Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat in Kerala, South India
Ayurvedic Immersion in Kerala: Yoga, Breathing, and Traditional Treatments. By the Arabian Sea.
From March 1st to 9th, 2026 (9 days/8 nights)
A haven of peace between warm sea, tropical nature, and Indian traditions
THE LOCATION >
Kerala, the birthplace of yoga and Ayurveda. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Arabian Sea, the yoga shala where we will stay is a place full of vibrant energy. It is in this yoga house, run by a local family, surrounded by coconut trees and lulled by the sound of the waves, that I discovered the true essence of Yoga.
Here, life flows at the slow and joyful pace of South India. Days pass between yoga practices with experienced Indian teachers, personalized Ayurvedic treatments, bathing in warm, clear sea waters, and delicious vegetarian meals.
Nestled between ocean, jungle, and red laterite cliffs, this place sits atop a majestic cliff overlooking the ocean, radiating a rare energy. Travelers come here to reconnect with themselves, nature, and others. Dolphins swim offshore, golden light sparkles on the sea, conversations with neighborhood locals happen, and small shops and cafés face the ocean… Everything feels aligned so that each person can release the tensions of body and mind. I chose this yoga shala because it was here that I truly discovered “real” Yoga. All yogis who know this place return whenever they can—it’s indescribable.
A place run with care by an Indian family. This place fills us with emotion, connecting us to ourselves and to others. In this neighborhood, everyone knows each other, and it feels like home. It’s a microcosm, a little paradise perched on a cliff ; an address that stays in your heart for life. PS: This is already the 6th edition of this retreat, and some yogis return every year. Here, life follows the “cool” rhythm of the locals (shanti shanti, as they all say), we reconnect with nature and nourish ourselves with delicious food. It’s truly a time to relax and take it easy.
Personalized Ayurvedic treatments.
You will have a private appointment with an Ayurvedic doctor for a health assessment. Then, three times during your stay, you can receive Ayurvedic treatments tailored to your needs: traditional massages, consultations, therapeutic diet advice… accompanied by caring guidance to help prolong the benefits after the journey. It’s a unique experience to undergo in Kerala to “cleanse the body” of tensions accumulated over the years. Treatments will be adjusted according to your doshas and specific needs.
THE ATMOSPHERE >
Kerala is often considered one of the most peaceful and welcoming states in India. It is also one of the most prosperous in the country: education levels are high, nature is everywhere, and the overall vibe is surprisingly calm.
Here, the gentle way of life is felt everywhere. You’ll see women walking alone in the streets, children playing by the beach, and smiling vendors who take the time to chat. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, you’ll quickly feel comfortable and safe.
It’s an ideal destination for a first trip to India. Kerala is known for its cleanliness (relative to Indian standards), tranquility, and the hospitality of its people. Feedback is unanimous: you truly feel good here.
And if some people around you warn you about the “dangers of India,” remember: most of the time, they have never actually set foot there. Kerala is a bright, open, gentle, and magical India. Maybe you’re just one step away from making one of the most beautiful journeys of your life.
THE WEATHER >
March marks the beautiful season in Kerala. The monsoon has ended since few months already, the nature is green, vibrant, and refreshed by the rains. The sun shines every day under clear skies.
Days are warm, around 28 to 32°C (82 to 90°F), perfect for practicing yoga, taking walks, and swimming in the sea. The morning light is golden, almost magical, inviting a gentle awakening. In the evening, temperatures drop slightly, offering pleasant nights ideal for deep and restorative sleep.
Once your registration is confirmed, I will send you all my practical tips to help you pack easily 🙂
Yoga practice during the retreat :
THE LEVEL OF YOGA >
☽ Slow and accessible Hatha Yoga, in the Indian Tradition:
A blend of an energizing morning practice designed to awaken the body, and a gentle evening session to clear the mind and deepen self-awareness. Inspired by traditional Indian Hatha Yoga, the classes complement each other by respecting the breath and the body’s natural rhythm.
Here, you will discover an authentic version of yoga as it is taught in India: physical, grounded, and vibrant. Each session invites you to move, breathe, sweat… and to let go.
This retreat welcomes both curious beginners and regular practitioners. What matters here is less your flexibility and more your mindset: the willingness to give your all on the mat, to explore your limits with kindness, and to deeply surrender.
Two practices per day, alternating intensity in the morning with a more grounding session in the evening.
THE YOGA STYLE >
We will practice together two complementary approaches to harmonize active energy and relaxation:
— Haṭha हठ, a pillar of traditional yoga (morning): an energizing and structured practice. It begins with sun salutations, a fluid sequence of postures (āsanas) that awaken the body like a conscious dance. This is followed by static postures held for about ten breaths each. In India, Hatha is considered one of the most powerful forms of yoga.
— Meditation, mantra chanting, pranayama, philosophy (included morning and evening): these practices complement the physical work by focusing on the breath, understanding of yoga, and inner calm. Meditation invites you to dive into self-awareness, while pranayama acts as a subtle regulator of vital energy (prāṇa), bringing mental clarity and soothing.
