Frequently Asked Questions

Studying yoga in the presence of a living master is a precious, rare opportunity and an immense blessing. According to the scriptures and the ancient science of yoga, the ashram of a Perfect Living Master is the most conducive environment for deep experiential learning.

The participants have a unique opportunity to connect with several like-minded seekers, and to come together to share intimate moments, uplifting one another to a higher goal.

Every movement and breath at Amritapuri unfolds under Amma’s watchful eyes. Her unconditional love is with each participant at every step of the way. These retreats are designed to benefit people from all walks of life.

Classes and Retreats are offered for both men and women, at foundation, beginner and intermediate levels.

All are welcome and Amrita Yoga staff can help at recommending the appropriate level of participation.

Participants are immersed in ashram life for their spiritual benefit and upliftment. By participating in Amrita Yoga retreats, many people are inspired to live a life of service to the society and radiate joy inspired by Amma’s teachings.

Most participants’ comment that the time and focus spent in this encouraging atmosphere is an unforgettable experience.

Have a look to the detailed Amrita Yoga Programs and the Calendar.

Sample Daily Schedule

**Please note that the actual schedule will vary from retreat to retreat.

To gain admission into the different retreats, we will consider whether your level of experience is a good fit for each retreat. Physical health that fits with the structure and schedule of the particular retreat.

It is very simple, if you are breathing, you can participate in our retreats! 🙂

Our retreats and daily classes at Amritapuri are generally taught only in the English language. Hence, understanding of English is important.

For regular retreats and workshop[s participants should be at least 18 years old.  Although there is no upper limit, participation does depend on one’s own physical fitness and endurance.

For all under 18 years of age a different criteria applies.

To initiate the registration process for attending a “Retreats for Internationals” please click “Registration Request for Internationals”.

Below every retreat description you will also find the option to register.

As there are several retreats being offered, please clearly state which retreat(s) you are interested in registering for.

Upon arrival, we suggest you immediately visit the Amrita Yoga Office to complete the registration process.

Asana Classes are offered daily or several times a week almost year-round. (Link to daily class page)

If you wish to attend the daily classes, please communicate with the Information Center upon arrival at Amritapuri ashram.

We make every effort to provide private rooms for couples and families.

Single men and single women are given shared accommodation with respective genders.

All the rooms are very simple, typically with mattresses on the floor and an attached bathroom and shower.

Simple, Indian style ashram meals are provided along with your accommodation.

Non-spicy, western style food is also available.

International visitors

It is essential that you bring your passport and a photocopy of your passport and visa.

Indian visitors

It is essential that you bring your voter’s ID or Aadhaar card.

Each retreat begins with an orientation on the date specified.

Many participants choose to arrive a few days early to rest after travelling and spend some time experiencing the ashram.

If you are traveling alone, always use caution.

Don’t go into non-tourist areas alone at night.

It is always best to travel with a friend or at least let someone know where you are going if you decide to go off on your own.

Ashram Custom

To respect the Indian culture and the ashram custom, considering this is a spiritual community with practicing nuns and monks (brahmacharinis and brahmacharis), it is suggested that people of opposite genders do not touch, hug, etc.

Clothing

Conservative clothing is usually required for all sacred places in India.

Visitors are humbly requested to respect local customs by wearing modest clothing (loose-fitting, non-transparent clothes that cover the body from ankles to elbows) around the ashram.

Plan to have modest t-shirts and modest pants or shorts for yoga classes.

Please note: tank tops are not permitted in class.

Most of the basic necessities (including sheets, pillows, mattresses, and cleaning supplies) are provided by the ashram.

Clothing, shoes, toiletries and household necessities are also available at the ashram.

Here are a few suggestions for items you may need:

• Cool, comfortable, modest clothing
• Yoga mat for asana practice
• Earplugs
• Copies of prescriptions for medications (put these in your carry-on luggage)
• Any nutritional supplements and medications that you may need
• It is advisable to scan a copy of your passport and visa and email it to yourself. It will be very helpful in the unlikely event you lose your passport.
• Extra contact-lens solution (if applicable)
• Reading light (for night-time) and torch
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Power converter, as outlets and electrical voltage are different from the US and Europe.

Also note that:

• hair driers,
• electric kettles,
• coils and other appliances that use a lot of electrical power are not allowed as they can blow a fuse.

You are however welcome to bring your:

• laptop and mobile phone.

Bank and credit cards:

Inform your bank and credit card companies the exact dates of your travels so they can allow your cards to be workable in the countries you will be traveling to.

This is important: bring contact phone numbers for your bank and credit cards with you.

Cell phone:

Let your cell phone company know the dates of your trip as well. If your company offers global coverage, then you might wish to activate this plan for the duration of your trip. Some people just purchase simple phones and coverage plans when they arrive in India.

Weather:

Prepare for hot, humid weather. August/September is the rainy season. In December/January it is fairly hot and rain is uncommon.

Yes! While Amma is at Amritapuri, all participants will have the opportunity to meet her personally through her darshan (embrace). The retreat structure allows one to attend Amma’s spiritual discourses, meditation sessions, and bhajana (singing of devotional songs).

Note: Because of Amma’s extensive touring schedule, it is possible that your retreat may be at a time when Amma is away from the ashram, so please check Amma’s tour schedule-yatra for up-to-date information.