November 2026
Ashtanga Yoga retreat in Kathmandu and near Pokhara, Nepal
Option A - 7 - 17th November 2026
OR
Option B - 7th - 24th November 2026
OR
Option C - 7th - 29th November 2026
This retreat is designed with three possible options (A, B or C) which vary in terms of the length of trip that appeals to you.
From the UK most flights to Kathmandu seem to fly overnight, so we would aim to arrive Saturday 7th November. For all options the retreat will begin in Kathmandu, a lively and vibrant city. Together we will spend the first few days acclimatising from the journey and the increase in altitude. Kathmandu is also a melting pot of colour and action and with plenty to explore we’ll spend 3 days and nights together visiting Buddhist stupas and shrines and Hindu temples, sampling the amazing food and wandering the bazaars. There won’t be any formal classes during this time but hopefully we’ll find a space to practice together as a group in the mornings before taking in as much as possible of the culture during the day. In Kathmandu the cost of your accomodation and some meals will be covered. You will require some extra spending money for short travels, some meals, some entrance fees at temples and any shopping.
On our 4th day we will transfer to the retreat near Pokhara.
Join the retreat for 1 or 2 weeks near Pokhara set in nature against the backdrop of the Annapurna range of mountains, part of the Himalayas we’ll be treated to expansive views and starry skies. Remote and peaceful, the retreat will really facilitate the opportunity to connect with your yoga practice, your self and the magical community of your fellow practitioners. This really will be an opportunity to disconnect from the riggers of modern life and spend more quality time with your inner world and the natural world among like minded peers.
At the retreat there will be classes in the morning and afternoon most days, 3 sumptuous vegetarian meals using as much local and seasonal ingredients as possible and comfy, simple rooms. There are 3 single ensuite rooms, 4 ensuite twin rooms and 2 quadruple rooms (4 sharing) available. Hopefully there will be enough interest in the retreat that we will be the only group staying. All rooms have spectacular views and modern bathrooms. There is a beautiful yoga shala and we might also spend time practicing outside together in some form depending on the weather. All yoga classes at the retreat are included.
I appreciate some of us might not be able to spend 3 weeks on this trip but for those who have the time and inclination, after 2 weeks at the retreat I am planning to take a 5 day hike on what is known as the Mardi Himal trek which can start straight from the retreat. This is a medium level trek, a good level of fitness is required, 6 hours trekking per day, maximum altitude will be 4500m. We will stay in tea houses along the route. At this time of year we shouldn’t require any specialist equipment.
The yoga program:-
Mornings will begin with meditation, pranayama and chanting and flow into mysore practice. Afternoons will focus on aspects of the primary or intermediate series (depending on the week) but be accessible to all with an established practice (even if that is only to some point in the primary series). Philosophical discussion, self-enquiry and Sanskrit will be included. There will 6 morning classes each week, mainly mysore, perhaps one guided class depending on the group and a rest day in-between the weeks with free time to explore.
For more information, prices and booking details please contact zephyrlilymercer@gmail.com
Bookings now open, early bird pricing available until 28th February 2026.