Where to Study Yoga in India
Yoga, an integral part of Hinduism, has been practiced in India for centuries. It serves as a pathway to free the mind, body, and spirit. Recently, yoga has gained immense popularity in the West, motivating many to study yoga in India in its traditional form. Numerous yoga centers across India offer a range of options from intensive courses to flexible drop-in classes. Each center has its unique style and teaching approach; hence, it’s essential to assess your personal needs before choosing a program.
Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh
Address: Main Market Road, Near Ram Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304, India
Located in a picturesque mountain setting, Parmarth Niketan in Rishikesh is an ideal spiritual destination for yoga. This ashram boasts 1,000 rooms on its expansive eight-acre campus, offering beginner courses, Vedic heritage sessions, and teacher training programs. Daily classes are accessible for visitors, and the annual Yoga Festival in March attracts a plethora of participants. The ashram also conducts sacred Indian wedding ceremonies and nightly Ganga aarti.
- Course Duration: From two weeks to one month. Affordable accommodations available.
Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, Chennai
Address: 25, Thiru Narayana Ave, off New Avadi Road, Aspiran Garden Colony, Kilpauk, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600010, India
Phone: +91 72999 01100
This institute was established by T. Krishnamacharya, a pivotal figure in modern yoga. Known for its individualized approach, Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram focuses on viniyoga, an adapted style of Hatha Yoga. Their popular program, The Heart of Yoga, offers a comprehensive exploration of key yoga aspects, alongside Vedic chanting and specialized teacher training courses.
- Course Duration: Two to four weeks.
Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Pune
Address: Hare Krishna Mandir Rd, Model Colony, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411016, India
Phone: +91 20 2565 6134
This esteemed institute attracts yoga enthusiasts worldwide. It specializes in Iyengar Yoga, emphasizing detailed postural alignment and technique. Unfortunately, enrollment may take up to two years due to high demand. Students are expected to have significant prior experience.
- Course Duration: One month. Limited to six classes weekly; accommodation not provided.
Ashtanga Institute, Mysore
Address: 235, 8th Cross Rd, 3rd Stage, Gokulam, Mysuru, Karnataka 570002, India
Phone: +91 98801 85500
Founded by the descendants of the legendary Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois, this institute provides efficient and intensive ashtanga yoga classes year-round. Admission is highly competitive; thus, applications should be submitted at least two months in advance. While accommodation is not offered on-site, nearby options are plentiful.
- Course Duration: Minimum of one month, up to six months.
Bihar School of Yoga, Munger
Address: Ganga Darshan, Fort, Munger, Bihar 811201, India
Phone: +91 6344 222 430
Founded in 1964, this school by Swami Satyananda emphasizes a comprehensive yogic lifestyle. Traditional yoga practices here diverge from typical posture-focused approaches, favoring service and meditation instead. For those seeking a more conventional yoga curriculum, the Bihar Yoga Bharati offshoot may be a preferable choice.
- Course Duration: Four-month residential program in Yogic Studies, from October to January annually.
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers & Ashrams, Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Address: T.C. 37 1927(5), Eanchakkal Westfort Road, Post, Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695023, India
Phone: +91 94970 08432
Sivananda Yoga centers were established in 1959, focusing on five foundational points: postures, breathing, relaxation, meditation, and nutrition. They provide various programs for all levels, including beginner’s courses that are particularly popular among newcomers. Offerings include yoga vacations and teacher training, with accommodations available at the ashrams.
- Course Duration: Ranges from two to four weeks.
Yoga Institute, Mumbai
Address: Shri Yogendra Marg, Prabhat Colony, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400055, India
Phone: +91 22 2611 0506
Recognized as the oldest established yoga center globally, the Yoga Institute was initiated in 1918 by Shri Yogendraji. Although it may be less renowned than other centers, the Institute provides a variety of valuable courses, workshops, and health camps aimed at addressing specific ailments such as stress and respiratory challenges, among others. Unique programs are also in place for children and pregnant women.
- Course Duration: From two to 21 days, with regular yoga classes available.
