In March 2019, Yogirajas Mona Anand and Tamara Graham led an unforgettable yoga retreat through Rajasthan, India, offering participants an opportunity to immerse themselves in yoga, history, and cultural exploration. The retreat took place in Jaisalmer and Jaipur, two of Rajasthan’s most enchanting cities, with optional pre- and post-retreat excursions to the Taj Mahal in Agra and the bustling capital of New Delhi.
Pre-Retreat Sightseeing: Taj Mahal (March 10–12, 2019)
Before the retreat officially began, participants had the chance to visit Agra, home to the world-renowned Taj Mahal. Agra, a city steeped in Mughal history, provided a mesmerizing backdrop to this pre-retreat journey. Guests stayed at the luxurious Jaypee Palace, an architectural masterpiece blending Mughal grandeur with modern comforts. Exploring the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise was a highlight, as was discovering Agra’s rich history through visits to other landmarks such as Agra Fort.
10-Day Yoga Retreat to Rajasthan (March 12–21, 2019)
The main retreat began with a journey to Jaisalmer, the "Golden City" of Rajasthan. Perched atop a hill and surrounded by vast stretches of golden sand dunes, Jaisalmer offered an extraordinary setting for the retreat. Participants stayed at Suryagarh, a five-star boutique fort hotel that seamlessly blended Rajasthan’s traditions with contemporary luxury. They experienced grand dinners under the desert sky, accompanied by traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances.
The retreat continued in Jaipur, known as "The Pink City" for its distinct architecture and vibrant markets. Participants resided at the 475-year-old Samode Palace, an opulent heritage hotel that encapsulated the grandeur of India’s regal past. Days were filled with immersive yoga sessions, specialized workshops, and guided sightseeing tours of Jaipur’s iconic palaces and forts.
Yoga Program Highlights:
Morning and evening yoga sessions led by Mona Anand and Tamara Graham
Specialized workshops covering meditation, inversions, injury management, and beginner techniques
Lectures and discussions on yoga philosophy, mantra, chakras, and Yoga Nidra
Evening restorative and Yoga Nidra sessions
A book club led by Mona and Tamara
Participants also explored Rajasthan’s cultural treasures, including visits to historic forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars. The retreat balanced yoga practice with opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing, and personal reflection.
7-Day / 6-Night Palace Yoga Retreat (March 15–21, 2019)
For those who joined for a shorter duration, the Samode Palace retreat provided a condensed yet equally enriching experience. This segment included six nights at Samode Palace and a guided tour of Jaipur. Guests enjoyed morning asana sessions, afternoon free time for Ayurvedic treatments or exploring Jaipur, and evening Yoga Nidra or meditation sessions.
Post-Retreat Sightseeing in New Delhi (March 21–23, 2019)
Following the retreat, participants had the option to explore New Delhi, a city where centuries-old monuments coexist with modern structures. Staying at the iconic Le Meridien, they visited historic sites such as India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and the bustling markets of Connaught Place. Delhi’s fusion of Mughal, British, and contemporary influences provided a dynamic conclusion to the retreat experience.
A Transformative Experience
The 2019 retreat to India was more than a yoga journey—it was a deep dive into India’s rich heritage, culture, and spiritual traditions. Participants returned home not only with enhanced yoga practices but also with lasting memories of breathtaking landscapes, regal palaces, and the timeless wisdom of India. The retreat left an indelible mark on all who attended, offering a truly immersive and transformative experience.