Are you seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Yearning to find harmony and spiritual enlightenment through yoga? Look no further than the enchanting land of Thailand, where serene landscapes, ancient traditions, and a welcoming culture await to immerse you in a blissful yoga experience like no other.
Our Top Pick
Kamalaya Koh Samui
What we love about it: Holistic treatments – Yoga and wellness, 5 star luxury resort, Signature detox cuisine
What other customers love about it: “A Life changing experience”, “Never before have I been so close to heaven”
Thailand: A Haven for Yoga Retreats
Thailand has become a magnetic force for yoga enthusiasts worldwide looking for a relaxing yoga holiday. It offers a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty and stunning beaches, the richness of the Thai culture, and the warm hospitality that is unmissable.
What I love about Thailand is the diverse array of yoga and meditation retreats it offers, catering to all preferences and the high quality of teaching you can find here.
Thailand offers the perfect combination, offering more comfortable facilities than India and much better prices than Bali, such that even the best yoga retreats in Thailand don’t create a huge dent on your pocket.
From intense yoga instructor training programs to more luxury all-inclusive yoga retreats, there is something to suit all tastes and Thailand is definitely the right location, should you be a beginner or advanced yogi.
Each yoga retreat promises a personalized and transformative journey, ensuring you a blissful experience that allows you to connect with your inner self.
Types of Yoga Retreats in Thailand
Boutique Retreat Centers
Experience personalized attention and intimacy at the boutique yoga retreats in Thailand. These yoga retreats curate unique yoga programs for forging deeper connection with mind and body to promote optimal health.
In these resort like settings you also get additional wellness services, such as Ayurvedic treatments and holistic approach therapies.
Yoga Teacher Training
Whether for a career change or personal growth, training for a yoga teacher is an excellent option if you’re ready to fully commit to yoga practice.
The most common program is the 200-hour certification, typically requiring a month of intensive dedication. This transformative experience demands your full-time commitment. You won’t have much free time, and some centers start with early morning routines.
Upon completion, you’ll receive a recognized certification allowing you to teach yoga. However, be sure to choose a center accredited by the official Yoga Alliance.
Beachfront Resorts
Let the soothing sound of waves and gentle sea breeze enhance your yoga journey at beachfront yoga retreats. These havens offer yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, luxury accommodation, and indulgent spa treatments.
You are spoilt for luxury in these best yoga retreats which are no less than a tropical paradise: beach yoga classes and meditation sessions, daily healthy meals, Thai massage, herbal steam sauna, infinity pool – it’s all there!
Eco-Lodges
If you value sustainability and environmental preservation, eco-lodges are the perfect choice. These yoga retreats combine yoga with eco-friendly living, organic plant based meals, and outdoor activities to deepen your connection with nature.
Wellness retreats
As the name suggests a wellness retreat focuses on your wellbeing by offering both group and private yoga sessions. Often these double up as a spiritual retreat with meditation classes that teach you about the various meditation practices.
Yoga Thailand: Our top 9 yoga retreat picks
1. One Yoga
“Best retreat for Yoga teacher training”
Located on the idyllic Koh Phangan island, One Yoga stands out as the perfect destination for aspiring yoga teachers seeking a top-notch training experience.
This center is dedicated almost exclusively to teacher training, ensuring a focused and immersive program. The teacher team at One Yoga delivers high-quality training, and the package includes not only excellent instruction but also vegetarian meals and comfortable accommodation.
Be prepared to rise early for the 6:30 am class, but the reward is unparalleled. Imagine practicing yoga while witnessing the sun rising over the horizon, in a beautiful shala with stunning sea views!
Accommodation options are simple yet cozy and tidy. You can choose between a shared dormitory or a private bungalow with your own terrace, providing a tranquil space to unwind.
One Yoga’s strategic location is another highlight. Within a few minutes’ walk, you’ll find various cafes, shops, and massage places, offering convenience and opportunities for exploration during your stay.
Although the center lacks a private swimming pool here, it compensates with a serene and private beach, offering a yoga retreat for relaxation and contemplation.
As a testament to the center’s quality, a yoga teacher who conducted training at One Yoga in 2022 shares glowing recommendations. The teaching is simply exceptional, encompassing not only asanas and meditation techniques but also in-depth knowledge about anatomy and transformative philosophy classes.
One Yoga primarily focuses on Hatha yoga, but participants have the chance to explore other styles during the program, including Yin, Kundalini, Vinyasa, and even pre-natal yoga!
Based on our observations, One Yoga offers the best value for money concerning yoga teacher training in Thailand. The center strikes an excellent balance between comfort and quality of teaching, making it a standout choice for aspiring yoga teachers.
