Journey into Spirituality
Boutique, curated, all-inclusive retreat to Nepal & India
October 25 - November 10, 2026
The weaving of Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal brings the spiritually powerful culture of yoga to everyday life.
Segment 1: Take a journey with Yoga For Life: join Kelly Suttell and Raj Patra to witness ancient traditions and practices of yoga on this rare adventure through Kathmandu and Namobuddha. Touch the sky of spirituality, encounter sadhus, yogis, and Lamas, visit World Heritage Sites, and witness life inside Vajrayana monasteries.
Segment 2: Continue your exploration with us throughout Northern India, exploring the quintessential Hindu sites of highest significance. Here we’ll stay in the cities of historical and spiritual significance as we understand the interweavings of different lineages of Buddhism with the original Shiva and Shakti philosophies.
SEGMENT 1:
Awe-inspiring Kathmandu
Boudhanath Stupa
A pilgrimage site for all Tibetans in the Himalayas.
DAY 1: Arrival > Boudhanath Stupa > Kathmandu
As soon as your plane touches the ground, you’ll start soaking in the views of the multi-colored collage that is the Kathmandu against the backdrop of Himalaya mountains. Ground transportation takes you through the city to our lovely Newari-style hotel. Very close to the historical Swyambhunath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the Himalayas, Hotel Vajra is conveniently located in the heart of the city. A labyrinth of backstreets and alleys leading from one bazaar to another offers a pulsating theater of color and sound! After some rest, we will kick off our journey by summoning the presence of the extraordinary Boudhanath Stupa, a pilgrimage site for all Tibetans through high Himalayan passes.
Shiva sadhus at Pashupatinath Temple
One of the holiest temples in the world for Hindus.
DAY 2: Kopan Monastery > Pashupatinath Temple
Morning yoga practice will help you overcome jet lag, take away any fatigue, and prepare you for the day’s adventure. Our Nepal adventure continues with a visit to Kopan Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Mahayana lineage. Next destination: Pashupatinath temple, one of the holiest of Hindu sites on the bank of Bagmati River. Step off the beaten tourist path with Raj to visit the meditation caves of Tilopa (988AD) and Naropa, founders of Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism lineages. On our return to the hotel, we’ll witness one of the most spectacular pujas and aarti (worship with fire and oil-lamps) inside the main temple.
Ancient Town of Bhaktapur
Preserved as a living town exactly as it was in 1400 A.D.
DAY 3: Bhaktapur > Drive to Namobuddha
After a morning practice, lecture, and breakfast, we’ll travel to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, an ancient citadel inhabited but untouched since 1400 A.D. Inside, see incredible sculptures, temples, king’s palace, and life as it was centuries ago. Today is not the day to forget your camera!
That afternoon, we’ll depart the bustle of Kathmandu and drive to Namobuddha Resort, an eco-lodge where the craftsmanship of your personal tiny-house experience will simply wow you! Enjoy organic, farm-to-table chef’s dining while you look out the majestic Himalayan range at your doorstep, listening to exotic birds.
Evening meditation, lectures, and internal practices will help you leave the normalcy of life behind and focus on the cultivation of freeing your mind.
DAY 4: Namobuddha > Hike and Tour of Panauti via Balthali
By now, most of you may contemplate moving into Namobuddha Resort permanently and savoring the sweetness of life with simple opulence. Nothing smells like a fresh breeze kissed by the warmth of the snow-reflected sun. A meditative state of being seems to come effortlessly.
After an early breakfast, we set off on a drive through scenic farmlands, terrace cultivations, and small villages to the revered Buddhist pilgrimage site of Namobuddha and the impressive Thrangu Tashi Monastery to stroll the village on foot.
Today, we also go on short hikes to the local towns of Balthali and Panauti and witness Maha Kala Puja at the famous and opulent Namobuddha Monastery. Prepare to be amazed by the artwork, deities, and the many Tibetan Buddha sculptures draped in the most elaborate Thanka fabric.
