Pokhara is a base camp for many treks in the Annapurna Himalayas, but many do not recognize it to be one of the best sceneries when it comes to hosting meditation and yoga retreats. Sitting on Phewa’s Lakeside or at the World Peace Pagoda, you can admire the mighty mountains and immerse yourself in the quiet and peaceful countryside. Just a glimpse of the glistening snow-capped mountains is enough to throw one into a meditative state of self-introspection.
In this environment, yoga and meditation centers feature the perfect conditions for those who want to reconnect with themselves, or with nature. You will feel relaxed, energized, and supported during your stay at a meditation or yoga center. Here are a few of the most appreciated yoga and meditation centers around Pokhara:
Atmashree Yoga Retreat
Located on the lap of the giant Annapurna Himalayas, Atmashree is completely immersed in nature, surrounded by green hills and the tranquil Phewa Lake. The center is based on the principles of ashram living, helping people dedicate themselves to personal transformation through yogic practice and self-inquiry. They follow a very holistic and philosophical yoga approach, not only focused on poses and movements.
You will experiencesilent walks and meditation in nature, Hatha and Nidra yoga, a Sacred Fire Ceremony every Saturday, or even ecstatic chants and dances. At Atmashree, you can choose from many different retreat experiences, such as their signature weeklong Yoga Immersion Retreat, the Yoga Sound Healing Retreat, or even the Yoga Trekking Retreats.
Mantra Yoga & Meditation School
A well-known meditation and yoga center, with branches in Nepal, India, and Costa Rica, the Mantra Yoga and Meditation School is within walking distance of the picturesque Pokhara Lakeside. The school stands in a peaceful surrounding, closely connected to natural diversity. The atmosphere is very relaxed but serious, and here you can go deeply into the essence of yoga (Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Hatha Yoga).
Their yoga teacher training will not only give you the physical and spiritual aspects of yoga asanas and meditation. You will also receive comprehensive education on the theoretical and philosophical parts of yoga, how to treat yourself and others in the best way, and will gain a different perspective on life. Moreover, you will enjoy daily fresh food directly from the owners’ garden, and you will undoubtedly be immersed with people from all around the world and make lifelong friendships.
Tushita Nepal Meditation Center
Tushita means ‘heaven’ in olden Nepali. Tushita Nepal Meditation Center is a destination for a healthy body, mind, and soul. Admiring the magnificent Himalayas right from the center’s garden, this is an excellent place to be for a life-changing retreat, detox, release, and refresh. They only serve Ayurvedic meals, herbal detox drinks and juices, fresh fruits from their organic farm, and organic tea and coffee.
The chirping birds and playful butterflies in the garden, the puja prayers, and their in-depth Chakra healing sessions compel you to imagine glimpses of Shangri-la, bringing a gentle but permanent shift to your life. Tushita is an excellent place to learn and experience powerful healing techniques and impressive life coaching lessons. Here, you will find spiritual guidance if you are at a crossroads in your life seeking self-realization and spiritual awakening.
Begnas Yoga and Retreat
With its unbeatable mountain and lake views, going on a retreat at Begnas feels like you can touch the Himalayas. The center offers regular yoga retreats and classes, meditation sessions, and many wellness activities. Beginners are encouraged to start their yoga asana practice and learn the fundamentals of yoga philosophy in a blissful environment. Then, experienced yogis can take their practice to a new level and discover different facets and elements of a complete yoga practice.
Whether you want to begin your new yoga adventure, deepen your existing yoga practice, or just rest, relax and enjoy, this magical tranquil environment is a good choice near Pokhara. You can see the sunrise from the yoga room and then have a steam bath that is infuse herbs. The ambient atmosphere of calm and stunning views will always remain in your memory from Nepal.
Dhamma Pokhara Vipassana Meditation Center
You have undoubtedly heard about the Vipassana technique if you are into meditation. Dhamma Center near Pokhara is one of the best places in Nepal to learn and practice Vipassana. A small number of students and a small hall make things feel intimate allowing you to go deep into your Vipassana practice with ease and confidence.
Dhamma Pokhara Vipassana Meditation Center is near Begnas Lake, about 13 km southeast of Pokhara. It has a beautiful location amongst a forest in the hills overlooking the lake, and the Himalayas is visible in the distance on a clear day. The most popular choice is their 10-day Vipassana retreat. You will have to respect a rigorous schedule, but you will also find leisure time to admire the magnificent mountain scenery.