2. Samma Karuna
“The more complete retreat”
Also located on Koh Phangan island, you’ll find Samma Karuna, a center offering modern teachings in yoga, tantra, and breath work. They conduct teacher trainings, and you can also join their daily drop-in classes offering various types of yoga.
It’s a perfect place to add some healthy practices to your vacation or try something new during your trip.
One fantastic aspect of Samma Karuna is their detox retreat, where you can improve your food hygiene while practicing meditation and yoga in a peaceful beach setting. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a holistic wellness experience.
Their 6 night detox program starts from $650 that includes shared accommodation, 4 Ayurvedic meals detox per day, consultations with a nutritionist and 2 daily yoga classes.
However, if you can’t afford to pay that kind of price then don’t worry! You have an option to join the programs as a volunteer, which is such a great thing!
3. Ananda Yoga & Detox Center
“The best detox retreat in Thailand”
Ananda stands as the most renowned and well-known destination on Koh Phangan for detoxing.
They offer detox programs of various durations, ranging from 3 to 11 days, and boast a colema room for thorough cleansing. Prices start from $400 USD for a 3 day detox program.
Along with detox programs, Ananda provides top-notch drop-in yoga classes, workshops, and certified teacher trainings. They specialize in Vinyasa and Yin yoga, but you can also explore other yoga styles in the drop-in classes.
The resort features a pool and is conveniently situated opposite Hinkong beach, where you can witness the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see!
It is one of the most affordable yoga retreats in Thailand. A drop in class starts at $12 USD and you can get it under $10 USD if you pay for classes in bulk.
If you are looking for detox program for a reasonable price, this a right place for you – dtshura
4. Wonderland Healing Centre
Wonderland truly lives up to its name!
It’s an oasis of peace and tranquility nestled in the jungle, providing the perfect setting for rejuvenation and self-care.
The yoga resort offers charming private rooms, a beautiful pool surrounded by coconut trees, and a spacious open-air restaurant serving the most delectable vegetarian food on Koh Phangan island.
There is a newly built, dome-shaped, herbal steam sauna for you to enjoy, day and night! That’s right – it is open at night too 🙂
Whether you’re looking for a one-week retreat or a less intense training, Wonderland specializes in yoga and digital detox, catering to your needs.
You have plenty of activities to do here so it never gets boring around here. You could go on a beach excursion, nature hikes or they even organize sunset tours which are simply amazing!
Their daily pass is an excellent value, granting unlimited access to their delicious food, facilities, and classes.
For a unique experience, don’t miss their magical aerial yoga class! Embrace the wonder and bliss at Wonderland and treat yourself to a truly unforgettable retreat.
5. Vikasa Yoga Retreat
“The most luxurious yoga retreat in Thailand”
Imagine a place where people embrace change and transformation with open arms. VIKASA, which means ‘evolution’ in Sanskrit, is that very place.
Whether you’re seeking a personalized wellness program, or a transformative yoga retreat in Thailand, there’s a Vikasa journey tailored just for you.
Situated on an exclusive beach of Koh Samui island, this luxury center provides excellent teaching in a comfortable and lavish setting. It’s the perfect nest to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Vikasa offers 7 different styles and themes of yoga retreats such as adventure or meditation theme throughout the year in Thailand. These yoga retreats that range from 6 to 14 days can be be booked as far as 12 months in advance.
6. Samahita Retreat
“The best yoga retreat for wellbeing and self-care”
Samahita Retreat is a beautiful and quiet wellness retreat center located for away from the city life, on the magical Koh Samui island. Since 2003, it has been a sanctuary for promoting recovery and positive energy, and enhancing vitality, all amidst nature’s embrace, right on the beach.
If you are looking for a beach holiday when you visit Thailand and would also like to experience one of the best yoga retreats in Thailand then this is the right place for you!
What makes it stand out from the other wellness retreats is that not only they pioneered the wellness retreat concept but they also have the most functional personal wellbeing programs that genuinely uplift your body and mind.
We personally like their 7-10 day total self-care program that gives you the best value from this wellness resort. The highlight of this package are the therapeutic massage, traditional Thai massage, Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage and the Infrared Sauna Therapy.
With 4 dedicated shalas, an indoor cycle studio facing the beach, a beachside yoga studio, a sea view fitness loft, and a serene meditation sessions garden, this wellness and meditation retreat provides all the facilities that you need for a rejuvenating and complete Thailand retreat.
Experience the ultimate self-care with Samahita package that includes luxury private accommodation with garden or sea view options, a tasty vegetarian cuisine and selection of therapy and treatment each day (make sure to try the Chi Nei Tsang massage, absolutely fantastic!)
7. Kamalaya Koh Samui
“Best overall beach yoga retreat for luxury and wellness”
Discover the multi-award-winning Kamalaya Koh Samui, a heavenly Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa nestled amidst the lush tropical landscape.
