The Advanced Silent Retreat is a focused one-week immersion designed for experienced practitioners and teachers seeking to explore the subtle and transformative power of silence, breath-centered practice, and contemplative awareness within a lineage-based framework.

Rooted in the teachings of the Vedic Adi Nath Shiva tradition and guided by Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu and the Senior Faculty, this retreat offers a pedagogically rigorous and experientially rich environment for advanced sādhanā and personal evolution.

This retreat serves as an advanced container for inner refinement and spiritual maturation. It is designed for Yoga teachers, dedicated practitioners, and seekers who have completed a foundational training and are now called to deepen their experiential understanding through silence and introspection.

You may be well-suited for this retreat if you:

• Participants are well-suited for this retreat if they have completed a 200-hour or higher Yoga Teacher Training program.
• They should maintain a steady personal practice and be prepared for intensive inner work.
• It is an ideal opportunity for those called to spend a sustained period in noble silence to clarify inner awareness and embody Yogic principles beyond the mat.

Experiential Objectives

Participants will leave the retreat with a deepened capacity for internal witnessing and self-regulation through breath, silence, and meditation.

They will gain refined experiential insight into the subtle anatomy of the pranic body—koshas, chakras, and nādis.

The retreat nurtures an embodied understanding of the Yogic virtues of tapas (discipline) and svādhyāya (self-study).

Practical tools are provided to help participants incorporate silence, reflection, and advanced sādhanā into daily life and teaching.

Methodology and Structure

• The retreat follows a carefully structured daily rhythm aligned with traditional ashram living. Silence (mauna) is observed throughout the retreat, except for from the facilitators.
• Study with Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu: Integrated asana, prāṇāyāma, bandha, mudrā, and mantra.
• Philosophical reflections and journaling
• Fire ceremony (agni hotra), mantra japa, and intentional bhakti practices.
  
• Nutrition, rest, and nature immersion designed to support pranic purification and cognitive clarity.

Weather in Uttarakhand, India: March

During March, Uttarakhand transforms into a chilly paradise as the northern Himalayas usher in cooler temperatures. If you're traveling to us during these months, be prepared for a significant drop in temperatures, especially as you ascend into higher altitudes.

What You'll Need to Stay Warm Outside

1. Base Layers: Thermal innerwear for both your top and bottom to retain body heat.
2. Insulating Layers: Woolen or fleece sweaters and jackets to create a thermal barrier.
3. Outerwear: A heavy, insulated jacket that is waterproof and windproof to shield you from icy winds and occasional snowfall.
4. Other things to consider:

• Woolen hats or beanies to protect your head and ears.
• Gloves—preferably insulated and waterproof.
• A scarf or neck warmer to shield against biting winds.
• Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction for icy pathways. Woolen or thermal socks will keep your feet cozy.
• Extras: Hand warmers and a thermos to carry warm beverages.

Reminders for Your Journey

You are heading north into the Himalayas, where weather conditions can change rapidly. It’s essential to check local forecasts regularly and plan your gear accordingly. Prioritize comfort and warmth so you can focus on the breathtaking landscapes and the transformative energy of this sacred terrain.

This training is more than a certification—it is a sacred initiation into the timeless teachings of Yoga, rooted in the Akhanda lineage. By committing to this path, you are stepping into a journey of humility, self-discovery, and transformation, guided by one of the most trusted institutions in Rishikesh.

Your Experience Includes

the Advanced Silent Retreat Immersion

Transportation to/ from from Rishikesh & Sri Jungle Ashram

Teachings with Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu (asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra)

Expert Instruction by Senior Akhanda Faculty

Sattvic Vegetarian Meals Daily

Investment

$800 USD

+a donation to the Ashram of $200 USD for room and board to be paid upon arrival

Not Included

Final Night Stay Not Included (Check-out is at 3:00 PM on the last day of the training, and accommodation for that evening is not provided. You’ll need to arrange your own lodging if you plan to stay in Rishikesh beyond the training period.)

Airfare to and from India

Transportation to Akhanda Anand Prakash Ashram + Retreat Centre

Visa and travel insurance

Arrival

Plan to arrive at Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram + Retreat in Rishikesh by 9:45 AM on the first day of your training. The group will then be transported together to Akhanda Sri Jungle Yoga Ashram + Retreat, where High Tea will be served upon arrival.

