India is the birthplace of Yoga and has been a long spiritual haven for yoga seekers from across the globe. For years, Rishikesh has been the undisputed Yoga Capital and one of the best places for yoga in India, because of its ashrams, yogic culture and traditions, and the sacred environment. Nestled in the foothills of the great Himalayas and besides holy river Ganga, this spiritual city has always been the magnet for yogis from every part of the world.
But in recent years, Goa has emerged to be one of the most sought-after destinations in India for yoga and other wellness practices. Initially known for its pristine beaches and vibrant party culture, this tropical paradise has managed to make waves for some much more soulful practices like yoga. The transformation of Goa as a wellness destination is not an accident. This paradise has evolved itself as a thriving yoga place in order to attract health-oriented tourists and spiritual travelers from across the world. In this article, you will explore the reasons why Goa is best for yoga and how it is becoming the next Yoga Capital after Rishikesh.
A Comparison: Yoga in Goa vs Rishikesh
While both Goa and Rishikesh are spiritual sanctuaries in India, there are several experiences which tell the differences between the two destinations with clarity. If you are trying to decide which location is perfect for the best yogic experiences, then understand this comparison between Goa and Rishikesh.
- Spiritual Atmosphere
- Rishikesh
Rishikesh is often said to be the Gateways to the Himalayas. The city exudes immense spiritual energy and is deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of India. Walking through the streets of Risikesh, you will experience the culture and heritage of India through chanting mantras, temple bells, and the sacred river Ganga. The city is ideal for serious spiritual seekers who wish to deeply connect with their inner self. Rishikesh is a destination which is majorly preferred for silent retreats, mental clarity, learning the yogic philosophy, and incorporating enlightenment.
- Goa
Unlike Rishikesh, Goa offers a much more tropical, liberating, and open atmosphere to the travelers. The spiritual vibe is on a lighter note but you will find some of the best beachside yoga sessions that will help you reconnect with your inner self. The peaceful atmosphere provides the ideal setting for you to immerse in deep meditation and pranayama to calm your mind and foster mental clarity. The surrounding of this tropical paradise supports inner growth along with joy, which appeals several international tourists to visit the state.
- Yoga Styles Offered
- Rishikesh
Rishikesh leans towards more traditional and ancient yoga styles. You can experience Hatha, Kundalini, and Iyenger yoga styles in the city which are taught with a strong emphasis on yogic scriptures. Yoga philosophy plays a vital role in the teachings offered in Rishikesh. Several ashrams, yoga schools, and wellness centers have trained gurus and yoga instructors who assist you in incorporating discipline, spiritual learnings, and asana alignments.
- Goa
This tropical paradise is a melting pot for different yoga styles as well as international instructors. Along with the classical Hatha yoga and Vinyasa, you will also find sessions of Hatha , Ashtanga, Yin, Acro, and Restorative yoga style. There are numerous yoga schools in Goa that offer retreats and teacher training programs of these yoga styles along with the sessions of sound healing, ayurveda, mantra chanting, herbal therapies, etc. These sessions compliment your yoga practices and allow you to immerse deeply into understanding the yogic lifestyle.
- Environment and the Surroundings
- Rishikesh
Nestled in between the holy river Ganga and the foothills of the great Himalayas, Rishikesh’s environment is serene, sacred, and traditional. There are numerous yoga schools and ashrams set along the riverbanks and at the hills that bring tranquility and serenity in the surrounding. You can easily detach yourself from the hustle and bustle of your stressful life and detox completely by practicing yoga in Rishikesh.
- Goa
The yoga schools and wellness centers in Goa are nestled along the beachside and lush forest areas. This will provide you a peaceful getaway where you can solely focus on your yogic practices. Enjoying your yogic sessions amidst the fresh breeze and sound of ocean waves adds a sensory richness to your rejuvenation. If you are someone who wishes to connect deeply with nature and with yourself, then Goa is the perfect destination to consider. Have a laid-back experience and relax yourself completely in the tropical surroundings of this paradise.
- Accommodation and Lifestyle
- Rishikesh
Accommodation in Rishikesh is mainly simple guesthouses or ashrams with modest facilities. There are several yoga schools that provide their own accommodation facility based on the requirements of their guests. The aim of majority of the wellness centers or yoga schools in Rishikesh is to make you experience the real yogic lifestyle to help you connect with the traditions and culture.
- Goa
From rustic beach huts, sustainable resorts to luxurious stays and yoga hotels, Goa has accommodation for every kind of traveler. There are some yoga schools that also offer amenities like organic cafes, wifi, swimming pools, and herbal spas to their guests. You can easily access the relaxed and health conscious lifestyle without compromising your own comfort.
Why Goa is best for Yoga and Wellness Seekers
Yoga tourism in Goa has emerged over the years and is the reason behind it being the next Yoga Capital of India after Rishikesh. But what makes Goa the best destination for Yoga? Let’s find out below:
- Diverse Culture and International Travelers Friendly
Goa is a melting pot for yoga enthusiasts from across the globe and is a rare cosmopolitan state of India. The history and culture of this state is an amazing blend of Indian as well as Portuguese traditions, which makes it even more appealing for the international tourists. Goa’s welcoming environment, diverse dietary preferences, and open as well as accepting local surroundings is the reason why Goa is best for yoga. Yoga enthusiasts from across the world find it easier to settle in Goa and delve into yogic practices without getting overwhelmed by the culture.
- Nature based Yoga Practice
Having your yoga sessions amidst the soothing sound of ocean waves and swaying palm trees is a goal for several yogis. From witnessing sunrise at the beachside while performing different asanas to having deep meditation sessions under the starry nights, this tropical paradise adds charm to your entire yoga learning experience. Yoga tourism in Goa keeps on increasing mainly because of the sustainable and nature-oriented yoga practices provided to the guests.
- Best Weather Conditions
Goa’s climate is milder and more soothing as compared to Rishikesh during the peak season. Yoga tourism in Goa is majorly thriving in the months of October to March because of the amazing weather conditions. If you are visiting between these months, you will be able to enjoy outdoor yogic activities along with other excursions around the location. The mild weather of Goa majorly attracts tourists from the colder regions to visit in order to seek wellness and warmth.
- Affordability and Accessibility
One of the major reasons behind Goa being a thriving yoga destination is the affordability and accessibility of everything in the state. You can easily find accommodation in Goa based on your specific budget constraint without compromising on the amenities. The interstate roads are smooth and different locations are easily accessible via public transport. The locals are extremely helpful and welcoming which makes it a seamless experience for foreign tourists to blend in with the traditions of the state.
- The Rise of Goa Yoga Teacher Training
Yoga teacher training is emerging to be a popular wellness program, especially for people who are thinking of teaching yoga professionally in the future. In Goa, there are numerous yoga schools that are affiliated by the Yoga Alliance, USA and offer different level programs for teacher training. Among the various yoga hotspots in India, Goa’s yoga schools are leading because of the diversity in the yoga styles taught, experienced teaching staff, and the sessions provided beyond yoga.
In India’s geography, the tides are shifting towards Goa as the Yoga Capital of India, after Rishikesh. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced yoga practitioner, the yoga schools in Goa cater to the needs of every individual. While Rishikesh remains to be the spiritual and historical sanctuary, Goa’s traditions meet modernity and innovations.
