Omesh and Shannel invite you to join us for our Awaken in Rishikesh retreat – a 7-night yoga and wellbeing journey in the spiritual heart of India.
Set in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the sacred Ganges, this retreat weaves together daily yoga and meditation, sacred river rituals, moments of rest and thoughtfully curated excursions. Designed for both beginners and experienced practitioners, it offers a rare opportunity to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect in one of the world’s most spiritually resonant places.
During the retreat you will experience practices, tools and insights that can support your wellbeing long after the week has ended. It is also an opportunity to share the journey with like-minded people, creating meaningful connections and lasting memories.
The Retreat Experience
Retreat Venue
Our retreat will be held at Ganga Kinare – A Riverside Resort, a peaceful 4-star property set directly on the banks of the sacred River Ganges in Rishikesh. Surrounded by nature and steeped in spiritual tradition, the setting offers a unique opportunity to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.
The resort features a private riverside ghat, yoga hall, spa facilities, and serene spaces to relax between sessions. Guests will fly into Dehradun Airport (DED), where a transfer to the hotel will be arranged. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, depending on traffic.
Accommodation
Guests may choose between Deluxe Partial River Facing rooms or Premium Balcony River Facing rooms, both designed to provide a comfortable and restful environment throughout the retreat.
The Premium rooms offer private balconies with uninterrupted views of the Ganges, while Deluxe rooms provide peaceful partial river views and the same thoughtful comfort. All rooms are air-conditioned and Wi-Fi enabled, and include amenities such as a television, intercom, sitting area, safety deposit locker, mini-fridge, bathrooms with luxury toiletries, and reception support to ensure a comfortable and relaxed stay.
Food
Full board meals are included each day, with fresh vegetarian meals featuring a variety of wholesome Indian and international dishes. Meals are shared together in the hotel’s restaurant overlooking the Ganges, creating moments to relax, connect with fellow guests and enjoy the rhythm of retreat life.
We will also gather for a special group dinner at VARR, an award-winning artisanal restaurant inspired by the sacred foods offered in temples across India. Using seasonal ingredients, pure desi ghee and traditional Ayurvedic herbs and spices, the menu offers a memorable culinary journey through India’s temple traditions.
Spa treatment
Each guest will receive one 60-minute Abhyanga treatment at the Ayur Ganga Spa, the resort’s dedicated wellness space overlooking the sacred Ganges. This traditional Ayurvedic oil massage is designed to support relaxation, improve circulation, and promote overall wellbeing.
Additional treatments will also be available to book during free time for those wishing to further deepen their restorative experience.
Sacred Experiences
Rishikesh has long been a place of pilgrimage, where the sacred River Ganges and the Himalayan foothills create a powerful atmosphere for reflection and connection. During the retreat we will share meaningful moments by the river through traditional aarti ceremonies, a guided Ganga river dip, a visit to Neelkanth Temple and Patna waterfall.
There will also be opportunities during free time to explore more, including local temples, the iconic Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, nature walks, biking and chai tea – all entirely optional and enjoyed at your own pace.
Yoga and Meditation
Each day includes morning yoga and meditation, along with selected evening practices, guided by Shannel and Omesh. Sessions are suitable for all levels and thoughtfully designed to integrate movement, breath, stillness and reflection, supporting balance in both body and mind.
Practices take place at Yog Ganga, the resort’s rooftop yoga and meditation hall, where the sacred waters of the Ganges and the surrounding Himalayan foothills create a beautiful and peaceful setting for practice.
What’s Included
- 7 nights accommodation at Ganga Kinare – A Riverside Resort on the banks of the sacred River Ganges
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring a variety of fresh vegetarian meals
- Daily yoga and meditation sessions guided by Shannel and Omesh
- Evening practices, including reflection and philosophy-based sessions designed to support integration and deeper understanding
- Welcome riverside aarti ceremony on the private ghat at Ganga Kinare
- Visit to Triveni Ghat for the traditional Ganga Aarti ceremony, including a peaceful evening walk along the river
- Guided Ganga dip experience, a traditional ritual symbolising purification, renewal and connection with the sacred waters of the Ganges.
- Half-day pilgrimage to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, a revered Himalayan shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, including a stop at Patna forest waterfall.
- One 60-minute Abhyanga treatment at the Ayur Ganga Spa
- Special group dinner at VARR – Temple Food of India, an award-winning artisanal restaurant inspired by traditional temple cuisine
- Airport transfers between Dehradun Airport (DED) and the hotel
- Welcome gift bag
What’s not included
- International or domestic flights to Dehradun (DED), India
- Indian visa fees
- Travel and health insurance
- Additional spa treatments
- Optional excursions and personal activities arranged outside the retreat programme
- One to one sessions
Accommodation & Pricing
Guests may choose between Deluxe Partial River View rooms or Premium Balcony Full River View rooms, both designed to provide a comfortable stay during the retreat.
Getting there
The retreat will take place in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India, in the Himalayan foothills along the sacred Ganges River.
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, DED), located approximately 45 minutes from the retreat venue. Most international travellers fly into Delhi International Airport (DEL) and then take a short domestic flight to Dehradun.
Once you send us your flight details, we will assist in coordinating airport transfers closer to the retreat dates.
A Typical Day on Retreat
Days on retreat follow a gentle rhythm, balancing yoga, rest and exploration in the peaceful surroundings of the sacred Ganges.
Morning
The day begins with yoga and meditation at the resort’s rooftop yoga hall overlooking the river. After practice, a nourishing breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant.
Late Morning
Late mornings are usually free to relax, unwind in the jacuzzi, explore the town, or take one of the hotel’s complimentary bikes for a gentle ride along the riverside paths.
Afternoon
Lunch is shared together at the hotel before the afternoon opens into time for rest, spa treatments, or optional exploration of Rishikesh and the surrounding Himalayan foothills.
Evening
We gather again in the early evening for practice, meditation, reflection or philosophy sessions, before sharing dinner together and settling into the peaceful evening atmosphere of Rishikesh.
Throughout the week we will also experience special moments including Ganga Aarti ceremonies, a guided dip in the sacred river, and a pilgrimage to Neelkanth Temple in the Himalayan foothills.
Your Hosts
“After the wonderful retreat we shared in Kerala, we are delighted to continue this journey together .“
About Shannel
Shannel is a multi-disciplined practitioner of Yoga and Wellness of over 15 years, her passion extending to Ayurveda as well as skills in both Chakra and Theta Healing.
She grew up in East Africa, lived in the UK and now resides in Dubai. She has traveled extensively including stints in South America, Southern Asia, Central Asia, Australia and Bali as part of her spiritual journey.
She deepened her practice of Yoga in India, where she studied and qualified across the key limbs of Hatha, Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, Yin and Restorative Yoga.
Shannel further qualified in the specialisms of Children’s, Pre & Post Natal, Women’s Health Yoga as well as Guided Meditation.
Her life journey has brought her a profound exploration of spirituality, enriching her practice and teaching. The sudden loss of her father at a young age, coupled with other significant personal challenges, has deeply influenced Shannel’s spiritual growth and dedication to wellness. These life experiences have fueled her passion for understanding the unique needs and strengths of individuals, particularly women, at different life stages. This passion drives her to create supportive and empowering wellness practices that foster both physical well-being and spiritual growth.
About Omesh
Omesh grew up in Jammu & Kashmir, India, adhering to the central theme of Sanatan Dharma, following the principle paths of yoga ie Bhakti, Jhana, Karma, and Raja Yoga, more as a way of life without being consciously aware of it.
From early childhood he was fortunate to be surrounded by highly spiritual people and exposed to their philosophy of life.
Omesh had his first formal taste of yoga in 2006 when he was working in the corporate sector. Although he worked his way up in that world, he always felt it wasn’t really what he wanted in life. He felt a strong connection to yoga, and it pulled him back into its sphere of influence when a close friend reintroduced him to yogic philosophy.
Although his studies in India adhered to the highest standards, he has lived in England for many years and understands that different cultures require modification of methods and techniques.
Omesh has been visiting India on a yearly basis, and over the years has attended many workshops organised by the Divine Life Society and the Swami Sivananda Foundation on Bhakti Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda.
Reserve Your Place
Thank you for your interest in joining us in Rishikesh.
Please complete the short booking request form below.
We will confirm availability and send you the deposit information within 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few common questions. If you need anything else, feel free to contact us.
Do I need prior yoga experience?
No previous yoga experience is required. All sessions are adaptable and suitable for beginners through to more experienced practitioners. You’ll be guided to practise at your own pace.
How do I get to the retreat?
The retreat will take place in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, DED), approximately 45 minutes from the retreat venue. Most international travellers fly into Delhi (DEL) and then take a short domestic flight to Dehradun.
Airport transfers to/from DED are included in the retreat package.
Closer to the retreat dates, we will share recommended travel options and guidance.
If you choose to arrange your own travel and transfers independently, this is absolutely fine. We simply ask that you share your travel details with us in advance, so we are aware of your arrival plans and can ensure a smooth check-in at the retreat.
What kind of food will be served?
All meals during the retreat will be vegetarian, reflecting the traditions of Rishikesh as a spiritual centre where meat and alcohol are not served.
Guests will enjoy a variety of nourishing Indian and international dishes, typically offered as a buffet, allowing everyone to choose according to their preferences.
One evening we will also experience a traditional dinner at VARR , served as a thali, a beautifully presented selection of regional dishes offering a taste of authentic Indian cuisine.
Dietary requirements can usually be accommodated and will be collected via the registration form closer to the retreat.
What should I expect from the accommodation?
Guests will stay at the 4 star Ganga Kinare – A Riverside Boutique Resort, a peaceful retreat property located directly on the banks of the Ganges.
We have reserved two room categories for the retreat: Deluxe Rooms with partial river views (270 sq. feet) and Premium Rooms with balconies overlooking the Ganges (320 sq. feet). Both offer comfortable, well-appointed spaces designed for rest and relaxation between retreat activities.
These rooms are tastefully decorated in warm tones, lending an inviting feel to the room. Offering Wi-fi, air-conditioning, a TV with satellite channels, safety deposit locker, wardrobe and 24-hour room and laundry service and bathrooms with luxury toilettries.
How many people will be attending the retreat?
The retreat welcomes up to 25 guests, creating a supportive group environment with a strong sense of community. This size allows for shared experiences, connection, and group energy, while still ensuring guidance, care, and personal attention throughout the retreat.
Can I attend the retreat on my own?
Absolutely. Many of our guests join solo and quickly feel part of the group. The retreat is designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and supportive, offering plenty of opportunities for connection as well as space for personal reflection.
When will I receive the registration form?
The registration form will be sent approximately three months prior to the retreat start date. This timing allows you to share accurate information once your plans are in place.
The form will collect key details including:
- Contact information
- General health information (to support your wellbeing during the retreat)
- Dietary requirements
- Additional room or extra-night requests (subject to availability)
- Travel details
- Information relating to recommended immunisations and health guidance for travel to India
- Guidance relating to visa requirements
This information helps us prepare your experience with care and ensure a smooth, supportive stay.
What is the payment schedule?
A £500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place. The remaining balance is due two months prior to the retreat start date. Payment details will be shared once your booking request is confirmed.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is at 2pm and check-out is at 12pm.
Can I arrive early or stay an extra night?
Where availability allows, additional nights before or after the retreat may be possible. As early check-in and late check-out cannot be guaranteed, extra nights are offered closer to the retreat date, once flight details are confirmed.
Information about availability, rates, and how to request additional nights will be shared via the registration form sent approximately three months prior to the retreat. This helps us manage requests fairly and avoid unnecessary changes.
What should I pack?
A detailed packing list will be shared closer to the retreat, however as a guide we recommend bringing:
- Lightweight, breathable yoga clothing
- Layering for cooler mornings
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
- Swimwear for the pool and jacuzzi
- Casual, comfortable outfits for excursions
- Relaxed, casual or dressy clothing for evening meals (upto you)
- Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
- Mosquito repellent
You may also wish to bring a reusable water bottle and any personal items that support your comfort and wellbeing.
What is the weather like in Rishikesh?
March is a beautiful time in Rishikesh, with warm days and comfortable evenings. Daytime temperatures typically range between 20–30°C, with cooler mornings and nights.
What is the Ganga dip and do I have to take part?
During the retreat there will be an opportunity to take part in a Ganga dip, a traditional practice of entering the sacred waters of the River Ganges. For many, it is a symbolic and spiritual experience associated with purification, renewal and connection to the sacred energy of the river.
Participation is completely optional. Guests are warmly invited to join if they feel called to the experience, but there is absolutely no expectation or pressure to take part. Simply being by the river and witnessing the moment can be equally meaningful.
By the banks of the Ganga, between the mountains and the sky, there is a quiet invitation – to slow down, listen deeply, and return to yourself.
Shannel & Omesh, Retreat Leaders
Terms & Conditions
- A non-refundable deposit payment of £500 will be required to reserve your space. Bank transfer payment details will be provided.
- The remainder of payment will be due by 13th January 2027.
- For any cancellations 60 days prior to the start of the retreat, a refund of payment minus reservation deposit will be issued.
- For any cancellations within 60 days of the start of the retreat, no refund is possible as advance payment for your space will have been made to the venue.
- In any circumstance where the host is required to cancel, and no alternative event is offered, you will receive a full refund of your investment.