Devotion Retreat South India
  journey of the heart 💛 find your bliss

Luxurious Hotels & Resorts  |  Daily Meditation & Hatha Yoga
Tirupati Golden Temple  |   ​Ramana Maharshi Ashram   |  Mt Arunachala Pilgrimage  |  Devotion Program with AG Mohan & Indra Mohan Chennai  |  Historic Pondicherry  |  Auroville city of the future   |   3 Day Kerala Ayurveda Healing Retreat   |  Overnight houseboat experience | Iringole Kavu Forest Temple  | Shivaratri @ Isha Foundation Ashram 

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23 February - 10 March 2024 ​This 17 day retreat is a journey into the magic and spirituality of South India within the framework of an immersive yoga program. With its temples, ashrams, saints, sages and places of astounding natural beauty, Tamil Nadu is a place of pilgrimage and devotion, while Kerala is renowned for healing Ayurveda and tranquility. On this retreat you'll experience the spiritual heart of India, connect with the people, spirituality and soul of the land, heal your own heart and find there the Divine. The program includes a forest retreat in Kerala with a full Ayurvedic healing program and an overnight houseboat experience. Our final destination coincides with Shivaratri - an auspicious celebration and divine connection.

Cave on Mt Arunachala

Click here to download a copy of the retreat brochure

Retreat Brochure

highlights

 We have planned a beautiful journey with a devotional focus. Everything is taken care of, nearly all costs included, to ensure you get the most from every moment. Highlights include:

• Beautiful, luxury, tranquil heritage hotels and resorts across Tamil Nadu - Chennai, Tirupati, Tiruvanamalai, Pondicherry & Coimbatore.
• Luxury Ayurvedic Wellness Resort in Kerala with personalised treatments and menu.
• Daily morning & evening yoga, pranayama, meditation.
• Private, air-conditioned transport throughout.
• Cultural tours with local guides in each destination.
• Barefoot pilgrimage to the world's richest temple Venkateswara Tirupati, where wishes come true.
• Ashram visits: Ramana Maharshi Ashram; Aurobindo Ashram; Shivatratri at Isha Foundation Ashram.
• Ramana Maharshi - walks on and around sacred Mt Arunachala, meditation in caves of realised masters, immersion in the teachings of this great sage.
• Stay in the whitewashed, historic French town of Pondicherry by the sea. Visit Aurobindo Ashram, bike ride tour of Auroville ‘city of the future’.
• Explore picturesque Mahabalipuram with its ancient temples, relief carvings and caves.
• Devotion Afternoon Program with A.G. Mohan and Indra Mohan at their home in Chennai.
• Domestic flight from Chennai to Cochin, Kerala.
• Overnight houseboat experience on the tranquil Kerala backwaters.
• Meditation and Special Puja at the mystical Iringole Kavu Forest temple where the trees are Gods and forest Divine.
• 5 star Ayurvedic Wellness Resort in the wilderness of Kerala by the Periyar River for a 3 day Ayurvedic retreat with personalised treatments and meals. 
• Shivaratri at Isha Foundation Ashram, Coimbatore - we join the festivities and rituals with a million people celebrating the Great Night of Shiva.
• Program ends at Coimbatore. 

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itinerary

Day 1, Fri 23 Feb: Chennai
Arrive at Chennai Airport (MAA). You will be met on arrival and driven to our luxury 5 star heritage hotel. Relax or explore the old city of Chennai at your leisure. Evening yoga by the pool. Welcome Dinner. Morning yoga and breakfast.
Stay Taj Connemara Hotel. 

