Bhaavanaa Retreat – December 2024: A Quiet Journey in the Himalayas

Our last Bhaavanaa Retreat, held in December 2024, turned into something truly special.

Originally planned for a larger group, only two participants—Anmol and Berina—joined us for the experience.

This small number allowed for something more intimate, more personal. So we made a spontaneous decision: to move the retreat to Sari Village, and host it at Heaven Hills Cottage — a cozy space tucked into a quiet field overlooking the Himalayas, owned by our dear friend Subodh.

With its simple charm, warm hospitality, and unbeatable view of the Chandrashila Summit, Heaven Hills became the perfect home for our week together.

Day 1 – The Journey Begins

We set out from Rishikesh in the morning, making the winding, scenic drive up to Sari. It was a long ride, but also our first chance to connect—sharing stories, tea breaks, and excitement for the week ahead.

We reached Heaven Hills by early evening. As we settled into our comfortable cottages, the crisp mountain air was already working its magic. We shared dinner under the stars, followed by laughter and quiet conversation around the bonfire.

Day 2 – Grounding

Chai and a morning yoga session on the open-air balcony greeted us at sunrise. Surrounded by mountains around, our practice felt grounding.

After a nourishing breakfast with fresh fruits and mountain views, we took time to rest. Before lunch, we gathered for a group discussion on how each of us connects with nature—through movement, silence, or moments of awe.

Later, we walked through Sari Village, taking in the local rhythm, before returning for a gentle yoga session, a warm meal, and another night by the fire.

Day 3 – The Lake Above the Clouds

After our usual morning practice and a slow breakfast, we packed up for our trek to Deoriya Tal. We began walking in the afternoon, reaching the lake just in time to catch its crystal-clear surface reflecting the peaks. It was breathtaking—still, silent, and surrounded by forests.

We spent the night at a permanent camp with views on the Himalayas. A little cold, but with good food and company, the atmosphere remained warm and joyful. And Berina transformed herself into a Russian grandmother for the evening, as she was wearing layers and layers of clothes.

Day 4 – Into the Forest

We woke early to greet the sunrise at the lake, followed by a soft yoga and pranayama session on its banks. Then, we embarked on our 14km walk through thick forest trails to Chopta.

This day was long and a bit tiring, but the beauty of the journey—the quiet of the woods, the light filtering through the trees, the spontaneous chats and shared snacks—made it unforgettable. We had a glimpse at how fast Anmol could set himself for naps, as we stopped for the lunch and he immediately fell asleep.

Day 5 – Summit and Surrender

Before dawn, we set out for the Chandrashila Summit. It was a challenging climb, but our small group powered through, and the reward was enormous: a panoramic view over the entire Himalayan range, under a glowing, clear morning sky. Berina especially has something to be proud of. The trek really pushed her limits, but she was amazing. We're really proud that she could make it.

After soaking it in, we descended, returned to the base camp, and drove back to our cottages in Sari. Showers, rest, and laughter followed.

In the evening, we did a Yoga Nidra session... which, quite memorably, ended in laughter when Anmol fell asleep after just two minutes and started snoring!

Day 6 – Integration

This was a softer day. We stretched out our sore legs with a morning yoga session, then simply allowed ourselves to be. Reading, chatting, sipping chai, and watching the clouds shift over the mountains.

In the evening, another Yoga Nidra session brought deep rest (or at least better rest this time), followed by a walk to a viewpoint to watch the sunset—orange skies, big smiles, and that quiet joy that lingers in simple moments. This was definitely a core memory of our time together.

Day 7 – A Change of Scenery

As a surprise, we decided to explore a new place and drove to a homestay near the Khartic Swami Temple.

After a delicious local lunch at the homestay, we drove to the temple entrance and then hiked the short 3km trail up to the temple—a litteral jewel set high above the hills, with vast, sweeping views of the Himalayan chain.

The temple carries a powerful energy—peaceful and immense. We watched the sunset there and, after taking it all in, returned to the homestay for dinner and a final night around the fire.

Day 8 – The Return

We made our way back to Rishikesh, tired but full. Hearts expanded. Bodies moved and grounded. Spirits softened.

What Stayed with Us

Though the weather was chilly—after all, it was December—the sun was shining brightly, and the mountains welcomed us.

More than anything, it was the intimacy of this retreat that made it memorable. With just two participants, the space became deeply personal, like an extended conversation with the land, with ourselves, and with each other.

Anmol and Berina’s presence was a gift. Their openness, curiosity, and light-heartedness made this retreat not just beautiful, but fun. We laughed a lot. We moved slowly. We felt deeply.

This Bhaavanaa Retreat will stay in our hearts for a long time.

Interested in joining us next time? Have a look at our retreats right here.