Hridaya Bhav Sangha Retreat: India
A Journey to the Heart in Rishikesh
March 18-25, 2027
Awaken your heart and spirit in the birthplace of yoga
Retreat Overview
7 Nights, 8 Days | Yoga, Devotion & Sacred Tradition in the Birthplace of Yoga
Step into the heart of yoga and spiritual exploration with the Hridaya Bhav Retreat in Rishikesh. This 7-night, 8-day immersive journey is more than just a retreat—it’s a sacred pilgrimage. Disconnect from daily life and immerse yourself in the profound wisdom, rituals, and traditions that have guided seekers for generations.
In Sanskrit, Hridaya (हृदय) means “heart”—the seat of wisdom, love, and truth. Bhav (भव) is the soulful feeling of devotion, surrender, presence, and openness to life and its beauty. Sangha (संघ) is a sacred community—a gathering of individuals who come together in shared intention, support, and connection on the path.
Together, they invite you to explore yoga as a path to reconnect with your true self, your heart, and something greater—held within the embrace of community.
Through meditation, movement, mantra, sacred rituals, and philosophy, you will dive into the essence of yoga—a practice that nourishes your mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re new to yoga or have been practicing for years, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to engage in yoga as a living tradition that fosters transformation and deep connection.
In the sacred space of Rishikesh, the birthplace of yoga, you will absorb the teachings of India, participate in sacred ceremonies, and experience the deep vibrations of devotion through every practice.
This retreat is your invitation to step away from the noise, reconnect with your heart, and experience the profound wisdom of yoga in one of the most sacred places on Earth.
A Journey of Transformation
This retreat is an invitation to pause, reflect, and immerse yourself in the living wisdom of yoga. Step into the sacred, embrace the essence of devotion, and return home with a renewed sense of clarity, connection, and inner peace.
Why Rishikesh?
Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas and along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Rishikesh has long been a sanctuary for sages, yogis, and seekers. Known as the birthplace of yoga, it is infused with centuries of devotion, making it an unparalleled destination for deep introspection, transformation, and connection.
The spiritual vibration of this land is palpable—the prayers, meditations, and rituals of saints and renunciates have woven a sacred energy into its very essence. Here, the mountains whisper ancient wisdom, and the river carries the echoes of devotion.
Who Is This For?
This retreat is open to all seekers—whether you are beginning your journey or deepening an existing practice. You don’t need prior yoga experience—just an open heart and a willingness to explore.
This journey is for you if:
You feel called to experience India’s spiritual traditions firsthandYou seek a deeper understanding of yoga beyond just physical postures
You long to take part in authentic rituals and ceremonies
You wish to connect with teachers, wisdom, and sacred spaces
You are open to personal transformation through reflection, community, and ancient traditions
What To Expect?
On this journey, you will have the opportunity to:
Experience yoga beyond the physical, with guided asana practices, meditation, breathwork, and spiritual discussions that deepen your connection to yourself and the wisdom of yoga.
Wander through the vibrant streets of Rishikesh, where sacred cows roam freely, the aroma of freshly brewed chai fills the air, and temple bells echo alongside the flowing Ganges.
Visit sacred temples and sites, where sages and seekers have meditated for centuries, absorbing the stillness and devotion woven into these sacred spaces.
Celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors! Immerse yourself in the joy and vibrancy of this ancient festival as you join in the color-throwing, music, and dancing that fills the streets of Rishikesh, embracing the spirit of renewal, love, and connection.
Connect with revered teachers and spiritual guides, learning from those who have dedicated their lives to the study and practice of yoga in its many forms—philosophy, mantra, meditation, and conscious living.
Be nourished by authentic Ayurvedic meals, carefully prepared to balance mind, body, and spirit. Made with seasonal, sattvic (pure and wholesome) ingredients, each meal is designed to promote vitality, clarity, and deep nourishment while aligning with yogic principles.
Take part in ancient ceremonies, including fire and flower rituals, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at sunset, an offering of light and devotion to the sacred river.
Experience the healing power of sound, through immersive sound healing sessions using crystal bowls, gongs, and traditional Indian instruments. These vibrations help restore balance, calm the nervous system, and guide you into deep states of relaxation and awareness.
Lose yourself in the magic of kirtan, the practice of devotional singing. Voices join together in call-and-response chants, creating an atmosphere of joy, connection, and spiritual upliftment. Kirtan is a heart-opening experience that allows you to feel devotion through sound and community.
Absorb the energy of the Himalayas at sunrise, as we journey to a sacred mountaintop temple, witnessing breathtaking panoramic views of the sun rising over the peaks. The Himalayas, often called the “abode of the gods,” hold an undeniable spiritual potency that has drawn seekers for centuries.
Build deep connections with a community of like-minded individuals on a shared spiritual path. Through shared practices, heartfelt conversations, and moments of stillness, you will form bonds that extend beyond this retreat—creating a supportive, soulful community rooted in growth and exploration.
A Joyful Celebration of Holi
This retreat offers the special opportunity to experience Holi, the Festival of Colors, during your time in Rishikesh on March 4th, 2026!
