Retreat · Varkala, Kerala
Ayurvedic Retreat in Kerala
A week or a month away from everyday life, and more than just a holiday. An Ayurvedic retreat is built around a doctor, a routine, a diet and treatments: what Kerala calls panchakarma. From €575 with stay and meals.
What is an Ayurvedic retreat
A retreat is time you take back from ordinary life in order to recover. What sets an Ayurvedic retreat apart from a simple holiday is the doctor. The doctor looks at your condition, prescribes your diet and treatments and guides you throughout. What kinds of retreats there are and what to look for when choosing one is covered in What is a retreat, in simple terms.
In Kerala this kind of program is called panchakarma. It means a daily routine, simple warm food on a personal diet and daily treatments: oil massages, heat treatments, dharas and, where indicated, cleansing procedures. What lies behind each stage is explained in detail in Panchakarma explained in simple terms.
How the days go
The day is built around treatments and meals, not around a sightseeing schedule. Treatments as prescribed in the morning; rest, simple food and walks in the afternoon; quiet again in the evening. Because of this, the first days can feel unusually slow, and that’s exactly the point.
Free time in Varkala in South Kerala means the path along the red cliff above the ocean, the beach, the Janardana Swami Temple, more than two thousand years old, and kayaking on the Paravur backwaters.
How long it lasts
- 7 days: the preparatory stage and gentle treatments as prescribed. Good if you’re short on time.
- 14 days: preparation, the main procedures and the start of the return phase under the doctor’s supervision.
- 21 and 28 days: the full cycle without rushing, with the return phase completed on site rather than on the plane home.
The length and content are finally set by the doctor after an examination.
Who it doesn’t suit
A retreat with treatments is not suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with acute infections or fever, serious heart conditions, during active cancer treatment, or with severe exhaustion. Before the trip, send us a list of your diagnoses and medicines so the doctor can review it in advance. Don’t stop any medicines on your own. More in Who panchakarma suits and who should avoid it.
Program and prices
All lengths, prices and what’s included are on the Panchakarma in Varkala page.
Frequently asked questions
How is an Ayurvedic retreat different from a yoga retreat?
A yoga retreat centers on practice and rest. An Ayurvedic retreat centers on a doctor, who examines you, prescribes your diet and treatments and looks after you throughout. There is yoga and walking too, but the program is shaped by the doctor's prescription.
Is it the same as a detox program?
An Ayurvedic retreat is often called a detox. In Ayurveda, that means restoring digestion and balance through routine, diet and treatments. More in the article "Ayurvedic detox: what it really is".
How much does the retreat cost?
7 days: €575, 14 days: €1145, 21 days: €1725, 28 days: €2290. The price includes accommodation, meals as prescribed by the doctor, consultations, treatments and personal support.
Can I arrive on any day?
Yes, the program has no fixed start dates. We agree on dates when you get in touch.
Can I travel on my own?
Yes. You stay at an Ayurvedic clinic with doctors and staff on site, and our team is there to support you throughout.
Message us
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