Going on a yoga retreat in Thailand is a popular way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in a peaceful, rejuvenating experience.
With its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and abundant natural beauty, Thailand is an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and holistic getaway.
Retreats vary in length, location, and type, so read on to learn how to find the right one for you.
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Contents
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- When Should I Go?
- How Many Days Should I Prepare?
- Types of Yoga Retreats
- Yoga Retreat Destinations in Thailand
- Bangkok
- Chiang Mai
- Chiang Rai
- Koh Phangan
- Koh Samui
- Phuket
- Other Destinations
- Excursion and Enrichment Options
- Preparing for a Yoga Retreat
- Get Vaccinated
- Booking Your Retreat
- Now, on to You
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What’s Included and What’s Not
Most yoga retreats in Thailand include accommodations, meals, and daily yoga classes.
Some retreats may also include additional activities, such as meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and workshops on topics such as nutrition or yoga philosophy.
Others may also include spa services or excursions to local attractions.
Be sure to check if the retreat includes transportation to and from the retreat location, or if there is an extra charge for this and other activities or services.
Read the fine print carefully to understand what is included and excluded in the retreat package.
Related article: Renting a Car in Thailand: What You Need to Know
When Should I Go?
The best time to do a yoga retreat in Thailand depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of the experience. Thailand has a tropical climate with three main seasons: the hot season, the rainy season, and the cool season.
The hot season runs from March to June, with temperatures averaging around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a popular time for tourists, but it may be too hot and humid for some people to comfortably practice yoga.
The rainy season runs from July to October, and is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. This is the low season for tourism, but it can still be a good time for a yoga retreat if you don’t mind the rain and are looking for lower prices and fewer crowds.
The cool season runs from November to February, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the most popular time for tourists, so prices can be higher, but it is the best time for a yoga retreat if you prefer more comfortable weather.
How Many Days Should I Prepare?
If you are looking for a brief getaway or long weekend, a 3- to 5-day retreat may be suitable. Most yoga resorts will require at least a minimum three-night stay, but these shorter retreats typically include at least some of the perks of a longer program.
Expect daily yoga and meditation sessions, along with a few opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing and cultural experiences. This is a great option for those who have limited time or who are new to yoga and want to dip their toes into the retreat experience.
For those who are looking for a more comprehensive and immersive experience, a 7- to 10-day retreat may be a better fit. These longer retreats allow for a deeper exploration of yoga and mindfulness, and often include more in-depth workshops, group activities, and excursions.
This is a great option for those who are seeking a transformation in their health and well-being, or those who want to deepen their yoga practice.
Some retreat centers offer programs that are 15 days or longer. Teacher trainings will often run up to a month, for example. Other resorts have regular classes where students can opt to stay for any amount of time and do not have set program lengths.
Ultimately, the length of time an attendee should plan to attend a yoga retreat in Thailand will depend on personal preferences. The most important thing is to choose a retreat that fits your goals and schedule and to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.
Types of Yoga Retreats
There are several types of yoga retreats available in Thailand, each offering its own unique program and experience.
Here are three common types:
Traditional Yoga Retreats
These retreats offer a full immersion into the practice of yoga, with a daily schedule that includes multiple yoga classes, meditation sessions, and workshops on topics such as philosophy and pranayama (breathing techniques).
Some retreats also offer additional activities such as nature walks and lectures on health and wellness.
An example of a traditional yoga retreat program might include morning and evening yoga classes, a mid-day workshop or lecture, and free time for relaxation and self-exploration.
When you are looking at traditional yoga retreats, be aware that there are several different styles of yoga practiced in Thailand and your experience at a traditional yoga retreat will be greatly influenced by the style of yoga they are practicing.
Here are a few styles to keep an eye out for:
Vinyasa: Sometimes referred to as “power yoga”, Vinyasa is a more aerobic practice than Hatha and often appeals to yoga practitioners looking for a physical challenge.
Hatha: This traditional style of yoga incorporates many of the yoga practices taught in studios today. Most modern yoga practices fall under the Hatha yoga umbrella. Expect a slower, more mindful practice than Vinyasa.
Kundalini: A dynamic practice that often incorporates breathing exercises, mantra, yoga postures, and more. This type of yoga aims to awaken an energy at the base of the spine called “kundalini”.