Chennai hotel

Day 2, Sat 24 Feb: Chennai - Tirupati
After morning yoga and breakfast, we visit the Theosophical Society & Peacock walking tour of Chennai historical sites. Shopping to browse clothes, textiles, shawls, attire for Tirupati temple visit and ashram where traditional dress is required. Drive to Tirupati (3.30 hours). Yoga & dinner at hotel.
Stay Marasa Sarovar Hotel

Walking tour Chennai

Day 3, Sun 25 Feb: Tirupati
Rise early for yoga and breakfast. We walk the Srivari Mettu pilgrimage route barefoot up the 4000 steps to reach Tirumala Temple at the top of the sacred hill where we join the wave of pilgrims to enter the temple. This golden temple is one of the wealthiest in the world and the sanctum of Venkatesananda is mesmerising, a place where wishes come true. Return to hotel to relax for afternoon. Yoga & dinner at hotel.
Stay Marasa Sarovar Hotel

Tirupati hotel

Day 4, Mon 25 Feb: Tirupati - Tiruvanamalai
After morning yoga and breakfast, we drive 4.5 hours to Tiruvanamalai. Arrive at the Athena Hotel, our tranquil accommodation with views to Mt Arunachala and close to the Ramana Maharshi Ashram. We go to the ashram for  orientation, to visit the bookshop and sunset arati (prayer). Evening yoga and dinner at hotel.
Stay Athena Hotel

Venkateswara Tirupati Temple

Day 5, Tues 27 Feb: Tiruvanamalai
Morning yoga and breakfast at hotel. Visit ashram temple, library, walk to Golden Pond. Discussion group in outdoor area in ashram grounds. After lunch we do the Pradakshina, a 14 kilometre pilgrimage around the sacred mountain which we do partly walking and rickshaws. Devotees worship Shiva by circumambulating the mountain which now includes roads. There are eight lingams and many mandapas and holy tanks around the Arunachala hill and we stop at all of them. Evening prayer/aratri/meditation at ashram. Yoga & dinner at hotel.
Stay Athena Hotel

Ramana Maharshi Ashram

Day 6, Wed 28 Feb: Tiruvanamalai
After yoga and breakfast, we embark on our 2 hour walk on Mt Arunachala to visit the Virupaksha Cave where Ramana Maharshi lived for 17 years in total silence. The great sage Virupaksha Deva also lived in this cave many years before.We visit the Skandashram, a tiny austere ashram on the side of the mountain where Ramana Maharshi lived for the rest of his life. Meditation in both the ashram and cave is an incredibly deep experience. Arati at ashram. Yoga and dinner at hotel. 
Stay Athena Hotel

Sacred Mt Arunachala

Day 7: Thurs 29 Feb: Tiruvanamalai - Pondicherry
After yoga and breakfast drive 4 hours 45 minutes to the beautiful whitewashed French colony Pondicherry on the east coast, with a stop for lunch on the way. Afternoon visit to Aurobindo Ashram and bookshop. Explore Pondicherry at your leisure. Dinner at our hotel right on the beachfront promenade.
Stay Promenade Hotel
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Stay on Pondicherry Promenade

Day 8: Fri 1 March: Auroville 
Sunrise yoga by the sea and breakfast. A day at Auroville - the visionary city of the future conceptualised by the 'Mother', who along with Sri Aurobindo was the spiritual leader of the ashram. Our day begins at the Visitor Centre, and meditation at the Matrimandir. Following this we enjoy a bicycle tour of Auroville stopping at galleries, craft centres and rural homes, and lunch at an organic restaurant. We return to Pondicherry in the afternoon. Yoga & dinner at hotel.
Stay Promenade Hotel

Matrimandir, Auroville

Day 9: Sat 2 March: Pondicherry - Mahbalipuram - Chennai 
Sunrise yoga by the sea and breakfast. Drive 1.45 hours to Mahabalipuram where we visit the Shore Temple and the ancient carved temples which emerge from the sea. You have free time to wander through this bustling seaside town and have lunch. 

