India and Yoga are synonymous. If you wish to learn yoga then there is one place in the world where everybody will recommend you to go and that place is India.

The origin of Yoga is deeply rooted in India, which is also a place full of spirituality and simplicity embedded in its culture. Dating as back as 5000 years where yoga was developed by the Indus- Sarasvati civilization in Northern India. Yoga changed its form over thousands of years through the teachings of yogi’s and sages. During the late 1800 and early 1900’s prominent and eloquent personalities like Swami Vivekananda, Swami Sivananda, B.K.S Iyengar, K. Pattabhi Jois gave Yoga a new face and yoga travelled towards west during this period.

Listed amongst the best tourist destinations of the world, Goa is also home to some of the most renowned Yoga retreats and Ashrams. The Portuguese-styled heritage intermingled with the local Konkani culture and traditions makes up the vibrant Goan lifestyle which attracts crowds from within India and across the world. Goa’s long coastline along with its pristine beaches, lush green tropical vegetation and warm tropical weather provides the idyllic setting within the natural environment for learning and practicing Yoga.

The state is replete with institutions that offer Yoga classes and Yoga Teacher Training Courses, both short term and long term, suited to needs and pockets of all categories of Yoga enthusiasts. Besides, the warmth and welcoming attitude of Goan natives along with their fluency in English and other popular languages makes the stay for international tourists comfortable. The place provides Yogis with multiple options for food, ranging from spicy Konkani cuisine to healthy organic Ayurvedic diets. With the wide range of adventure activities and water sports available here, Goa is a great place to combine Yogic experience with a fun, frolic and adventure filled holiday.

Situated amidst dense coniferous forests of the Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh, within the Dhauladhar range of the mighty Himalayas, is the picturesque town of Dharamshala. Renowned world over as the centre of Tibetan exile world in India and the abode of his holy highness, the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is also home to a number of Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries.

The picturesque outdoor landscapes overlooking the majestic mountains, valleys and surrounded by the dense Oaks and Rhododendrons, are swarming with Yoga and meditation centers. Tranquil settings and pleasant weather in summer months make for an ideal destination to practice Yoga and meditation and delve into one’s spirituality. The Yoga schools located here specialize in many popular yoga styles as Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Sivananda and Iyengar Yoga.

Besides its many spiritual attractions, Dharamshala also provides travelers with opportunities for trekking, mountaineering and other such adventurous activities. A trip to Dharamshala makes up for a unique experience where in one can immerse in yoga, health, adventure, spirituality and nature, all in one place.