Greek Islands Yoga, Hike & Explore
Athens, Meteora & Amorgos
Sun 22 April - Wed 9 May 2018, 18 days Cochin & Port Kochi - Periyar Tiger Reserve - Houseboat Alleppey Backwaters - Riverfront Traditional Sivananda Ashram - Seaside Ayurveda Resort (7 day Rejuvenation Program) - Kanyakumari temples - Trivandrum.
*option to add 7 days to extend the Ayurveda program for a full ‘Pancharkma Detox’.
E N G A G E T H E S E N S E S
A Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat in South India, April 2018 to engage the senses and discover bliss. An immersive, sensory journey into the culture, spirituality and astoundingly beautiful and unique environment of Kerala in South India. Kerala is known for its extensive backwaters, nature reserves, coastal temples, historic ports and laid-back old cities, and Ayurvedic resorts. Start your journey in Cochin, the famous port city of the south where we stay in an incredible resort looking out over the harbour. A whirlwind exploration of the old city on foot and by bike, cooking classes with 5 star chefs, sunset yoga on the hotel rooftop, and more. We drive inland and up into the balmy hills where we stay at a peaceful, luxurious sanctuary on a spice plantation near Thekkady, we walk through the spice fields and take a boat tour through the Periyar Tiger Reserve at sunset, then spend a day in beautiful nature hiking and rafting through the reserve amongst the tigers, elephants and wild animals From here it’s another spectacular drive through rolling hills and spice plantations to Alleppey where we emabark our luxurious houseboat for a tranquil night drifting through the tropical backwaters, in the early evening canoeing to small villages along tiny canals. Then it’s on to the traditional Sivananda Ashram for a 3 day Yoga and Meditation Immersion in this gorgeous ashram on the banks of Neyar Dam for a program with a focus on the 5 points of Hatha Yoga - asana, pranayama, relaxation, meditation and diet. It’s not far to our final destination Soma Manaltheeram Ayurvedic Village set on a clifftop overlooking a private beach. Here you’ll experience a full 7 day Ayurvedic healing program to revitalise, cleanse or address specific health concerns - tailored for you by a team of doctors, therapists and chefs at India’s first and best Ayurvedic Resort. On our final full day together in India we drive down to Kayakumari, India’s southern most point and a sacred pilgrimage site with its temples by the sea. After lunch, a sacred healing ritual and sunset meditation we head back to our resort for a restful sleep before our journey home the next day. This tour is led by Robert and Mandy from Kookaburra Yoga, teachers and yogis with expertise gained from decades of experience, along with local guides, scholars, mystics and masters who will guide you on an unforgettable and life-changing journey through the sublime physical landscape of South India, the healing modalities of Yoga and Ayurveda, and the inner landscapes of indriya (senses), manas (mind), buddhi (innate intelligence) and ananda (bliss of an unburdened soul). A journey designed to truly rekindle your love of life, replenish your life force and support optimal, vibrant health. You’ll emerge with a lighter heart, renewed energy and enthusiasm, clarity and purpose. We include here on this page the full itinerary, costs & inclusions and a facts and questions section. If you would have any questions or would like to chat call or email Kookaburra Yoga and we're happy to help. |
On arrival, you'll stay in a 5 star hotel on a private island in the Port Kochi harbour.
Periyar Tiger Reserve in a protected sanctuary where we'll hike and raft amongst the animals
Staying in a luxurious, serene resort on a spice plantation with spaces for meditation and rest.
You'll explore the backwaters by houseboat and canoe spending a night on a deluxe houseboat.
And then it's to Sivananda Ashram in the heart of the backwaters for a 3 day yoga and meditation intensive.
Soma Manaltheeram is your home for 8 nights where you stay in a/c cottages overlooking a private beach.
A week of Yoga, Meditation & Ayurveda -
healing foods, rejuvenation or panchakarma therapies, daily yoga and meditation.
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a journey like no other
We have planned a beautiful journey with a transformational focus. Everything is taken care of, ensuring you get the most from every moment.
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Highlights & inclusions...
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Ayurveda Retreat Inclusions
Cost is from $3500 |
once in a lifetime...