Mahabalipuram

Day 9 afternoon: Mahbalipuram - Chennai 
We drive one hour back to Chennai and to the home of our teachers AG Mohan and Indra Mohan for an afternoon Devotion program with them. This is a rare privilege to be guided in yoga by these two contemporary masters who embody the qualities of traditional yoga. Following our program we drive for 1 hour to our palatial seaside hotel and enjoy dinner together.
Stay Hotel Leela Palace

Yoga Program with the Mohans

Day 10: Sunday 3 March Chennai - Alapuzzha
After yoga and an early breakfast we drive to Chennai airport and take an early 1.5 hour flight to Cochin, Kerala. We drive 2.5-3 hours to Alapuzzha where we board our traditional wooden houseboat for our overnight houseboat experience on the tranquil backwaters. We visit villages and churches and stop for evening yoga and meditation before enjoying dinner onboard. We fall asleep to the sounds of the birds, water and village life. Our time on the houseboat is deeply peaceful and relaxing.
Stay houseboat

Traditional Houseboat, Kerala backwaters

Day 11: Monday 4 March Alapuzzha - Malayatoor
After early morning meditation, yoga and a leisurely breakfast onboard, we disembark and drive 3 hours to the tranquil Namami Health Retreat and Wellness Sanctuary situated in the forest and on the banks of the Periyar Rvier. We enjoy lunch, and you will have a 60 minute consult with an Ayurvedic doctor who will design a personalised Ayurvedic retreat which includes daily 90 minute therapies (such as massage), herbs, yoga, meditation and personalised meals. We also begin our 3 day preparation for the Shivaratri Sadhana (meditation) here with daily herbs, meditations and yoga preparing for the great night of Shiva at the ashram of Sadhguru. Dinner at retreat.
Stay Namami Health Retreat & Wellness Sanctuary

Namami Health Retreat

Day 12: Tuesday 5 March - Malayatoor
Day 2 of our Ayurveda Healing Retreat. Morning meditation, yoga, then a personalised breakfast. 90 minute Ayurvedic therapy (ie massage or other treatment). For those who wish to, after lunch we enjoy a guided hike in the nearby forest. In the afternoon we rest and enjoy a cooking class at our resort. Yoga, dinner and evening meditation program at hotel.
Stay Namami Health Retreat & Wellness Sanctuary

Ayurveda, Namami

Day 13: Wednesday 6 March - Malyatoor
Day 3 of our Ayurveda Healing Retreat. Morning meditation, yoga, then a personalised breakfast. 90 minute Ayurvedic therapy (ie massage or other treatment). You have some time to yourself on this day to relax and just be! Or you may like to visit the nearby Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary (30 minute drive) early to see the elephants bathing in the river. 

Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary

Afternoon 6 March: Iringole Kavu
We depart our retreat at 3pm to drive 20 minutes to Iringole Kavu Forest temple for a walk and meditation in the sacred forest grove and a special private Durga Puja for our group in the temple. We return to Namami for sunset and meditation and dinner by the river.
​Stay Namami Health Retreat & Wellness Sanctuary

Iringole Kavu Forest Temple

Day 14: Thurs 7 March: Malyatoor - Alandurai  - Coimbatore
After morning yoga and breakfast, we drive 4-5 hours to the small rural village of Alandurai to the Isha Foundation Ashram, home of Sadhguru. On arrival we register for Shivaratri, meditate in the temple, bathe in the healing pools with the powerful dhyana lingam. We participate in the evening festivities & cultural program. Dinner at ashram.
* Stay Isha Foundation OR if accommodation onsite is not available we stay in Coimbatore at the Vivanta Coimbatore Hotel which is one hour drive.
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AdiYoga Statue at Isha Foundation

Day 15: Fri 8 March - Isha Foundation Ashram
Day 3 of Shivaratri Meditation. After morning yoga and breakfast, we go to the ashram for the Shivaratri program which continues until the early hours of the morning, immersing ourselves in both the spectacle and sacredness of this profound night with many thousands of people.
*Stay Isha Foundation or Vivanta Coimbatore​