Himalayan Peaks from Namobuddha
DAY 5: Dhulikhel > Karma Lekshiling Monastery > Drive to Kathmandu
Dhulikhel is one of the more popular places from which to observe the high Himalayas. From the edge of the ridge, a stunning panorama of peaks unfolds, from Langtang Lirung (23,710ft/7227m) in the west, through Dorje Lakpa (22,854ft/6966m) to the huge bulk of Gauri Shankar (23,405ft/7134m) and nearby Melungtse (23,560ft/7181m), and as far as Numbur (19,505ft/5945m) in the east.
Later that day, we return to Kathmandu and visit Karma Lekshiling Monastery, the spiritual home of Dorje Andrey Lappa, founder of Universal Yoga. In this monastery, we get to the heart of the living quarters of monks, Lamas, Rimpoche, and the inner workings of how a monastery is run. If we get the timing right, we may even get to see a puja celebration.
Swyambhunath Temple
Also called monkey temple.
DAY 6: Swayambhunath Stupa > City of Patan
A Universal Yoga class brings in the new day! Then, today is your day to hunt, bargain, and shop now that you are somewhat familiar with the Nepali culture. Patan (The City of Living Art) is the epicenter of Nepali and Tibetan art, crafts, textiles, and sculptures. We visit shops where singing bowls have been made traditionally for generations. Then, after a quick session on how to bargain, we visit Tibetan Refugee Camp where women hand-weave wool carpets with tens of thousands of knots at blazing speed. The buzzing markets, the artistry of age-old temples and palaces, and the medieval feel bestow a definitive experience of shopping that you will remember years after your return home! We finish the day with a deep stretching and meditation class.
Day 7: Last Day in Kathmandu
Today marks the last day in our first segment (Kathmandu) as we prepare to set off for trekking. It is always tough to say goodbyes to the smiling faces of the staff, cooks, and caretakers at Hotel Vajra, as the purity in their smiles and love in their Namaste have connected hearts every year of our retreat.
SEGMENT 2:
Exploration of Northern India
This journey will immerse you in India’s spiritual past and present, with an ideal balance of sacred sites, natural beauty, and profound insights.
With teacher, Raj Patra and local city guides throughout, explore city palaces and ancient temples, do yoga on the mythological sites. Here, you will learn about the many sources of religions that has blended to form this fascinating nexus of “Unity in Diversity.” And while Buddhism is widespread and held on its own, having experienced Nepal, we will unfold the origin of Buddhism. Afterall, Gautama Buddha was a Hindu Prince Siddhartha in a small province of North India with significant Hindu teachers such as Sage Kapila, and other sages of the time such as Yajnavalkya, Uddalaka Aruni, Shvetaketu, Shandilya, Aitareya, and Balaki.
Day 7: Fly to Jaipur, Rajasthan
After saying goodbye to Nepal, we fly to Delhi, and from there to Jaipur.
Ah, Rajasthan! Embark on a journey where the sands of time whisper tales of valor, romance, and royalty. Let the vibrant tapestry of this desert jewel captivate your senses and steal your heart. Why Rajasthan?
Majestic Forts and Palaces: Wander through the golden ramparts of Mehrangarh Fort, lose yourself in the intricate beauty of Udaipur’s City Palace, or step into the opulent halls of Jaipur’s Amber Fort, each echoing the grandeur of a bygone era.
Vivid Culture: Immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of Rajasthani traditions—dance to the soulful tunes of folk music, marvel at the artistry of block-printed textiles, and savor spicy delicacies like dal baati churma.
Desert Magic: Ride a camel across the shimmering Thar Desert, camp under a canopy of stars, and witness the surreal beauty of Sam Sand Dunes at sunset.
Festive Splendor: We time our visit to join the dazzling Diwali celebrations, where colors, lights, and traditions come alive. It is a rare opportunity to witness the largest of Indian celebrations.
