Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Travel & Packing Guide
The closest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL). From there you can take a domestic flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (DED), which is close to Rishikesh (approximately 22 kilometers away from the city center). Traveling from New Delhi (DEL) to Dehradun (DED) airport takes 40- 45 minutes. A taxi directly from the New Delhi airport to Rishikesh takes around 06 hours, however we recommend everyone to take a domestic flight.
First, Students should apply for a tourist visa as it is easy and granted from the Indian embassy in a short period of time, the purpose of visiting India should be yoga retreat or Ayurveda retreats. Students may give our school address as well as a contact number for an Indian reference. Contact details for the Indian embassy in your country can be found. In general order, the visa expiry date is counted from the day visa is issued. Please verify it with the concerned embassy. Try to apply for your visa at least 2 to 3 weeks before your travel date. More info https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
Documentation: Always carry COVID Vaccination certificate if you are fully vaccinated. To avoid any disappointments later, please follow the travel guidelines published by Uttarakhand State (Link below) while travelling to the state.
https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism/uttarakhand-travel-guidelines.php
Yoga Mat: You may bring your own yoga mat for the Teacher Training Course or may use the one we provide during the course. Various kinds of yoga mats are available for purchase in town for about 500 INR ($10). Hiking/walking shoes: During your stay in our Teacher Training program you will be visiting various places of spiritual significance. To reach some of these places you will be expected to hike uphill or to go downhill to reach a meditation cave.
Clothing: The key word for clothing… modest! Sleeveless yoga tops and tight yoga pants are appropriate ONLY inside the yoga hall but not suitable outside the hall or in town. Bring layers of clothing to wear to and from the yoga hall. You may also purchase inexpensive Indian clothing in the local market if needed. If you do not bring proper attire, you may be asked to buy more modest clothing at your own expense. We firmly believe in respecting the local culture and not inviting unnecessary attention to ourselves. Personal bathing towel & personal toiletries It is always good to carry your bathing towel and a small towel for yoga class.
Journal It is always good to keep a personal journal to record your experiences of inner transformation. In your practice sessions, each day you may observe subtle or profound transformations (Physical, mental or emotional). It is of immense value when you look back months later and reflect. Take advantage of personal time, by spending it in solitude with your journal.
Medicines: If you are currently using medications, bring a stock of medicines for one month. It is also advisable to carry some essential medicines for headaches/fever, diarrhea, motion sickness, and allergies.
Water Bottle: Please carry a small water bottle with you. It will be convenient when you are in a yoga class or going out on excursions.
Other Information: Orientation Orientation will begin at 6:00pm on the first day, so please make your travel plans accordingly and inform us of your arrival information when you book your tickets.