This retreat is a unique opportunity to discover and explore the magic and spirituality of Kerala, South India, within the framework of an immersive Yoga & Ayurveda retreat program. Kerala is truly a paradise on earth. Starting at Port Kochi on the Arabian Ocean we journey inwards through nature reserves, spice plantations and extensive backwaters, venturing to India's sacred southern-most tip, then back to the sea for an Ayurvedic healing experience. Here is the full itinerary...
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Sunday 22 April: Cochin
On arrival at Cochin Airport you will met by our Indian tour executive and transferred to our luxurious 5 star hotel on a private island in Kochi Harbour which we access by speedboat. Rest of the day relax and for those who interested, enjoy the sunset cruise by hotel boat & cooking class in the hotel. Overnight stay at Vivanta by Taj– Sea Facing room |
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Monday 23 April: Cochin Day Tour
Morning time meditation & yoga. After breakfast explore multicultural Cochin on a guided sightseeing tour by boat, foot and bike. We visit iconic sites including Jewish synagogue, Dutch Palace, Jew Town, Folklore Museum. Evening time enjoy the Kathakali dance Performance at the famous Kerala Kathakali Centre. Overnight stay at Vivanta by Taj. |
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Tuesday 24 April: Cochin - Thekkady/Periyar (5 hrs drive)
Morning meditation & yoga. After breakfast drive to Thekkady and check in to the Hotel Shalimar Spice Garden. Afternoon time spice garden visit & evening time enjoy the Kalarippayattu performance at Theatre. Overnight stay at Shalimar Spice Garden – Elegant Room |
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Wednesday 25 April: Thekkady/Periyar
Morning time meditation & yoga. After breakfast enjoy elephant, tiger and other wildlife spotting on the jungle trek and bamboo rafting through Periyar Tiger Reserve from 9:30am to 2:30pm then in then in the afternoon enjoy a scenic boat safari from 3:30pm to 5pm. Overnight stay at Shalimar Spice Garden. |
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Thursday 26th April: Alleppey Houseboat
After breakfast depart for Alleppey and at 12:00noon you will be embarking deluxe/Premium houseboat for enjoy the thrilling experience on the Kerala backwater. On this cruise you’ll see beautiful villages, paddy fields, small churches and temples. Your crew will prepare delicious meals on board. Evening time enjoy the sunset yoga & meditation on flat land by bank of the Lake. Overnight stay at Deluxe houseboat air conditioned at night. |
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Friday 27th April: Alleppey - Sivananda Ashram Nevyar Dam (5hrs drive)
Morning meditation & yoga. After breakfast drive to Sivananda Ashram, Neyyar Dam, and check in to the Sivananda Ashram. Sivananda Yoga Intensive Yoga & Meditation Program for 3 days. Our Sunset practice on an astounding lake. Stay at Ashram – Air Conditioned Room. |
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Saturday 28 April
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram Neyar Dam. Day 1 of program |
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Sunday 29 April
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram. Day 2 of program |
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Saturday 28 April
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram Neyar Dam. Day 3 of program |
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Tuesday 1 May: Neyyar Dam – Kovalam (1 hour drive) – SomaManaltheeram Ayurveda Resort (8 nights)
Morning yoga and meditation then drive to Kovalam and check in to Somatheeram/Manaltheeram Ayurvedic Resort for Ayurveda Program 7 days (included) OR Panchakarma Program (additional 7 days) |
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Wednesday 2 May - Wed 9 May Soma Manaltheeram Resort
Rejuvenation Package 7 days A 7 day Ayurvedic program personally prescribed and monitored by a resident doctor to rebuild vitality and health. 2 treatments (massages, saunas, body wraps etc) every day. Personalised and sumptuous ayurvedic diet. Cultural shows in the evenings. Daily yoga, meditation, ayurvedic lectures and cooking classes. Time to relax, explore the local beaches, village and temples. |
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OR Wednesday 2 May - Wed 16 May Soma Manaltheeram Resort
Panchakarma Package 14 days Extend the tour by 7 days and undergo the full panchakarma program to thoroughly cleanse and detoxify the body. Includes purging medications, procedures and full medical support. |
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Tuesday 8 May
After breakfast, morning treatments and early lunch, we drive to Kanyakumari for day excursion and dinner (3hrs drive). After sunset, we drive back to Somatheeram/ Manaltheeram overnight stay. |
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Wednesday 9 May
If you chose the 7 day rejuvenation package the tour ends. You will be transferred to Trivandrum Airport for your onward journey. |
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Wednesday 16 May
If you chose the 14 day panchakarma package the tour ends. You will be transferred to Trivandrum Airport for your onward journey. |
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A N A N D A I N D R I Y A
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This retreat is a journey of the senses...you'll take in spectacular visual landscapes and draw prana directly from nature; breathe and live amongst the aromas of the spice fields; indulge in the delicately balanced flavours of the cuisine; and discover solace and healing through the touch of your Ayurvedic therapists. You journey mindfully through space & time, clearing and creating an inner space of peacefulness, creativity and purpose. Why this journey is special and could transform your life...