Bikram: A type of hot yoga generally consisting of a 26-pose sequence in a sauna-like environment.
Yin: A restful stretching practice that aims to increase flexibility and relaxation.
Prices for traditional yoga retreats can vary widely, but a typical cost might be $1,000-$1,500 for a week-long retreat, including accommodations, meals, and activities.
For example, Sunset Hill in Koh Phangan offers a 4-day/5-night traditional yoga retreat package for around $750, which includes accommodation, meals, yoga 3x a day, spa treatments, and more.
Teacher Trainings
For experienced yogis who want to go beyond the traditional yoga retreat and become a certified yoga instructor, there are several yoga destinations in Thailand that offer 200-hour and advanced 300-hr+ teacher trainings.
These intensive programs run anywhere from 14 days to one month and range from $2,500 – $7,000 for an all-inclusive stay.
For example, Samahita Retreat in Koh Phangan offers a 15-day, 200-hour teacher training that includes intensive classes from 7:00am-6:30pm daily, vegan meals, shared or private accommodations, excursions, and a yoga alliance certification upon completion for $5,000-$6,500, depending on the accommodation you select.
Yoga + Fitness/Adventure
These retreats combine the practice of yoga with outdoor or fitness activities such as Muay Thai, triathlete training, or elephant caretaking!
These retreats are a great option for those who want to combine the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the thrill of adventure or serious sport. The yoga in these programs tends to be a supplement to the main retreat program, but the schedule will likely still include a yoga class in the morning or evening alongside program-specific adventure or fitness activities and free time in the evenings for relaxation and optional additional activities similar to a traditional yoga retreat.
Prices for fitness/adventure yoga retreats vary widely depending on the specific activities included, but a typical week retreat may run from $1,500-$3,000 for a week-long retreat, including accommodations, meals, and activities.
Muay Thai Battle Conquer Gym offers affordable week- ($609) or month-long ($2,438) Wellness Muay Thai packages in Phetchabun. You’ll enjoy sunrise yoga classes, meditation and yoga workshops, as well as Muay Thai/Western Boxing and fitness classes in a unique, remote location.
Thanyapura resort in Phuket offers triathletes a retreat covering the disciplines of swimming, biking, and running with specialized facilities and world-class instructors. As a supplement to tri-training, attendees and other sports enthusiasts that book at their high-end hotel ($300+ per night) can attend regular yoga and wellness classes at the resort’s facilities (also world-class) throughout the day.
While retreats are limited, One Yoga Global runs a yoga retreat and service week at an Elephant Nature park in Chiang Mai. Participants spend time volunteering at the park in addition to daily yoga classes and other excursions.
The 11-night retreat is $2,395 for a double occupancy room.
Related articles:
- How to Visit and Volunteer at Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand
- Bangkok Muay Thai Gyms: Costs, Reviews, and Locations
The Wellness Holiday
These retreats focus on overall health and wellness, with a program that includes yoga and other activities such as massage, nutrition workshops, and guided meditations.
These retreats are a great option for those who are looking to improve their overall health and well-being and learn more about holistic practices for self-care.
An example of a wellness retreat program might include morning and evening yoga classes, a daily massage or other wellness treatment, and workshops or lectures on topics such as nutrition and stress management.
Prices for wellness retreats can vary depending on the specific activities included, but a typical cost might be $1,500-$2,000 for a week-long retreat, including accommodations, meals, and activities.
Chiva-Som in Hua Hin offers a luxury yoga and wellness retreat that greets participants in a personal Mercedes and assigns each a wellness practitioner to discuss their bespoke wellness needs.
Activities include Qi Gong, Thai boxing, mantra with monks, facial treatments, body sculpting, reiki, and more. If you can afford it at around $1,000 a night, the experience is said to be well worth it.
Amatara Welleisure Resort in southeast Phuket offers another luxury retreat option for participants looking to combine wellness with pleasure. Around $750 a night includes accommodation, meals, extensive workshops and classes, salt cave and Thai Hammam visits, and more.
Set amongst the lush rainforest in Kamala, the unique bamboo villas and tree pool houses at Keemala feel very natural but are far from rustic.
In addition to the opulent accommodation, which can be booked for anywhere from $500 for a one-bedroom cottage to $1,200 for a large villa, there are wellness and fitness classes throughout the day and an extensive spa.
