Should You Study Yoga in Rishikesh?
What I Wish I Knew Before Coming
Rishikesh is called the Yoga Capital of the World and depending on who you ask, that either means it’s a sacred place full of ancient wisdom or a tourist trap selling spirituality. After spending a few months here, I can say it’s both. It all depends on what you come looking for and what you bring with you.
The Reputation vs. Reality
There are hundreds of yoga schools in Rishikesh. Some are legit and some are not. Some are structured and rooted in tradition. Others are more like yoga tourism packaged with certificates and hashtags. You’ll find ashrams, drop-in classes, teacher trainings and everything in between.
The city sells itself as a spiritual hub and while that’s not wrong, it’s not the whole story. You’ll hear honking 24/7. There’s construction, dust, chaos and sales pitches on every corner.
Planning a trip to Rishikesh? Grab the $5 guide I wish I had before I landed.
Not every yoga teacher training is worth your time or money. Some programs crank out 200-hour certificates very fast. A lot of people arrive here expecting India to transform them. But the truth is, if you’re not grounded before you get here, the place won’t do it for you. You have to show up with discipline and discernment.
I was fortunate to practice with teachers like Sachin Ji, who takes the practice seriously. We studied traditional Ashtanga, counted in Sanskrit, practiced pranayama and chanting, dug into philosophy and adjusted each other in class every day. It was intense. Some days I felt strong and other days I could barely move, but I still showed up. Beyond the physical grind, the daily rhythm of life here taught me a lot. Even the street chaos shaped the experience and I learned to make peace outside of my comfort zone.
What I’d Tell Someone that is considering visiting Rishikesh
- Come for at least 2 months if you can.
One month is barely enough to find your footing. - Don’t book your training in advance.
Spend the first couple of weeks observing different teachers and schools. - Don’t expect the city to change you.
Bring your own consistency. Bring your own respect for the practice and bring your own discipline. - Ask around.
Word of mouth is still the best way to find the good stuff. - Keep your expectations realistic.
You’re not coming to paradise. You’re coming to train and India will test you in all kinds of ways.
Rishikesh challenged me, humbled me and gave me more than I expected. The people I met here, from students to teachers to fruit vendors, were very kind and hospitable. And even though the city is changing fast, there’s still something timeless here if you’re willing to look for it. In short, India and its people are wonderful and I had so many great experiences, way too many to cover here.
I came to deepen my practice, and I left with more than that. I left with memories, friendships, new skills and a better understanding of what yoga really means. I look forward to my return.
Traveling to Rishikesh? Grab my $5 insider guide and land with confidence
Thanks for the great read and insights to a real experience on something I’ve thought about for many years. This is definitely the realest and most detailed perspective I’ve found. And I love how you said if you can find peace here you can find peace anywhere because I imagine the experience of the absolute chaos can really force someone to seek true peace from the area leading them down a path of seeking the true traditional values Rishikesh can offer.
🙏 You will experience significant growth in Rishikesh. It is amazing and you will meet beautiful people, I hope you get the chance to visit.