Ananda Yoga Retreat
Yoga, dance, and connection in Tapovan
In Tapovan, yoga takes a more expressive shape at Ananda Yoga Retreat, where movement, dance and cultural exchange sit alongside practice. Founders Berta and Chinu bring distinct perspectives: Berta’s interest in dance and cross-cultural connection, and Chinu’s knowledge of his heritage and spirituality. The retreat is designed around learning together, with an emphasis on connection and respect for local culture rather than a single named lineage. Guests have access to a yoga studio, café and restaurant, as well as rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Food options listed include vegetarian, vegan, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free and nut-free choices. Retreat formats and daily rhythms may differ, so ask the hosts what a particular stay includes. With its blend of yoga and creative movement, this is a good place to look beyond a strictly studio-based approach and meet Rishikesh through shared practice.
Highlights
- Yoga and dance brought together through the founders’ creative backgrounds
- A retreat shaped around cultural exchange and shared practice
- On-site yoga studio, café and restaurant
- Food options include Ayurvedic, organic, vegan and gluten-free choices
Good for
Setting
Behind Raha Cafe in Tapovan, the retreat sits in one of Rishikesh’s busy visitor neighborhoods, where cafés and local life are part of the daily surroundings. Its yoga studio provides a dedicated place to practise, while the café and restaurant make it easy to spend time on-site between sessions.
The practice
Yoga is the central practice, with movement and dance also part of the retreat’s approach. The center does not identify a specific yoga lineage, so newcomers can expect a broadly framed practice rather than a named tradition. Ask the hosts what styles and session formats are planned for your dates, especially if you are new to yoga.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm the schedule with the hosts before booking. Yoga and movement are central, but session times, meals and free periods depend on the particular program. The café and restaurant provide on-site places to eat or take a break between activities.
Accommodation
Rooms include air conditioning, and housekeeping and free Wi-Fi are listed among the amenities. Room types, occupancy and what is included with a retreat booking can vary, so confirm the details with the hosts before reserving.
What to bring
Pack comfortable clothes for yoga and movement, plus a light layer for cooler winter mornings and evenings. Rishikesh is warmest from May to July and wetter from July to September, so bring sun protection in hot months and rain protection during the monsoon.
How to get there
From Delhi, fly to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and continue by taxi or arranged transfer. Alternatively, take a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh, then continue to Tapovan by taxi or local bus from Haridwar.
Nearest airport: Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED) (14 km)
Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is approximately 14 km from the retreat. You can take a taxi or ask the hosts to help coordinate a pickup or shared transport.
Nearest city: Dehradun (Jauligrant)
Public transport: Trains run from Delhi to Haridwar and, less frequently, Rishikesh; local buses connect Haridwar with Rishikesh.
Contact the retreat through its website to check dates and arrange a reservation.
Rates start at USD 44. Confirm the dates, room arrangement and what is included in the price before booking.
Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.
Visit Ananda Yoga Retreat websiteClimate
Climate Zone: Subtropical
Best Months: Dec, Nov, Mar
Avoid: Sep, Aug, Jul
Rishikesh has an annual average temperature of about 21.3°C, with the warmest conditions from May to July and cooler weather in December through February. Rain is most likely from July to September, while November through March tend to be drier.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What should I expect from a stay at Ananda Yoga Retreat?
The retreat brings yoga, movement and dance together, with an emphasis on cultural exchange. Ask the hosts about the specific program and daily schedule for your dates.
Can beginners join the yoga sessions?
The retreat’s experience level requirements are not stated. Contact the hosts to check whether the program planned for your dates suits beginners.
What food options are available?
Listed dietary options include vegetarian, vegan, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free and nut-free choices. Ask the hosts which meals are included with your booking.
How do I book a retreat?
Visit the retreat website to enquire about dates and reservations, and confirm the booking details directly with the hosts.
How do I get from Dehradun airport to the retreat?
Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport is approximately 14 km away. A taxi is one option, and the hosts can help coordinate a pickup or shared transport.
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