Thailand Yoga & Reverence Retreat
THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Join us for a soulful journey of yoga, cultural immersion, and serene reflection, offering a transformative blend of adventure and spiritual connection in the heart of Thailand and beyond. Our journey begins in the enchanting city of Chiang Mai, perfectly timed with the mesmerizing Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals. During our stay, we will explore the ancient temples, winding through the city’s charming streets and soaking in its rich spiritual heritage. We’ll also venture into the countryside, visiting local villages and taking in the lush scenery that surrounds this vibrant city.
The experience continues with a visit to a top-rated ethical elephant rehabilitation park, where you will connect with these gentle giants in a respectful and responsible way. After days filled with cultural wonders and meaningful connections, we’ll journey south to a secluded idyllic beach front paradise. Here, you’ll unwind for three glorious days, basking in crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant sunsets. This retreat promises an incredible blend of adventure, relaxation, and a deep dive into Thailand’s natural and cultural beauty.
Our daily yoga practices will be thoughtfully designed to complement and deepen your connection to Thailand’s rich Buddhist culture. As we explore sacred temples and partake in the spiritual traditions of the Lantern Festivals, our yoga sessions will focus on mindfulness, reflection, and inner peace. Incorporating meditation and pranayama, we’ll honor the principles of Buddhism—cultivating compassion, presence, and gratitude. Each practice will be a serene space to integrate the day’s experiences, inviting you to connect with the country’s spiritual essence on a profound level.
About
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Join us for an unforgettable retreat in Thailand, where adventure, culture, and relaxation blend seamlessly. Our journey begins in the enchanting city of Chiang Mai, perfectly timed with the mesmerizing Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, during which people release floating lanterns on water. In Chiang Mai, Yi Peng is especially famous for its sky lantern release, creating a breathtaking scene of thousands of lanterns illuminating the night sky as you immerse yourself in this magical tradition. During our stay, we will explore the ancient temples, winding through the city’s charming streets and soaking in its rich spiritual heritage. We’ll also venture into the countryside, visiting local villages and taking in the lush scenery that surrounds this vibrant city.
The experience continues with a visit to a top-rated ethical elephant rehabilitation park, where you will connect with these gentle giants in a respectful and responsible way. After days filled with cultural wonders and meaningful connections, we’ll journey south to a secluded, idyllic beach front paradise. Here, you’ll unwind for three glorious days, basking in crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant sunsets. This retreat promises an incredible blend of adventure, relaxation, and a deep dive into Thailand’s natural and cultural beauty.
Our daily yoga practices will be thoughtfully designed to complement and deepen your connection to Thailand’s rich Buddhist culture. As we explore sacred temples and partake in the spiritual traditions of the Lantern Festivals, our yoga sessions will focus on mindfulness, reflection, and inner peace. Incorporating meditation and pranayama, we’ll honor the principles of Buddhism—cultivating compassion, presence, and gratitude. Each practice will be a serene space to integrate the day’s experiences, inviting you to connect with the country’s spiritual essence on a profound level.
Join us for a soulful journey of yoga, cultural immersion, and serene reflection, offering a transformative blend of adventure and spiritual connection in the heart of Thailand and beyond.