Rajasthan is not just a destination; it’s a story waiting to unfold, as we let the land of kings weave its magic around us.
Days 8: Soak in the Pink City: Jaipur
Start the day with an early morning Pink City rickshaw tour, offering a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the vibrant streets of the old city. These bright pink electric rickshaws are driven by local women, providing them with sustainable livelihood opportunities while giving visitors an authentic and meaningful travel experience.
As you ride through Jaipur’s bustling lanes, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks, colorful bazaars, and hidden corners that showcase the city’s rich heritage. Along the way, you can stop to enjoy local chai, snacks, and interact with the community.
After breakfast at the hotel, we visit three iconic landmarks that showcase the city’s royal heritage and architectural brilliance:
Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It features a collection of massive stone instruments used to measure time, track celestial bodies, and study astronomy with remarkable precision.
Nearby stands the Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of Winds,” a five-story pink sandstone structure with over 900 small windows (jharokhas). Built for the royal ladies to observe street life without being seen, it’s one of Jaipur’s most photographed landmarks.
Completing the trio is the City Palace, a stunning complex of courtyards, gardens, and museums. It still serves as the residence of Jaipur’s royal family while showcasing exquisite artifacts, royal garments, and historic architecture.
Day 9: Amer Fort visit
After an early morning yoga session, and post breakfast, we head out to Visit Amer Fort. Located just outside Jaipur, it is one of Rajasthan’s most majestic forts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, the fort is a stunning blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, featuring grand courtyards, intricate carvings, and beautiful mirror work.
Highlights include the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where thousands of tiny mirrors reflect even the smallest flicker of light, and the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) with its ornate pillars and arches. The fort, made of red sandstone and marble, is perched on a hill overlooking Maota Lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Post lunch, we head to a local artisan to experience the making of Blue Pottery with an award-winning artist – Mr. Gopal Saini for a hands-on experience on Jaipur Blue Pottery. Delve deeper into the history and artistry of the beautiful handicrafts of Jaipur Blue Pottery. Take yours with you, along with a newly acquired mastery of an age-old art form and some indelible memories.
Day 10: Jaipur to Osian - sand dunes of Thar
After an early morning yoga session, and a leisurely breakfast, we get to relax before heading to the desert land of Osian. There we check in to our desert camp!
Head out in Jeeps to the dunes and witness the sunset with some incomparable Rajasthani chai at sundown. As twilight descends, the sky erupts in a symphony of purples and pinks.
Returning to the camp, we listen to local ethnic artists perform Rajasthani folk music and dance. The trance of the string instruments and the starwatching in the desert sky is bound to stir your being into a peaceful night’s sleep.
Day 11: Drive to Pushkar
Waking up to experience sunrise in Thar desert dunes and start the day with yoga is not something people can claim everyday! Well, now you can.
Post breakfast, we leave for Pushkar. This will be a long drive, but the only way to see the sights and sounds of passing by townships and Rajasthani local life. Reach Pushkar and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 12: Pushkar - Land of Bharma
Our day starts with an early morning hike to the Sita Devi temple. And after breakfast, we go on a walking tour of Pushkar.
Pushkar, a small yet sacred town, is both a pilgrimage site for some and a peaceful retreat for others. This guided walking tour by Vedic Walks takes you through its spiritual lanes, weaving fascinating stories, local legends, and colorful anecdotes that bring the town’s rich heritage to life.
As you explore, witness the coexistence of four major religions of India within just a mile, reflected in the town’s diverse temples and shrines. Admire the unique blend of architectural styles in centuries-old temples before wandering through Pushkar’s bustling bazaar, filled with vibrant colors, crafts, and aromas.
Highlights of the walk include visiting Pushkar’s oldest Sikh temple (Gurudwara), a serene South Indian temple, and the iconic Brahma Temple, one of the few dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Stroll along the holy ghats, where you can participate in a brief ceremony led by a local priest, connecting deeply with the town’s spiritual energy.
