The Magic Of Mysore
A Journey to The Source of Ashtanga Yoga
October 24th - October 31st, 2026
Mysore - the city where Ashtanga Yoga was systematized and taught, and where the lineage continues to live through daily practice, study, and devotion.
This retreat is an invitation to return to the roots — to the place where the living tradition of Ashtanga Yoga was shaped, transmitted, and practiced for generations.
Mysore is the city where Ashtanga Yoga was systematized, taught, and preserved — and where its lineage continues to live through daily practice, study, and devotion.
This retreat is an invitation to return to the roots: to the place where the living tradition of Ashtanga Yoga was shaped, transmitted, and practiced across generations.
Mysore is the birthplace of modern Ashtanga Yoga. In the early 20th century, the Maharaja of Mysore invited Sri T. Krishnamacharya to develop and teach a structured system of asana practice. This system was later carried forward by his students and shared with the world, forming the foundation of the Ashtanga Yoga tradition as we know it today.
Over five nights in the heart of Mysore, we will immerse ourselves in daily Ashtanga practice, philosophical study, chanting, and Sanskrit, guided by teachers deeply rooted in the tradition — often referred to as the Teachers of Teachers.
Alongside practice and study, we will visit significant temples and historical sites, and enjoy unstructured time to experience local life, cuisine, and culture.
Our home in Mysore is Gokulam, a quiet, leafy neighbourhood that became the heart of the global Ashtanga community over recent decades. It is here that generations of practitioners lived, practiced, studied, and gathered daily, creating a unique atmosphere of discipline, simplicity, and shared devotion. Even today, Gokulam retains a gentle rhythm that naturally supports early mornings, introspection, and consistent practice.
During our stay, we will also take one or two short day trips to nearby villages and temples, offering insight into the wider cultural and spiritual landscape that has always surrounded yogic practice in South India.
We complete our journey in Bangalore, spending the final two nights in a historic hotel. This time allows space to digest and integrate the experience — reflecting on what we have practiced and learned, revisiting the places we explored, and gently transitioning toward returning home. We will also have time to experience Bengaluru’s layered history, from its traditional roots to its contemporary life.
This retreat is not only about movement, but about context: understanding where the practice comes from, how it has been transmitted, and what it means to practice with integrity today.
What to Expect
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Daily Ashtanga Yoga practice in the Mysore-style tradition
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Study sessions in yoga philosophy, chanting, and Sanskrit with some of the most senior and respected teachers in Mysore
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Visits to historical and cultural sites connected to the lineage
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Time for reflection, rest, and personal integration
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A slow, intentional rhythm that supports depth rather than intensity
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This journey is suited for all practitioners who wish to deepen their relationship with Ashtanga Yoga beyond the mat, and who value the importance of lineage, context, and tradition.
🌿 SCHEDULE OVERVIEW 🌿
✨ Days 1–5 | Mysore ✨
Entering the Source
Arrival & Orientation
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Travel from Bangalore to Mysore by a minibus
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Check-in and settling into our accommodation
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Evening walk and introduction to the neighbourhood of Gokulam
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Early night to align with the Mysore practice rhythm
Daily Rhythm
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Morning Ashtanga Yoga practice
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Breakfast and rest
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Mid-morning study sessions (rotating themes):
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Yoga philosophy
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Chanting
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Sanskrit
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Free time for rest, journaling, or personal study
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Guided visits to significant temples and historical sites
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Evening satsang, discussion, or silent reflection
✨ Days 6 & 7 | Bangalore ✨
Arrival · Grounding · Transition
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Arrival and check-in at a historic hotel
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Gathering for a gentle practice, mobility, or breathwork
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Optional city exploration or short day trip
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Evening chanting or reflection session
✨ Day 8 | Closing & Departure ✨
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Short closing practice and integration
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Breakfast
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Departures
"Yoga is the artwork of awareness on the canvas of the body, mind, and soul." - Amit Ray
Payment & Cancellation Policy
To hold your place at the retreat, we ask for a non-refundable deposit of S$700. Your spot will be reserved once Nilayam has received your deposit in writing. The remaining balance is due by Monday, 15 December 2025.
We understand that sometimes life brings unexpected turns. If you need to cancel, please write to us by Sunday, 25 January 2026. In this case, you’ll receive a 25% refund of the retreat fee (after subtracting the deposit). After this date, we’re unfortunately unable to provide refunds.
If you cannot join, you are very welcome to gift or transfer your spot to a friend or loved one, so that the journey may still be shared.
For your peace of mind, we kindly recommend purchasing travel insurance once your place is confirmed.
Thank you for honoring these guidelines—they help us create an intimate, intentional, and beautifully prepared retreat experience for all
