Punyah Yoga: A World-Class Yoga Destination in Rishikesh, India

Rishikesh, often referred to as the Yoga Capital of the World, is home to over 500 yoga schools. Yet, amidst this abundance, Punyah Yoga offers something truly exceptional — an authentic, immersive, and transformative experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and embraced by the sacred Ganga, Punyah Yoga stands as a sanctuary for those seeking to deepen their practice and connect with the essence of yoga.

Why Rishikesh?

Rishikesh is not just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of yoga. The chants from nearby temples, the calming presence of the river, and the vibrant energy of spiritual seekers create a setting unlike any other. Practicing here is an opportunity to experience yoga in its most authentic form — where the teachings are deeply rooted in tradition and passed down with reverence.

The Punyah Yoga Experience

At Punyah Yoga, we believe yoga is a way of life. Our programs are designed not only to refine your physical practice but also to cultivate mindfulness, inner stillness, and self-awareness.

Here’s what makes Punyah Yoga a world-class choice:

• Experienced Instructors: Learn from seasoned teachers with years of dedicated practice. Our instructors offer personalized guidance, ensuring every student feels supported in their journey.
• Authentic Teachings: Rooted in traditional Hatha and Ashtanga yoga, our courses provide a profound understanding of asanas, pranayama, meditation, and yoga philosophy.
• Holistic Environment: From comfortable boutique accommodations to nourishing vegetarian meals at Punyah Café, every aspect of your stay supports your well-being.
• Small Class Sizes: Experience intimate, focused sessions that encourage growth and personal attention.
• Spiritual Excursions: Deepen your understanding of yoga’s cultural heritage with visits to sacred sites, sunrise yoga by the Ganga, and temple tours.

Our Offerings

• 200-Hour, 300-Hour & 500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses (YTTC): Certified by Yoga Alliance, ideal for aspiring teachers and dedicated practitioners.
• 100-Hour Yoga Courses: A short but immersive option to strengthen your personal practice.
• Daily Drop-In Classes: Join us for traditional Ashtanga or Hatha Yoga guided by experienced instructors.
• Meditation & Pranayama: Cultivate inner peace and deepen your breathwork through dedicated sessions.

Your Stay at Punyah Residency

Your yoga journey is complemented by a comfortable and serene stay at Punyah Residency, our boutique accommodation. Enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, all designed to provide a peaceful retreat after a day of practice. Whether relaxing on your private terrace or savoring wholesome meals, you’ll find every element aligned to support your growth.

Why Punyah Yoga?

Choosing Punyah Yoga means choosing a space where tradition meets modernity, where self-exploration is encouraged, and where community blossoms. Our commitment to authenticity and mindful teaching ensures that your time with us is not just a learning experience but a life-enriching one.

Begin Your Journey

Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or seeking to refine your practice, Punyah Yoga invites you to embark on a transformative path. Discover the essence of yoga, embrace the wisdom of ancient teachings, and experience the joy of inner stillness.

Your journey begins here. Welcome to Punyah Yoga — your world-class yoga destination in Rishikesh.

Resources

What exactly is 200 hour yoga teacher training?

What exactly is 200 hour yoga teacher training?

Are you wondering what a 200 hour yoga teacher training is? You're in the right place. We know that it may seem arbitrary—why 200 hours? Why not more or less? And how does this make someone a yoga teacher?

200 hours is the amount of time Yoga Alliance, the world's largest nonprofit association representing the yoga community—with over 7,000 Registered Yoga Schools (RYS) and more than 100,000 Registered Yoga Teachers (RYT) as of April 2020—has designated as necessary for a yoga teacher to become certified.

While there are trainings for 50 or 100 hours, those do not certify you to teach yoga internationally. They are often considered continuing education or introductory courses for those unsure about becoming a yoga teacher.

So what is a 200 hour yoga teacher training like? Where does this method come from? You have questions. We have answers. Read on!

A 200 hour yoga teacher training offers a glimpse into Indian traditional culture under the Gurukul system and its vast spiritual practices. India is a land of seekers and spirituality, recognized for its ancient wisdom and yogic traditions. Many yogis from diverse backgrounds have transcended physical and psychological dimensions, attaining moksha (liberation).

India is also the land where Shiva, the Adiyogi, realized the highest life force in the Shunya state. Known as the creator and first teacher of yoga, his influence is still experienced across India. Spirituality and mysticism are deeply embedded in every region.