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Rhythm and routineWe establish a rhythm and routine to bring calmness to your body, mind and soul - even in the midst of the movement and activity of India. The schedule, your food and all practicalities are taken care of, allowing you to immerse yourself in the program and the retreat process.
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MeditationWe start each day at sunrise with Mano Yoga - a powerful healing meditation practice. At sunset we practice Raja Yoga meditation and pranayama. In the evenings you'll be lulled into a deep, blissful state of relaxation during guided healing meditation. During our stay at Sivananda Ashram you'll experience a deep and immersive meditation intensive.
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Spectacular landscapesKerala, historically known as Keralam, is often referred to as 'God's Own Country and is India's most relaxed and beautiful state - with its serene beaches, tranquil stretches of backwaters, exotic wildlife, waterfalls and lush hill stations.The beauty and stillness of the landscape settles into your heart and soul - you will never forget it!
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Total surrenderYoga was traditionally practiced in the ashrams of India under the guidance of a Guru - away from distractions and outside influence. On our retreats we leave behind all those concerns and distractions to deeply and profoundly realise the spiritual and material benefits of yoga, returning to our lives with renewed energy and focus.
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Cultural immersion
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Inclusions & Cost
Cost per person |
3500 |
* Price in AUD and is for shared room. $1200 Surcharge for Single Room. |
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Optional extras
Single Room Surcharge |
Extra nights before tour - shared room |
Extra nights before tour - single room |
Extra nights after tour - shared cottage |
Extra nights after tour - single cottage |
1200 |
150 |
280 |
190 |
280 |
per person |
per person |
per person |
per person |
per person |
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Facts & Questions
You will find relevant information in the F&Q table below. But here is a bit of important travel info to get started...
- To enter India it is a requirement that you have a passport valid for at least 6 months from date of travel.
- To enter India you need to obtain an entry visa. Visas must be organised in advance in your own country. For anyone travelling from Australia this must be done online in advance of the retreat. Visit http://www.vfsglobal.com/india/australia/ for more information and to apply online.
- You must book your own international flight to arrive at Cochin on the 22 April or before. You will need to arrive at Cochin International Airport (COK).
- You will leave from Trivandrum so therefore your return flight should be booked departing from Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) on 9 May or afterwards.
- Or, if you are extending your retreat to include the 14 Day Panchakarma Detox book your flight departing fromTrivandrum on the 16 May or afterwards.
- Both airports are international so you should easily find flights directly to and from these airports. Book flights as early as possible to secure a good price. We usually fly Singapore Airlines and have never had an issue with this airline. You are welcome to book with the airline of your choice.
- You must have a travel insurance policy with relevant inclusions and provide us with your Certificate of Currency prior to departure. You should organise travel insurance at the time of booking international flights to ensure you are covered in the event you need to cancel.
Why choose Kookaburra YOGA FOR YOUR RETREAT?
- Established, reputable business. Kookaburra Retreats are offered by Kookaburra Yoga which is owned and directed by Robert Becker and Mandy BeckerKnox in Perth, Australia. Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre is well established having been operating for twenty years.
- Retreat management experience. Kookaburra Yoga have offered professionally organised and facilitated international retreats for over ten years. Each retreat is carefully planned to ensure the safety and comfort of participants.
- Local expertise. Kookaburra Yoga's international retreat program is coordinated by local, licensed travel agents who manage the logistics, transportation, bookings and take care of the practical needs of participants. The organisation and management of retreats is mainly invisible to participants enabling them to focus on their own inner and outer journey.
