Certificate Course in Yoga at Kanyakumari

About this retreat

A 31-day, 30-night yoga course at Vivekananda Kendra in Vivekanandapuram, at the southern tip of India. Lessons mix traditional teaching with practice and are open to beginners, experienced learners and anyone drawn to spiritual growth. With trained instructors you learn yogasanas, pranayama and relaxation, and you practise meditation and japa. You also study Yoga Darshana, the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of great Indian leaders. The group joins in chanting of stotras, bhajans and devotional songs, and visits the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Kanyakumari Temple. A certificate is awarded after you pass the course's written exams. Stay is in a shared dormitory with sattvic vegetarian meals.

Benefits

• Learn yogasanas, pranayama and relaxation with trained instructors
• Practise meditation and simple exercises that may help you stay calm and focused
• Learn about Yoga Darshana, the Bhagavad Gita and Indian spiritual teaching
• Join in chanting and devotional singing
• Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Kanyakumari Temple
• A certificate after passing the written exams

Inclusions

• Study and practice of yogasanas and pranayama
• Yogic relaxation methods, japa and meditation techniques
• Study of Yoga Darshana and the Bhagavad Gita
• Simple vegetarian meals
• Shared dormitory accommodation
• Visits to Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Kanyakumari Temple
• Chanting of stotras
• Bhajan Sandhya
• Songs for emotional culture

Exclusions

• Flights, other transport and airport transfers unless stated
• Travel insurance and personal expenses
• Visa fees, permits and travel documents
• Meals outside the schedule
• Alcohol and specialty drinks
• Optional activities, laundry, phone calls, personal shopping, tips and donations
• Therapies not part of the programme, and extra nights
• Sightseeing and excursions outside the schedule
• Medical consultations, prescription medicines and first-aid items
• Arriving early or leaving late, unless arranged beforehand
• Personal yoga mats, props or clothing, unless provided

Accommodation

• Dormitory

Who can join

Open to yoga enthusiasts, beginners and experienced learners, anyone interested in spiritual growth, and anyone who wants simple ways to relax the mind and body.

Frequently asked questions