Nepal is a soulful place for rest, reflection, and deep practice. If you are searching for the Best Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Nepal, you will find a wide range of options. From Himalayan ashrams tucked into mountain valleys to peaceful centers beside Lakeside Pokhara, Nepal blends nature and tradition in a way few countries can.
This article highlights ten retreats that consistently receive praise for teaching, atmosphere, and value. It also gives practical tips on how to choose the right program, what to pack, and when to go.
How I picked the Best Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Nepal
I considered teaching quality, location, retreat length options, accommodation standards, and practitioner reviews. I looked for retreats offering clear schedules and experienced teachers. Sustainable and ethical practices matter too. Finally, I chose centers that welcome different levels — beginners, intermediate, and advanced students.
Quick comparison (what to expect)
- Location: Himalayan valleys, lakeside towns, and hilltop sanctuaries.
- Typical program length: 3 days to 21+ days.
- Styles: Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Nidra, Vipassana, mindfulness, and integrated silent retreats.
- Extras: Treks, local culture tours, Ayurveda, and massage.
The 10 Best Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Nepal
Below are the ten retreats, listed in alphabetical order. Each entry includes a short summary, who it suits, typical program lengths, and what makes it special.
Annapurna Yoga & Wellness Retreat (Pokhara area)
Why choose this retreat: Set near Lakeside Pokhara, this center blends scenic calm with strong teaching. Mornings often start with gentle yoga and pranayama. Evenings focus on meditation and reflection.
Who it suits: Beginners, couples, and travelers looking for a lakeside base with yoga classes.
Length & offerings: Weekend retreats to 10-day packages. Optional Ayurvedic massage and short hikes.
Standout features: Beautiful views of the Annapurnas, professional teachers, and easy access to Pokhara’s cafés and lakeside life.
Himalayan Mindfulness Ashram (Langtang or nearer Kathmandu hills)
Why choose this retreat: If you want a raw retreat experience, this ashram provides simple living and long silent sits. It leans heavily toward mindfulness and Vipassana-style meditation.
Who it suits: Serious meditators and those wanting a silent retreat.
Length & offerings: 7 to 21 days; intensive meditation, simple vegetarian meals, and communal practice.
Standout features: Close contact with senior teachers and extended silent periods. The mountain energy is tangible.
Kora Yoga Sanctuary (near Pokhara / hilltop)
Why choose this retreat: Kora offers blended programs that mix yoga, breathwork, and walking meditation. The location is peaceful and slightly off the beaten track.
Who it suits: Mid-level practitioners and those interested in combining movement with contemplative practice.
Length & offerings: 5–14 day programs. Optional guided treks and evening mantra sessions.
Standout features: Excellent balance of activity and rest. Friendly staff and small group sizes.
Lumbini Retreat Center (Lumbini — birthplace of Buddha)
Why choose this retreat: Lumbini’s spiritual history gives a strong meditative atmosphere. Retreats here often include insight meditation and teachings on Buddhist practice.
Who it suits: Students interested in Buddhist meditation, mindfulness, and contemplative history.
Length & offerings: Short retreats of 3–7 days up to longer residential courses. Often paired with local site visits.
Standout features: Unique cultural and spiritual setting. A chance to practice where Buddhism began.
Mountain Heart Yoga (Upper Mustang / Annapurna foothills)
Why choose this retreat: For dramatic desert-mountain scenery and solitude. The teaching style is grounded and practical.
Who it suits: Experienced yogis and adventurous travelers who want a retreat that includes light trekking.
Length & offerings: 7–14 days, combining asana, pranayama, and guided walks.
Standout features: Remote location, small groups, and immersive nature time.
Namaste Yoga Village (Kathmandu Valley)
Why choose this retreat: Located close to Kathmandu, this center offers urban convenience and deep practice. It is ideal for short stays or for visitors who want a retreat before or after trekking.
Who it suits: Travelers with limited time, and city visitors seeking daily practice.
Length & offerings: Weekend workshops to two-week retreats. Teacher training options often available.
Standout features: Strong teacher training programs and convenient access to cultural sites.