Yoga Retreat Destinations in Thailand
In terms of location, there are several popular destinations for yoga retreats in Thailand. In the North, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are popular choices, with a range of retreats available in both locations.
In the South, the islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Phuket are popular yoga retreat destinations, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
No matter which destination you choose, however, a yoga retreat in Thailand is sure to be a memorable and rejuvenating experience.
With its beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural traditions, Thailand is an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and holistic getaway.
Bangkok
While Bangkok might not be the first place you think of when it comes to doing a yoga retreat, the city offers some serene yoga studios, highly skilled instructors, and options for staycations.
Just 45 minutes north along the Chao Phraya riverbank, IngNatee offers affordable weekend retreats. Prices start at $125 per night for a single villa including daily yoga classes, cooking classes and farm visits, boat journeys, and meals.
For a unique and disciplined retreat near Bangkok, visit the Wat Suan Mokkh International Dharma Heritage. Their 10-day silent meditation retreat offers minimal accommodations at a monastery in the forest. Vegetarian meals are provided as well as silent yoga classes, hot springs, and walking meditations. Retreats start on the first day of the month and only cost the $60 registration fee to enter.
Embrace Energy Yoga School offers 3-7 day retreats and teacher trainings in and around Bangkok. Itineraries include yoga classes, cultural excursions, cooking classes, and more in affordable accommodations. Programs vary but most of them average around $150 per day for accommodation, meals, and activities.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, located in the northern region of Thailand, is known for its rich cultural history and beautiful natural surroundings. It is home to a number of yoga retreats that offer a range of programs and styles, from traditional yoga retreats to more holistic wellness retreats.
Nestled away in the rice fields far from the throngs of tourists in the city center, Suan Sati is an eco-friendly yoga and meditation studio and with shared dorm rooms for $50 a night, or private bungalows for $85 with a 3-night minimum.
They have two daily asana classes and you get to enjoy the studio’s permaculture gardens and welcoming community.
Mahasiddha Yoga hosts retreats throughout the year in Mae Rim, Chiang Mai with a focus mainly on Tantra yoga. The daily practices of yoga and meditation will be familiar if not a little out there for most traditional Hatha yogis, and there’s plenty of downtime for relaxation in the saltwater pool.
A week-long retreat costs around $500, but check their website for full details on upcoming retreats.
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, located just a few hours north of Chiang Mai, is another popular destination for yoga retreats in Thailand. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a retreat focused on relaxation and inner growth.
Set in the rural rice paddies of Chiang Rai, Museflower Retreat offers an all-around wellness experience. You’ll find a Himalayan crystal salt pool, on-site organic gardens, and indoor and outdoor yoga shalas.
Prices average $75 a night for a single occupancy room, yoga classes, sound healing, massage, and more with a minimum 3-night stay.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more relaxed and low-key retreat experience.
A popular destination among backpackers and island hoppers, The Sanctuary is an all inclusive wellness resort with 3-, 7-, and 10-day yoga packages that include a daily yoga class, meals at their vegetarian restaurant, and access to their on-site steam room. Prices range from $330 to $550 for a 3-night stay.
Wonderland Healing Center hosts 4-, 7-, and 11-day retreats with a full, daily yoga schedule with a wide variety of yoga styles taught. Retreats also include vegetarian meals onsite, spa treatments, access to the center’s herbal sauna and pool, and more. Dorm rooms are available for around $40 a night, or select a private bungalow for $140 a night. A minimum stay of three nights is required.
Samma Karuna hosts unique retreats with a focus on tantra yoga. Retreats run from six days up to a month and start at $420, including 3+ yoga classes and workshops per day, excursions, activities, vegan meals, and shared accommodation. Private rooms are available at an additional cost.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui, located just a short ferry ride from Koh Phangan, is another popular yoga retreat destination. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush forests, making it an ideal location for a retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Established in 2003, Samahita Yoga Retreat is a familiar name on Thailand’s yoga scene. They offer yoga, breath and wellness classes, activities and workshops, as well as lodging in their beachfront hotel, meals at their onsite restaurants, access to their herbal steam room and spa, and more. Rooms start at $138 per night for a shared two-bedroom accommodation.
