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Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills
January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills
January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills
January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills
January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills
January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Don't miss out on an experience of a lifetime. Spaces are limited. Register now.
 
Highlights
Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Join Billy and Ashley for an unforgettable week into the Himalayan foothills to explore Hardiwar and Rishikesh, the self-proclaimed “Yoga Capital of the World,” a magnet to spiritual seekers for decades.

 

We’ll begin with an exploration of the the capital of Delhi, then take a first-class train to Hardiwar, a center of Hindu religion and mysticism for centuries, to experience a sacred ceremony on the banks of the powerful Ganges. We’ll continue on to nearby Rishikesh, also on the banks of the Ganges, made famous by a visit from the Beatles in the '60s. We'll start most days with an early morning pranayama and meditation that moves us into a stronger asana practice. When applicable, a second yoga/meditation practice will be offered, to dive deeper into the flow of goodness. Visits to sacred temples are also on the schedule, plus a likely lecture or two, with some free time to honor your own interests.

 

Billy and Ashley’s inspiring vision for the trip: “For those of us on the path of yoga, the true journey and the ultimate destination is Self. As yogis, we seek that which will bring us closer to our true Self: Spirit. India is the birthplace of yoga, and in many ways, the land itself is the mother of yoga. We will begin our journey in the holy city of Rishikesh. It is believed that those who meditate within the city, or enter the sacred Ganges River, are brought closer to the highest spiritual attainment of freedom (moksha) from the endless cycles of existence. Join us on this incredible journey, not only to India, but to Self.“

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Pricing

Single Room

$ ($3095)Show Details

Shared Double Room

$ ($2595)Show Details
 
Included
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • extensive pre-trip assistance
  • first-class train from Delhi to Hardiwar
  • private guides and transport throughout
  • all land transport (private buses, trains)
  • breakfasts and all taxes
  • yoga & meditation with Ashley & Billy
  • Lunches and dinners (approx. $5-$10 per meal per person)
  • gratuities
  • international airfare 
  • travel insurance 
 
Payment and Cancellation Policy:

A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to hold your space. Final Balance Policy: Final payment must be ... received by Nov 1, 2016, in order to be eligible for the early bird pricing, and all payments are non-refundable. Cancellation Policy: In the event of cancellation, your entire payment will be refunded less the $500 deposit if the cancellation is made before Nov 1, 2016. Payments are non-refundable after this date. Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance for your trip. There are many travel insurance companies to choose from, but Travelex and World Nomads are two reputable organizations for worldwide travel coverage.

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Ashley Rideaux
Ashley Rideaux is a Los Angeles–based, 500 E-RYT teacher trainer, meditation teacher, mentor, lover of life, and professional giggler who rocks big hair, a big smile, and an even bigger heart. In addition to the strong following she has built in LA, she also leads trainings, workshops, and retreats all over the world. Ashley's classes are challenging and playful, ranging from therapeutic work to advanced vinyasa flow. Outside of traditional studio spaces, she teaches yoga to women and adolescents in eating disorder treatment facilities, has experience working with seniors with neurological disorders, weekly classes for the staff at MLK Children’s Hospital and was the featured yoga instructor for NBA player, Jordan Farmar's, Hoop Farm basketball camp f... Read More

Years Teaching

17+ years

Style

Vinyasa, therapeutic, meditation, and philosophy

Inspiration

Life!

My Profile & Retreats
 

FAQ

What airport do I arrive into and depart out of?

You will be using Delhi International Airport (airport code: DEL) for both your arrival and departure.

Are there group airfares?

There are no group airfares, as we will have people joining us from all over the US, with some arriving early, some arriving late, some using miles, etc. We are happy to provide guidance and review any itineraries you find. Please contact us before purchasing flights, and as always, travel insurance is strongly recommended. 

What if I have questions about visas, vaccinations, what to pack, etc?

Upon registration, a travel planner will be provided and have everything you should need to know to be fully prepared for your trip. In addition, we will be available to you in the months leading up to the retreat to answer questions and to provide any assistance you may need.

 

It is important to apply for your visa early.

Are airport transfers included in the price of my trip?

Yes, private airport transfers are included in the price of your trip whenever you arrive, day or night. Note: if you arrive early and decide to stay at an alternate location other than our group hotel, you will be responsible for coordinating and paying for your own transportation directly with the hotel where you will be staying.