Traditionally, Brahmins operated Gurukuls—ashrams where students studied the Vedas, Upanishads, and Shastras, gaining profound insights into the body, mind, and soul.

The Gurukul routine included asanas, pranayama, kriyas, meditation, scriptural study, and karma yoga. This disciplined path was tailored for spiritual seekers rather than ordinary people.

Today’s 200 hour training is a modern adaptation of that system. While life is faster and more complex, those with deep inner inquiry can find answers and transformation through such a course.

The training embodies the Gurukul parampara (lineage) where students live in an ashram environment, guided by a lead teacher with authentic knowledge passed from their guru.

It includes studies of asana, pranayama, yogic kriyas, yoga philosophy, yoga nidra, human anatomy, and meditation—cultivating spiritual growth and clarity about material vs spiritual life.

The difference between the spiritual world and material world:

Material world: Life force acts outward—focused on survival, creation, and accumulation. Over time, this is perceived as ultimate reality, leading to entanglement and suffering.

Spiritual world: Life force moves inward—focused on self-realization. With awareness and control of inner energies, one can live harmoniously in the material world.

The core of a 200 hour training lies in the wisdom passed down by realized masters. Though modern courses are condensed, they still offer powerful insight and personal transformation.

Certificates, exams, and theoretical/practical modules are part of the structure, but the essence is spiritual awakening.

A yoga teacher training course can truly change your life.

If you have more questions about yoga teacher training, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Yoga

Will A 200 Hours Yoga Teacher Training Make Me A Yoga Teacher?

Nowadays in the yoga world, many traditions of yoga have started debating the Yoga Teacher Training YTT certification and its legitimacy. It is a legitimate question why do yoga teacher training schools provide a yoga teacher certificate just after doing a one-month-long yoga teacher training course? Or after completing 200 hours of study?

 

The world is moving faster than ever. The guru-disciple relationship used to be considered a lifelong process, and a life-long commitment. A student would stay in Gurukul settings (the house of guru) to progress with self-development knowledge through spiritual practices for years.

 

Practically it is not possible for every human being to be going to a Gurukul system in this period of time. 

 

Today, yoga is for everyone. It is not just for those who cloister themselves in ashrams or with a guru. Therefore, there are certain short-term courses in yoga that have been formulated to compile the knowledge of yoga, which comes from generations, to provide one a glimpse of how yoga was practiced. A 200-hour yoga teacher training course is a beautiful compilation of ancient knowledge.

 

One should not say that the yogic practice is my way or your way. It is what it is. Even the knowledge from the lineage (passing from one to another generation) can not be considered as the only way to attend the spiritual path. That is what has been happening in the present world that one lineage is unable to accept the other in a harmonious way. 

 

First, we need to understand why are we practicing yoga?

 

Yoga is not merely a performance of asana (postures) as how it is presented in today's world. With millions of photos of yoga asana on social media or on Google, it has been misleading. While yoga undoubtedly does have the ability and tendency to make ones body open up to its deepest level and to bring a sense of calmness in the mind, but here the topic goes a bit deeper: 

 

A soul which acquires a physical body and gains a human life, carries impressions which we call samskaras, which are the form of various desires or pending tasks.

 

As in school if we do not complete our homework the teacher will not let us proceed to the next subject, similarly, the samskaras are our pending homework that are due to be completed, before we can progress. The only challenge here is to know what they are, as once a condition is diagnosed then only cure is possible. To recognize that the practice of yoga comes into play. 

 

Any branch of yoga you choose, its literal job is to create and develop an incredible sense of awareness within oneself. This awareness one develops does all the required job for our soul. Whether it is meditation, asana, pranayama, yoga Nidra, or a yoga philosophy you pick whichever you wish and its ultimate job is to build awareness. 

 

For example Buddha mostly meditated during his life, and to make the most out of it he did the necessary changes to free himself from old impressions. We rarely talk about his deep longing and intensity to know himself.

 

The process of building such awareness requires enormous self-work and a deep longing within oneself. Its intensity is much much dense than anything. It is something that is incomparable. The burning of this knowing is the only way to truly transform a human life. 

 

Now comes the important question& can a 200 hours yoga teachers training, a master degree, or five years of continuous asana practice, or 10 years of living in complete silence, or a life long sanyasi or a monk life, will that be enough to achieve this? 

 

Honestly speaking any of the above or beyond can take you there. It only matters which path you connect with. 

