There are plenty of classes available here at all levels, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you’ll be able to find what you need. And with its location in southern India, Mysore is also a great place to experience the culture and cuisine of this region.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, located in northern India in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the holiest cities in India and is often referred to as “The City of Lights.” This ancient city is home to many temples and is considered the spiritual capital of India.
Varanasi is also an excellent place for an intense yoga experience. There are plenty of yoga classes available here for all levels. In addition, with its location on the banks of the Ganges River, it’s easy to find a peaceful spot for your practice. And if you need a break from your routine, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including boat trips on the Ganges, visiting local temples, and exploring nearby villages.
Final thoughts
So these are just a few fantastic places where you can practice yoga in India. Whether you want a relaxing time on the beach or a spiritual experience through Buddhist meditation, or an intensive course where you can learn from world-class teachers, there’s something for everyone here!
