Rishikesh is possibly the Yoga Capital of the World, with more than 500 yoga schools. Among these many choices, one has taken root to become the leading yoga retreat center in Rishikesh among spiritual seekers, wellness travelers, and yoga teachers in the making.

However, even in this pool, which is already rich, Punyah Yoga provides something special. This experience is genuine, engaging, and transformative in its authenticity, and not just some basic classes. Situated in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas and blessed by the holy Ganga, Punyah Yoga is a quiet place that lets a student reach new grounds of understanding and touch the reality 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.

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.