The tour concludes near the cattle ground, famous for hosting the world’s largest camel and cattle fair, a spectacle of tradition and culture.
This experience offers a meaningful way to immerse yourself in Pushkar’s spirituality, while supporting sustainable tourism and leaving positive carbon footprints behind.
The rest of the day is spent at the hotel at your leisure.
Day 13: Pushkar - experiencing Ajmer
If all went according to plan, and we got a hold of the right person, imagine a yoga session at sunrise on the ghats of Pushkar, alongside the myriad of holy bathers, Brahmins chanting Sanskrit, curious boys selling chai and biscuit, and the city waking up!
Today, after breakfast, we head to Ajmer and visit a local Artisan to witness Bangle making activity - Lac artistry, which is one of the most famous and traditional craft of Rajasthan. Get a first-hand experience of how lac is melted, molded, and decorated to make lac bangles or accessories. In a small cozy home in Ajmer, join Raisa Begam, a lac artist to make colorful souvenir like lac bangles to take home.
A day full of sensory experiences and amazing food, ends with stories to share over dinner table back at the hotel.
Day 14: Pushkar to Jodhpur - the Blue City
Nobody said you cannot wear your personal lac bangles to a morning yoga session!
After a Rajasthani breakfast, we head to our last destination: Jodhpur — the Blue City. The opulence of the Hindu kings and emperors of Western India becomes evident in its striking forts, palaces, temples and artistry. Besides being known for its flavorful and colorful cuisines, it is also well-known for unique handicrafts, jewelry, puppets, and antiques.
Above all, we are here to experience Diwali in India! It is the festival of lights.
If we arrive in time, we get to visit a local family and experience a festive home cooked dinner made with love by the aunties and grandaunties of the household.
Day 15: Soaking in Jodhpur
After yoga and breakfast, a full day of sightseeing in Jodhpur:
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is one of the largest and most impressive forts in India, perched on a rocky hill 400 feet above the city. Built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort features massive walls, intricate palaces, courtyards, and a well-curated museum showcasing royal artifacts, weapons, and paintings. The fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of Jodhpur, famously known as the Blue City.
Just a short walk away is Jaswant Thada, a beautiful white marble cenotaph built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Often called the "Taj Mahal of Marwar," it features delicate marble latticework, stunning architecture, and serene gardens.
Together, these landmarks reflect Jodhpur’s royal legacy and provide a perfect blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty.
Post lunch, experience the charm of Jodhpur’s old city as you stroll through its enchanting blue alleys, once home to the Brahmin community. These narrow lanes, lined with vibrant blue houses, beautifully reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions.
Walk through Nav Chowkia, where magnificent havelis showcase exquisite hand-carved walls and intricate galleries, offering a peek into the grandeur of a bygone era. Along the way, discover the unique Eloji Temple, dedicated to the god of sexual power — a rare and fascinating aspect of local beliefs.
As you continue, witness the artistry of local goldsmiths, skillfully crafting intricate jewelry in their traditional workshops. Find a moment of peace at the ancient Kunj Bihari Temple, soaking in its spiritual serenity.
The journey concludes with a visit to historic stepwells, marvels of Jodhpur’s architectural ingenuity, before stepping into the bustling main bazaars filled with vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors.
This walking tour is a captivating blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship, offering an authentic glimpse into the heart of Jodhpur..
Day 16: Diwali in Jodhpur
Post breakfast we go for a Jutti Making Experience with a local Artisan. It’s an art steeped in tradition and cultural significance across India. Join us for an unforgettable journey into this timeless craft with Mohan Lal Gujar and Chanda Gujar, renowned master craftspeople of Leather Jutti (Mojari) crafting.
Post lunch we head to a local village to visit a farm and experience a dining experience like never before.
Mharo Khet in Jodhpur is a unique farm-to-table experience that combines sustainability, gastronomy, and rural charm. Located just outside the city, this beautifully maintained organic farm offers visitors a chance to connect with nature while learning about responsible farming practices.
