Mountains in Motion: Yoga & Culture in Nepal with Jenny Kaufman

This journey leans more toward an adventurous cultural immersion, set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Himalayas. Each day we’ll ground ourselves with at least one yoga practice—some days offering two—balanced with excursions that invite you to hike mountain trails, visit ancient monasteries, and connect with Sherpa culture. From the vibrant energy of Kathmandu to the serene beauty of Phaplu and The Happy House, this retreat blends mindful practice with meaningful exploration. Come ready to breathe deeply, move your body, and embrace the spirit of the mountains.

Important Note: We’ll be staying at elevation (≈ 8,200 feet) during our time in Phaplu. While activities are optional, a spirit of adventure and comfort with higher altitudes will enrich your experience.

The days include hiking and biking across the breathtaking landscape, morning & evening yoga and guided meditation sessions, fishing in the Solu River, wildlife and birdlife spotting in the holy forest, and picnic lunches along a ridge covered in wildflowers (springtime). For insight into the vast history and culture of the Sherpa people, visit the village of  Junbesi and the Thupten Choeling monastery. You can view the full week's itinerary here.

U.S. citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after your date of return to the U.S. with one blank page. U.S. passport holders must also have a visa to enter Nepal. The necessary tourist visa will be issued upon arrival in Nepal upon payment of the Visa fee.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on entry requirements, please contact your chosen visa travel processing agency directly. Additionally, consult the Embassy of Nepal or the nearest Nepalese consulate, and refer to the US State Department's website for helpful information.

Flying from the US: Please book your international ticket into and out of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), located in the capital city of Kathmandu, to arrive on October 17th and depart on October 24th.

No matter what time you arrive, there will be someone to meet you as you come out of customs and take you to the hotel. This cost is included in your trip price if you are arriving on the first day of the trip, departing on the last day of the trip, or if you have booked any additional nights needed directly through us.

There is one internal flight associated with the itinerary that we will be booking on your behalf. This will be a round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Phaphlu, which is included in the price of your trip. We will be making all of the domestic flight arrangements on your behalf.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect both you and your investment. Unexpected events—such as personal emergencies, health issues, political or environmental factors, or weather disruptions—can arise and affect travel plans. 

For the maximum coverage, be sure to purchase your policy within 7–10 days of your initial deposit. Please note that, as we must adhere to our cancellation policy, you will be responsible for any costs if you choose not to have coverage. While we do not advise on specific policies, we recommend exploring options through the reputable travel insurance aggregator, InsureMyTrip. They can help you select a travel insurance provider and policy that best suits your needs.

No, gratuities are not included in the total trip price as they are discretionary. Tips are an important aspect of the economy in Nepal and are highly valued. We recommend allocating $15-$20 per person per day for housekeeping and restaurant staff, as well as for your local guides, drivers, and principal guide who will accompany you throughout the trip.

We get hundreds of travelers each year who go on retreat alone. If you are traveling without a friend or partner, but prefer to share your room, we will do our best to match you with another traveler of the same gender. If for some reason, we are not able to match you with a roommate, a single supplement will apply. If you prefer to have your own private room, a single supplement will apply.

Attendance varies from trip to trip, but 15 - 25 attendees is a general average.

A $ 1,000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot on the trip. The final balance payment is due by June 17, 2026. If you cancel before the final balance deadline, we will refund any payments you have made, minus the non-refundable deposit. If you do not complete the payment on your own by that date, the card on file will be automatically charged your remaining balance. If you register for the trip after June 17, 2026, the full amount is due at the time of sign-up.  All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable after June 17, 2026. International Yoga must strictly adhere to its cancellation policy to offset costs incurred before the commencement of the retreat. Click here to view the Terms and Conditions to which you agree upon registration. 

If you wish to cancel your participation in this program, you must advise International Yoga in writing to: [email protected].