Are all levels of yoga experience welcome, from beginning to more advanced?

Yes, all levels are welcome. You will find that wherever you are in your practice you will get just what you need out of the yoga classes on this retreat. International Yoga works only with experienced and extremely qualified teachers, which ensures that everyone's yoga needs will be met.

What if I am traveling alone?

If you are traveling alone, 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 find a roommate for you, a single supplement will apply.

If you prefer to have your own private room, a single supplement will apply.

How many people are expected on this retreat?

Attendance varies from trip to trip, but 12 to 25 attendees is a general average.

What are the accommodations like?

We will be staying at well-known 4- and 5-star hotels chosen for their location and quality of service. We've used them all for groups in the past. Contact us for details on where you will be staying for your specific itinerary.

How much additional money should I budget for the week?

For a week in India we suggest $400 to $600 in spending money per week to cover miscellaneous items and things which are not covered in the retreat cost (lunch and dinner, tipping, shopping, etc). It's also good to have a little extra cash on hand for emergencies. For shopping, you will find an extraordinary number of inexpensive, locally made items as well as beautiful high-end rugs and lovely gold jewelry, so if you plan to do a good amount of shopping, you may need to budget for a bit more.

Are gratuities included in my trip price?

No, gratuities are not included in the total trip price. Tips are an essential part of the economy in India and are greatly appreciated. We suggest $10 to $20/day total per-person per-day for housekeeping and restaurant staff as well as your local guides, drivers, and the principal guide, who will be with you for the entire duration of the trip.

Do I need to bring a mat, and will props be available during yoga classes?

Yes, please bring your own mat in addition to blocks and a strap if you like to use props during your practice.

What is the weather like?

November to March is the ideal time to visit India in terms of weather. In the south, the temperature averages between 80 to 90 F with only occasional rain. In the north, it can get quite cool (50s to 60s) with the weather starting to warm up in February and March (70s to 80s).

Can I drink the local water in India?

NO! DO NOT DRINK THE TAP WATER at any point during your stay in India. One bottle of water per day will be provided for each guest. Additional bottles may be purchased at local kiosks for less than $1. Use bottled water to even to brush your teeth!

 

Testimonials

C. Giacalone, India

Hotels were truly beautiful, and the food was great. The guides were very informative and passionate. They always had a positive manner about them. All transportation was clean and comfortable. There was a lot on the itinerary for each day, the destinations were absolutely amazing!

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S. Koches, India

I'm very impressed with International Yoga, their knowledge of India, and their ability to provide the best experiences for their travelers. Everything—the accommodations, the transportation, the guides, the restaurants, and all the awesome activities—was top notch. I felt very comfortable, safe, and well taken care of the whole time. This experience exceeded my expectations and was a trip of a lifetime. The sights, sounds, and smells of India will be with me forever. Thank you!

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H. Jaisinghani, India

You guys are truly experts at what you do, and the quality of your service and flexibility to work with additional requests has been phenomenal! Attendees felt they were truly taken care of and safe!

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A. Willmer, India

Wonderful and thoughtful trip—from the beginning, where many unknowns exist, Michelle and Stephanie were very good at explaining and encouraging timely preparation and planning for every step. Then landing in India and experiencing being taken care of right from the start, as you step out of the airport—this was such a relief and comfort! The Sights and Sounds trip was truly a transformative vacation, and I feel it was because of the wonderful partnership between International Yoga; our Yoga teacher, Ann Dyer; and Mayank, our wonderful Indian guide and friend. Thank you everyone for letting us into your lives and truly giving your love and attention to making this an exquisite life experience.

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S. Cohen, India

I appreciate how much support you provided. You not only answered questions about the retreat, but also addressed my post-retreat travel concerns. In fact, even before I left for India I felt I was in really good hands!

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D. Kelley, India

I can't imagine visiting India without the guidance of International Yoga. In just over two weeks I feel I saw the quintessential Indian sites and had a spiritual, yogic experience. The itinerary was expertly planned; it was the perfect balance of tourism—seeing all the monuments and sites that India has to offer and quiet, spiritual yoga time. Beginning with the craziness of Delhi, Jaipur, and Varanasi made me appreciate the calmer, more meditative environment of Rishikesh even more! It was an amazing, fulfilling trip.

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January 28 - February 4, 2017

Yoga & Culture in the Himalayan Foothills

Don't miss out on an experience of a lifetime. Spaces are limited. Register now.