Includes
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Includes :
10 nights on retreat : 4 nights in Chiang Mai; 3 nights in the countryside; 3 nights beachfront on Koh Yao Noi
Yoga as per the itinerary
Breakfast daily; 5 lunches; 7 dinners together
Guided Temple visit and Monk’s trail hike
Thai Cooking Class on an organic farm
Pampering spa experience w/ 4 hours of decadent services
Curated Yi Peng and Loy Krathong lantern festival experiences
One Thai Massage
Full day experience with Thailand’s most respected Elephant Rehab facility
One way flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket during the retreat including ferry transportation to the island
Half day long boat excursion to some of Thailand’s most incredible islands and beaches
Free day at the beach to explore and relax on your own as you choose
Free time during the retreat for some shopping and exploring night markets and festivities
What’s not Included :
International airfare to Thailand (plan to fly into Chiang Mai CNX airport and out of Phuket HKT or Krabi KBV)
Airport transfers arriving into Chiang Mai at the beginning of the retreat
Transfers from the island to the airport upon departure
4 lunches & 3 dinners
Optional ticketed mass-release event for the Sky Lantern Festival if you choose to participate in that instead of our planned time together
Optional waterfall and temple excursion in the countryside
Optional activities on free day at the beach (bike to village; kayaks; boat to islands; spa services)
Extras like massages, shopping, drinking water, alcohol and taxis
Gratuities for villa staff, guides, drivers, boat captains, etc
Itinerary
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Itinerary :
DAY ONE : SUNDAY NOV 2 – chiang mai city
3pm Arrival & settle into accommodations in the Old City
5-6:30pm Yoga & Opening Circle at hotel
7:30pm Dinner together as a group
Check out the Sunday Night Street Market (4-10pm)
DAY TWO : MONDAY NOV 3 – chiang mai city
Coffee/Tea
8:30-9:45am Yoga Practice
10am Breakfast
11:30am-5pm Guided Temple Hike w/ lunch
Return to hotel
Dinner on your own – optional Chiang Mai Gate Night Market
DAY THREE : TUESDAY NOV 4 – chiang mai city
Breakfast
8am Leave for cooking school farm and market tour
9am-2:30pm Thai Cooking Class with lunch on an organic farm
3:30-7:30pm Pampering Spa Day in CM w/ 4 hours of signature services :
Herbal Steam + Exfoliating Body Scrub + Fah Lanna Royal Bath + Combination of Traditional Thai Massage,
Aromatherapy Oil Massage & Tok Sen Massage + Five Step Facial Treatment
Dinner on your own
DAY FOUR : WEDNESDAY NOV 5 chiang mai (Yi Peng & Loy Krathong)
Coffee/Tea/Fruit
9-10:15am Yoga Practice
Breakfast
Free time to explore the city; check out Three Kings Monument for traditional Lanna performances, and cultural displays
Lunch/Shopping on your own
Traditional sky lantern releasing and intentions in the Old City*
Dinner together with a view of the parades etc
*If you would like to attend the ticketed mass-release event for the Sky Lantern Festival you may plan this on your own
DAY FIVE : THURSDAY NOV 6 – COUNTRYSIDE (Yi Peng & Loy Krathong)
Breakfast on your own
Free time to explore the city; pack; rest
Check out of CM hotel
12-1pm Drive to countryside accommodations
Lunch upon arrival
Check into accommodations
Lantern-Making Workshop learn to create your own floating offering
5:30-6:45pm Yoga Practice
Release water lanterns into the water together
Dinner together at the farm
DAY SIX : FRIDAY NOV 7 – COUNTRYSIDE
Coffee/Tea/Fruit
8:15-9:30am Yoga practice
Breakfast
Free time to relax; Thai massages; walks to town; explore the farm & antiques gallery*
Lunch on your own
Thai massages
Dinner together at the farm
*10:30am-4pm Optional Excursion : Sticky waterfall, lunch & visit Wat Ban Den Temple
DAY SEVEN : SATURDAY NOV 8 – COUNTRYSIDE
Breakfast
Elephant Nature Park Full Day experience with lunch*
Relax; explore the farm & antiques gallery; Thai massages
Dinner together at the farm
*Please note this experience is supporting rescued elephants from a distance. We will be making them food, walking along side them at a distance and observing herds from afar. Most elephants in Thailand are mistreated and tourists unknowingly partake in activities that traumatize the animals. We are supporting the most ethical and humane sanctuary in the country. No bathing or riding elephants will take place on this retreat.