- Health & Safety. Our venues are carefully selected to ensure they are of a high standard to support the health and wellbeing of participants. When travelling we take every precaution to ensure the hygiene and health of participants. We carry a first aid kit and keep our first aid knowledge up to date.
- Quality food. Food is an integral part of our retreats and menus and ingredients are planned and considered to ensure they are nourishing, health-promoting and conducive to yoga and meditation.
- High quality program. Directors Mandy and Robert facilitate all Kookaburra Yoga Retreats. They are both exceptional yoga and meditation instructors with decades of continuing education, self-enquiry and practical teaching experience. They have literally taught thousands of people yoga and to meditate and how to effectively apply the knowledge gained to enhance and transform lives.
- Professional leadership. Both Robert and Mandy have worked professionally in high-level leadership positions in government and the not-for-profit sector and are leaders and skilful group facilitators able to guide individuals and groups safely through peak experiences and the transformational change which often occurs on retreat.
- Value for money. Retreats are fully inclusive with meals, transport, accommodation sightseeing taken care of and included in the cost. We are upfront about any potential additional costs allowing participants to budget and plan.
- Culturally sensitive. We do our best to adapt to our environment and educate our guests to be attuned and respectful of customs and cultural sensitivities.
- Socially responsible. We care for people and the planet. All our retreats cause as little harm as possible. We choose vegetarian venues (vegan where possible). We contribute generously to local organisations and charities and encourage the same of our participants.
- Personal development. Kookaburra Retreats are a wonderful opportunity for personal and professional development. You'll be gently guided to explore limitations and obstacles to achieving your potential and become equipped with the tools, techniques and practical wisdom to evolve and grow. Kookaburra Retreats are transformational and potentially life-changing!
Do I need experience in Yoga to attend a retreat?
We welcome anyone who is interested in embarking upon a journey of self enquiry and discovery to attend this retreat. The yoga and meditation practices on each retreat are carefully explained and taught in a caring and respectful manner. All of the practices taught can be adapted to suit the needs of each participant and you always have the option not to participate in all the programmed sessions and activities. The Ayurvedic Healing component of the retreat doesn't have any prerequisites - just a desire to be well!
DO I NEED to organise passport, Visa, INSURANCE and International flights?
- To enter India it is a requirement that you have a passport valid for at least 6 months from date of travel.
- To enter India you need to obtain an entry visa. Visas must be organised in advance in your own country. For anyone travelling from Australia this must be done online in advance of the retreat. Visit http://www.vfsglobal.com/india/australia/ for more information and to apply online.
- You must book your own international flight arriving at Cochin. You will need to arrive at Cochin International Airport (COK). You will leave from Trivandrum so therefore your return flight should be booked departing from Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). Both airports are international so you should easily find flights directly to and from these airports. We usually fly Singapore Airlines and have never had an issue with this airline. You are welcome to book with the airline of your choice.
- You must have a travel insurance policy with relevant inclusions and provide us with your Certificate of Currency prior to departure. This is a condition of attending all international Kookaburra Yoga Retreats. You should organise your travel insurance at the time of booking your international flights to ensure you are covered in the event you need to cancel.
What if I Need to cancel?
- We ask for a deposit of $600 upon booking a place on each of these Retreats.
- Your deposit is your commitment to attend and is generally nonrefundable unless we can offer your place to a waitlisted person or you find someone to take your place.
- In exceptional circumstances we may refund the deposit to you. Even then only the unused portion of the deposit is refundable (we book accommodation, transport etc as soon as you register to secure seats)
- If you cancel 0-4 weeks before the retreat the full amount is payable.
- If you cancel 4-6 weeks before the retreat 75% of your what you've paid (not including deposit) will be refunded to you.
- If you cancel more than 6 weeks prior to the retreat your full payment (except for the deposit) will be refunded to you.
- If you need to cancel due to ill health or the death of someone close to you, your travel insurance policy may refund your deposit and all other money paid back to you. Please check with your insurer.
- Travel insurance on this retreat is compulsory.
- If we have a waitlist and can fill your place from this, all money paid (except for deposit) will be refunded to you regardless of when you cancel.
What if I am not in perfect condition or if I get sick?
- You should be fine to attend this retreat if you are in a reasonable state of health. If you have any specific conditions or concerns please check with your own health care provider.
- If you get sick while travelling, our local organiser will assist you to receive the most appropriate and best medical attention and care as soon as possible.
what isn't included in the cost?