— Deep stretching and Yoga Nidra (evening): a gentle practice to release tension and promote relaxation. Stretching prepares the body for Yoga Nidra, also called yogic sleep. It is a deep relaxation practiced lying on the back, guiding you into a state of consciousness between wakefulness and sleep, ideal for letting go and inner regeneration.
The program: soaking up the sun, yoga, and a mind reset.
ARRIVAL DAY > MARCH 1ST
00:00 AM — Welcome & Check-in
Arrive at the villa anytime and settle into your room at your preferred time (overnight or during the day).
Take your time to explore the surroundings, unpack your bags, and breathe in the tropical air. This is a rest day for you to relax and get comfortable.
8:00 PM — Opening Ceremony in the Hindu Tradition
Together, we will open the sacred space of the retreat: a fire purification ritual (havan हवन), setting intentions (sankalpa संकल्प), and chanting mantras, led by a Hindu priest. This ceremony sets the foundation for your inner journey.
FOLLOWING DAYS >
7:30 AM — Golden Silence and Ayurvedic Herbal Tea
Start the day in quiet, without speaking.
Savor a warm drink, listen to the birds, feel the sun rising, meditate on your mat… A gentle awakening for body and mind.
8:00 AM — Morning Yoga on the Rooftop (covered) (30 minutes + 1h30)
Mantra chanting, pranayama (conscious breathing) followed by a fluid hatha flow to activate vital energy.
A complete practice to loosen the body, calm the mind, and ground yourself for the day.
10:00 AM — Kerala Gourmet Brunch
A colorful and generous vegetarian brunch inspired by Kerala’s sattvic cuisine, with soothing Ayurvedic benefits for the digestive system.
Afternoon — Free Time & Exploration
Rest, swim in the sea, get a massage, explore the small shops and cafés overlooking the Indian waters, buy local fabrics from the tailor, and wander the neighborhood on foot (everything is so easy to access). The afternoon is yours, in the spirit of freedom.
Three Ayurvedic Treatments — During your free time
Enjoy personalized treatments to rebalance your doshas (your natural constitution) according to Ayurvedic principles. Depending on the doctor’s recommendations, your sessions may include:
Abhyanga: Full body massage with warm, dosha-specific oils that promote circulation, deep relaxation, and toxin elimination.
Shirodhara (optional): A warm oil stream poured over the forehead induces deep meditation, soothes the nervous system, and improves sleep.
Podi Khizi: Warm medicinal powder pouches applied as a massage to relieve muscular and joint pain and stiffness.
5:00 PM — Meditation, Pranayama, Philosophy (1 hour)
Each day, a different spiritual workshop to deepen your inner journey: chakras, breathing, guided meditation, yogic traditions, vital energy…
6:30 PM — Evening Yoga on the ooftop (1 hour)
Deep stretching to recover, followed by a sleep meditation called Yoga Nidra.
A moment of recentring and integration.
8:00 PM — Vegetarian Dinner with local flavors
Nourishing and balanced dishes, homemade with ingredients from the village. Healthy, fragrant, and comforting Indian cuisine, featuring coconut, rice, aromatic curries, cardamom… A real delight.
LAST EVENING > MARCH 9th
8:00 PM — Traditional Dinner Together
We’ll end the day with a traditional Kerala dinner shared as a group.
9:00 PM — Closing Ceremony
We will close the retreat as we began it: in a circle, with open hearts and eyes slightly glistening. A powerful, intimate, and symbolic moment that honors what each participant has experienced, felt, released, or discovered during the week of practice. It is also a moment of gratitude; for the place, the group, and oneself. A gentle way to close a chapter that will stay alive within us long after we return.
DEPARTURE DAY > MARCH 9TH
8:30 AM — Deep Stretching and Closing Meditation (1 hour)
A final mindful practice to anchor the benefits of the retreat in body and heart.
A moment of integration, gratitude, and shared silence.
10:00 AM — Farewell Breakfast
One last gentle meal together, under the warm sun of South India.
12:00 PM — Departure from the Venue
You can leave your luggage on site and enjoy the last day exploring the surroundings. Often, yogis leave during the day or late at night (departing the shala around midnight to catch the 3:00 AM flight).
Activities included in the retreat:
A DAY ON A HOUSEBOAT IN THE BACKWATERS >
During this retreat, we will experience a contemplative day aboard a traditional houseboat in the famous Kerala backwaters. Canals lined with palm trees, mangroves, and floating villages. It’s a world apart — slow, aquatic, almost suspended — where life flows to the rhythm of water and silence.
We’ll embark on a gentle cruise through lush vegetation, gliding past rice fields and coconut groves. Lunch, prepared on board, will consist of fresh, simple, homemade vegetarian Kerala cuisine, served in the local tradition.
On board, everyone is free to meditate, read, chat in a corner, take a nap, or simply watch the passing landscape. It’s a time to slow down, let yourself be carried… and fully savor the moment. A day without expectations, tensions, or schedules. Just water, light, and the feeling of being exactly where you’re meant to be.
