India Longevity Retreat
Options, Costs, Info, F&Q

join us in India

 If you are ready for a complete reset and transformation of your whole self we welcome you. Costs, options and essential information is on this page.

at a glance

• 6 weeks prior to retreat 10am-2pm Pre-Retreat Workshop at Kookaburra Yoga, Bedfordale WA. This will also be livestreamed on Zoom for those who can't attend inperson.
• Dates TBA
  Checkin time is from 12pm. If you are flying Singapore Air/Scoot from Australia with the retreat leader you will most likely arrive late at night on the 20th.
• Retreat ends 10am. If you are flying home to Australia you will most likely be on a late night flight. Therefore we have included accommodation for the night of the 1st with dinner included. Your checkout is anytime before 10am on the following day.
• Your Ayurveda panchakarma program with daily two hour treatments is 11 days.
• Cost $6500pp in twin share room. $7600pp in single room. Earlybird discount of $300 when you book and pay in full by 1 August ($6200pp twin / $7300pp single)
• To Book
  1. Book and make your initial payment of $1500.
  2. You'll receive a confirmation email with next steps.
  3. Complete and submit the Intake Form.

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Options & Cost

We take care of everything once you are in India...

​Inclusions

• ​12 nights accommodation. (either Single Room or Twin/Double Room)
• transfers to and from Thiruvananthapuram airport (TRV) 
• daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• daily morning meditation and yoga
• evening yin yoga and yoganidra
• afternoon excursion to Kerala backwaters with boat ride through canals and villages
• evening excursion to Shiva temple for puja
• two morning excursions - Kovalam Beach, local village walking tour
• 1 pre-retreat half day workshop with lunch (7 Sept)​
• 7 x Longevity lessons, with printed resources.
  
  

Ayurveda Inclusions

• Full Ayurvedic Detoxification/Rejuvenation Healing Program including consultations, analysis, daily treatments, internal medicines
• initial, daily and final Ayurvedic doctor consults
• 11 x 2 hour treatments which include massage, saunas, herbal body wraps, shirodhara (oil over forehead) and more.
• prescribed medications to take during retreat
• Initial, daily and final consultation by the doctor
• Free medicines during the treatment period
• Personalised Ayurvedic Diet
• 1 x lecture on the Ayurvedic Diet
• 2 x Ayurvedic cooking demonstrations​

NOT included in cost

• flights
• compulsory travel insurance
• laundry, extra food, extra medicines, extra therapies
• lunch on the 1st Nov, breakfast 2nd Nov.
• tips and gratuities (bring equivalent of $200 in Indian rupees)

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Accommodation Options

We have reserved beautiful Palace Sea Facing Room for 1 or 2 people which feature traditional wooden details, a private ensuite bathroom, and a breezy balcony facing the sea with uninterrupted views. Beds can be configured as two single beds or as a king size bed. Specify your preference when booking. Please note that the 2 x single beds option has beds positioned very close together. A single room is best if you are travelling solo.

Palace Deluxe Sea Facing Room

• $7600 pp All inclusions + Single Room (earlybird by 1 Aug $7300)
• $6500 pp All inclusions + Twin Share Room (earlybird by 1 Aug $6200)

Earlybird $300 discount on above prices when you book and pay in full by 1 August. 

Extra nights & extra therapies
You are welcome to arrive before the 20 October and stay later than the 2 November if you wish to. Extra nights include breakfast. Other meals at your own expense and will be billed to you directly. Extra nights are to be added to the balance of payment you are making to our Indian travel agent. See the payment schedule below.

• $270 pp Palace Deluxe Sea Facing Single Room
• $150 pp Palace Deluxe Sea Facing Twin or Double Room​

Payment Schedule

• on booking - $1500 initial payment on application by credit card online​.
• there is a $700 non-refundable deposit. This is inclusive in your initial payment.
• by 1 August - $1500 payment by direct deposit to our Australian bank account.
• by 1 August pay the balance (including any extra nights). This is to be paid directly to our Indian travel agent in one or more instalments. This will incur international transaction or credit card fees.​
• if retreat is not paid for in full by the 1 August, the $300 earlybird discount does not apply and your invoice will be amended to the full amount.
• ​please note: in addition to above prices there are international transaction fees or credit card fees which are payable by you and in addition to the prices quoted above.​

Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel before the 1 August everything will be refunded to you (minus $700 deposit).
• If you cancel after the 1 August but before 1 September and we have a waitlist your payment will be refunded (minus the deposit). If there is not a waitlist, then 50% of the retreat cost is payable.
• If you cancel after the 1 September, the full cost of the retreat is payable. 
• Please ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance which covers your costs if you need to cancel.​

Room Policy

• If you book a twin share room and are coming alone, we will match you with someone of same gender to share with.
• If we are not able to do this due to numbers, you will be given the option of a single room at the single room price. If you decline to accept this we will give you a full refund.
• Please note that twin share rooms have the beds positioned closely together. This option is most suitable for friends travelling together.