 

There is no system that guarantees a return in yoga. It is totally your investment to know yourself. 

 

The founder of Punyah Yoga, Hemant Singh, deeply feels that the 200 hours of yoga teacher training course has been misunderstood by many. 

 

When you undertake any 200-hour yoga teacher training program or course, is shows you a way of living to make yourself disciplined towards yourself. It is done through waking up early in the morning, following the curriculum physical exercise, breath, theory, wakeful rest, dhyana etc. 

Not to forget again that these are all tools to develop heightened awareness to look within.

 

The rewards are offered after accomplishing the four weeks of intense training and it simply announces to the world that a person has completed a certain number of hours under a lead teacher. A seeker (lead teacher) knows that those hours are the guidelines to follow when he isn't there. He has shown you the way, walking on the path is entirely up to you.

 

The one who undergoes the 200 hour yoga teacher training must naturally understand that 200 hours are not there only to make you a yoga teacher, but as a tool to work upon yourself daily and to complete the pending homework from previous lives. During that process, perhaps you share a bit to the world in the form of teaching. 

 

But these days a bit too much emphasis is given to this. A 200 hours yoga teacher trainig course is not enough to become a yoga teacher. We firmly believe that a course such as this goes beyond just enabling you to be a yoga teacher.

Lifestyle

Ashtanga Yoga At Punyah Yoga

There are many yoga studios and shalas in Rishikesh that offer Ashtanga courses. However, not all strictly teach according to tradition and lineage.

At Punyah Yoga, we are one of the few in Rishikesh that teach Ashtanga Yoga stringently as taught by Pattabhi Jois. We teach as it was taught with no modifications. We do not skip postures, nor do we change asanas.

Students of our Ashtanga classes are expected to attempt every asana—even the most difficult postures. There is also Sanskrit counting and focus is on the breath and on gazing points.

The founder of Punyah Yoga, Hemant Singh, reminds students that yoga is a breathing exercise with awareness. Ashtanga is no different.

“Yoga is an internal practice. The rest is just a circus.” — Sri K. Pattabhi Jois

What Is Ashtanga?

Ever wondered what Ashtanga Yoga is? Let us fill you in!

Ashtanga Yoga was founded in the 20th century by Pattabhi Jois in India. With his guru, Krishnacharya, Pattabhi Jois developed four series of asanas: the Primary, the Intermediate, Advanced Series A, and Advanced Series B.

The primary series is called Yoga Chikitsa (yoga therapy). The intermediate series is Nadi Shodhana (nerve purification). The advanced series, Sthira Bhaga, means centering of strength.

Each series is comprised of a set sequence of asanas which students memorize.

Ashtanga Yoga is known to be very athletic and energetic as asanas are linked with breathing. It’s a highly specific yoga practice in which every count, every inhale, every exhale is accounted for.

What Are Ashtanga Classes Like?

There are two different ways Ashtanga Yoga is taught: led and Mysore style.

In led classes, the teacher stands at the front and announces the sequence of asanas while counting to pace the students. The teacher may also offer hands-on adjustments.

In Mysore style classes, the teacher simply says, “Begin.” Sometimes the students begin with a mantra, then individually go through the sequence at their own pace. Printed charts may be available for reference.

What’s In A Name?

The name “Mysore Style” comes from the town where Pattabhi Jois lived and taught Ashtanga in India. His grandson, Sharath Jois, continues teaching Ashtanga in Mysore, preserving its traditional roots.

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Why should you choose Punyah Yoga as your yoga teacher training school?

If you've landed here, it means you're trying to decide which yoga teacher training school is right for you. We understand that this is a difficult, life-changing decision. With thousands of yoga schools globally—and hundreds in Rishikesh alone—the information can feel overwhelming.

If you'd like to know why you should choose Punyah Yoga over others, you're in the right place—and we're so glad you're here.

Punyah Yoga, located in Rishikesh, India, was founded by devout practitioner Hemant Singh. The school opened in January 2019 with a mission to share yogic wisdom that Hemant has personally experienced—to minimize suffering and guide individuals to their deepest selves.

Once this internal work is done, a person can experience a miracle and live in harmony.

Here at Punyah Yoga, the physical practices (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), philosophical teachings (from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Vedanta, and the Bhagavad Gita), and stillness practices (dhyana and yoga nidra) are taught in a purely traditional manner.

All of our teachers are deeply devoted practitioners and experts in their fields.