The experience includes a guided farm walk, where you explore lush fields of seasonal produce, herbs, and flowers, discovering how fresh, chemical-free ingredients are grown. Along the way, you’ll learn about sustainable agriculture and local farming techniques.
The highlight of the visit is a curated dining experience, where a specially crafted meal is prepared using ingredients sourced directly from the farm. The dishes beautifully showcase regional flavors with a contemporary twist, making it a treat for both the palate and the soul.
Perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts, Mharo Khet offers a serene escape from the city while celebrating local produce, sustainability, and authentic Rajasthani hospitality.
Day 17: Retreat ends in Jodhpur
All amazing adventures must be fortified with a calling for home.
Sadly, today is that day. After morning breakfast together and sharing some of the highlights of your memories, you will be shuttled to the Jodhpur airport in the afternoon depending on your flight time.
DETAILS
October 25 to November 10, 2026. Arrival: Kathmandu. Departure Jodhpur.
INCLUDED IN ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICE:
All accommodations for 16 nights and 17 days, mostly in boutique and heritage hotels.
Airfare from Kathmandu to Jaipur
All ground transportation within destinations, including airport transfers.
All yoga classes, lectures, and preparatory sessions and classes.
All entrance fees and tickets, including guide and tour fees throughout.
Vegetarian breakfasts, lunches, and dinners every day of the retreat at high-quality restaurants, including any non-alcoholic beverage during each meal.
Bottled drinking water for the entire duration of the retreat.
ALL-INCLUSIVE RETREAT PRICE:
Double Room: $5,400. Single Room: (contact us)
Early bird price: $5,100, available only when paid in full by 3/1/2026.
A deposit of $1000 is required to reserve a spot. All payments are due by 7/1/2026.
Deposit is fully refundable until 2/28/2026.
All payments minus the deposit is fully refundable until May 31, 2026.
50% of all payments minus the deposit is refundable until June 30, 2026.
No refund after June 30, 2026. We will have to pay all our vendors.
Space available for 16 passengers only.
Payment: Venmo: @RajPatra
Email info@yogaforlifepdx.com or text +1 206 992 9031 for more details.
EXCLUDED FROM ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICE:
Airfare to and from your home country
NOTE: Retreat starts at Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) and ends in Jodhpur, India (JDH).
Nepal and India tourist visas
Travel insurance (required)
Any incidentals & shopping expenses
Any gratuity
Alcoholic beverages and non-veg dishes
Your Guides: Raj Patra and Kelly Suttell
Lama-La and Raj Patra at Karma Lekshey Ling Monastery, Kathmandu, Nepal
Raj Patra
Born in Kolkata, India in a spiritual family, Raj was soaked in Hinduism and yoga traditions at a very young age. Practiced in Swami Yogananda lineage, his current teacher is the father of Universal Yoga lineage, Dorje Andre Lappa, a Vajrayana Buddhist. Raj has traveled to Nepal many times and is deeply knowledgable about eastern practices, mythology, and spiritual traditions. Find out more about Raj.
“My goal is to educate others on the essence of yoga traditions. On this adventure, you will touch the sky of spirituality and the heart of adventure. You’ll visit known and hidden holy sites, witness peaceful ancient culture, and meet yogis — this trip will remain unforgettable.”
Kelly Suttell
Kelly has traveled to India and Nepal regularly since 2007. Not only is she familiar with the eastern spiritual ways of life, she has experienced the impact of such life firsthand through her relatives, extended family, and friends there.
Trained in Universal Yoga, she is also an integrative healing facilitator and wellness coach, and has more modalities of knowledge under her belt than her unassuming smile would care to admit. Find out more about Kelly.
“Nepal changes you. The culture is yoga in action, the people are peaceful, kind, and giving, and pure heartedness is a currency. When you’ve been steeped in that experience, your perspective changes and it transforms you.”