About India Yoga Ashram

A sacred space where nature, stillness, and mindful living come together beautifully.

India Yoga Ashram Building
25+Years of
Teaching
About IYA

India Yoga Ashram (IYA)

India Yoga Ashram isn't just a place to practice yoga physically and therapeutically. It's a space to grow, heal, and truly bring you home to yourself. It's more than just practice β€” we learn a complete yoga lifestyle, where students feel comfortable, supported, confident, and always connected.

Home to the peaceful teachings of Patanjali, IYA is a space where nature, stillness, and mindful living come together beautifully. Surrounded by green hills, fresh Himalayan air, and the gentle sounds of the sacred Ganga River.

Here, you don't just practice yoga. You live it. And you become part of a global family of like-minded souls who share an immense amount of knowledge in traditional yoga, Ayurveda, and spiritual sciences. We embrace modern teaching techniques to make yoga accessible for beginners to advanced students.

Our Family Spirit

We practice with sincerity and joy. We hold space for each other's growth.

Global Community

Students from 12+ countries arrive as visitors and often take IYA home as their second home.

Our Philosophy

Vision & Values

At India Yoga Ashram β€” it's more than just movement. It's a way of living with authenticity, balance, and deep connection to your true self.

Balance

Finding equilibrium between effort and ease, body and mind, tradition and modernity.

Mindfulness

Cultivating present-moment awareness as the foundation of all practice and daily life.

Connection

Building meaningful bonds with ourselves, our community, and the natural world around us.

Authenticity

Honouring the ancient wisdom of yoga in its truest form, without compromise or dilution.

Our Teachers

Learn From Dedicated Masters

Each of our teachers brings a unique gift β€” decades of study, personal transformation, and profound compassion for every student.

Sagar Khanduri

Sagar Khanduri

Founder & Pranayama Teacher

Sagar Khanduri β€” Ashtanga & Pranayama Teacher

Born and raised in the spiritual atmosphere of Rishikesh, Sagar Ji is a deeply committed teacher to the science that forms the foundation of Yoga. He has spent decades studying the ancient philosophies that form the foundation of Yoga. With over 25 years of dedicated yoga experience, his journey began as a teenager exploring yoga not only as a physical discipline but as a complete science of life.

For the past three years, Sagar Ji has travelled all over the world sharing his authentic knowledge and discovering joy in teaching. Deeply devoted to the essence of Vedantic philosophy (Brahma Vidya) in his teachings, his approach at IYA is rooted in:

  • Purity of intention and connection with the inner self
  • Genuine way of experiencing daily life through yoga
  • Physical and mental mastery through Pranayama
  • Areas of expertise: Yogic philosophy, Pranayama, ancient texts

"Yoga is not limited to the mat. It is the art of living with balance, wisdom, and compassion."

Anand Ji

Anand Ji

Hatha & Ashtanga Teacher

Anand Ji β€” Hatha & Ashtanga Teaching Methodology

Introduced to yoga as a physical discipline, Anand Ji has explored and refined his teaching methodology with over 25 students each batch. Guided by patience and humility, he is known for his ability to guide students to a deep understanding of yoga as a complete lifestyle. His philosophy, shaped by the Himalayan tradition, gives him a natural affinity towards foundation-building yoga that serves all practitioners.

His areas of expertise include Yogic philosophy, simplifying ancient scriptures into modern relatable lessons, and Pranayama techniques. He believes that "Yoga is not limited to the mat β€” it is the art of living with balance, wisdom, and compassion." With each presence, Anand Ji guides students gently on the path of self-awareness, harmony, and inner transformation.

  • Expert in Hatha and Ashtanga methodology
  • Students appreciate his approachable, clear teaching style
  • Known for his generous relatable ideas and straightforward delivery
Manju Mehra

Manju Mehra

Pranayama & Meditation Teacher

Manju Mehra β€” Pranayama, Meditation & Mindfulness

Manju Ji makes a 1-Year Yoga Certification Course from Stanford University, followed by advanced studies at the International Yoga Institute in Rishikesh. She is the co-founder of India Yoga Ashram and contributes extensively to the curriculum, teacher training and student well-being. Her journey began seeking yoga to strengthen her own body, mind, and consciousness β€” and she turned that experience into a life of teaching.

Through Asana, Pranayama, Ashtanga Yoga, and Pranayama, Manju Ji's teaching style focuses on breath meditation, pranayama, and wellness. These sessions are designed to awaken the inner teacher in every student. The practice of continuous self-training enables her to consistently teach students at advanced levels on stage.

  • Specialist in Pranayama and Meditation techniques
  • Creates a deeply nurturing and safe learning environment
  • Known for her warmth, presence, and compassionate guidance
Bhooparaj Meena

Bhooparaj Meena

Yoga & Ayurveda Teacher

Bhooparaj Meena β€” Yoga & Holistic Wellness

From Rajasthan, Bhooparaj Ji brings rich Ayurvedic knowledge and holistic wellness practices that complement every yoga journey at IYA. His background in Ayurveda and traditional Indian wellness systems enables him to offer guidance that goes beyond the yoga mat β€” helping students understand how diet, lifestyle, and daily routine support the practice of yoga.

  • Deep expertise in Ayurveda and yoga integration
  • Guides students in understanding sattvic lifestyle
  • Approachable, patient, and deeply knowledgeable
Nourishment & Stay

Food & Accommodation

Sattvic food is not just nourishment for the body β€” it nourishes the mind and supports deeper yoga practice. Every meal at IYA is prepared with love and mindfulness.