What is a devoted practitioner? When an action is performed wholeheartedly—with mind, body, and soul—it becomes devotional. The practitioner becomes a living example of that devotion.

Our teachers are academically qualified and grounded in spiritual practice. They have undergone years of self-practice and initiation before becoming instructors.

What gives us satisfaction:

• When a student commits to working as hard as we do.
• When a student seeks self-transformation and puts in effort.
• When we see spiritual growth in our students.

We invite you to join us at Punyah Yoga. We hope this gives you a glimpse into what makes us special and why we might be the right school for your yoga certification.

If you have any questions, we’re here to serve you.

Resources

Are you struggling to choose the right school for a yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India?

In Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world, there are over 500 yoga teacher training schools. Which yoga school is right for you? We understand how much time it takes to visit all the websites, read all the reviews, and then to still realize that there are hundreds you haven’t even looked at yet!

Don’t worry. We are here to help and guide you in understanding a few basics that will help you find the right yoga school in Rishikesh.

For starters, have you heard of the Yoga Alliance? It’s where yoga schools and teachers worldwide register their programs and certifications. Being Yoga Alliance certified means the school follows global standards.

Deciding whether that’s important to you is a good first step. Then, choose a yoga style. Rishikesh schools offer many styles, so it’s essential to find what resonates with you.

1 – Choose a style that you resonate with the most

Have you tried hatha, vinyasa, Ashtanga, or other styles? Experiment locally or online to discover what feels right.

2 – Word of mouth

Ask friends or colleagues who’ve trained in Rishikesh. No connections? Look to Facebook groups or hashtags like #rishikeshyogateachertraining.

3 – Take drop-in classes if you can

If you arrive early in Rishikesh, drop-in classes offer a chance to assess teaching quality, the environment, food, accommodation, and the lead teacher's energy.

A real teacher may challenge you—not pamper you—to help bring out your best. The discomfort can be part of growth.

4 – Take online classes or engage online with yoga schools

Check YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for daily content from schools. Ask questions or attend online classes—live or pre-recorded—to get a sense of the teacher’s style.

5 – Keep an eye on the lead teacher

Some schools don’t have E-RYT-certified teachers (teachers with 1000+ hours of training). Avoid those. Review teacher profiles for E-RYT or RYT credentials and actual teaching experience.

We hope these five tips help you choose the right yoga school in Rishikesh. It’s a big decision, and we’re here to support your yoga journey. Feel free to reach out with questions!

Lifestyle

Significance of Sattvic Meal

Who is cooking your food?

All of our teacher training certification programs and courses come with food and accommodation included. Punyah Yoga provides two meals a day for our students: brunch and dinner. These two meals are substantial and are part of the yogic diet. We know you might have some qualms or worries about the food here, so we wanted to share more about the provided meals and about who is cooking your food.

Meet The Head Chef Who Cooks Up A Storm!

1. The Lotus Pose

Meet Chandra Adhikari. Chandra, who commonly goes by her nickname Channa, is the mastermind behind all the culinary delights at Punyah Yoga. She learned to cook from her mother and eventually fell in love with the kitchen at twelve years old. Channa has a vast wealth of knowledge about every ingredient she cooks with. Able to adapt to almost any dietary restriction, she also knows how to prepare food that is nourishing to the yogic body.

Chandra takes immense care to prepare food for the students that will keep them healthy and sustain them for their intensive yoga practice and study. She is thoroughly educated in Ayurvedic cooking and is actively conscious of every ingredient she uses. Thus, she does not cook with onion or garlic because they are 'Rajasik food'. In Ayurveda, Rajasik food is believed to agitate the mind and is counterproductive to the practice of meditation and yoga.

What Is The Food Like?

Food served at Punyah Yoga is not spicy, usually is not fried in oil, devoid of garlic and onion, and is prepared according to Ayurvedic beliefs and practices. You can expect your meals to be filling and immensely nourishing. They are predominantly vegan meals, with only the occasional dish including curd, a milk product. If a student has a specific dietary restriction (vegan, gluten-free, or allergies), Chandra is able to cater to those needs.

Chandra uses specific ingredients to alkalize food such as digestive seeds and herbs. She is conscious of what type of metal pot she cooks in to make sure the food retains its minerals, as per Ayurveda’s belief system.

Chandra also sources most of her ingredients from nearby Himalayan villages. She only purchases products that have been made in India and tries to purchase as many organic and locally sourced ingredients as possible.