Dhyanalinga, Isha Foundation Ashram

Day 16: Sat 9 March - Alandurai
We return to our accommodation to rest in the morning after our all night vigil. A restful day of contemplation. If we are at the ashram you can participate in the ashram activities. In the evening we formally close the retreat with a giving circle and ritual to say goodbye and end our retreat process.
​*Stay Isha Foundation or Vivanta Coimbatore​

Isha Foundation Ashram

Day 17: Sun 10 March Retreat ends
After meditation, yoga and breakfast we close our retreat and say our goodbye to India as our retreat draws to an end. You will be transferred to Coimbatore (CJB) international airport (30 minutes from hotel/1 hour from ashram) for your flight onwards or home.

Giving Circle, Final Night

download the pdf retreat brochure

Retreat Brochure

Cost: $6,090 shared room; $8,090 single room.$1,490 initial payment. Earlybird: $5,690 shared; $7,690 single.  For earlybird price: book by 30 June & pay in full by 1 Nov.

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journey of the heart

Have you dreamed of journeying to India to experience yoga at its source, immersing yourself in the spiritual and devotional practices dating back thousands of years? On this adventurous and spiritual journey we visit some of the most profound and sacred pilgrimage places in India, home to great sages and saints and contemporary masters.

You will have the opportunity to advance your yoga and meditation practice with daily sessions with our small group, led by Mandy BeckerKnox, and by drawing inspiration from the teachings of the great sage Sri Ramana Maharshi, and our wonderful teachers, the contemporary masters A.G. Mohan and Indra Mohan, as well as the incredible Sadhguru.

The retreat and training program has been designed and is led by Mandy BeckerKnox of Kookaburra Yoga in Perth Australia, a yoga practitioner and teacher with 30 years experience. Mandy is a dedicated to yogic living, developing many courses, programs and retreats across all areas of yoga including meditation, food and lifestyle. She continues to study deeply with contemporary masters A.G. Mohan and Indra Mohan of Chennai who were themselves devout students of the legendary Krishnamacharya for many years. Krishnamacharya considered Mohan to be the lineage holder of this profoundly transformative body of yogic knowledge. As part of this retreat we visit the home of Mohan and Indra for an afternoon Devotion program.

At heart, yoga is a spiritual path comprised of rituals and practices which evoke and connect us to the divine. Here in India, there is a rich, spiritual culture of soulful yoga, pilgrimage, prayer and generosity - which we are welcomed into.

This unique yoga journey is like no other. We journey through the diverse southern state of Tamil Nadu visiting profoundly important places of pilgrimage - from sacred Mt Arunachala to the new, epic statue of the adi-yoga (lord Shiva, the first yogi) at the impressive Isha Foundation Ashram. We traverse this great state, staying in historic cities and towns, peaceful villages and by spectacular mountains.

We take a flight to the west coast to tropical Kerala on the west coast and journey inwards for our Ayurvedic and Meditation Retreat by the banks of the Periyar River. The program includes 3 days dedicated to cultivating devotion towards your own self and wellbeing -  an Ayurvedic Wellness Healing Retreat in a dedicated Ayurvedic Wellness Resort. This includes a consult with an Ayurvedic doctor, daily treatments and personalised meals, wellness leture, cooking class, forest walk. We are nearby to the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary and you may wish to go there early to see the elephants bathing in the river. We also visit the Iringole Kavu Forest temple which is in a sacred grove of trees which are considered Gods. We will meditate in this profound place and have a private puja for our group in the Durga temple.


the spiritual heart of India
On arrival in Chennai you’ll be met at the airport and driven in comfort to our luxurious and tranquil heritage hotel Taj Connemara Hotel. Visit Theosophical Society gardens and enjoy the peacock walking tour through historic Mylapore. We visit clothing and textile store FabIndia to buy any needed indigenous style clothing, shawls, wraps etc for temples and ashrams where there are strict dress codes.

