8 of the best places to practise yoga in India

The discipline of yoga originated in India thousands of years ago, so for enthusiastic yogis there really is no better place to start or further deepen your practice.

The range of yoga retreats in India is immense and the energy of the yoga scene is nothing short of electric. 

Here are some of the best destinations to practise yoga in India to help you narrow down the options.

Known as the ‘yoga capital of the world', Rishikesh is one of the best spots to practise yoga in India.

Rishikesh is also situated where the Ganges River flows, a spot of spiritual importance and natural beauty. 

Locals and visitors partake in numerous styles of yoga and meditation alike. Popular practises range from Hasya yoga (laughter yoga) to learning to play the sitar. 

Regardless of which practice you choose, the feeling of breathing through your asanas (yoga poses) to the rhythm of the mountain breeze won’t be lost on you.

With its ancient temples and sadhus (holy people) bathing in the Ganges, the city of Varanasi is considered the spiritual heart of India. 

Having such a spiritual appeal means that some of the world’s most revered yoga experts have gravitated here. 

Boasting a range of traditional yoga classes, some are taught in Hindi or Sanskrit. Here, you’ll also find dynamic vinyasa yoga. 

As one of the world’s oldest cities, Varanasi is a special place to do a series of sun salutations at dawn. Watch the ancient buildings light up in an orange glow as the morning temple bells chime.

Arambol has a laid-back, spiritual appeal, perfectly suited for a yoga retreat. If you want to delve into delicious foods on your travels, you’ll also find an array of gourmet vegan and vegetarian food here. 

Get yourself into a soothing daily yoga routine, finishing in time to watch the sun go down over the Arabian Sea with a mango lassi to hand. 

At sunset, the beach fills up with performers and artists, forming drum circles and fire-breathing shows. 

If you don’t know what kind of yoga you’re interested in, you can just turn up and ask, most beach hut accommodations even offer in-house yoga. So, if you’re after a yoga retreat in India that’s literally on the beach, you’re in luck.

If you like to think of yourself as a tea enthusiast who just so happens to love yoga, look no further than Darjeeling. 

It’s often common practice here to cherish a cup of the good stuff after completing a yoga session. After all, the town is known for its outstanding tea. 

Delve deeper into the process of tea making for yourself at The Happy Valley Tea Estate. Experience the tea-making process from start to finish, making for the perfect excursion.

The rich culture of Darjeeling is also apparent as you wander through the city. Explore Mahakal Mandir temple on Observatory Hill to see the Buddhist and Hindu influences of Darjeeling.

The town of Agonda boasts a Goan beachside setting that’s very conducive to yoga and meditation.

It’s fairly remote, so is quieter than its northern Goan equivalent, Arambol. The sunsets on the coast of Goa are some of the best in the world, boasting hues of flaming oranges and hazy, powder blues and lilacs. 

Take yoga classes on the broad, flat sandy beach. Afterwards, try some chai or an Indian cookery class.

Varkala is a town in the south Indian state of Kerala, where palm-covered red cliffs and golden beaches have made it a popular setting for yoga classes. 

You may find impromptu classes on the beach, but the standout attraction has got to be the Janardanaswamy Temple. 

This sits on a nearby hilltop and is a historic pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

After exploring and doing some yoga, why not take a backwater cruise or get an Ayurvedic massage to make for a blissful treat?

Mysore is one of the best places to do yoga in India, as the city has seen world-renowned yoga teachers reside.

Popular practices of yoga here include Ashtanga which is a dynamic and demanding style of yoga. 

There are a variety of classes you can either book in advance or simply drop into – so you’ll be able to find a practice that suits your schedule.

Beyond the yoga, you may want to explore the rich history of Mysore, make sure to visit Mysore Palace and the various temples.

Pune has some of the most renowned yoga retreats in India that offer tranquillity, extensive and wellness programmes. 

Attracting both locals and tourists alike, there’s a variety of yoga classes for you to try out. 

Situated near the bustle of Mumbai, Pune offers a peaceful yoga retreat with renowned teachers residing in the city, making it one of the best places to do yoga in India.