What Our Students Say

Our students habitually rave about the cooking here. We keep hearing “feeling full while not feeling heavy.” They usually make comments of surprise about how two meals are enough and how they don’t feel hungry but they don’t feel overly full. Chandra has achieved the perfect balance in her cooking to sustain the students through their yoga teacher training course.

Chandra is also happy to teach cooking classes to her students and to share her knowledge of Ayurveda and Indian cuisine.

Resources

The Story Behind The Name "Punyah Yoga"

How did Punyah Yoga Get its Name?

When the founders of Punyah Yoga decided to open a yoga shala in Rishikesh, they had quite a brainstorming session! What would be the perfect name for the shala? There were many different ideas on the table, and weeks went by as they discussed the merits of each. But when the word Punyah was brought up one day, it was immediately seen as the perfect fit.

In India, the word punyah is very common. Most parents will say it to their children every day. When going to visit a temple, perform a puja ceremony, or fast for a spiritual purpose—they’ll often say they are doing punyah karma. It’s also used when engaging in service, prayer, or charity work.

Punyah is Sanskrit for “Supremely Pure.”

In the end, we decided to name our yoga shala Punyah Yoga so that we can dedicate ourselves to supremely pure yoga practice and eminently pure yoga teachings. We aspire to have punyah karma, punyah thoughts, and punyah actions. By naming the shala this way, we accept the responsibility of embodying the depth of this word.

Here at Punyah Yoga, we believe in conscious thinking and mindful living. From the organic vegan/vegetarian food we prepare to the design of the yoga shala, we’ve made conscious efforts so that all who enter Punyah Yoga feel at home. May you join us here in our clean and spiritual space and experience the energy we strive to infuse into this place.

Resources

Is A Yoga Teacher Training In India Right For You?

“What should I expect?” is one of the many questions people around the world ask before booking a course with us or attending a class. We know that India is likely very far from your home—Australia, Russia, and the United States are indeed quite distant—and it's natural to have questions before committing to travel.

Here at Punyah Yoga, we prioritize the comfort of our students and strive to create an environment that is both relaxing and spiritually enriching. We maintain a serene atmosphere and foster open discussions. To accommodate those accustomed to Western standards, our facilities are clean and fully equipped with hot water and proper toilets.

So you ask, “Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me?” It depends on your priorities. If you are excited to complete your course in Rishikesh—the Yoga Capital of the World—then you’re in the right place. While India may seem overwhelming, Rishikesh is a holy and tourist-friendly city. Most people speak English well, and the local community is used to welcoming thousands of Western travelers. It's a safe and accessible place, with our shala facing the mountainside and only a 5-minute walk from the Ganges River.

Again, you may wonder, “Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me?” Consider this: you’ll learn from teachers rooted in tradition, who truly embody the yogic path. Yoga isn’t just a 1-2 hour daily workout; it's a 24/7 practice, a lifestyle, and a philosophy. These teachers offer a gateway to deep, authentic yoga.

We acknowledge that coming from places like Cairo, Paris, or Barcelona can feel intimidating. But we are committed to making you feel at home. We guarantee that you’ll leave our courses transformed—in your body, heart, and mind—becoming a better student, teacher, and human being.

“Is a yoga teacher training in India right for me?” — We hope the answer is yes.

Namaste.
The Punyah Yoga Family

Yoga

Yoga Teacher Trainings Open the Door to Ultimate Reality

In yoga, ignorance literally means lack of knowledge.

The question arises: what is this lack of knowledge?

In yoga, a popular mantra gives us a profound understanding:

Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya |
Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya |
Mrtyor-Maa Amrtam Gamaya |
Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih |

This mantra is a deep prayer.

It asks to be led from untruth to truth, darkness to light, mortality to immortality. It seeks the ultimate wisdom about the eternal and the temporary, the perishable and the imperishable.

One prays to the source of creation to lift them above illusion. Actions done without grounding in the ultimate reality are rooted in ignorance.

The world offers many sensual pleasures. Often, our lives are run by these pleasures and desires. Because our senses are dominated by an ignorant mind (or vice versa), we are unable to see true reality.

This inability to perceive reality is illusion—and it is ignorance.

Illusion may seem pleasing and comforting, but it is never truly fulfilling or satisfying.

Deep indulgence in illusion leads to the suffering we see in the world today.