We drive to the temple town of Tirupati where we stay at our beautiful resort Marasa Sarovar. We rise early to walk the pilgrimage route of Srivari Mettu up the 4000 steps to join the 60,000 pilgrims who worship at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The temple is considered auspicious, and when deep and important wishes are made with belief and devotion, they are said to come true. 

Our next destination is the gorgeous and peaceful Athena Hotel near Tiruvanamalai, another sacred pilgrimage destination, famous for the Ramana Maharshi Ashram at the foot of sacred Mt Arunachala. Sri Ramana Maharshi is an enlightened sage revered by millions throughout the world for his wisdom teachings. An immersive few days in the devotional ashram program, walks around and on the most revered mountain in South India, meditation in the caves of Ramana Maharshi and earlier realised sages.

We drive south to the whitewashed, historic French town of Pondicherry, home to the Aurobindo Ashram where we join the program. We stay right on the beachfront at the quaint Promenade Hotel. A bike ride and tour of Auroville, the ‘city of dawn’ which was the utopian vision of Aurobindo and the Mother brought to life in the 60's. We enjoy an interpretative tour on pushbike, and meditate in the incredible Matrimandir temple. Auroville was created to bring a progressive harmony to transcend culture, politics and nationalities. Visiting here is truly a unique experience. 

We head back to Chennai via Mahabalipuram, a picturesque coastal temple town with its ancient Shore Temple and relief carvings in the rocks and caves where we enjoy lunch before driving 90 minutes to the home of A.G. Mohan and Indra Mohan for an afternoon Devotion Program where you will learn directly from these world renowned contemporary masters. We return to our hotel in Chennai, the seaside Leela Palace for dinner. We rise early for yoga and breakfast and then go directly to Chennai airport for a short flight to Cochin.

We drive for 3 hours to reach Alapuzzha we board our traditional houseboats for a leisurely afternoon and evening on the backwaters of Kerala stopping to visit villages, churches and for sunset yoga. We return to our houseboats for a 5 star dinner prepared onboard and a restful night on the water. After morning meditation, breakfast we return to Alapuzzha and then drive 3 hours to reach our Ayurveda Resort - the fabulous Namami Health Retreat & Wellness Sanctuary for a personalised Ayurveda rejuvenation and healing program over 3 days. This includes 2 consults with an Ayurvedic doctors, daily 90 minute therapies (such as massage), personalised meal plans, herbal remedies, wellness talks and a cooking class. We also enjoy a guided forest walk, and those who wish to can visit the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary to see them bathing in the river. Our final night at Namami we visit the sacred Iringole Kavu Forest Temple were we meditate at the mystical Durga temple and partiticipate in a special puja blessing ceremony.

After our Ayurveda Retreat we drive to the rural village of Alandarai, home to the Isha Foundation and the ashram of Sadhguru which lies in the foothills of the sacred Velliangiri Mountains. We are here to immerse ourselves in the Shivaratri Festival at the ashram and walk around the iconic Adi-Yoga (1st yogi) Bust, an enormous sculpted statue of Lord Shiva and meditate in the ashram's temple by powerful dhyanalinga. We join up to one million pilgrims who visit the ashram for the auspicious event. It will be an incredible spectacle and deeply spiritual night of connection with the Divine. 

Our final day is a day of rest and time in nature, consolidating all we have experienced and learnt during our incredible 16 day spiritual adventure. Our program ends at Coimbatore where you can take your connecting flight home.

Sri Ramana Maharshi

Tiruvanamalai

Sri Ramana Maharshi & disciples at Mt Arunachala

Exploring Pondicherry Bazaar

Natural Arch in Sila Thoranam near Tiruvanamalai

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

Tamil Nadu traditional cuisine

Pondicherry Street

Chennai hotel. Comfortable accommodation throughout.

Beauty, colour, connection

Matrimandir by night

Traditional houseboat experience, Kerala backwaters

Mahashivaratri at Isha Foundation

download our pdf retreat brochure

Retreat Brochure

Keep scrolling for pricing options, inclusions, F&Q,
​or if you're ready to book click here

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why join us?