Visit Natural Detox is a fitness-oriented resort with a team of personal trainers, nutrition specialists, and yoga teacher. An 8-day retreat starts at $978 and includes accommodation, a jam-packed fitness and yoga schedule, and a detoxing meal plan.
Vikasa Yoga Retreat sits atop a cliffside overlooking the ocean with stunning yoga and fitness facilities. Enjoy meditation and yoga classes in any one of their three yoga shalas, organic meals, Thai massages, access to their gym and spa facilities, and more. Prices start at $100 a night.
At the top of a grand hill overlooking the sea, Absolute Sanctuary is a well-known wellness center that offers two yoga studios, a steam room and sauna, a fitness studio, spa, infinity pool, and more. Enjoy unlimited classes and access to facilities by booking an accommodation starting at $150 a night.
Phuket
Phuket, located on the west coast of Thailand, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions. It is home to a number of yoga retreats that cater to different interests and budgets, from traditional yoga retreats to more holistic wellness retreats.
Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort is a 4-star luxury destination with twice-daily yoga classes in their outdoor yoga shala. Enjoy the beautiful grounds on lush hills overlooking Phuket’s beaches or take a dip in their jacuzzi or infinity pool. Prices start at $150 a night.
Island Yoga hosts retreats with a minimum of seven days where students can enjoy yoga training specified for their experience level. Beginners will get 1:1 attention with experienced yoga teachers. Prices start at $600 for a 7-night stay in a dormitory accommodation.
Atmanjai is a fitness, yoga, and wellness/detox resort that offers cleansing programs, which include daily massage and spa treatments and juice detoxes, alongside yoga and fitness classes and accommodation. Programs start at $140 a night.
Other Destinations
Elephant Island, more commonly known as Koh Chang, is a stunning island that is less popular with tourists than Koh Pangan or Samui. Surrounded by coral reefs and a marine national park, this is a great destination where the wellness retreat The Spa at Koh Chang is located. Rooms start at $75 a night. Or, you can opt for a one-week, all-inclusive stay for $750.
Eco-logic Thailand sits inside Paksong Jungle near the town of Ranong on the Thai border with Myanmar. It is a wholesome yoga retreat destination with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. You’ll find a variety of yoga courses, starting at $160 for two nights or $380 for a week.
Jungle Yoga in Praiwan offers another off-the-grid experience. This rustic retreat boasts no Wi-Fi and poor cell reception but has an impressive line up of visiting teacher retreats and cute waterside bungalows. Prices vary based on program.
Find Soneva Kiri Resort on the pristine island of Koh Kood. With a tiny population of just 2,000, Koh Kood is the smallest island in Thailand, but it is filled with lush tropical rainforests and beautiful beaches. Enjoy Soneva Kiri’s stunning villas and otherwise opulent facilities as well as their Ayurvedic spa and yoga/fitness facilities. But these come at a cost: rooms cost $3,000-$5,000 a night.
Excursion and Enrichment Options
While the practice of yoga and meditation is typically the focus of a yoga retreat in Thailand, many retreats also offer a range of extra activities for participants to enjoy during their stay.
From language learning and sightseeing to outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, there are plenty of ways to enhance your retreat experience and make the most of your time in Thailand.
One popular extra activity at yoga retreats in Thailand is language learning.
Many retreats offer language classes as part of their program, providing participants with the opportunity to learn basic conversational Thai and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. These classes are often taught by native Thai speakers and may include lessons on grammar, vocabulary, and cultural customs.
Thailand is also an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about the local culture. There are a wide variety of activities and excursions available, but some common ones are cooking classes, traditional dance lessons, temple visits, and sightseeing.
These experiences provide a unique and immersive way to learn more about the local culture and traditions of Thailand.
Outdoor adventure is also a popular pastime during downtime at a yoga retreat. Many retreats offer a range of outdoor activities as part of their program, such as hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and more. These activities provide a great way to get out into nature and enjoy the beauty of Thailand, while also challenging yourself physically and mentally.
Overall, there are many non-yoga activities available at yoga retreats in Thailand that can enhance your retreat experience and help you make the most of your time in this beautiful and vibrant country.
Whether you are interested in language learning, sightseeing, outdoor adventure, or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone at a yoga retreat in Thailand.