Poon Hill Silent Meditation Week (Ghorepani / Annapurna Circuit fringe)
Why choose this retreat: Combine classic Himalayan trekking scenery and silent meditation. This program integrates walking meditation into a short trekking route.
Who it suits: Those who love nature walks and want a silent, contemplative week.
Length & offerings: Typically 7 days. Includes Poon Hill sunrise, guided sits, and simple lodgings.
Standout features: Sunrise views, village hospitality, and a rhythm that alternates walking with sitting.
Rims Yoga & Ayurveda Sanctuary (near Pokhara)
Why choose this retreat: Rims mixes therapeutic yoga with Ayurvedic consultations. Programs are personalized and healing-focused.
Who it suits: People seeking restorative practice, healing from stress, or post-injury gentle yoga.
Length & offerings: 5–14 days, with tailored Ayurvedic plans and therapies.
Standout features: Personalized health plans, quality therapists, and calm lakeside settings.
Swami Sadhana Center (Kathmandu foothills)
Why choose this retreat: A traditional yogic environment with strong emphasis on classic practices. Teaching blends philosophy, breathwork, and asana.
Who it suits: Students of classical yoga and those who want scriptural context for their practice.
Length & offerings: 7–21 days. Options for private instruction and study groups.
Standout features: Deep dive into yoga philosophy, chanting, and disciplined schedules.
Yogi’s Nest — Forest Meditation Retreat (Chitwan hills)
Why choose this retreat: Quiet forested hills, bird song, and a gentle, slow pace. Ideal for resetting the nervous system.
Who it suits: Nature lovers, restorative seekers, and people wanting to unplug.
Length & offerings: Short resets (3–5 days) and longer retreats (7–10 days). Forest walks, guided meditations, and silence options.
Standout features: Strong focus on nature-based mindfulness and eco-friendly accommodation.
How to choose the right retreat among the Best Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Nepal
- Decide your goal. Are you after relaxation, skills, deep silent practice, or a teacher training certificate? Pick a retreat that matches that goal.
- Choose a length that fits your life. Weekends can restart your rhythm. Two weeks allow deeper change.
- Check teacher qualifications. Experience matters. Look for clear bios and training details.
- Look at reviews. Recent participant reviews tell you about authenticity and logistics.
- Consider location and altitude. High-altitude retreats require more acclimatization.
- Ask about food and dietary needs. Most retreats serve simple vegetarian food. Confirm if you need special meals.
- Find out what’s included. Transfers, day trips, or extra therapies may not be included in the base price.
Practical tips before you go
- Pack light but smart: Comfortable layers, a light yoga mat (if you prefer your own), a water bottle, and sturdy walking shoes.
- Bring a journal: Many participants find journaling useful after meditation sits.
- Respect local customs: Especially in monastic settings. Modest dress and quiet behavior are often required.
- Plan travel time: Roads can be slow. Factor in buffer days.
- Get travel insurance: Include coverage for high-altitude trekking if your retreat includes walks.
Sample 7-day retreat schedule (typical)
- Morning: Gentle asana, pranayama, and meditation.
- Midday: Healthy vegetarian lunch and rest.
- Afternoon: Workshop or gentle pranayama and study session.
- Evening: Silent sit, mantra, or guided relaxation.
- Free time: Walking, journaling, or therapy sessions.
Costs and best seasons
Costs vary widely. Expect budget options and premium packages. A basic 3-day retreat may start low. Two-week immersive programs with therapies and accommodation cost more.
Best seasons: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer stable weather and clear mountain views. Monsoon (June–August) is quiet and green but can bring travel delays. Winter (December–February) is cold in the hills, but lower-altitude centers remain comfortable.
Safety and health
If you have health concerns, consult your doctor before booking. Be honest about injuries and chronic conditions. Inform the center about medication and dietary needs.
Conclusion — Make your practice your guide
Choosing one of the Best Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Nepal can be a life-enhancing decision. Whether you crave silent meditation in a Himalayan valley, restorative Ayurvedic care in Pokhara, or a blended yoga-and-trek experience, Nepal offers welcoming options. Use the tips in this guide to match a retreat to your goals, and plan well so you can relax into practice.