DAY EIGHT : SUNDAY NOV 9 – KOH YAO NOI
Breakfast
Leave for Chiang Mai airport
Flights from Chiang Mai to Phuket
Private transfer to Koh Yao Noi resort
Hotel check-in; arrive and settle
Yoga practice
Dinner together as a group
DAY NINE : MONDAY NOV 10 – KOH YAO NOI
Breakfast
Half day long boat excursion w/ lunch
Rest; spa services; relax on the beach; kayak
6:30-7:30pm Yoga practice
Dinner on your own
DAY TEN : TUESDAY NOV 11 – KOH YAO NOI
Coffee/Tea/Fruit; Breakfast
Yoga practice in front of the beach
Free time; relax; spa services; optional excursions; bike to town; kayaks
Lunch on your own
Optional boat shuttle to Koh Pakbia island/beach or bus to town
6:30-7:45pm Yoga & Closing Circle
Dinner together as a group
DAY ELEVEN : THURSDAY NOV 12 – DEPARTURE
Breakfast & Departures on your own*
*Depending on your plans you may explore other islands, stay on at the hotel a few more nights or explore Phuket, Krabi or Bangkok on your own.
**This itinerary is subject to adjustments, changes in times, locations, or activities as the retreat leaders and hosts see fit. Any change will be on par with our standards or an upgrade in services or location making for an even more amazing experience for the group and our guests. Thank you in advance for your flexibility and cooperation if any situation were to arise.
Stay
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Accommodations :
Our first 4 nights will be enjoyed tucked inside the Old City walls in a stunning, classical Thai hotel with saltwater swimming pool and intricate details throughout.
We will practice our yoga at the hotel and enjoy breakfasts daily as well.
Deluxe Suite options are along the ground floor with access directly to the swimming pool from your private terrace.
Our Superior private or shared room options have a charming wooden ceiling with beautiful details like bath products, robes and Thai decor.
Our next 3 nights will be a countryside experience in the mountains north of Chaing Mai city.
This special property will be exclusively ours to enjoy and explore. A cafe, antique gallery and store are on property as well as gorgeous rice fields surrounding.
All villas and rooms are unique in this fabulous accommodation. Deluxe and Superior room categories will be honored as they correspond to the spaces.
Some villas will be shared with other rooms and some rooms share bathrooms. All are charming and comfortable.
And finally once we make our way to the stunning beaches of southern Thailand on the island of Koh Yao Noi where we will be staying beachfront at a secluded, gorgeous and scenic hotel for our final three nights. Yoga daily, spa services available, kayaking, beaches and villages to explore nearby.
Deluxe category offers suites with sea views and plunge pools. Superior options have private or shared room options tucked into the jungle.
Pricing
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Pricing :
We stay in 3 different venues during our 10 night retreat. 4 nights in Chaing Mai; 3 nights in the mountains; 3 nights on an island beachfront
PRIVATE DELUXE ACCOMMODATIONS
$7,765usd Private
These images represent the room you will have at all 3 venues. All rooms have a private ensuite bathroom.
Direct pool access from your private terrace in CM; Private room in shared villa in the country; Semi-seaviews & private plunge pool at beach.
PRIVATE SUPERIOR ACCOMMODATIONS
$6,995usd Private
These images represent the room you will have at all 3 venues.
Private bathroom & balcony in CM; Private room w/ shared bath in shared villa in the country; Jungle view room w/ private bath at beach.
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If we are sold out of private rooms at the country location we can offer a private room for 7 nights during the retreat and a shared double for 3 nights in the country.
If you prefer this option please inquire for availability.
$6,885usd per person
SHARED SUPERIOR ACCOMMODATIONS
$5,995usd Queen / $5,895USD twin per person
These images represent the room you will have at all 3 venues. All rooms are shared with a roommate**
Twin beds & balcony in CM; Twin beds w/ private bath in shared villa in the country; Jungle view room w/ private bath at beach*.
In Koh Yao Noi the room has a queen and a twin bed.