Facts and Questions

• Scroll down for more detailed information, and Terms and Conditions.

​see Arunachala Meditation Retreat

Facts & Questions

You will find relevant information in the F&Q table below. Here is a bit of important travel info to get started...

passport and visa

• 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. You can apply for an e-visa directly through the India Government's online portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. Do not use any other website to organise your visa.
• You can apply for your e-visa 30 days before travelling, and not before this. You will need a photo showing your whole face, head and neck. You will need a pdf of your front passport page that is less than 300mb. It may take a few goes to get this right!

flights

• The closest airport to our venue is  Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV). You will need to arrive on 20 October or before. Note: Thiruvananthapuram is also known as Trivandrum.
• Transfers to and from the airport are included in the price. Transfers to and from any other location are not included.
• You will leave from Thiruvananthapuram so therefore your departing flight should be booked departing from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) on tour end date or afterwards.
• Book flights as early as possible to secure a good price. Economy fares are approximately $1000 return (this may vary depending on when you book). We usually fly Singapore Airlines (with Singapore-India leg on Scoot, but booked through Singapore Airlines), and have never had an issue with this airline. You are welcome to book with the airline of your choice. While it might be convenient, we advise against Malaysian Airlines as many of our previous guests have had issues with this airline.
• If you would like to travel with the tour leader (Mandy BeckerKnox), these are the flight arrival details: Singapore Airlines Mon 20 October (SQ 224 / SQ 8416). Depart Perth (PER) 06:25am. Arrive Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) 12.10pm. Layover 8.45hrs Singapore. Book Aerotel hotel for 6 hours (Changi Airport T1) for a comfortable and relaxed layover. Mandy is travelling to Chennai following the retreat for our Arunachala Meditation Retreat. If you are returning to Perth, we suggest booking through Singapore Airlines Sat 1 Nov (SQ8417 / SQ223). Depart Thiruvananthapuran (TRV) 23.25. There is a short 3 hour layover in Singapore. Arrive Perth 2.45pm Sunday 2 Nov. 

insurance

• 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 unexpectedly.

money & payments

• you will NOT be able to use your phone to make payments at most places in India. You'll need a physical card. To protect your primary account, we recommend getting an account and travel credit card with Wise: https://wise.com/au/. Organise this well in advance before your travel.
• You will make your initial retreat payment with your credit card through our website. Subsequent payments will be to Our Indian travel agent's account, and to our Australian bank account.
• To make an international transfer easily, we recommend using Wise: https://wise.com/au/.The reason you pay a portion directly to our Indian agent is to reduce the tour cost (all payments to us include 10% GST, which is not payable on what you pay to India directly).

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 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. You can apply for an e-visa directly through the India Government's online portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. Do not use any other website to organise your visa.
• The closest airport to our venue is  Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV). You will need to arrive on 22 October or before. Note: Thiruvananthapuram is also known as Trivandrum.
• You will leave from Thiruvananthapuram so therefore your departing flight should be booked departing from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) on tour end date or afterwards.
• 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. While it might be convenient, we advise against Malaysian Airlines as many of our guests have had issues with this airline.
• 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.

CANCELLATION POLICY

• There is an initial $1500 payment upon booking.
• The non refundable deposit portion of this is $700. This 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 part of 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 before the 1 August everything will be refunded to you (minus $700 deposit).
• If you cancel after the 1 August but before 1 September and we have a waitlist your payment will be refunded (minus the deposit).
• If there is not a waitlist, then 50% of the retreat cost is payable.
• If you cancel after the 1 September, the full cost of the retreat is payable. 
• Please ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance which covers your costs if you need to cancel.
• 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 Kookaburra Yoga cancels this retreat 12 weeks or more prior to the commencement date all monies paid will be refunded within 30 days.
• If Kookaburra Yoga cancels this retreat due within 12 weeks of the tour commencement date due to a natural disaster or unforeseen acts of God, full refunds will not be possible. Please ensure you have adequate travel insurance.
• Ensure you organise travel insurance as soon as you book. Your insurance policy should cover you in the event you are unable to travel or need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Please check your policy carefully to ensure you have suitable cover.

