Varanasi, India

Experience eleven transformative days in the oldest city in the world as we explore the roots of Bhakti Yoga practice through kirtan, music, meditation, sacred sites, temples, Ganga (Ganges River), and much more. If your heart has ever been called to explore the sacred heart of India and you are ready to dive deep into devotional practice, this could be your trip of a lifetime.

Limited to a small group of like-minded travelers, we will stay in the heart of Varanasi within a recently renovated hotel owned by one of India’s greatest sitar players — Pandit Deobrat Mishra. The Mishra Family has been hosting and training musicians and devotees for generations, and are among the most renowned musical families in all of India. They will help provide experiences not normally accessible to visitors, and will make you feel like family.

Watch the sun rise over the Ganga, meditate on the steps of ancient ghats, wander the colorful alleys of this ancient city, hear professional classical musicians practicing and performing their art form, chant mantras, participate in music lessons from master teachers, and receive blessings from some of the most famous temples in the world. Experiences in Varanasi will excite all your senses.

$2,200 per person

What’s included?

  • transportation to and from Varanasi airport

  • 12 nights accommodation at Ragam Residency (double occupancy; add $400 for single occupancy)

  • daily yoga practice

  • kirtan in the evenings

  • vegetarian cuisine of breakfast and dinner lovingly prepared by a private chef on site

  • filtered water

  • boat ride on the Ganga

  • arti(fire ceremony)

  • walking tour of the murals, ghats, markets and sacred sites

  • visits to some of India’s most beloved temples

  • music and dance classes (options include voice, harmonium, sitar, tabla or Kathak dance)

  • performances by master Hindustani musicians

  • facilitated discussions about the spirit of Bhakti Yoga, Indian mysticism, culture and devotion

  • English speaking guides from India and USA

What’s NOT included?

  • airfare to and from Varanasi

  • Indian evisa, traveler’s insurance, excess baggage fees, and other personal international travel expenses

  • meals outside Ragam Residency (not recommended in order to maintain wellness while in India)

  • personal purchases of flowers, murtis, malas, clothing, artwork, musical instruments, or other souvenirs

  • permits for entering some temples, like Kashi Vishwanath

  • medical emergencies

  • tips and small gifts for temple pujaris, guides, and others

  • lodging and meals if arriving before or after retreat dates

Maximum group size = 12. 50% of cost is necessary to reserve your spot, and the remainder is due one month before retreat begins.

This immersive adventure is 11 full days, with three days alloted for travel for a two-week adventure. If you would like to stay longer to experience more of this magical place, dedicate time to intensive music practice, or travel to locations beyond Varanasi, we can help you craft a personal itinerary to get the most out of your time in India.

QUESTIONS?
QUESTIONS?

Ragam Residency, our accommodations, complete with its own yoga studio…

If you weren’t able to join us in February-March 2026, please email us to be the first to hear about future retreat dates and locations.