Professional, caring facilitation​

Mandy BeckerKnox leads the Kookaburra Yoga Journeys in India. This retreat is facilitated by Mandy, who has visited India many times and led many international retreats in India for over a decade. She has decades experience teaching yoga and meditation and is a skilful group facilitator and teacher. Mandy has worked professionally in senior leadership roles and knows how to respectfully and intuitively guide and support people to realise their full potential.
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Transformational program

This retreat is a cultural and spiritual immersion. The program is focussed on the devotional and transformational practice of traditional yoga. You will learn and practice everyday and will be guided and supported to release inner obstacles, creating an inner freedom and peace. The program includes deep practical experience, knowledge and skills to help you on your yogic path and in everyday life. You will learn and practice the Yoga of Krishnamacharya, as taught by A.G. Mohan and Indra Mohan whou you study with in Chennai.

Attention to detail

Kookaburra Yoga works closely with local organisers, venues and licensed travel agents at our destinations to ensure that every practicality is considered and taken care of and that any local assistance is on hand should we need it. This means we can focus on delivering a powerful, transformative retreat program and you can relax knowing that everything is taken care of.

Rhythm and routine

While we journey through the beautiful landscapes and places of pilgrimage we establish a rhythm and routine to our days bring calmness, lightness, steadiness and resilience to your body, mind and soul - even in the midst of the movement and activity of India. You'll gain the skills and confidence to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and poise.

Hatha Yoga

Morning and late afternoon Yoga sessions incorporate an integrated system of Hatha and Raja Yoga - ensuring the practices are holistic and beneficial on every level of being. Asanas are of 4 types: those which bring inner quiet; those which bring focus and body awareness; those which bring humility and detachment; and those which increase confidence and vitality.

Ayurveda

We start each day at sunrise with pranayama and meditation, followed by a dynamic asana practice. The afternoons and evenings are for a deep, quiet practice. This retreat features a 3 night Ayurvedic Meditation Retreat which includes rejuvenation therapies. During this time we also prepare for Shivaratri with a Sadhana (meditation) program.

Stunning venues

You will stay in incredible, carefully chosen venues on this retreat which are close to the ashrams and spiritual centres we visit, yet are tranquil and serene with spaces conducive to our yogic practice. On a profound and immersive yogic pilgrimage such as this, we ensure your accommodation should be comfortable and restful enabling you to sleep well, eat well, rest deeply and have the time and space to safely integrate and process all you experience.

Balanced itinerary

You are travelling a long way for this retreat, and we believe it is therefore important to experience the sights, sounds and sensations of this diverse country of contrasts, to learn about its culture and open our hearts to its beautiful and very generous people. We include tours, adventures and excursions to counterbalance and soften the deep retreat process. 

Vegetarian cuisine

The food we share and recommend on this retreat is fresh, organic and vegetarian.  The right food combined with refraining from too many indulgences, support your practice of yoga and meditation, and helps to restore health and vitality to your body. Indian vegetarian food is incredibly diverse and well balanced. Food in India is a highlight and pleasure! During the Ayruvedic retreat at Athirapilly, Kerala you will have a personalised meal plan prescribed by your Ayurvedic doctor and prepared exclusively by the retreat chef.

Relax & let go

Yoga 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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Costs

Retreat Cost

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$5,690 earlybird (book by 30 June. Pay by 1 Nov 2023)

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• Earlybird price ends 30 June 2023 and applies to bookings made prior to 30 June and commitment to pay in full by 1 November 2023. If full payment not received by 1st November then the full price applies.
• Standard price is $6,090 for bookings made after this date. To be paid in full by 30 December 2023.
• ​​All inclusions as listed.
• Twin share or double room throughout sharing with one other person. If you are coming alone, we match your with a participant of same gender and similar age.​
• Single Room Supplement is $2,000 and guarantees single room accommodation throughout.

