About us
Serve • Love • Surrender
The Vedic Yoga Centre is a place of inner science, whose purpose is to raise the human consciousness. It offers a holistic approach to accessing your own “inner retreat centre” through the combined sciences of yoga and ayurveda.
Our services
Yoga practises
Ayurvedic therapies
Healthy diet
Accommodation
Travel programs
We are committed to your health and well being
Himalayan Tradition
Years of experience
Holistic approach
Certified therapists
Accommodation
About Vedic Yoga Centre
Traditional teachings for modern times
The practices we offer present a holistic approach to the concept of yogic, Tantric and Vedic practices and understandings, which encompass one’s total well-being through a range of different systems, and are collectively known as Vedic Yoga – yoga in its traditional, pure form, without any dilution. Its essential focus is how students can redirect their awareness back to its source – to the soul, so that they can experience what it means to be complete. It is a traditional science based on the teachings of the Vedas which were written approximately 1500 to 1000 BC. The Vedas show us how to return to our true nature through various methods and techniques which have been tested throughout the ages.
Our Centre offers different sets of yogic practices which include kundalini kriyas (also known as samyak kriya, or Tantric kriya), hatha yoga (asana, pranayama, bandha, mudra and yoga nidra), and Vedic dhyana – the ancient Himalayan approach to systematically developing your concentration (dharana) so that you can to experience the higher state of meditation (dhyana).
We specifically offer the Himalayan traditional teachings – the Himalayan Living Wisdom, and the art of conscious living. The various methods are delivered in a way that help students to learn to live without fear, and become spontaneous with life so that they can experience that their life does not need to be a struggle, but can become one of joy and bliss.
AYURVEDA
The Ayurvedic experiences that we offer, show alternative methods for participants to detoxify their body and mind, as well as provide an understanding of both the theory of Ayurveda and its practical application in day-to-day life. It also shows how these can be combined with the yoga practices that we offer, for overall health and well-being.
SACRED WALKS
The presence of the Himalayas is a centre of non-verbal teachings – from the ages spiritual seekers, practitioners have come to the Himalayas for solitude, and to develop and raise their inner consciousness. For thousands of years these mountains have been recharged with the spiritual vibrations of these yogis, masters and sages. The Himalayas welcome all people. Receiving the teachings of the Himalayas does not require any intellectual understanding about the Himalayas themselves or these teachings – it requires only the sincerity and presence of mind of the seeker.
The Centre offers these Sacred Walks as an opportunity for all students to receive the grace of the Himalayas.
Holistic Experiences
All of our different programs offer a systematic and holistic approach for students to work with the different layers of their existence. They guide students from the gross (the physical) to their subtlest level of existence, allowing them to realise and experience that they are deeper than their physical body.
In addition, students learn that all of the practices have one and the same purpose: to holistically integrate the mind, body and spirit, which awakens in them the ability to live their yoga in all dimensions of life, on a moment-to-moment basis, and gives them an attitude that will help them to serve, love and surrender – these three attributes incorporate the fundamental philosophy and vision of our Centre.
Philosophy and Vision
Our Philosophy
At the Vedic Yoga Centre our fundamental philosophy and vision is based on how you can maintain your awareness from moment-to-moment so that you can experience your union through the different circumstances of life. Then your own genuine experiences will awaken your faith from within, which will transcend your understanding of the philosophy into your experiences so that you don’t simply understand or just believe them.
We aim to make students aware that the Truth resides within themselves, and by integrating the body, breath, mind, senses, energy and emotions through systematic training, discipline and determination, they can experience equanimity which can help them to redirect their awareness from outward to inward – back to its Source.
We are not simply offering academic lessons on the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Patanjali Yoga Sutras or other philosophical scriptures. Our aim is to enable students to learn how all these different aspects of the philosophies can help them to access their inner nature. All of these philosophies have come from the rishis, yogis and sages who were the spiritual scientists, and whatever they have been given has come from their genuine experiences. All we need to learn how to tune our consciousness so that we can connect with these teachings at a deeper level.
The Vedas are the wisdom, and the practices are the tools which help to awaken this wisdom within you. The result will bring harmony between your thoughts, emotions and actions, which helps you experience a life without fear, and one of peace, happiness and contentment. It helps you to live in harmony with nature and your surrounding environment, and helps you to experience oneness in all of your relationships.