You will be required to take a Private Superior if there is no roommate available.
All pricing is in USD.
If you would like to share a bed with a friend/partner please inquire with us for availability and shared bed rates.
International airfare and other items are not included in this package. Please refer to the Includes tab for a full list.
For travel to Thailand please see our Travel Tips Guide below.
Space is limited to 10 students for an intimate retreat. Please secure your space early by making your deposit under the Reserve tab.
Reserve
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Reservations :
MAKE YOUR DEPOSIT HERE :
Deposits of $1,000usd are due to secure your space in the retreat. Please check availability with us for accommodations before making your deposit.
Roommates should book together. If you would like to share a room and do not have a roommate we will provide one for you if possible. In the case that there is no one to share a room we ask that you take a private room instead.
Please use the form below to submit your deposit.
BALANCE PAYMENTS :
The balance of your retreat (minus your $1,000usd initial deposit*) is due 90 days prior to arrival. All details with instructions for settling up will be emailed to you three months prior to the retreat.
In addition to credit card payments we also accept wire transfers, Zelle, check deposits and Bitcoin. Please inquire for more details.
POLICIES
CANCELLATION POLICY
All payments are 100% non refundable and non-transferable. We recommend that you buy Trip cancellation insurance immediately upon making your initial deposit to cover any travel hiccups or complications that may arise between now and the time of your retreat. No exceptions are possible so please cover your trip by connecting with an insurance company that offers the right policy for you. Agents are available online to help with your specific needs. Cover your retreat here!
CLIENT RESPONSIBILITY
The acceptance of a verbal or written confirmation from YOGA & ADVENTURES WORLDWIDE (Y&AWW) constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions listed herein. Participants are responsible to be adequately insured, therefore Traveler’s Insurance is strongly recommended*. Y&AWW and its staff assume no responsibility nor liability for any delay, loss, damage, injury or accident with regards to persons or property which may be caused by fault or negligence of any third party vendor. This includes hotels, transportation providers, and local operators participating in part for our services. Y&AWW shall be held harmless for any expense caused by injury or accident, to any participants as well as any loss or damage of personal items while on our tours. We reserve the right to make any changes to services and itineraries, with or without notice, which may become necessary.
Yoga & Adventures Worldwide, its affiliates, retreat facilitators, hotels, third party vendors, and tour providers, the ownership, or staff, of course, cannot be held responsible for events that are outside of our control. There are no refunds as per our cancellation policies. We highly recommend that all of our guests secure a quality travel insurance that will cover them for ANY event which may cause for a change of travel plans, or for ANY unfortunate event including but of course not limited to:
– Transportation delays, cancellations or changes due to strikes, labor disputes, or lockouts from airlines, boats, ferries or any type of transportation.
– Any inconvenience or complication caused by bad weather, storms, and hurricanes : a direct hit, near miss, or significant threat of a hurricane strike
– Government/political actions, events or situations; threats or acts of terrorism, acts of war or declared war.
– Personal health issues or personal situations in general which may affect travel plans
– Any loss, theft or damage of personal items at any stage of your trip
– Any accident causing injury during any stage of your trip
– Travel restrictions or illness associated with COVID-19.
All travelers may join our retreats “at your own risk”, but should continue to take precautions such as wearing masks in public, avoiding crowds, maintaining social distance and washing hands frequently. Any Covid testing will be determined by the countries through which the traveler must pass. All testing requirements are at the travelers expense and are not included in our packages. Please stay up to date with current travel related requirements.
We require that you are covered with medical insurance while on retreat. Please check your health insurance policy regarding treatment outside your home country in the rare case you would need care while away from home. Most policies have coverage for emergencies and we ask that you submit proof of this coverage when prompted. If you do not have a policy that covers travel medical, we recommend that you speak with an agent to see what is best for you. Insubuy has many options for coverage. Please consult with the agent to make sure the plan you choose covers medical care in the country you are visiting. We will ask for proof of medical insurance prior to the retreat.