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Inclusions

• ​Transfer from Chennai Airport (MAA) on arrival and to Coimbatore airport (CJB) on departure (for those arriving on the tour commencement date and departing on the tour end date). 
• 4 & 5 Star accommodation throughout with Breakfast & Dinner.​
• Daily morning and afternoon/evening yoga and meditation sessions
• Tours and activities as stated in the itinerary.
• Domestic flight from Chennai to Cochin
• 3 nights Ayurvedic Program with daily treatments and personalised meals. Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• English speaking guide service throughout. Entrance fees at monuments, temples and ashrams.
• Air conditioned transport service for all transfers and sightseeing tours
• ​Personalised assistance from local travel agent and guides
• ​All applicable taxes​​

At your expense

• International flight, Indian visa, compulsory travel insurance.
• Bank or International transfer fees for part payment of retreat cost to Indian travel agent (approx $100-$150)
• Airport transfers (if you are arriving and leaving outside tour times and dates).
• Lunches, extra food (except for Ayurveda retreat which includes full board)
• Laundry
• Personal shopping
• Tips, gratuities and donations

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Facts & Questions

You will find relevant and important information in the F&Q table below. Please read it carefully before committing to this tour. Here is the important travel info to get started...

• To enter India it is a requirement that you have a passport valid with 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.
• You must book your own international flight to arrive at Chennai on the commencement date or before. You will need to arrive at Chennai International Airport (MAA).
• You will leave from Coimbatore so therefore your return flight should be booked departing from Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) on the final tour date or afterwards.
• Both airports are international so you will find flights directly to and from these airports. Book flights as early as possible to secure a good price. We usually fly Singapore Airlines as they have the shortest travel times, and we have never had an issue with this airline. You are welcome to book with the airline of your choice. If you wish to travel on the same international flights from Perth as Mandy be in touch and we will provide the details.
• 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. Travel insurance is compulsory on this trip.

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. Visit http://www.vfsglobal.com/india/australia/ for more information and to apply online.
• You must book your own international flight arriving at Chennai. You will need to arrive at Chennai International Airport (MAA). You will leave from Coimbatore so therefore your return flight should be booked departing from Coimbatore International Airport (CJB). 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.

CANCELLATION POLICY

• There is an initial $1490 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 0-8 weeks before the retreat the full amount is payable.
• If you cancel 8-12 weeks before the retreat 50% of the retreat fee will be refunded to you.
• If you cancel more than 12 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 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 may 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.
• If you become unwell with Covid19 you will be required to self-quarantine in whichever hotel you are in at the time you become unwell at your own expense until you no longer have symptoms. You may rejoin the tour (with the assistance of our travel agency) once you are well.

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.
• Airport transfer if you arrive earlier than the tour start date, or leave later than the tour end date.
• Extra nights accommodation can be selected when booking and will be added to your final invoice if you select this option when booking.
• Lunches and snacks (budget approx $10-$15 per meal). Please note, lunches are included during the Ayurvedic Wellness Retreat.
• 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 $150-$200 in total)
• discretionary donations to ashrams, temples and charities (estimate approx $100 in total)
• international transfer fees and credit card fees when making your payment to our Indian travel agent (approx $100-$150)