Our Sattvic Kitchen

At India Yoga Ashram we believe that you are what you eat. Our food is light, fresh, and plant-based β€” carefully chosen to support digestion, energy balance, and mental clarity. We avoid all processed food and prepare everything fresh using seasonal ingredients and traditional Himalayan recipes.

"When food is pure, the mind becomes pure." β€” Ancient yogic wisdom

Sattvic Breakfast
Sattvic Lunch Thali

100% Plant-Based

All meals are vegetarian/vegan, sattvic, and free from stimulants.

Fresh & Seasonal

Locally sourced, seasonal vegetables and grains cooked daily.

Daily Meal Schedule

Breakfast β€” 7:30 AM
Morning Nourishment
  • Herbal tea / Ginger lemon tea
  • Seasonal vegetables (sautΓ©ed)
  • Dal / Corn preparation
  • Fresh salad & chutneys
  • A small amount of pure ghee
Lunch β€” 12:30 PM
Hearty Midday Meal
  • Rice (basmati / brown)
  • Seasonal vegetables (2–3 varieties)
  • Dal / Corn β€” Provides long-lasting energy
  • Roti (whole wheat chapati)
  • Fresh chutney & salad
Light Snacks β€” 4:30 PM
Afternoon Refreshment
  • Herbal tea / Tulsi tea
  • Light seasonal snacks
Light Dinner β€” 6:30 PM
Evening Lightness
  • Light soup / khichdi
  • Simple, easy-to-digest ingredients
  • Promotes long-lasting energy for evening practice

Peaceful Ashram Accommodation

Private Room
Shared Room
Wellness Room

Private Rooms

Private, comfortable rooms with mountain or garden views for your personal retreat experience.

Shared Rooms

Well-maintained shared dormitories for a community experience at a comfortable rate.

Mountain Views

Himalayan mountain and Ganga River views that inspire your morning meditation practice.

Yoga Hall & Garden

Purpose-built yoga shala, meditation garden, and community spaces for practice and reflection.

Code of Conduct

Ashram Guidelines

To maintain the sacred and peaceful atmosphere of IYA, we ask all students and guests to honor these simple guidelines with an open heart.

  • Maintain silence during morning meditation hours (5–7 AM)
  • Dress modestly and respectfully within ashram premises
  • No alcohol, tobacco, or non-vegetarian food on ashram grounds
  • Attend sessions punctually β€” yoga begins with discipline
  • Respect all teachers, fellow students, and ashram staff
  • Keep your personal space and shared areas clean
  • Electronic devices on silent mode during classes
  • Lights out by 10:00 PM to support early morning practice
  • Practice ahimsa (non-violence) in thought, word, and deed
  • Inform teachers of any physical limitations or injuries

The Spirit of the Ashram

"India Yoga Ashram is a living experiment in yogic consciousness. We believe the conduct we maintain outside the yoga mat is equally β€” if not more β€” important than the practice on it."

Our code of conduct is not a set of rules imposed from outside β€” it is an invitation to step into a more conscious, compassionate way of living. Every guideline flows naturally from the yogic principle of Ahimsa (non-harm).

ΰ₯

"Come with an open heart, leave with a transformed spirit."
β€” Sagar Khanduri, Founder

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before joining us at India Yoga Ashram.

Do I need prior yoga experience to join?

Absolutely not! We welcome complete beginners with open arms. Our teachers are experienced in guiding students of all levels β€” from first-timers to advanced practitioners. You only need an open heart and a willingness to learn.

What is included in the retreat price?

Retreat prices typically include accommodation (shared or private, depending on your choice), three sattvic meals per day, all yoga and meditation sessions, pranayama classes, and any scheduled excursions or special sessions listed in the program. Please check individual retreat pages for specifics.

How do I book a retreat or class at IYA?

You can book directly through our Book Now page or contact us via email or WhatsApp. An advance booking deposit is required to secure your spot. Once received, you will get a booking confirmation letter within 24–48 hours.

What should I bring to the ashram?

Comfortable, modest yoga clothing; a light shawl or layer for meditation; personal toiletries; any medications you need; a journal for reflections; and an open, curious mind. We provide yoga mats, props, and all necessary practice equipment. We recommend leaving heavy electronic devices at home to immerse fully in the experience.

Is the food suitable for dietary restrictions?

Our food is 100% vegetarian and sattvic. We can accommodate most dietary requirements including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free with advance notice. Please mention any dietary needs at the time of booking so we can plan accordingly.

How far is IYA from Rishikesh city center?

India Yoga Ashram is located approximately 15 minutes from the main Rishikesh city centre, situated near the Ganga River in a peaceful, nature-surrounded setting away from the busy tourist areas. This gives students a genuinely calm environment while still being close to essential amenities.

Can I attend drop-in classes without booking in advance?

Yes, we offer drop-in classes for travellers and visitors passing through Rishikesh. However, we recommend booking in advance through our website or WhatsApp to ensure a spot, as classes can fill up during peak seasons (October–March and June–August).

Do you offer online yoga classes?

Yes! We offer both online and offline monthly yoga classes. You can practise from anywhere in the world through our guided online sessions. We also offer private one-on-one online sessions for students seeking personalised guidance. Visit our Monthly Classes page for details and registration.

Begin Your Journey

Ready to Experience
Ashram Life?

Come as a guest, leave as family. Book your stay at India Yoga Ashram and discover the transformative power of authentic yoga in Rishikesh.