HISTORICAL TEMPLE VISIT >
We will visit one of the most representative temples of Kerala’s spiritual architecture, a place vibrant with history, symbols, and living rituals. This will be an opportunity to explore the sacred dimension of Indian culture, with respectful immersion at the heart of its traditions.
OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES >
Some activities are offered as options (with additional fees), depending on your interests:
— Join traditional early-morning fishing alongside local fishermen on the beach.
— Explore the local market: stroll among stalls of tropical fruits, spices, and colorful vegetables.
— Indian cooking class at a local home: learn the basics of Ayurvedic gastronomy in a family setting, guided by a passionate chef.
The 100% Ayurveda option:
During the Yoga and Ayurveda retreat in India, we are committed to offering a caring and inclusive experience, tailored to all lifestyles, practice levels, and desires. Whether you are a yoga enthusiast, seeking deep relaxation, or accompanying a loved one without necessarily wanting to join the more dynamic morning sessions, this retreat is designed for you.
A GENTLER OPTION >
We offer a special “Ayurveda” option for those who wish to slow down, rejuvenate, and experience a gentler immersion in Indian wellness traditions. This option is ideal for:
A companion (parent, partner, friend) who wants to share the stay without participating in the intense morning yoga sessions
Anyone seeking rest, body and mind care, or inner reconnection
Experiencing the retreat differently, without performance pressure, in a soothing and inspiring atmosphere
AN ADJUSTED PROGRAM >
Participants choosing the Ayurveda option receive 8 personalized Ayurvedic treatments throughout the retreat, including:
Consultations with an Ayurvedic practitioner
Morning meditation with the group
Followed by traditional massages
And extra time to rest and integrate.
With this option, everyone can experience the Yoga and Ayurveda retreat in India at their own pace, while sharing the group’s energy, the beauty of the setting, and the richness of Indian traditions.
The rooms :
You can stay alone or with a companion in a room (two single beds or one double bed, according to your preference).
Each suite is a cozy little haven of simplicity, with a private sleeping area and bathroom just for you. A ceiling fan adds comfort and helps keep the space cool and airy. The style is local and warm, featuring wooden furniture and windows overlooking the garden, nature, and the birdsong. There’s no unnecessary luxury here, but an authentic place run by a local family, where life follows the rhythm of nature.
For added comfort, air conditioning is available as an option for an additional €50.
The transportation :
Flight to > Thiruvananthapuram (TRV or Trivandrum, South India):
There are regular flights with a stopover from Paris, Lyon, Brussels, or Geneva, operated by airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Air India… Average prices range between €500 and €850 round-trip in November, depending on the airline.
Purchasing your plane tickets is at your own discretion and expense. To travel to India, you will need a tourist visa, which should be arranged about 20 days before departure (I will guide you through the process). Here is the official website to apply.
Thiruvananthapuram airport > the shala: a private taxi will be arranged to welcome you upon arrival.
The airport is about 1 to 1.30 hour by car to our retreat location by the sea. Average fare: around €30-40 for a one-way trip, depending on the time and number of passengers. We will coordinate arrivals when possible to facilitate your transfer and reduce costs.
How do I book ?
PRICE OF THE RETREAT >
— Shared room:
- €1900 per person (2 single beds in each room).
- 100% Ayurveda option: +€250 per person.
- Air conditionning option: +€50 per room.
— Private room: available upon request (+160 euros). It will either be at the shala if there is space left, or in a private suite at a beautiful hotel just a 2-minute walk away — don’t worry, this is common and allows everyone to find their comfort.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR SPOT >
Step 1: Deposit
Your reservation is confirmed upon receipt of the €1000 deposit, to be paid directly to Sepideh Rituals. This amount covers the organization of the retreat, yoga classes, and wellness activities. It does not include flights or transportation to the retreat location. Payment can be made in 3 installments without fees if needed.
Step 2: Confirmation
Once the minimum number of participants is reached, you will receive a confirmation email with all practical details and instructions for paying the balance.
Step 3: Balance
The remaining €900 is to be paid directly to the retreat venue for accommodation and associated services.
Step 4: Flights & Visa
After your registration is confirmed, it will be the ideal time to prepare your e-visa and book your flights.
For any questions, feel free to email me or consult the terms and conditions.
Are included :
Nine days and eight nights in our shala.
Yoga classes with Indian teachers and Sepideh throughout your stay, with variations adapted to each posture to allow everyone to progress at their own pace. All levels are welcome.
Classes are taught in English, accessible and easy to understand. I’m here to help translate in French during meditation and philosophy workshops if needed.
Delicious vegetarian full board, including fresh and hot drinks, unlimited mineral water, vegetarian brunches and dinners.
Scheduled activities designed to enrich your wellness experience.
Not included:
Airfare and airport transfers • any health tests and insurance • travel insurance • visa fees • personal purchases and transportation • additional massages and treatments.