We may not be hungry, but we eat through sight, smell, and taste. We may not need money, but by seeing others enjoy it, we begin to crave it. These influences are not just physical—mental activities like overthinking can also trap us. Overthinking leads to imagined outcomes and suffering.

Is this truly an enhanced way of living?

So how do we overcome this and live in boundless possibility?

When we build a constant practice of self-inquiry—when we genuinely ask what we are truly looking for—we begin the journey out of ignorance.

Often, it is through cycles of chasing pleasures and repeating patterns that the inner voice finally speaks. Then, we start to uncover the ultimate truth: what lasts and what doesn't.

Achieving this takes dedicated practice—through asana, yoga nidra, meditation, or even simple moments of awareness. The ultimate aim is to reach the deepest levels of chitta (consciousness).

Once you achieve this, you step out of the “rat race” and the influences of the outer world. You remain the same person, but with a higher perspective—untouched and unwavering. That awareness clears the clouds and reveals the clear sky.

Our yoga teacher training in Rishikesh—birthplace of yoga—is not just a 200-hour course. It is a powerful invitation for students to discover their real selves. The only truth is that which is highest, and it is incomparable.

Hemant Singh, founder of our school and shala, deeply believes that investing in self-knowledge is timeless. It transcends all material value.

Just as water comes alive when it touches the soil, we too come alive when we reconnect with our inner being.

If you feel disconnected from yourself in today’s material world, this 200-hour teacher training is a priceless tool. It awakens awareness and rekindles your spirit.

We hope you consider joining us for a 200-hour yoga teacher training in Rishikesh. It would be an honor to welcome you.

Resources

Get to Know Punyah Senior Yoga Teacher: Pratap Singh

Certifications completed:

• Masters in Yoga Science from Uttarakhand Sanskrit University
• 500 Hours TTC from Rishikesh

Main Style Practiced:

Ashtanga Vinyasa and Hatha Yoga

How many years have you been practicing?

I have been practicing since the beginning of 2015. I practiced for two years in university where I learned traditional Hatha Yoga, and studied yoga philosophy, anatomy, and various therapies and kriyas. After that, I completed a 200-hour TTC in Ashtanga Yoga and continued practicing Ashtanga. I have also completed a 300-hour training in Hatha and Ashtanga.

What does your practice include?

My practice begins early in the morning with yogic kriyas. I start with morning rituals such as prayer and chanting mantras before sunrise, known as Brahma Muhurtham—considered the best time to worship. It is peaceful and undisturbed. I then practice Ashtanga Yoga and include breathing exercises and short meditations before and after practice.

Why do you practice yoga or meditation?

Yoga brings discipline and energy into my life. It grounds me and brings balance to my physical and mental state.

What benefits have you received from your practice?

Yoga has helped me become more disciplined, grow my wisdom, and build a strong foundation of faith. It has developed clarity in both body and mind.

What skills do you have (anatomy, massage, etc)?

I studied the fundamental principles of Yoga Anatomy, which are important in asana practice.

What makes your class different from "exercise" classes?

Yoga becomes exercise when it stays at the physical level. But true asana goes beyond, moving from the external to internal through the breath. In yoga, breath is the bridge between body and mind.

What makes you passionate about yoga?

Rishikesh, the world capital of yoga, and the healing energy of the Ganges inspire me. This spiritual environment motivates me to live and teach yoga.

What makes you happy?

Fulfilling my duties in my yoga journey.

What's the best advice you could give to a seeker?

Be consistent. Do your duties every day for your physical and mental health.

Facebook page URL: pratapsinghyoga

Instagram page URL: pratapsinghyoga

Yoga Alliance Teacher: Yes

Yoga

How to Know if You Are Ready for Yoga Training in Rishikesh?

In Chapter 1 (Samadhi Pada), the first sutra (1.1) of Patanjali says:

"Atha Yoganushasanam"

This is translated as: Now, yoga. Or, Now, we learn the discipline of yoga.

The sage Patanjali is the renowned author of the Yoga Sutras. In the very first sutra, he begins with the word "NOW," which may seem simple but carries deep significance.

Why would a great intellect like Patanjali begin a profound text with the word "Now"? Scholars interpret this as indicating "eligibility"—that one must be ready to begin yoga.

Just as certain qualifications are needed to enter university, get a job, or marry, Patanjali implies that one must meet a certain readiness to begin the path of yoga.

When you no longer find satisfaction in external pleasures and begin to crave inner peace, your mind is ready for a life of joy and awareness.