Recommended Airports

We suggest flying into either Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) or Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).

From there, our team can support you in coordinating your transportation to the retreat center for an additional fee.

To arrange travel support or inquire about custom transfers, please email us at:

retreats@akhandayoga.com

Check-Out

The training concludes with departure at 3:00 PM on the last day, with group transportation provided back to Rishikesh.

Please note that accommodation for the final night is not included, and you will need to plan your lodging accordingly if you intend to stay in the area beyond the course.

Sample Daily Schedule

5:20 AM – 5:50 AM – Guided Meditation

6:00 AM – 7:30 AM – Yoga Class (Asana, Pranayama)

7:45 AM – 8:30 AM – Fire Puja (Sacred Ritual)

9:30 AM – Breakfast

10:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Content Modules & Workshops

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Free Time

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – High Tea

3:30 PM – 6:15 PM – Afternoon Study & Practice

6:30 PM – 7:15 PM – Dinner

7:15 PM – 8:15 PM (Tues/Thurs) – Kirtan (Chanting)

8:30 PM – 9:30 PM – Silent Study

Cancellation Policy

Please be aware that no refunds are issued for any reason for student cancellation.

We highly recommend purchasing Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected changes.

If you choose to cancel, your insurance provider will be your point of claim.

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Have questions or need more information?
Our team is here to support you. Please email community@akhandayoga.com, and we will be happy to assist you with any inquiries about the training, the online preparation, or the ashram experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many students will be in each training cohort?

We can host up to 100 at the Jungle Ashram.

2. What level of yoga experience is required to attend?

You must be a sincere practitioner and emotionally stable.

3. Is there a final exam, practicum, or teaching requirement to receive certification?

No. This is a retreat, not a training or certification.

4. Do I need to bring my own yoga mat and props?

You are welcome to bring your own yoga mat. While mats and some props are available on site, they are well-used, and many students prefer the comfort of their own. Blocks and straps are limited, so bring your own if you rely on them in your practice.

5. What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss the 9:45 AM arrival?

Please notify us immediately. We will do our best to help arrange private transportation to the Jungle Ashram at an additional cost.

6. Can I book additional nights at the Retreat before or after the training?

Yes. Extra nights may be available, subject to availability. Please email retreats@akhandayoga.com to request accommodation and coordinate logistics.

7. How do I coordinate transportation from the airport to Rishikesh?

We recommend flying into Delhi or Dehradun.

Our team can help arrange transportation from either location to the Anand Prakash Ashram in Rishikesh for an additional fee. To schedule this, contact retreats@akhandayoga.com.

8. Are there laundry facilities available at the ashram?

Yes. Basic laundry services are available on site for a modest fee. You may also choose to hand wash smaller items during your stay.

9. Are phones and devices allowed during the training?

It is absolutely best if you can be completely off of devices for this retreat.

10. Will I have access to medical care if needed during the training?

Yes. We have access to trusted medical clinics and emergency support in Rishikesh. In the event of illness or injury, staff will assist you in receiving appropriate care.

11. What kind of dietary accommodations are available?

All meals are sattvic, vegetarian, and light. We can accommodate vegan diets and some mild food sensitivities, but this is a traditional Ashram kitchen, and we cannot guarantee accommodations for complex allergies. Please email us if you have specific concerns.

12. Is the environment safe for solo travelers—especially women?

Absolutely. Many of our students are solo female travelers, and the ashram is a safe, supportive, and sacred space. Our team is experienced in holding a nurturing container, and Rishikesh itself is a spiritually-centered and welcoming town.

13. Is the room + board donation mandatory?

This amount is a suggested respectful donation to cover your room and board. While it is strongly encouraged, if cost is a concern, we invite you to reach out to discuss your situation. We are committed to making this training accessible to sincere students.

14. If something unexpected happens, can I transfer to the next training date?

You are able to transfer your tuition payments for two years. Please reach out as early as possible if you need to adjust your plans.

15. Are scholarships or financial aid available?

We offer limited scholarships based on need. If finances are a barrier, please reach out to community@akhandayoga.com to inquire.