Yoga is the underlying thread of all different spiritual traditions which unites them all as One. This One is not a numerical one – it is the Infinite One.
Our Vision – An ancient yogic vision for modern times
The vision of the Vedic Yoga Centre is to connect the ancient yogic teachings to the present times by becoming aware of the difference between your understanding and your experience. This experience can be realised through the integration of all the different aspects of yoga into one thread, which has one essential purpose: to experience one’s total well-being. Instead of just passing information on to students, it offers a systematic approach for dealing with the complexities of modern life, and focuses on how they can transform their lives as their yoga becomes their living experience. The teachings do not ask you to believe anything; they are simply focused on initially understanding the practices, and then applying them to themselves so that their belief comes from their own experience. Understanding is the initial step which inspires and motivates you, so that you can continue and become consistent in your practice and experience the teachings; then they become a part of your actions, and begin to transform your life.
Come and join us for one of our programs to experience this vision.
Location
Where can you find us?
The Vedic Yoga Centre is located on the banks of the holy river Ganga in the small town of Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh, in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Rishikesh is regarded as the Yoga Capital of the World and is just six hours by car, train or bus from Delhi. The Centre is a peaceful oasis for learning and practicing the ancient science of yoga, specifically Vedic Yoga and Ayurveda. For full details of where to find us, see
Directions to our Centre
The Vedic Yoga Trust
The Vedic Yoga Trust is a non-profit, educational and spiritual institution which offers traditional teachings from the Vedic sciences. The Trust was founded on February 22, 2007 by Trustee Shailendra Singh Negi, and is overseen by two other trustees, who are also founding members of the Trust: Rajendra Negi and Swami Shiva Chetainya.(who is currently a sanyas, with the title Swami Shiv Charananda Sarawasti).
The Vedic Yoga Trust is located at the Vedic Yoga Centre (a unit of the Trust) in Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh, and is registered with the Government of India as a Non-Government Organisation.
The current aims and objectives include, but are not limited, to the following:
- Spreading Vedic science as an art of living;
- Providing training in yoga and Ayurveda for people to find their health and well-being;
- Spreading the science of yoga to all people of the world without any discrimination;
- Providing training and programmes for those wishing to participate in understanding the sciences and philosophies of yoga, tantra and the Vedas;
- Providing works of a charitable nature;
- Providing meetings, seminars on yoga and Ayurveda as a living science for education and allied purposes to all parts of the world;
- Raising funds by way of donations, collection boxes, or subscriptions from the public to be used for promoting yoga and Ayurveda;
- Bringing people together;
- Publishing books and literature for distribution and sale;
- Working with like-minded people.
All revenue generated by in-house and online courses, programmes, books and other promotional material is purely for the purpose of developing, maintaining and promoting the aims and objects of the Vedic Yoga Trust. For additional information about the Trust, please feel free to contact us at vedicyogatrust@gmail.com
Registration details are as follows:
VYC Trust IT PAN: AAATV9041N
VYC Trust Registration Number: 153-IV-07
VYC Trust GuideStar Number: 11547
What do we offer in Ayurveda
Ayurveda therapies
Panchakarma (Detox)
Courses
FAQ
Our location
Whichever room you choose, there are many reasons to stay at the Vedic Yoga Centre. Aside from the traditional yoga and ayurveda offered here, you will have access to the following:
- Holy River Ganga-ji – simply walk down the driveway of the Guest House, and you are only a few steps away from the holy river Ganga. You can sit by this sacred river at any time due to its proximity to our Retreat Centre.
- Views of Ma Ganga – if you want picturesque views of Laxman Jhula, then simply walk to the rooftop of our building and take in the breathtaking views of Ganga-ji and the surrounding mountains.
- Laundry – On the way to the Ganga you will find a small laundry where you can get your clothes washed and ironed for a very reasonable price, if you do not wish to do your own laundry.
- Ram Jhula is only a 15-minute walk away.
- Vashishta Gufa – a sacred cave for those seeking deep mediation, only 25 kilometres from Rishikesh. In this cave the great Sage Vashishta (held to be the son of Lord Brahma, and one of the Seven Great Sages), meditated.
- Tattwala Baba-ji cave – a sacred place where the Himalayan master has lived and performed austerities. If you are receptive, you can just sit down and feel the energy, which has the power to make a shift inside you.
