Bhakti Yoga Retreat
Kathmandu & Pokhara, Nepal
September 19-29, 2023
DEVOTION. LOVE. UNITY.
B H A K T I // Union of love + devotion
Y O G A // Union of body, mind, soul and spirit
The practice of bhakti allows you to peer into your true nature and remember who you are through acts of discipline, dedication and devotion - guiding you to lovingly see the divine in all, and give your life new meaning + purpose.
Plus, the peaceful & spiritual atmosphere of Nepal gives you a chance to recall what truly matters in your life and offers you a space to integrate that, enabling you to come home with a new outlook on your life.
A Note From Carole
This is a welcome I knew I would be writing one day, and I am so ecstatic as this moment is now. Nepal is my favorite place on earth and where I completed my first 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2014.
There is not a day that goes by where I don't think of this place and the experience I had - it's a huge part of who I am as a yoga student, teacher and human being.
And now, I am bringing all of you back to the exact space where I did my training, Hotel Tulsi in Pokhara, Nepal. Thinking of the energy this space holds brings life into my being. Students from all over the world have come here to learn and practice yoga in the spiritual setting of Pokhara, Nepal.
This is where it all began for me, the first few steps of making my way into a life led by my Dharma, the love and gratitude my heart holds for this is unlike anything.
Therefore, this retreat will be unlike anything I have ever led - it will be a deep dive into the spiritual practice of yoga, truly going back to its original roots.
I've been dreaming up this retreat for eight years now, intentionally planning out the classes, sightseeing destinations, who I want involved, and the magic I want to share.
I thank you for trusting me to guide you on this journey - I can promise you this trip will be a once in a lifetime experience, and you will come home feeling like never before, with a new outlook on your life.
About The Practices:
A deeper look into the types of practices we will be embodying.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is described as a merging together of sun and moon, left and right, or the masculine and feminine principles of the body. The practices focus on mind, body and breath to create a very energetic and wholesome practice. Classes include Asana, Meditation, Pranayama and Kriyas.
Ashtanga Yoga
Eight Limbs
Kriya Yoga
Yoga of Action
Kriya yoga has three distinct actions, Tapas (spiritual discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara pranidhana (devotion to supreme being). Kriya yoga encourages you to take your practice off the mat and into your daily life. It's about having the fire to transform, the courage to connect with your higher self and the devotion to something greater, guiding you towards a life of meaning, fulfillment, and love.
Seva
Yoga
Selfless Service
Seva (“say-vah”) Yoga is the Yoga of Selfless Service. As a practice, Seva stems from two branches of Yoga: Karma Yoga (Yoga of Action) and Bhakti Yoga (Devotion inspired by Divine Love). This is the idea of giving back without any expectation of receiving in return. Example: our time volunteering at the children's home is Seva Yoga.
Ayurveda
The Knowledge of Life
Discipline of Force
Ashtanga Yoga is a set series of postures which we learn in a sequential order; each pose has their own benefit and helps to naturally unlock the body, preparing us for the next posture. The physical part of this practice creates strength and flexibility to realign and detoxify the body and nervous system. Mentally, we often hold ourselves back with negative and limited thinking habits, as we move through this practice we find discipline, focus and willpower allowing us to experience clarity and expand our thoughts into those that are positive and serve our highest good. On a subtle level this series clears the nadis (energy channels) in the body so prana (energy) can flow more freely, enabling us to work and move through our days more effectively. When we put all of this together we are allowing ourselves to heal from the inside out.
**Vinyasa Yoga will also be practiced as it derives from Ashtanga Yoga .
Ayurveda is Yoga's sister science also founded over 5,000 years ago. It teaches us how to live our best possible life with back-to-basics and natural approaches to living through knowledge of philosophy, spirituality, meditation, daily routine and food as medicine. Achieving balance in all levels of being is the true measure of vibrant health.The “average” person does not exist. Every individual is a one of a kind and ayurveda teaches us to honor and support our true individual natures. We are taught to take personal responsibility for our own health.The overall goal of Ayurveda is to live a long, healthy and balanced life!
Sightseeing Destinations
A window into the culture of the land.
Thamel District
Kathmandu Nepal
Thamel District is probably one of the most popular places and things to do in Kathmandu for visitors. Here, you’ll find lots of eateries, little shops and places like the Garden of Dreams, a tranquil little nook off the main thoroughfare inside a pretty park.
Boudhanath Stupa
Kathmandu, Nepal
For hundreds of years, the Boudhanath Stupa ( a meditative monument) has stood as a beacon of Buddhist belief, towering over the surrounding town as a giant mandala of peace and beauty and also giant eyes.
Swayambhunath Monkey Temple
Kathmandu, Nepal
This is a workout, wildlife excursion, and spiritual escape all wrapped into one. Be prepared to huff and puff your way up 365 steep steps to meet some furry friends at this Nepali Buddhist site. Located atop a hill west of Kathmandu city, the Swayambhunath complex has been in use since the 5th century and consists of a magnificent domed stupa, as well as a variety of shrines and temples.