PAYMENT DETAILS

EARLYBIRD PAYMENT SCHEDULE

• Book by 30 June. Pay in full by 1 November.
• Price $5690 twin share. $7690 single. Extra nights at beginning or end extra.
• PAYMENT ON BOOKING: $1490. $700 deposit is non-refundable.
• 2ND PAYMENT DUE: 1st September 2023 $1600 (SHARED ROOM) or $2600 (SINGLE ROOM). Once you have booked and paid your deposit, you'll receive instructions to make your second instalment payment direct to our travel agent by the 1st September. Please note that international transfer fees/credit card fees will apply. These will vary depending on your payment method and your bank. Credit card payment via the travel agent's online payment system is the safest method of payment and incurs a credit card fee, which is payable by you.
  ​Please note - if you would like us to make the overseas payment on your behalf we can do that. Bank transfer/credit card fees payable and also GST (an additional 10% on top of the amount)
• 3RD PAYMENT DUE: 1st November 2023 $1600 (SHARED ROOM) or $2600 (SINGLE ROOM). The third payment is also to be made direct to our travel agent by the 1st November. Please note that international transfer fees/credit card fees will apply. These will vary depending on your payment method and your bank. Credit card payment via the travel agent's online payment system is the safest method of payment, and incurs a credit card fee, which is payable by you.
• 4TH PAYMENT DUE: 1st November 2023. $1000 + ANY EXTRA NIGHTS BOOKED.  You will receive an invoice from Kookaburra Yoga with the amount outstanding (based on any extra nights at beginning or end you have booked) which is to be paid by bank transfer to our account.
  
  

STANDARD PRICE PAYMENT SCHEDULE

• Book anytime (subject to availability). Pay in full by 30 December 2023.
• Price $6090 twin share. $8090 single. Extra nights at beginning or end extra.
• PAYMENT ON BOOKING: $1490. $700 deposit is non-refundable.
• 2ND PAYMENT DUE: 1st November 2023 $3200 (SHARED ROOM) or $5200 (SINGLE ROOM). The third payment is also to be made direct to our travel agent by the 1st November. Please note that international transfer fees/credit card fees will apply. These will vary depending on your payment method and your bank. Credit card payment via the travel agent's online payment system is the safest method of payment, and incurs a credit card fee, which is payable by you.
  Please note - if you would like us to make the overseas payment on your behalf we can do that. Bank transfer/credit card fees payable and also GST (an additional 10% on top of the amount)
• 3RD PAYMENT DUE: 30 December 2023. $1400 + ANY EXTRA NIGHTS BOOKED.  You will receive an invoice from Kookaburra Yoga with the amount outstanding (based on any extra nights at beginning or end you have booked) which is to be paid by bank transfer to our account.

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?

• 16-20 people are expected to attend this retreat.
• This retreat is subject to a minimum of 12 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 unwell with Covid19 you will be required to self-quarantine in your room in whichever hotel you are in at the time you become unwell at your own expense until you no longer have symptoms. You may rejoin the tour (with the assistance of our travel agency) once you are well.
• 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?

Tamil Nadu 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. Please note that the weather is variable during the mountain meditation retreat at Coonor where it may be cold.

• When visiting temples, and in fact any public places, dress should be conservative with legs to the ankles, and shoulders covered. At traditional temples both men and women are expected to wear traditional Indian dress. You will have opportunities to purchase suitable clothing in Chennai.
• 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.
• During the ashram visits, you are required to wear white and pale coloured modest clothing, even during your hatha yoga practice.
• Mosquitos will be an issue in the evenings, so loose, long cotton clothing is ideal.

CONTACTS IN INDIA

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

TRAVEL AGENT
Name: Christy Gomez. Company: Indian Panorama
Address: Pavana Building, K.P. Vallon Road, Kadavanthra P.O, Cochin, Kerala - 682020
Phone: ++ 91 0484 4062000 I Mobile : 09746074145
Email: [email protected]

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.

REFEREE OR CONTACT FROM INDIA:
Name: Christy Gomez. Company: Indian Panorama
Address: Pavana Building, K.P. Vallon Road, Kadavanthra P.O, Cochin, Kerala - 682020
Phone: ++ 91 0484 4062000 I Mobile : 09746074145
Email: [email protected]

YOUR MAIN ADDRESS IN INDIA:
Taj Connemara Hotel Chennai
Address: Binny Rd, Anna Salai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600002, India
Phone: +91 44 6600 0000

YOUR CONTACT PHONE NO. IN INDIA
If not taking your own mobile phone, you can use Mandy's number +61 422 318 104

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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 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!