Related articles:
- The Complete Guide to Learning Thai Language for Beginners
- My Personal Tricks on How to Learn The Thai Language Fast
Preparing for a Yoga Retreat
Preparing for a yoga retreat in Thailand can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be well-prepared in order to make the most of your time at the retreat.
Here are some tips on how to prepare for a yoga retreat in Thailand:
Pack Wisely
When packing for your retreat, think about the types of activities you’ll be participating in and the climate of your destination. Be sure to bring comfortable, breathable clothing for your yoga and meditation practices, as well as any necessary gear for any outdoor activities or excursions.
It’s also a good idea to bring a few items of clothing that are appropriate for more formal occasions, such as temple visits or dinners out.
Get Vaccinated
Depending on your destination in Thailand, it may be necessary to get certain vaccinations in order to protect yourself from illness.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that travelers to Thailand be up to date on their routine vaccinations, as well as the hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations.
It’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before your trip to determine which vaccinations are recommended.
Learn About Local Customs and Culture
Thailand is a country with a rich cultural history and unique customs. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs and cultural norms before your trip, in order to show respect and avoid offending anyone during your stay.
Some things to be aware of include taking off your shoes when entering temples and homes, dressing modestly in certain situations, and not touching people’s heads (which is considered sacred).
Communicate with Your Retreat Organizer
Before your trip, be sure to communicate with your retreat organizer about any specific needs or requests you may have. This might include dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or any other special considerations.
This will help ensure that your retreat experience is tailored to your needs and preferences.
Set an Intention for Your Retreat
One of the most powerful aspects of a yoga retreat is the opportunity to take time for yourself and reflect on your goals and priorities.
Before your trip, take some time to think about what you hope to achieve during your retreat, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional in nature. Having a clear intention can help guide your experience and make the most of your time at the retreat.
Overall, preparing for a yoga retreat in Thailand is all about being organized, being mindful of local customs and culture, and setting an intention for your time at the retreat.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your retreat experience and fully immerse yourself in the practice of yoga and meditation.
Booking Your Retreat
Booking a yoga retreat is a simple process, but there are a few key things to consider to ensure that you find the perfect retreat for your needs and preferences.
Determine Your Budget
The cost of a yoga retreat in Thailand can vary widely, depending on factors such as the location, duration of the retreat, and the types of activities and amenities included.
It’s a good idea to determine your budget before you start looking for retreats, so that you can narrow down your options and find something that fits your financial needs.
Consider Your Goals and Preferences
Think about what you hope to achieve during your yoga retreat, and look for a retreat that aligns with your goals and preferences. Do you want a traditional yoga retreat with a daily schedule of classes and workshops, or are you looking for a more adventure-focused retreat that combines outdoor activities with daily yoga practices?
Do you want a more luxury retreat with high-end amenities, or are you looking for something more budget-friendly?
Consider your goals and preferences when selecting a retreat.
Research Retreat Providers
There are many companies that offer yoga retreats in Thailand, each with its own unique program and style.
Take some time to research different retreat providers and read reviews from past participants to get a sense of the types of retreats they offer and the quality of their programs.
Contact the Retreat Provider
Once you’ve identified a few retreats that fit your budget and goals, reach out to the retreat provider to get more information.
Many retreat providers have detailed information about their programs and policies on their websites, but it’s always a good idea to ask any questions you may have directly.
This can help you get a better sense of the retreat experience and ensure that it aligns with your needs and preferences.
Book Your Retreat
Once you’ve found a retreat that meets your needs and budget, it’s time to book your trip.
Many retreat providers offer online booking options, or you can contact them directly to make your reservation.
Note that cancellation policies vary among retreat providers. Generally, after you’ve made the deposit, you may find that the deposit is non-refundable and fees paid beyond that may be partially or fully refunded at the retreat center’s discretion. Be sure to read the fine print before putting any money down and let them know up front if you might run into any issues.
Now, on to You
Heading to Thailand for a yoga retreat is a great way to escape the drudgery of daily life and be immersed in another world. With beautiful beaches, lush forests, and abundant natural beauty, Thailand has something to offer to those seeking a serene and holistic getaway.
Whether you are interested in traditional yoga retreats, adventure-focused retreats, or wellness retreats, there is a wide range of options to choose from in Thailand. We hope this guide will help you find the perfect retreat that meets all your needs.