Peace Pagoda
Pokhara, Nepal
Pema Ts'al Sakya Monastic
Pokhara, Nepal
Himalayan Children's Care Home
Pokhara, Nepal
The World Peace Pagoda in Pokhara offers a lot more than just a stupa. It's a lake, a small trek and a mountain view. Add in some side trips and it's great little outing to do while in Pokhara.
Pema Ts’al Sakya Monastic Institute (aka Pema Ts’al Sakya Monastery) is a unique and beautiful place, situated on a quiet hilltop near Nepal’s famous Fewa Lake and in front of the Fishtail Mountain.
We will spend a half day volunteering at the children's home as part of our Seva Yoga (selfless service).
MEET YOUR LOCAL GUIDE
Hi, I am Krishna Gauli. I am 28 years old and I am a tour and trekking guide. Being born and brought up in the lap of Himalaya I can proudly say I have visited most of the mountains of Nepal . I am certified government guide . Not only trekking I am also tour guide and have a good knowledge about ancient history about Nepal . Traveling with me will always be fun because I will give my 100% to the customer.
_
Krishna and I met during my trip to Nepal and he quickly felt like family. There is no one else I would rather have than Krishna to guide us through our cultural destinations.
LOCATION!
LOCATION!
LOCATION!
I fell in love with Pokhara, Nepal in 2014 during my first 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training which I completed right at Hotel Tulsi!
I am so excited to share with you the lifestyle; the people, food, culture, pace of life, beauty and spirituality which all made me feel at home and exactly where I was meant to be.
There is no better place in the world to embark on your next yoga journey, and I guarantee you will leave feeling a deep sense of purpose and self-fulfillment.
THE FOOD
From Authentic Nepali cuisine to continentals, experience the taste from our master chefs.
*Please note, Vegan and Gluten Free options can be accommodated per request.
“We believe that no dish can be better than its ingredients, and that the best ingredients are usually local. As great cooking starts with great ingredients, great ingredients start with great farmers”
- Hotel Tulsi
SAMPLE MENU:
STARTERS:
STEAMED MOMO | Chicken / Mutton / Veg Dumpling
PANEER PAKODA | Indian cottage cheese
BBQ FISH | Local fish from our own farm
SEKUWA | Chicken / Pork / Mutton
MAIN COURSE:
NEPALI THALI SET | Chicken / Mutton / Fish
BUTTER MASALA | Vegetable / Chicken
PORK TAWA | Grilled pork in Nepali style
BIRYANI | Mutton / Chicken / Veg
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
(Everything you see here is included in the prices listed under accommodations.)
10 NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS
We will spend two nights in Kathmandu and 8 nights in Pokhara, with one night being at a hotel on top of Sarangkot mountain.
SHUTTLE PICK UP AT KATHMANDU AIRPORT + FLIGHT FROM KATHMANDU TO POKHARA.
After our two nights in Kathmandu, we will head to Pokhara via a short 30 minute flight which will be included in your existing rate! *Please note there is no departure transportation included.
TWICE DAILY YOGA CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
All yoga practice descriptions can be found above.
3 MEALS A DAY
Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included on this trip and will consist of traditional Nepali Cuisine.
SARANGKOT MOUNTAIN
Sarangkot has my favorite views of all time. We will take a 3 mile hike to the top, stay in a hotel for one night, and the following morning we will take a short hike to the very top for sunrise yoga with endless views of the himalayas and valleys.
SIGHTSEEING
One of the beauties of Nepal lies within it's spirituality & culture. We will visit temples, monasteries, peace pagodas and so much more. *Explore all detinations above.
FREE TIME
Free time to relax at a local cafe and sip tea while reading or journaling, or perhaps walk around the local shops, head to Lake Phewa or partake in one of the incredible excurisions Pokhara has to offer.
NOT INCLUDED:
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COST FOR FLIGHT
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TRAVEL INSURANCE
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TOURIST VISA + PASSPORT FEES
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DEPARTURE TRANSPORTATION
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ADDITIONAL FOOD + DRINK
SAMPLE SCHEDULE:
7:00-8:30am: Morning Yoga
9:00-10:00am: Breakfast
10:15-11:30: Yoga Philosophy / Q&A Coffee Chats
11:30-1:00pm: Rest / Relax
1:00-2:00pm: Lunch
2:00-5:00pm: Free Time or Group Activity
5:30-6:45pm: Evening Yoga / Workshop
7:00-8:00pm: Dinner
8:00pm: Unwind; connect with others, journal, read, relax, etc
10:00pm: Suggested bed
**Free time suggestions: explore the beauty and culture of Pokhara, spend time with others, rest, read, journal or
Svadhyaya (self-study).
TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST RETREATS
What People Say
The Booking Process
01
CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION
Explore all accommodation options below, choose which one you desire, and select "book now" to be directed to check out. All prices under accommodations reflect 'What's Included' from above.
**If you have any questions on which room will best suit you, please use the chat feature below.
02
CHECK OUT
Upon selecting your accommodation, you will be directed to the check out page. Fill in your contact details and please do not forget to complete the Online Registration. You will see the total price for your accommodation; however, you will only be prompted to pay your $515 non-refundable deposit at this time.
**Please double check that your email is correct in order to receive all onboarding items with ease.
03
ONBOARDING
After completing your deposit and registration, you will receive a welcome email as confirmation for your booking. Within 24 hours your invoice for the final balance with its due date will be sent to your registration email. Lastly, you will receive a separate email containing a welcome packet with all current need-to-know items to help you stay organized and best prepare for your upcoming FSW retreat!
A Few Things To Note:
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All current pricing is Early Bird; pay your $515 non-refundable deposit by May 1, 2023 and the balance by June 1, 2023 to be eligible. {Prices go up $200 May 2}.
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Regular Pricing; pay your $515 non-refundable deposit May 2 or after and the balance by July 19, 2023.
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Any signs up after July 19 must be paid in full upon registration.
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Sign up with a friend and each receive $50 off your desired shared accommodation.
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All pricing is per person.
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The following prices reflect "What's Included" from above.
CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Tulsi | Pokhara, Nepal
At Hotel Tulsi, our passion is to connect our guests to the very best of Pokhara. From the Fewa lake side to the Annapurna range including Fishtail Mountain, our hotel offers extraordinary service, created by combining central location, adequate space, and comfortable amenities. Add great view just outside the window of the room, and the result is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
Our hotel was among the first buildings to be erected in Pokhara Lakeside. Hence we can boast that our communities literally grew up around us. With the location as our advantage, allow yourself to join the bustle of the city and enjoy the culture, flavors, and sounds of natural ambience just step away.
And, if the busy lakeside excitement is not on your itinerary, our hotel welcomes you to the most breathtaking and pristine access to Mountain View, lake, green hills, and adventure.
While we aim to give you an authentic experience of the locale whenever you stay with us, we also guarantee consistent high standards throughout your stay with us. Contemporary amenities and timeless elegance—inspired by nature—are reflected throughout every guest room. Make Hotel Tulsi your personal gateway to exploring the world’s most extraordinary destination – Pokhara to having your most memorable experiences.
F.A.Q
How do I get to Nepal & Our Hotel in Kathmandu?
Fly into Kathmandu, Nepal Airport. From there, your transportation will be organized to bring you to our hotel in Kathmandu.
How long is the travel day?
If you are coming from the U.S I would plan on
18-25 hours. :))
BUT IT'S SOOO WORTH IT!!
What are the covid-19 restrictions and policies?
Unvaccinated travelers will need to obtain a negative PCR test no more than 72 hours before flight / arrival into Nepal.
When should I book my flight?
I would recommend booking between January - June 2022. **Add a flight alert to your desired booking so you can track when the prices go up or down!
What do I need to know about my stay at Hotel Tulsi?
There IS wifi, hot water, full bedding, fans, closets and safe. Although Nepal is a third world country, Tulsi will have the basic amenities you need.
Are there other vaccines I need for Nepal?
I highly recommend visiting your physician beforehand to double check on what you need. Possible vaccines include: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A & B; Tetanus; Typhoid
Who do you reccommend flying with?
Qatar, Emirates or Ethiad Airlines. *If you need a domestic flight too, American Airlines and Qatar often work together. *I recommend putting your travel details into google to see all options.
Will my food allergies & restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely! Prior to leaving you will receive a registration from and can list any allergies you have.
What travel documents do I need?
A passport & a Tourist Visa. The tourist visas are done upon arrival at the airport and it's a super easy process!
15 day visa: $30usd
30 day visa: $50usd
90 day visa: $125
What Do I Need to Pack?
You will receive a welcome packet with a suggested packing list at least 3 months prior.
CANCELLATIONS & TERMS
All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Any cancellations done 31 days or more prior to retreat start date:
The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. The balance (total cost minus the deposit) is not refundable, but it can be transferred to another Free Spirited Wanderer Retreats within the same calendar year.
Any cancellations done 30 days or less prior to retreat start date:
All payments are non-refundable or non-transferable.
Retreat Final Balance Late Payments: If your invoice is Early Bird Pricing and your payment is not received within 48 hours of your original due date, your invoice will move to Regular Pricing and be updated with your new due date plus the dollar difference between the pricing. If your invoice is Regular Pricing, and your payment is not received within 48 hours of your original due date, a $25 late fee will be added. **Any final balance payments not received within 72 hours of your original due date may result in a forfeiture of your booking.
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