Wellness is having its moment in 2025, with more people prioritising self-care and holistic living than ever before. While the buzz around wellness isn’t new, its growing popularity reflects a shift towards mindful and healthier lifestyles, with numbers to back it up. But, as the dialogue around wellness grows louder and chaotic, we’re taking a more immersive approach to wellness that goes beyond the usual “retreats”. While escaping to a lush retreat may be the hiding place of your inner peace and glow, it can also creep up on you during a writing retreat, a tranquil Japanese tea ceremony, or a sweaty hula hoop workshop!
Here are 10 must-check-out retreats and experiential programs that won’t just keep up with your wellness goals, but also deepen your connection with yourself.
Unlock your creative potential amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayas. This 5-day retreat by The Himalayan Writing Retreat combines expert-led writing sessions with stunning mountain views to inspire your work. Perfect for budding and seasoned writers alike, it offers a chance to focus, connect, and grow in a supportive community.
When: 22nd-26th February, 2025
Where: Satkhol, Uttarakhand
Price: ₹35,000 (+ GST)
Book here
Discover the serene haven of Auroville, Pondicherry—a township devoted to harmony, sustainability, and conscious living. This 4-day retreat invites you to immerse yourself in Auroville’s tranquil energy, blending wellness and culture for a truly transformative experience.
Get personalised consultation on your well-being, vertebral massage, Watsu therapy, and savour satvik cuisine that nourishes your soul.
When: 6th-9th February, 2025
Where: Auroville, Pondicherry
Price: ₹1,20,000 (+ GST) per person for single occupancy and ₹90,000 (+ GST) per person for double occupancy
More details here
Set along the sacred banks of the Ganga, this 5-day retreat by Sneh Yog Retreats blends ancient practices with mindful experiences to realign your mind, body, and soul. Start your mornings with energising yoga by the river, and unwind in the evenings with pranayama, meditation, and sound healing. Highlights include the soulful Ganga Aarti, a day trip to Rishikesh, and nourishing sattvic meals to cleanse and energise.
When: 17th–21st February
Where: Amrit Bhawan, Haridwar
More details here
Ananda’s Sleep Enhancement Programme combines Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and lifestyle tweaks to improve sleep quality and tackle complications from poor rest. With healing therapies and expert guidance, it calms the nerves, restores balance, and boosts energy, focus, and concentration. Perfect for anyone battling sleep apnea, restless nights, or erratic patterns, this retreat, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, promises a restful transformation.
Where: Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar, Uttarakhand
Book here
A luxurious Ayurvedic wellness retreat in the heart of Lonavala, Fazlani Nature’s Nest offers a holistic approach to wellness through various activities. Immerse yourself in fishing therapy along the serene Indrayani River at Fazlani Nature’s Nest. Here, fishing isn’t just a sport—it’s a journey to mindfulness. The activity helps you inhabit the space completely, while blocking out the noise of modern living. Patience meets peace as you cast your line, reflecting on the water and yourself, slowly embracing the calm that restores your balance.
Where: The Wellness Retreat Soex Flora Farm, Lonavala
Book here
Escape to Varanashi Organic Farms for a unique eco-farm stay. Enjoy daily yoga, pranayama, and meditation sessions alongside an exclusive SUP water experience. With serene treehouses or eco-cottages, farm-to-table meals, surf lessons at Tannirbhavi Beach, and mindful activities like slacklining, climbing, and archery, this retreat blends adventure with tranquillity. Rediscover balance and connect with nature like never before.
Where: Varanashi Farms, Adyanadka, Karnataka
Dates: 24th-26th Jan, 2025
For bookings, call: 9482213019/9449968377
Experience the Japanese art of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) at SwaSwara, where you’ll consciously connect with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. Known to reduce stress and elevate mood, this mindful practice is seamlessly woven into their holistic wellness programmes.
Where: Om Beach, Donibhail, Gokarna, Karnataka
For details, call: 4844261751/9744070099
Discover the art of mindful living at Dharana at Shillim, tucked away in the lush Sahyadris. A part of their ongoing short and long-term plans, “Dincharya” refers to a daily routine that encourages you to reconnect with daily wellbeing rituals through yoga, meditation, and conscious nutrition. A journey here is more than a retreat—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Where: Sahyadri Mountains, Maharashtra
Book here
Immerse yourself in the meditative world of Japanese tea ceremonies. Hosted by Trove Experiences, this tasting workshop lets you explore the artistry and calm that surrounds traditional Japanese teas. A cultural and sensory delight, it’s the shortest route to calm, with a taste of Japan.
When: 18th January
Where: Canvas V, Malviya Nagar, Delhi
Timings: 4-6 pm
Price: ₹2,200 per person
Book here
Wellness doesn’t have to be all serious. Join this fun, high-energy hula-hoop workshop in Mumbai, perfect for boosting your mood and core strength. It’s a playful spin on traditional workouts that is guaranteed to leave you sweaty and smiling.
When: 19th January
Where: Studio Airbound, Khar West, Mumbai
Timings: 12-2 pm
Price: ₹1,500 per person
Book here