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$150)
• extra night's accommodation before and after tour.
• Extra nights accommodation can be selected when booking and will be added to your final invoice if you select this option when booking.
• any additional outings and transport not mentioned in itinerary
• any items ordered through room service including food or laundry service
• ​lunch on the 1st November, breakfast on the 2nd November
• tips for service staff (estimate approx $150-$200 in total)
• ​international transfer fees and credit card fees when making your payment to our Indian travel agent (approx $100-$150)

PAYMENT DETAILS

• on booking - $1500 initial payment on application by credit card online​.
• there is a $700 non-refundable deposit. This is inclusive in your initial payment.
• by 1 August - $1500 payment by direct deposit to our Australian bank account.
• by 1 August - balance is to be paid directly to our Indian travel agent in one or more instalments. ​
• ​any international transaction or credit card fees are payable by you and in addition to the prices quoted above. We recommend using Wise for international transfers and as a credit card when travelling: https://wise.com/  

Payment Plan

• 12 month payment plan +10% on quoted price. Earlybird discount does not apply (you'll be paying to our Australian bank account therefore payment plans incur GST).
• Schedule: $1500 initial payment, then equal monthly payments for 1 year.

Cancellation Policy

• if you cancel before the 1 September everything will be refunded to you (minus $700 deposit).
• If you cancel after the 1 September and we have a waitlist your payment will be refunded (minus the deposit)
• If you cancel after the 1 September there is not a waitlist and we can't fill your place then full cost of the retreat is payable.
• Please ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance which covers your costs if you need to cancel.​

Room Policy

• if you book a twin share room and are coming alone, we will match you with someone of same gender. If we are not able to do this, you will be given the option of a single room at the single room price.

Facts and Questions

• Scroll down for more detailed information, and terms and conditions.

IMPORTANT  Please see cancellation policy, and ensure you organise travel insurance as soon as you book. Your insurance policy should cover you in the event you are unable to travel or need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Please check your policy carefully to ensure you have suitable cover.​

What is the Retreat Size?

• 10-16 people are expected to attend this retreat.
• This retreat is subject to a minimum of 8 participants.

What health considerations are there?

• Travel insurance is mandatory and you must provide us with your Certificate of Currency prior to travel.
• 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. 
• 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 including colds and flus, and mosquito-borne viruses. 
• ​If you become 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 our participants.

What should i wear?

Kerala is warm during the days reaching temperatures of up to 29 degrees and warm in the evenings with lows of about 24 degrees (celsius). The weather should be warm and humid during our stay. As it is the end of the monsoon, it may rain on some days. Clothes should be suited to this type of weather. You can purchase light cotton clothing in the nearby shops and marketplaces. 

• When visiting temples, and in fact any public places, dress should be conservative with legs, to the ankles, and shoulders completely covered. Clothes should not be figure-hugging or revealing. At traditional temples both men and women are expected to wear traditional Indian dress. There are many nearby clothing stores.
• Bring bathers for swimming. While there are no issues in hotel pools and the pool 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 may be an issue in the evenings, so loose, long cotton clothing is ideal.

CONTACTS IN INDIA

TOUR ORGANISER
Mandy BeckerKnox 
whatsapp: + 61 422 318 104; e: [email protected]

TRAVEL AGENT
Name: Christy Gomez.
whatsapp + 91 0484 406 2000

INFORmATION FOR YOUR VISA

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. You can apply for an e-visa directly through the India Government's online portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.

We will provide the details you need to complete your E-Visa. We will share these with you 30 days prior to the retreat which is when you can complete your e-visa.

INTAKE FORM

We require information from you. As soon as you have booked, please complete and submit the Intake Form: https://momence.com/dashboard/intake-form/OVr8KEzjgN. Any information provided remains confidential. It will only be shared with the retreat facilitators and your consulting Ayurvedic doctor.

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return to the main Longevity Retreat page for more information

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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 200hr 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!