Kamalaya is a 5-star-resort that offers transformative wellness journey. The resort offers healthy food options across their beachside cafe, tea lounge and a premier restaurant. Their award winning healthy cuisine is made of seasonal organic produce cooked using low salt, low sugar, low fat and low dairy products.
Although it’s not a dedicated yoga center, it undoubtedly stands as the finest choice for a top-tier luxury retreat. Whether you prefer individual or group yoga retreats, Kamalaya offers a diverse range of options to suit your needs perfectly.
Fitness, yoga, detox, massage, and holistic treatments – Kamalaya has it all! Prepare to indulge in the most exquisite wellness experiences, tailored to elevate your mind, body and soul.
While luxury comes with a price, the Kamalaya yoga retreat experience takes it to another level entirely. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation at this ultimate sanctuary of well-being.
Prices start from 2000 USD for a 5-night-Fitness retreat and include private accommodation, access to all facilities, specific classes and treatments and private airport transfer.
8. Phuket Cleanse
The Phuket cleanse is a luxury yoga resort that provides absolutely everything that you need when it is about wellness and health!
This modern haven offers everything you need, from a sauna and ice bath to treatment rooms, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, yoga classes, and detox and wellness programs.
With so many incredible options available, choosing just one might be the toughest part!
9. Mala Dhara Chiang Mai
“The quiet gem”
Male Dhara, an eco-resort and organic farm, awaits you just 30 minutes away from Chiang Mai International Airport. This unique and restorative yoga retreat is nestled in the heart of fields, offering a serene escape.
You have the freedom to choose between a group retreat or a private yoga tailored-program. Whatever you choose, Male Dhara promises the best yoga retreat experience.
They offer various accommodation options, from shared dorms to luxurious concrete villas, ensuring a comfortable stay. Indulge in their healthy vegan cuisine, a treat for your taste buds.
You will have an option to join yoga classes that run at one of two yoga shalas: either next to a saltwater pool with comfortable fans, soft lighting and a cozy atmosphere, or in an organic garden outside the resort with natural breezes and expansive views of mountains and rice fields.
One of the more affordable retreats, prices here start from 70 USD per night for a private room.
Choosing the Perfect Thailand Yoga Retreat
Location: Thailand offers diverse locations, from remote islands to cultural cities and mountain retreats. Pick a spot that resonates with your soul and that awakes your spiritual self.
Style of Yoga: Whether you prefer Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, or Kundalini, choose a retreat that aligns with your preferred yoga style.
Duration: Decide on the length of your stay based on your commitments and desired outcomes. It could be a few days to a couple of months.
Accommodation Options: From rustic huts to luxurious villas, select accommodations that ensure relaxation and comfort.
Amenities: Choose facilities that suit your needs, whether you prefer the ones with modern amenities like pools and spas or the simple and affordable yoga retreats make the cut for you.
Instructor Credentials: Ensure your yoga journey is guided by experienced and knowledgeable instructors for a safe and fulfilling experience.
Important note:
Before selecting a yoga center for your teacher training, do your own personal research. While most centers are reliable and safe, there were past allegations of physical and emotional abuse against Agama’s founder. Although the founder has left, the center is still operational on Koh Phangan island with a new teacher team. The Thai police are now being extremely cautious with yoga centers since this incident. Be mindful of your safety and ensure you don’t support any abusive practices financially.
Popular Thai Regions for Yoga Retreats
- Koh Phangan is Thailand’s best location for yoga teacher training. Experience transformative yoga retreats amidst lush tropical scenery and serene beaches. Koh Phangan offers meditative practices, detox programs, and holistic well-being. The north part of the island is spirituality and yoga oriented.
Note: there is no airport in Koh Phangan, which keeps the location exclusive, but this is important to consider, especially if you come for a short amount of time. To reach the island, the best option is to take a speed boat from Koh Samui, the island near by.
- Chiang Mai: Immerse yourself in cultural richness and spirituality in the tranquil ambiance of Chiang Mai. This region is ideal for those seeking a blend of tradition and modern comfort.
- Koh Samui: Indulge in luxury and rejuvenation at end spa resorts. This island promises opulence and wellness for your yoga journey.
- Phuket: Explore diverse yoga retreats catering to various needs in this popular tourist destination. Phuket offers transformative experiences amidst stunning landscapes.
In summary, Thailand has some of the best yoga retreats.
In these yoga retreats in Thailand you get to have a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday that include yoga classes, meditation classes, island yoga on the beach, spiritual retreats, and restorative styles in an idyllic setting.
So for you next trip to South East Asia consider visiting a yoga retreat in Thailand. But as we remind you always – don’t forget to take out travel insurance!