- international airfare
- travel insurance (compulsory)
- entry visa (approx AUD$100)
- extra night's accommodation before and after tour; single room supplement, additional Panchakaram program. These options can be selected when booking and will be added to your final invoice if you select this option when booking.
- some lunches and snacks (budget $5-$15 per meal)
- any additional outings and transport not mentioned in itinerary
- any items ordered through room service including food or laundry service
- tips for service staff (estimate approx $50-$100 in total)
- discretionary donations to ashrams, temples and charities (estimate approx $50-$100 in total)
what are the payment options?
- On booking A $600 deposit confirms your place and once you proceed to book you'll be prompted to pay. The deposit can be paid by credit card, PayPal or funds transfer.
- 15 February You'll receive an invoice for 2nd payment of $1000 which must be paid by 15 February 2018.
- 15 March Final payment of $1900 due by 15 March 2018. You'll receive details and a payment link to pay directly to Indian travel agent.
- 15 February Cut of date for cancellations without penalty. If you cancel before 15th February balance of payment is refundable (everything other than deposit). If you cancel after 15th February but before 15th March, 50% of amount paid is refundable. After this date refunds may not be possible as we finalise all payments to our Indian agent and providers on this date.
- 15 March Balance of any additional nights/single supplement/extras is also due 5 weeks prior to retreat on 15 March 2018.
- online payments only: credit card, paypal or direct deposit
- Deposit is non-refundable if you cancel.
- Ensure you organise insurance as soon as you book. Your insurance policy should cover you in the event you are unable to travel or cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Please check with your insurer.
What is the Retreat Size?
- There is a maximum of 16 places for participants
- This retreat is subject to a minimum of 8 participants.
What health considerations are there?
- We advise participants to seek medical advice regarding any pre-existing medical conditions before signing up for this retreat.
- Vaccinations are not mandatory. Advice changes depending on risks at any given time. We encourage participants to seek the advice of a travel health specialist. In Perth we recommend Travel Health Fremantle who have our travel itinerararies on file so they can provide you with specific advice.
- We suggest you travel with a small medical/first aid kit which may include natural or allopathic medicines to prevent or treat gastro conditions, respiratory infections and mosquito-borne viruses.
- Travel insurance is mandatory. In the event that you be come ill, we will assist you to receive the best medical attention possible. This will be at your own expense and should be claimable through your insurance policy.
Is travelling in India safe?
- We have travelled to India many times and provide participants with advice and assistance to stay safe in the country.
- There are inherent risks in any form of travelling. These are largely mitigated through careful planning, engaging the services of reputable local travel agencies, and encouraging scrupulous hygiene and food awareness.
- We take our own children to India and they sometimes accompany us on retreats. We wouldn't consider risking their wellbeing and equally we wouldn't consider risking the wellbeing of participants.
What should i wear?
Kerala is hot during the days reaching temperatures of up to 32 degrees and warm in the evenings with lows of about 24 degrees (celsius). The weather should be dry, with the monsoon season starting later in May or June. Clothes should be suited to this type of weather. You can purchase light cotton clothing in the marketplaces.
- When visiting temples, and in fact any public places, dress should be conservative with legs and shoulders covered.
- Bring bathers for swimming. While there are no issues in hotel pools and othe pool and private beach at our retreat centre, if swimming in public places, modesty is essential and a sarong or tshirt over your bathers is recommended for women.
- For yoga, wear whatever clothes you are comfortable to move and stretch and sit in. We recommend bringing or buying a shawl for meditation, and you will need mala beads for meditation which can be purchased at the marketplaces.
- Mosquitos will be an issue in the evenings, so loose, long cotton clothing is ideal.
yoga at its source... You may have practiced or even taught yoga for many years in your home country and be ready to take the next step - to experience yoga at its source. We'd love you to join our retreat for an immersive, fully supported Indian experience. Yoga in India has changed over recent years with a proliferation of 200 hr yoga teacher trainings and retreats varying in quality and authenticity. We encourage you to be discerning, to be safe, and select a program and organisation which nurtures and supports every aspect of who you are. Even if you don't travel with Kookaburra Yoga, we are happy to share our knowledge and experience to assist you to enrich your travels and yoga education - just be in touch!
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