By submitting payments toward your retreat you accept these Terms and Conditions.
If you have any questions regarding the details of this retreat please feel free to contact us to set up a call or to receive further info via email.
Travel Tips Guide
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THAILAND YOGA & REVERENCE RETREAT
Travel Tips :
BEHAVIOR :
In Thailand, cultural expectations emphasize respect, humility, and politeness, themes which we will be practicing during our time on retreat. One key aspect is the concept of “saving face,” which means avoiding confrontations or actions that could cause embarrassment to others. Thai people often use the traditional greeting called the wai, where the palms are pressed together in a prayer-like gesture. Additionally, showing respect towards Buddhism and the monarchy is very important. When visiting temples, dress modestly, removing shoes and keeping shoulders and knees covered. Finally, avoid touching people’s heads, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body, and be mindful not to point feet at others or sacred objects, as feet are seen as the lowest and least clean part of the body.
FLIGHTS :
Thailand has several international airports that cater to flights from various global destinations.
Our retreat begins in Chiang Mai. You should plan to fly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).
Our retreat ends in the southern beaches. We will updated you on the airport location we recommend to fly out of soon.
Please note the domestic flight during the retreat from the north to the south is included in your package.
If you plan to travel before or after your retreat there are several other airports to consider. The main options include:
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok: This is the largest and busiest airport in Thailand, serving as a major hub for international flights. Many airlines offer direct flights to Bangkok from cities in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Australia.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – Bangkok: Mostly serving low-cost airlines and regional flights, Don Mueang is another option for entering Thailand, especially if you’re flying from neighboring countries.
Krabi International Airport (KBV): While smaller, Krabi’s airport is a gateway to southern Thailand’s beach destinations. It handles some direct international flights, mainly from other Asian countries.
JETLAG :
To manage jet lag when flying to Thailand, start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your trip by going to bed and waking up earlier. Stay well-hydrated during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can disrupt sleep. Upon arrival, try to spend time outside in natural sunlight to help reset your internal clock. It’s also helpful to take short naps if needed, but avoid long sleep periods during the day to adjust to the local time faster.
We recommend you arrive into SEA several days before the retreat to adjust to the nearly 12 hour time difference (depending on where you are traveling from). Bangkok or other islands might be of interest to explore. Keep in mind that the seasons/weather are very different throughout the country. Please check details of your travel destinations prior to making arrangements.
LANTERN FESTIVALS THAT WE WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN DURING RETREAT :
In Thailand, the November lantern festivals—Yi Peng and Loy Krathong—are celebrated to honor Buddhist beliefs and pay respect to the water goddess. Yi Peng is primarily observed in northern Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, symbolizing the release of worries and misfortunes. The festival creates a breathtaking view as the sky fills with glowing lanterns, fostering a sense of renewal and hope.
Meanwhile, Loy Krathong involves floating decorated baskets, known as krathongs, on rivers and lakes to thank the water goddess for her bounty and seek forgiveness for using water resources. Both festivals mark a time of reflection, gratitude, and spiritual cleansing, deeply rooted in Thai culture and Buddhist practices.
When traveling in Thailand, a few key points to keep in mind:
Respect Local Customs: Thailand has deep-rooted cultural traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Avoid pointing your feet towards people or religious objects, and use the traditional wai (palms pressed together) as a polite greeting.
Health and Safety: It’s wise to drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water. Ensure you have travel insurance for any medical emergencies. Thailand is generally safe, but it’s good to be cautious in crowded areas to avoid petty theft.
Transportation: Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are common for short distances, while Grab (a ride-hailing app) can be used for longer trips. Always agree on a fare before starting a tuk-tuk ride, as meters are not used.
Money: The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in many places, though smaller shops may require cash. It’s also useful to carry small denominations for market purchases or tipping.
Weather and Packing: November is the start of the cool, dry season in Thailand, so pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.