When you seek to be free from the six enemies of the mind—kama (lust), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), mada (arrogance), moha (delusion), and matsarya (jealousy)—you are ready to pursue your ultimate self.

Such a person is eligible to commence the path of yoga. For them, Patanjali said, "Now… when you have a mind like this, yoga will blossom."

True yoga begins with NOW. Patanjali, in his simplicity, captures a powerful prerequisite for yogic transformation.

In yoga teacher trainings—whether your goal is to teach or simply deepen your practice—the real journey begins when you embody the above qualities. But even if you haven’t fully experienced them yet, yoga will still happen, though the depth of surrender may come gradually.

When you are ready for yoga training, discipline and focus will come naturally. Commitment will feel effortless. But if you're not yet ready, challenges may arise immediately.

Our yoga teacher training in Rishikesh includes traditional Ashtanga Yoga, pranayama, yoga philosophy, meditation, yoga nidra, mantra chanting, and Ayurveda. These help awaken inner awareness and conscious living.

To absorb this fully, one must develop the readiness described by Patanjali.

This raises an important question within: are we truly ready to take up real yoga, or do we need more time for reflection and inner preparation?

If something awakened within you while reading this, maybe you are ready for a yoga teacher training in Rishikesh with us.

If you're asking yourself, “Am I ready to do a yoga teacher training?”—the answer lies in your heart. Only you can answer it.

If you are still wondering, “Am I ready to do a yoga teacher training?”—sit in silence, meditate, and wait for the answer to bloom in your quiet mind.

If the answer still doesn’t come, continue sitting in stillness—day after day, week after week—until clarity arises. Not all answers come quickly. Not everything should be rushed. Your truth is within. Be still. Be patient. Listen.

If you have any questions or thoughts to share, our team at Punyah Yoga is here to support you.

Yoga

Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh is commonly referred to as the Yoga Capital of the World. But to some, Rishikesh is just another city in India—a far-off country that may feel intimidating to visit.

Many people, when considering doing yoga in India, are unsure about the teaching style. They may only be familiar with Western yoga classes and teachers. Arriving in a new country, with new teachers, and a new yoga shala can bring uncertainty.

We at Punyah Yoga wanted to share our perspective on what yoga in Rishikesh is really like. Whether or not you take a course with us, we hope this gives you insight into the true nature of yoga here.

1. The Layout

Rishikesh is divided into three areas: Laxman Jhula, Tapovan, and Ram Jhula. These are separated by bridges over the sacred Ganges River.

- Laxman Jhula: A quaint area along the river with one main street
- Tapovan: A densely packed hill area
- Ram Jhula: More sprawling, filled with narrow winding side streets

Each area offers a rich yoga experience. None is better than the other—it depends on the atmosphere you’re seeking.

The Yoga Studios

You’ll find hundreds—possibly thousands—of yoga studios across Rishikesh. It seems you can’t walk 10 meters without seeing one. Each studio may focus on a different style: Iyengar, Ashtanga, Hatha, or Vinyasa.

At Punyah Yoga, we specialize in Ashtanga Yoga and also offer Hatha Yoga.

The Yoga Teachers

Teachers in Rishikesh typically speak very good English. They expect students to be fully present and dedicated to their practice. You may find Rishikesh teachers stricter than Western ones—with a powerful presence and deep knowledge of every asana.

Expect transformational insights and precise physical adjustments that elevate your practice to the next level.

The Yoga Energy

Most travelers who come to Rishikesh are here for yoga, so you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people from around the world. In cafés and restaurants, you’ll hear conversations about yoga teacher trainings, favorite teachers, and spiritual growth.

Even if you’re not talking yourself, you’ll hear yoga wisdom floating around you. It’s a magical place to connect and expand your circle.

The Yoga Teacher Trainings

Most teacher trainings in Rishikesh are intensive—about 10 hours a day for 30 days. For a 200-hour training, you’ll get breaks for meals and one day off each week to rest or explore. Expect daily hours of asana, philosophy, meditation, anatomy, and history. It’s demanding but deeply rewarding.

You’ll be fully immersed in yoga culture. The training fills you with ancient wisdom and life-changing experience.

We hope this guide helps you understand what yoga in Rishikesh is truly like. And of course, we hope you consider Punyah Yoga as your training school. We’re proud to be one of the most respected yoga shalas in the area—and we’d love to guide your journey.

Questions or thoughts? Drop us a line at info@punyahyoga.com or message us via social media.