- Dehradun (Jolly Grant) airport – the closest domestic airport which is only 29 kilometres (approximately 50 minutes by car). You can fly to Dehradun direct from Mumbai, Dehli and many other smaller cities in India.
Getting to Rishikesh, India
How do I get to the Vedic Yoga Centre in Rishikesh?
Details of how to get to our Centre from either Delhi or Mumbai airport are shown on our Contact Us page through the following link: https://vedicyogacentre.org/contacts/
What travel documents do I need to enter India?
You will need a valid passport and, depending on your country of origin, a Visa to enter India. Even though India now offers “Visa on Arrival” facilities to many countries, we highly recommend you get a 6-month Visa before you travel. You must request a tourist visa, as a study visa is only applicable to long term studies at appropriately accredited facilities.
What is the address of the Vedic Yoga Centre?
If you are asked by Indian officials where you are staying, you should give the following address:
Vedic Yoga Centre
36 Neelkanth Road,
Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh 249302
UTTARAKHAND, INDIA
Which airport should I arrive at?
Delhi International Airport is the closest airport and provides the easiest access to Rishikesh, and from here you can arrange a flight to Dehradun domestic airport. However, if you arrive at Mumbai then you need to arrange a connecting flight to Dehradun domestic airport. From here we can arrange a taxi for you on request for a cost of around 1,500 Indian rupees. To arrange a taxi please write to us at myvedicyoga@gmail.com
About specific courses
How do I register for a course?
After you have carefully considered all the details of any Course in which you would like to participate, you can click on the side bar of that Course where it says Apply Now. This means filling out the details of the Application Form and paying a deposit, which you will be prompted to do.
What do the Course fees include?
All courses held on the premises at the Vedic Yoga Centre include tuition, accommodation and meals, except the Beginner Courses which include only tuition and accommodation. If you would like us to prepare your meals as well, please let know by emailing us at myvedicyoga@gmail.com and we will happy to arrange this, and let you know the fee.
What do Online course fees include?
All online courses include the tuition and a recorded copy of the class (if requested by you). In addition, Teacher Training Courses include a copy of the Manual, and any other documents that you will be required to read for your Certification.
When should I arrive for a course?
For all Teacher Training Courses you should arrive at least one day before the Course starts to ensure that you have overcome any jetlag from your flight, and you are refreshed for your program. In any case, all students must be present on the evening before the Course starts.
For all other courses and retreats you should arrive the evening before the course begins.
If I am unable to attend the course, how can I cancel, and do I get a refund?
All deposits paid to the Vedic Yoga Centre are non-refundable but can be used for any other courses you may decide to take later. For further information on our Cancellation and Refund policies please follow this link: https://vedicyogacentre.org/refund-and-cancellation-policy/
Can I arrive earlier and stay later than my course dates?
Yes, you are welcome to arrive earlier and stay later. Please make these arrangements with the Centre at myvedicyoga@gmail.com at the time of booking your course. There is a great demand for our rooms, and we would not like you to be disappointed or inconvenienced. You may participate in any of the regular activities/therapies offered by the Centre for the relevant fees/prices.
Teacher Training Courses
200 HOUR TEACHER TRAINING
What should I expect from the Course?
This is a foundation course which gives you strength, inspiration and motivation to establish your understanding yoga and your personal practice, and be able to share with others in a fearless way, without stress or tension.
Will I consider myself as a teacher after completing this Course?
You will receive a Certification which says that you are Certified to teach at that level, but our Centre emphasises that you should develop an attitude of being a genuine practitioner so that you can naturally share from your own experience.
I have never done any yoga, and I’m not interested in being a teacher. Is this course for me?
YES! This Course teaches you how to build a path to your inner development, and gives you a holistic approach to your total well-being. Once you start to experience your yoga, it is then up to you whether you want to share this or not.
300 HOUR TEACHER TRAINING
I have done the 200 hour TTC Yoga Alliance USA approved course at another school. Am I eligible to join your 300-hour Course?
Yes, you can join if you are open-hearted and open-minded. You should check the Curriculum and schedule as set out in our Website so that you can step into the Course with clarity.
MASTER LEVEL (2000) HOUR YOGA COURSE
Why should I attend the 2000 Hour Yoga Course?
This course is a combination of both yoga and Ayurveda practices and their therapeutical approach to health and wellness. It offers a systematic and holistic method of practice which identifies ways of combining these two sciences so that they can be applied in both your day-to-day life and in your teachings.
