Embarking on a yoga journey to India is an exciting yet overwhelming experience. The thought of immersing yourself in the roots of yoga, deepening your practice, and learning from experienced teachers can feel like a dream. However, before stepping onto this path, one of the most challenging but crucial steps is choosing the right school or teacher.

With hundreds of options available, the process can be daunting. Whether you are a dedicated practitioner looking to refine your practice or a teacher seeking advanced training, making an informed choice will define your experience. In this guide, I’ll share the key factors that helped me navigate this journey and make the right decisions for a fulfilling and insightful stay in India.

*Ashtanga Sādhana Shala (Mysore, January 2025)*

1. Get Clear on What You Want

Before diving into research, take the time to reflect on your yoga journey so far. How has your practice evolved? Which styles have shaped your approach to yoga? Understanding the methodology and history of these styles can provide a deeper insight into their origins and lineage. Many teachers may share a common style, but their teachings and approaches can differ significantly depending on their own training and influences.

To stay consistent and avoid mixing too many different methodologies, it’s helpful to trace your teachers' lineages. Ask your current teachers who they have studied with and which mentors have had the biggest impact on their practice. This can guide you toward schools and teachers that align with the practice you are already developing.

For my trip, I wanted a teacher training program designed for experienced teachers, as well as a mentor to support my personal practice. I was also recovering from a knee injury, which meant I needed a practice that would allow me to rebuild my strength gradually. Additionally, I wanted to explore a new part of India, and since I longed for warm weather, I decided to head south. With these priorities in mind, I was able to focus my search effectively.

2. Ask Your Circle for Recommendations

Google searches can be overwhelming when it comes to finding yoga schools in India. Many schools don’t have a strong online presence, and scrolling through countless options can feel endless. One of the best ways to start your search is by reaching out to teachers, fellow practitioners, and friends who have studied in India or are planning a trip like you.

Trusted recommendations can lead you to high-quality teachers and Shalas that align with your needs. For my trip, I asked colleagues whose practice and teaching philosophy I respect. Their insights helped me compile a list of schools and teachers worth considering, saving me the stress of endless online research.

3. Certification vs. Self-Practice

Your purpose for traveling to India will influence whether you prioritise certification or self-practice. If you aim to become a certified yoga teacher or advance your credentials, look for schools recognised by organisations like Yoga Alliance, KPJAY or SYC, which issue widely accepted certifications. However, don’t discount the value of studying with well-respected teachers who may not be affiliated with these institutions but have a strong reputation in the yoga community. Whether you pursue a certificate or want to learn from a teacher who inspires you, remember that no paper can guarantee a good teacher. Everything you learn can only be fully integrated in your life when you put it into practice through experiencing it.

“Yoga is 99% practice and 1% theory.” - Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.

On the other hand, if your goal is to deepen your practice without seeking certification, you’ll have more flexibility. Some schools offer structured programs, while others provide drop-in classes that allow you to create your own schedule. During my two-month stay, I spent the first month designing my own routine with Ashtanga, back bending, and philosophy classes. It left me with ample room to fill out my days with side projects I wanted to work on while keeping a consistent practice. In my second month, I focused on Ashtanga practice and completed a back bending apprenticeship, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the practice while building meaningful connections with my classmates.

*Back Bending Teacher Training at Prana Vashya Shala (Mysore, January 2025). We gifted our teacher Vinay Kumar with a Hanuman silver bell for his temple.*

4. Accommodation and Meals

India offers a wide range of accommodation options, from basic rooms to fully furnished apartments. Some teacher training programs include housing and meals, while others require you to arrange these separately. Although living costs in India are significantly lower than in the West, comfort, safety, and hygiene are important factors to consider.

In cities like Mysore, Rishikesh, and Goa, you’ll find plenty of accommodations catering to yoga practitioners. Prices range from 10,000 to 30,000 INR per month, depending on whether you choose a shared room or a private apartment. During my stay in Mysore, I initially looked for a place with a kitchen, thinking I would cook most of my meals. However, I ended up eating out frequently because my neighborhood, Gokulam, had a variety of healthy cafés and restaurants catering to yogis.

Many yoga schools offer sattvic food, which is perfectly suited for the high intensity of training, keeping you nourished and energized. They will cater to allergies or dietary restrictions upon request, ensuring that your meals support your practice without upsetting your stomach. If you choose to eat outside, India has plenty of options for hungry yogis, but be mindful of food safety. The infamous food poisoning is a common part of traveling in India. If it happens, it usually lasts 2-3 days, provided no fever symptoms are present. Falling sick can leave you out of practice and unable to attend classes for at least 1-2 days, so taking precautions, such as eating freshly cooked food and drinking bottled water, is essential.

During my intense practice, besides eating healthy, I was also taking supplements to ensure high energy levels throughout the day and to provide extra protection for joint and muscle health. These were the supplements I took daily—not as a prescription for others but as something to consider researching further: magnesium with collagen, vitamin B-complex, omega-3, zinc, shilajit, and ashwagandha. Each of these helped me maintain my energy, recover from training, and support overall well-being during my stay.

Conclusion

Finding the right yoga school or teacher in India requires clarity, research, and a bit of trust in the process. By defining your goals, seeking recommendations, understanding the certification process, and planning for accommodations, you can create a rewarding and immersive experience that aligns with your yoga journey.

India offers a profound space for self-discovery, but it also presents challenges. Embracing discomfort, adapting to a different way of living, and immersing yourself in the teachings beyond just the physical practice will make your journey truly meaningful. Yoga is much more than asanas—it is a way of life, and India’s spiritual and cultural richness offers a unique opportunity to integrate this wisdom.

*Yoga Sutras chanting classes (Mysore, December 2024). Our chanting teacher Ranjini and her kitten who would occasionally join us.*

For those considering Mysore as a destination, here are my personal recommendations based on my experience:

Ashtanga Sādhana – Mysore-style classes by Vijay Kumar
Upasana Course – Chanting, yoga philosophy, and Sanskrit classes by Yogashree
Prana Vashya – Back bending and Pranayama course by Vinay Kumar
Yoga Sūtras – In-depth study with Dr. M. A. Jayashree

If you’re planning your first yoga journey to India, I hope this guide helps you take the first steps with confidence. Remember, transformation often happens outside your comfort zone—so embrace the adventure and enjoy the journey!

Finding the Right Yoga School and Teacher in India