Holi is a vibrant and joyful celebration of renewal, love, and the triumph of good over evil. As the streets of Rishikesh come alive with music, dancing, and color-throwing, you'll be swept up in the festive atmosphere, surrounded by locals and fellow retreat participants.
Holi is a beautiful time to embrace the spirit of renewal and connection. Amidst the joy and celebration, you’ll deepen your yoga practice and find yourself immersed in the colors of the festival, symbolizing new beginnings and transformation. This is a unique chance to celebrate life and community in a spiritually rich environment, making your journey even more meaningful and memorable.
Join us in embracing the magic of Holi as it adds a special layer of joy and connection to your retreat experience!
Pricing & Accommodations
Retreat participants will stay in either shared or private rooms, each with its own bathroom, in the peaceful Laxman Jhula area of Rishikesh. The guesthouse features an on-site yoga shala where daily practices, gatherings, and events take place, creating a cohesive and supportive retreat environment. Accommodations include daily vegetarian meals.
Just a 5–10 minute walk from the riverbank, guests have easy access to temples, ashrams, bookshops, cafés, and the vibrant spiritual culture of Laxman Jhula—offering an ideal balance of tranquility and connection.
Set against the Himalayan foothills, this serene setting provides a sanctuary for deep practice, reflection, and renewal throughout the retreat experience.
Shared Room: Twin beds, shared bathroom
Pay in Full: $2,100
Payment Plan: $2,200
Private Room: Full size bed, private bathroom
Pay in Full:$2,600
Payment Plan:$2,700
What’s Included:
✔️ Airport Transfer – Pick-up from the airport for a smooth arrival
✔️ Comfortable Accommodation – Traditional Vedic-style lodging at Vedic Dham Ashram
✔️ Three Ayurvedic Meals Daily – Nourishing, sattvic meals made with fresh, local ingredients
✔️ Daily Yoga – A variety of styles, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and restorative
✔️ Daily Meditation – Guided sessions to cultivate inner awareness and peace
✔️ Workshops with Guest Teachers – Explore yoga philosophy, Ayurveda, astrology, breathwork, and more
✔️ Excursions – Explore the beauty of Rishikesh, from nature spots to cultural landmarks
✔️ Temple Visits – Experience the sacred energy of ancient temples
✔️ Ceremonies – Participate in powerful rituals like Ganga Aarti and fire ceremonies
✔️ Community & Connection – Space for reflection, group sharing, and personal guidance
What’s Not Included:
❌ Airfare – Flights to and from India
❌ Visa – Required for international travelers (check entry requirements)
❌ Travel Insurance – Highly recommended for medical coverage, trip cancellations, and personal liability
❌ Spa & Wellness Treatments – Any Ayurvedic therapies
❌ Personal Expenses – Shopping, souvenirs, snacks, or meals outside the accommodation facilities
❌ Optional Activities – River rafting, private healing sessions, or other add-on experiences
❌ Additional Transportation – Any extra airport transfers or personal transport outside retreat activities
Meet Your Hosts & Learn More
Yoga Teacher
Founder of Resilient Joy
Wisconsin, United States
Kayla Gonzalez
Yoga Teacher
Founder of Swadharma Yogshala
Rishikesh, India
Shobhit Ghanshyala
Explore Rishikesh
Retreat Terms & Conditions
Cancellation & Refund Policy
All payments are non-refundable within ninety (90) days of the scheduled arrival date. No refunds will be issued for late arrivals, early departures, missed activities, illness, personal emergencies, or removal from the retreat. Processing fees are non-refundable. If a refund is requested more than ninety (90) days prior to the scheduled arrival date, $400 of the total payment is non-refundable and will be retained as a deposit.
The Host reserves the right to cancel, postpone, or modify the retreat due to circumstances beyond their control, including but not limited to natural disasters, extreme weather, illness, venue issues, government restrictions, or emergencies. In such cases, the Host’s liability is limited to a refund of payments received, excluding travel or other expenses incurred by the Participant.
This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin.
Participant Responsibilities & Conduct
Participants confirm they are in suitable physical and mental condition to participate and agree to disclose any relevant medical conditions, injuries, allergies, pregnancy, or health concerns prior to the retreat.
All safety instructions must be followed. Respectful behavior toward participants, staff, instructors, and local residents is required at all times. Disruptive, unsafe, or disrespectful conduct may result in removal from the retreat without refund.
Assumption of Risk & Liability Waiver
Participation involves inherent risks, including physical injury, illness, emotional distress, property damage, or loss. By participating, the Participant voluntarily assumes all risks and releases and waives all claims against the Host, organizers, instructors, staff, and venue owners, including claims based on negligence, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Insurance
Participants are responsible for obtaining adequate travel insurance, including medical coverage, trip cancellation, and personal liability.
Media Release
Participants grant permission for photos or recordings taken during the retreat to be used for promotional or educational purposes unless written notice is provided prior to the retreat (unless stated otherwise prior to retreat date).
Agreement
By submitting a deposit or payment, the Participant confirms they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions and voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation.