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A transformative experience, blending the raw beauty of the Himalayas with the depth of yoga in Rishikesh.
We begin in the Himalayas, trekking for four days and three nights through the stunning landscapes of Chopta, where ancient forests, high-altitude meadows, and sacred temples set the stage for deep connection. Reaching Chandrashila summit at sunrise is a moment of awe—an experience of effort, reward, and presence.
From the mountains, we return to Aavya in Tapovan, Rishikesh, a serene retreat space nestled in the heights of this sacred town. Here, the journey continues inward. We immerse ourselves in yoga, philosophy, and introspection, exploring the deep potential of these practices for healing and reconnection.
Through guided practices, light-hearted activities, and meaningful discussions, we surrender to the transformative energy of India— gaining insights that empower us far beyond the retreat.
You’ll leave this retreat not only with unforgettable memories shared with like-minded souls but with practices that integrate into daily life, tools for self-inquiry, and a sense of empowerment that carries far beyond these 10 days.
Are you ready to step into challenge, beauty, and deep transformation?
Our activities for the retreat
Yoga
Our Solstice Retreat incorporates a simple and enjoyable yoga routine to the daily life at Aavya.
Each day starts with the joys of movement: morning yoga and pranayama based on a specific functional anatomy exploration. As our body awareness increases, we nourish ourselves with a healthy breakfast. The day then unfolds between time for rest and exploration, philosophy sessions to explore the depths of yoga, and workshops to deepen your practice, learn to move differently, or enjoy the effects of sound.
We spend time by the Ganga, celebrate at the Aarti, learn to cook the delicious Indian cuisine, and enjoy Classical Indian Music.
As the night settles, we gather for a nourishing dinner and enjoy the time together, creating community and integrating the teachings of the day.
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Chopta-Tungnath trek with Chandrashila summit
The trek to Chopta & Chandrashila is a 2,5-day experience that will ground and connect you with nature.
We will be walking amid the Indian lower Himalayas and discovering a multitude of landscapes, from a superb alpine lake to a lush forest, and the 3,700 mtrs Chandrashila summit at sunrise.
** The trek is accessible but steep. We recommend that our participants are generally active in their day-to-day lives to ensure a pleasant trek. (Get more details on the trek!)
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Our accommodation for the retreat
Aavya
Located in the heights of Tapovan, Rishikesh, the Aavya Retreat Center is the perfect place to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature, art, and yourself.
The complexe invites you into a world of calm, creativity, music, dance & soulful expression.
Named after the first rays of the sun, Aavya offers magical sunrise experience. The architecture is thoughtful and pure, the light there feels brigther, and each shared-space is a place of connection and magic. The rooms at Aavya are all magical and will make you feel in awe, providing you with profound peace, even in the little chaos of India.
Our teachers for the retreat
Sarah-Jeanne Baron
Sarah-Jeanne is originally from Montreal, in Canada, and lives in India for more than four years now. She has worked in the field of physical therapy for more than five years in Canada, practiced yoga for many years, and has a training in Yoga Therapy and integration of yoga in Western medicine.
She teaches anatomy and back pain management workshops at our studio in Tapovan, and gives private yoga therapy sessions at the studio.
She is an owner of Japam Yoga Treks and Tours, guides retreats, and manages the media and business development.
Elisabeth Lacombe
Elisabeth has a true passion for humans.
She connected with the yoga practice over 4 years ago, a journey that led her to certify in India as an embodied and hatha yoga teacher.
The yoga philosophy as a whole has been transformational in her life, and her mission is to reach personal alignment and live with purpose.
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FAQs for Solstice Retreat
1. Are solo traveller safe / welcomed?
Yes, the retreat welcomes solo travelers and is especially popular among them!
3. What is the average age range?
Around 30 years old is what we usually get, but we've had participants younger (18 years old) and older (50 years old).
5. How is the weather?
While the weather can't be predicted, it's usually pleasant in Rishikesh in November.
It is actually one of the most pleasant month temperature-wise, with sunny days and moderate heat, colder evenings. The Ganga is turning turquoise blue and is still very ejoyable for a swim.
On the trek, the nights are cold, but the views are clear. The sun warms us during the day. It is one of the best months to trek in the Hmalayas
2. Can you arrange an airport transfert? How far is it from the airport?
Yes, we can arrange the pick-up and drop-off from/to the airport. The Delhi airport (DEL) is about 5 hours drive from Tapovan. The Dehradun airport (DED) is about 45 minutes drive from Tapovan. Please get in touch with us in advance to book your transport.
4. How many people will be on the retreat?
Maximum 10 participants and minimum 4.
6. Is a shorter / longer stay possible?
It is possible to extend your stay. Simply need to let us know as soon as possible. It depends on the availabilities of Aavya.