What is a typical day like?
Expect early starts, around 6 AM, and a full timetable six days a week, with one day off.
A day usually moves from pranayama and meditation to asana practice, then lectures in anatomy, philosophy and teaching methodology, then an evening practice. At Swaastik you eat two sattvic vegetarian meals a day, brunch and dinner, so mornings are practised on an empty stomach. Days are long and you will be tired at first. Most students settle into the rhythm by the end of the first week.
Is the certificate recognised internationally?
A certificate from a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School (RYS) is the most widely recognised yoga teaching credential, but the certificate itself is not a registration.
When you finish, the school gives you its certificate. You can then apply to Yoga Alliance yourself, and pay their fee, to register as an RYT 200. Always check the school is listed in the Yoga Alliance online directory; a logo on a website proves nothing. Swaastik Yog School is registered as RYS 200, RYS 300 and RYS 500, as well as RCYS and YACEP; you can confirm this on our Yoga Alliance profile.
Who teaches, and how big are the groups?
Ask every school for the names of the lead teachers on your dates and the maximum batch size.
At Swaastik, our founder and lead teacher Mayuri Shewale (E-RYT 500, 15+ years) leads the 200-, 300- and 500-hour courses, and co-founder Rahul Badoni (E-RYT 500, 15+ years) teaches philosophy. Swami Anand teaches meditation. We are a women-led school, founded in 2015, and batches are capped at 12 students.
Where will I stay, and what is the food like?
At most Rishikesh schools you live on or near campus and eat simple vegetarian food; check exactly what is included before you pay.
Our students live on our garden campus in Tapovan, a short walk from the Ganga. You choose a dormitory, a shared room or a private room. Meals are sattvic: simple, freshly cooked vegetarian food. If you have allergies or a special diet, tell us when you book.
When is the best time of year to train in Rishikesh?
October to November and February to April are the most comfortable months; every month has courses.
- October to November: clear skies and mild days. A popular time to train.
- December to January: cold mornings and evenings. Bring warm layers.
- February to April: spring, pleasant and busy.
- May to June: hot afternoons.
- July to September: monsoon rain, green hills and fewer visitors. Mountain roads can be disrupted.
Do I need a visa?
Most international students need an Indian visa, and the right type depends on your nationality and the length of your course.
Many nationalities can apply for an Indian e-Visa online. Rules change, so check the official Government of India visa website for your passport before you book flights, and apply well in advance. We can send you a confirmation letter for your course if you need one.
How do I get to Rishikesh?
The nearest airport is Dehradun (Jolly Grant), about an hour's drive away; most international students fly into Delhi first and connect by domestic flight, train or taxi.
We can arrange a pickup from Dehradun airport at an extra cost. Tell us your flight details once you have booked.
Is Rishikesh safe for women travelling alone?
Many women train in Rishikesh alone every year. Tapovan is a busy yoga neighbourhood, and normal travel sense goes a long way. Read our detailed guide to solo female yoga teacher training safety in India before you go.
How do I book, and what if I need to cancel?
You reserve your place with a 10% deposit and pay the balance when you arrive.
Our refund policy applies to every payment, deposit or full fee:
- 30 days or more before your start date: cancel and we refund everything you have paid, in full.
- Within 30 days of your start date: payments are non-refundable, but you can move to another batch of the same course.
- Once the course has started: fees are not refunded.
Whichever school you choose, read the refund terms before you pay, and consider travel insurance that covers cancellation.
How do I know if a school is good?
Check three independent things: the Yoga Alliance directory, recent Google reviews, and a written list of what is and is not included.
Swaastik Yog School holds a 4.8 rating on Google from 137+ reviews. Read the recent ones, not just the stars, and message any school with your questions before you book. How quickly and clearly they answer tells you a lot.
Next step
If you are ready to choose dates, see the next batches and room options for our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, or compare every course on our courses page.