Who is eligible for this Course?
Anyone can join this course. There is no previous experience required.
Can I join this Course online?
Parts of this Course will be offered online, but you are encouraged to visit our Centre for some of the face-to-face teachings which will complement your online components. Some components will only be offered at the Centre itself.
After completing this program, what type of Certification will I receive?
Certification is offered only by the Vedic Yoga Centre – it is not a Yoga Alliance USA approved course. The essential purpose of the course is to demonstrate how all the different elements of yoga and Ayurveda combined can be used in a therapeutic way, so that the two sciences can be used with a holistic approach to health and well-being; and once students have practiced them and felt their combined benefits themselves, they will be in a better position to share from their own genuine experiences.
The weather in Rishikesh
General weather conditions in India
December, January
These two are the coldest months of the Year with temperatures from 5-20°C. Nights are cold but days are pleasant in the sun. Warm clothing is recommended.
February, March, and April
These months are very comfortable with a lot of sunshine. For the month of February you should still have some warm clothing, but light clothing is fine for March and April.
May, June
In these summer months, temperature are between 30-40°C all of the time. It is also humid most of the time, so light clothing is recommended.
July – August
This is the monsoon time which brings the temperature down a bit thanks to the rain, but it is still very humid. Light clothing with rain gear is recommended.
September, October, and November
As the monsoon slows down, temperatures stay between 32 and 35°C, but nights become pleasant in September. During October and November, the weather stays mild. Light clothing for September and October but moderately warm clothing for November is recommended.
What should I bring?
What should I pack?
- You should pack lightly – one suitcase and one carry-on backpack is adequate for most people. Determine for yourself the kind of clothing you will wear both to yoga classes and all the other activities and studies you will participate in.
- Make sure that your clothing is modest, comfortable, and appropriate for the weather conditions. It is always useful to have some cold weather clothing for sudden cool changes. In any case, clothing is easily available locally at very reasonable prices.
- During Winter, bring adequate thermal underwear and a winter jacket, warm socks and other items you may need.
- Bring appropriate shoes for walking in the forest.
- Bring an umbrella and raincoat in the rainy season.
- Bring your own personal requirements such as toiletries, hygiene requirements, medications, vitamins etc. that you specifically require. Many of these products are available locally.
- Make sure that you have all the adaptors, chargers and batteries etc. required for your phone, computer, camera etc. and any other technological equipment you require.
- Bring a notebook and pen to take notes during lectures, although these are also available locally.
- Have a re-usable water bottle for drinking water.
- You can do your own laundry or take your washing to a nearby laundry where clothes are washed for a small fee.
Accommodation and meals
ACCOMMODATION
Do you allow smoking in the rooms?
Alcohol, smoking, the use of drugs, and loud music are all strictly prohibited – not just in the rooms, but anywhere on the site.
Do the rooms have separate beds so that I can share a room with a friend?
We have five (5) rooms with two single beds each, all other rooms have double beds which CANNOT be separated. All the rooms with single beds are facing back towards the hills.
Are all the rooms the same?
We have different categories of rooms – standard and deluxe. Please check out our Accommodation page for the differences in price and facilities. All rooms have an attached bathroom with hot and cold running water, a shower and a Western-style toilet.
Do all the rooms have air conditioning?
We have only four (4) rooms with Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning (both heating and cooling). However, all rooms have ceiling fans. You can rent a heater from us for a fee if you need one.
Do all the rooms have views?
We have a total of twelve (12) rooms that face the Ganga, but only a few of these have direct views to the Ganga itself. We have six (6) rooms that face the back, towards the hills.
Do all the rooms have access to WiFi?
Wi-Fi is available in all the common areas on site, but not in every room. Some rooms have been specifically designed in this way to allow the participants to remain undisturbed in their rooms, but still be able to contact their family and friends when they wish.
MEALS
What kind of food is included with the courses?
The following is a sample of the type of meals we offer:
Breakfast:
Fruit, porridge, yoghurt, chai/Indian breakfast (paratha – potato-filled pancake/idli – rice and dahl flour muffin/dosa – rice and dahl pancake filled with a potato mix/vegetable pakhora – vegetable mix fried in oil with dahl paste).
Lunch:
Traditional thali including rice, dahl, vegetables, salad and chapattis. Herbal tea is provided.
Dinner:
Lighter meal of soup/pancakes and chai/herbal tea.
Please note that all meals will be served in the traditional Indian style, on low tables with cushions on the floor for seating. The meals are based on the ancient science of Ayurveda to ensure health and wellness from the food.
What if I have special dietary needs?
If you have any specific dietary requirements please let us know before you arrive by emailing us at myvedicyoga@gmail.com
Ayurveda
PANCHAKARMA (DE-TOX PROGRAM)
What is the minimum time that a detox program should be done?
The minimum time should be two weeks in order to feel some benefit from the program – it is the minimum time before you will begin to see a result.
What is the first step in Panchakarma?
The first step in the Panchakarma program is diagnosis by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor. After a diagnosis and identification of your body nature, the recommendations of the doctor for therapy, treatment and diet will be undertaken by our therapists.
Who is eligible for the Panchakarma program?
You must not do Panchakarma if you are pregnant, nor if you have had any recent surgery or advanced cardiac problems. At the time of enquiry, you should let us know any pre-existing conditions that you have.
Are the prescribed Ayurvedic medicines included in the cost?
The cost of the program does not include any prescribed medications. If necessary, the Centre can arrange to find them for you, but you must pay for them separately.
MASSAGE & THERAPY COURSE
What should I expect from the Ayurveda Massage & Therapy Course?
This Course gives you a fundamental understanding and the applications of Ayurveda therapy. You will learn about its meaning, the various therapies for finding alignment along with the applications of the herbs or spices to maintain your day-to-day health. You will be able to take care of yourself and able to help others.
Can I join this Course for one week at a time or should I do the whole of the Course at the one time?
Yes, you can join for just one week if you wish, and come back from time to time for additional weeks, but it is most beneficial when you take the course as a whole as it follows systematically through the whole process.
Can I combine the Panchakarma two-week program with one week of Ayurveda Massage & Therapy for self-development?
Yes, you can.
Are the Panchakarma and Massage & Therapy Courses linked with the yoga practices?
Yes, they are.
Can you combine the Ayurveda therapies with the yoga therapies?
Yes, you can but you have to specify in your enquiry that this is what you are looking for. The combination includes traditional yoga therapies (NOT under the umbrella of Yoga Alliance USA).
Sacred Walks
What is the purpose of the Sacred Walks?
The mountains of the Himalayas are inspirational places because they are recharged with spiritual vibrations, and spiritual seekers have visited these places throughout the ages for their inner awakening. The essential purpose is to inspire and motivate you to redirect your awareness to its source – which is within you.
How should I prepare myself for one of these walks?
These preparations are set out in the General Information about the Walks, and you can see the details by following this link https://vedicyogacentre.org/travel-general/. Look for the heading “How to Prepare Yourself Physically and Mentally”.
What should I bring on one of these Walks?
Please follow this link for a list of items that will be helpful for your trip: https://vedicyogacentre.org/travel-general/. Look for the heading “We recommend Carrying the following items”. It is always useful to have some dried fruit and nuts with you on these trips as they are a great source of protein and natural sugars and will keep you from being hungry.
What should I do if I suffer from travel sickness?
If you know you suffer from travel sickness, or if you are unsure, please bring appropriate medication with you – if you do not have any with you, the Centre can arrange this on request (but these will be allopathic NOT Ayurvedic medicines). You should take these before you leave on your trip, and have adequate supplies for during your trip if needed.
Should I read up on history and significance of the places we are visiting?
Yes, you can read about the history and spiritual significance of the area if you have the interest, but our suggestion is that you remain open-hearted and open-minded so that you can be receptive to the silent (non-verbal) teachings of the Himalayas when you are there.
ANY QUESTIONS WE DIDN’T ANSWER? Write to us at myvedicyoga@gmail.com
How to book a room
Registration
Email a copy of your flight details, passport and visa to: myvedicyoga@gmail.com and complete the Application Form by following the Apply Now link, which includes payment of your deposit.
Visiting for self-retreat
The Centre welcomes those people who wish to dedicate some time for themselves and who according to their inner requirements can participate in what is on offer by the Centre. It is a perfect place for those seeking their physical, mental and spiritual balance, or who are simply looking for regenerating themselves in solitude. The Centre provides a committed atmosphere so that they can experience their holistic health.
Anyone coming for a self-retreat should be open-hearted and open-minded, and be of what is being offered at the Centre and are able to adjust themselves to the different visiting groups and programs being offered.