Question 1

What is the dress code at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Modest dress is required around the ashram and its vicinity, so please bring suitable clothes that will cover your shoulders and knees. White clothing is preferable, so please bring it if you have it.

Question 2

What should I bring with me to the ashram?

Accepted Answer

All students and guests are advised to bring the following: ⁃ Alarm clock ⁃ Towel ⁃ Shampoo and soap ⁃ Laundry soap ⁃ Bottle to refill for filtered water ⁃ Torch (flashlight) ⁃ Sandals ⁃ Hiking shoes (if you’re not comfortable walking trails in sandals) ⁃ Sunscreen ⁃ Sunglasses ⁃ Hat ⁃ Mosquito repellent ⁃ Toilet Paper ⁃ During February, November and December please bring warm clothes. Bed linen, blankets, yoga mats and yoga cushions are provided.

Question 3

Is there internet available at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Wi-Fi is available in common spaces at the ashram. Please note that due to our remote location, our Wi-Fi sometimes drops out. If you require guaranteed Internet access during your stay, we recommend that you purchase an Indian SIM card with mobile data from Airtel or Idea. Airtel is better connectivity.

Question 4

Do you have any rooftop terrace to enjoy the sun?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have multiple rooftop terraces and open spaces where you can spend your free time and enjoy the sun. Please remain respectful of the dress code at all times though and keep yourself covered from the shoulders to the knees.

Question 5

Where do you have yoga classes?

Accepted Answer

Our Hatha and Ashtanga yoga classes, as well as laughter yoga, all take place in our yoga hall, a cool space with plenty of windows for fresh air and view to the river on one side.

Question 6

Where can you meditate in the ashram?

Accepted Answer

The guided meditations that are part of the program take place in the Yoga Hall, a cool space with plenty of windows for fresh air and view to the river on one side. If you would like to meditate during your free time, you are welcome to use any public areas, including our spacious garden.

Question 7

Is there outdoor space within the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, unlike many ashrams located in Rishikesh, we have plenty of outdoor space within the ashram. A large courtyard, multiple rooftop areas and a very large garden full of beautiful flowers and herbs, nurtured with a lot of care by our Swami Ji. We are also located directly on the bank of the river Ganges and have direct access to walk to the shore from our garden. The ashram gates are locked during the night for complete safety of our guests.

Question 8

How can I volunteer at Phool Chatti Ashram?

Accepted Answer

We are always looking for people who have yoga and meditation experience to volunteer to support the programme. If you are interested, please come and talk to us once you have completed the course.

Question 9

When does the course start / check-in time?

Accepted Answer

We request that students arrive between 10:30 AM and 12 PM on the day the course begins, so you can register and enjoy lunch with us.  Lunch is served at 12:30 PM. After lunch, orientation will begin at 3.00 PM.

Question 10

When does the course finish / check-out time?

Accepted Answer

Plan to leave after 1:00 pm on closing day as that is when the program ends, unless you have booked extra nights or wish to join the next program.

Question 11

Can I book any extra nights and stay longer or arrive earlier?

Accepted Answer

You may arrive a few days earlier before the course starts and stay a few days afterwards. The earliest arrival is after the end of the previous program and the longest extra nights stay is until the next program starts.

Question 12

Can I repeat the program?

Accepted Answer

If you want to attend two of our weeklong yoga courses, then we suggest that you first register for one week and then decide about the second week after the completion of your first course.

Question 13

How many people attend the course?

Accepted Answer

On average, we have 50 students attending the course, some weeks we have more (up to 60) and other weeks we have less. Regardless of how many students are attending, we have plenty of space in the ashram, so it never feels crowded. For the daily chanting, bigger groups offer a more intense experience as you can feel the energy in the room building more powerfully.

Question 14

Is there a certificate available for the course?

Accepted Answer

If you stay for two programs, we offer a certificate to confirm your attendance. Please note that this is not comparable with a certificate you obtain after completing yoga teacher training.

Question 15

What style of yoga are you teaching?

Accepted Answer

We teach Hatha and Ashtange yoga.

Question 16

What methods of meditation do you teach?

Accepted Answer

We teach a variety of techniques for meditation, including silent meditation, mantra meditation, music meditation and more.

Question 17

What will I learn?

Accepted Answer

Our 7 day retreat program offers you an introduction to the yogic path. You will learn not just yoga asanas, but yoga philosophy, pranayama, yogic cleansing, mantra chanting and very importantly you will experience authentic ashram life. With our ashram lifestyle, the modern comforts are stripped back to a basic level, removing many distractions you are used to, and thereby providing a space of stillness in which you can learn a lot about yourself and grow spiritually.

Question 18

Is the use of mobile phones allowed during the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use your mobile phone during your free time.

Question 19

What should I wear during the program?

Accepted Answer

A modest dress code is required around the ashram. You should keep your shoulders and knees covered at all times with loose clothing. If you have white clothes, please bring them and wear as much white as possible. During yoga and meditation practice, it is acceptable to wear leggings and tank tops if you wish.

Question 20

Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?

Accepted Answer

No, we provide yoga mats for all students. If you wish, you are of course welcome to use your own mat if you have one with you.

Question 21

I am pregnant, can I attend the program?"

Accepted Answer

Please contact us before making a booking or visit if you are already in Rishikesh to speak with our teacher and we will asses your individual situation.

Question 22

Is there any free time during the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you have free time every day after lunch (approx. 1pm) until 3pm.

Question 23

Am I allowed to skip a class during the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you are not feeling well or don’t want to attend every single element of the program, it is your choice, no problem. Please ensure that you do not disturb others.

Question 24

Is it possible to attend the yoga program as a couple?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to attend the program as a couple. We request that you respect the ashram lifestyle and don’t show any signs of affection in public areas, including hugging and kissing.

Question 25

I am new to yoga and meditation - will this retreat program be suitable for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our program is perfect for beginners and intermediate students as it offers an introduction to the yogic path.

Question 26

I have been practicing yoga for many years - will this program be suitable for me?

Accepted Answer

Our program is intended for beginners and intermediate students. Everyone is welcome to attend. Your own asana practice might be more advanced if you have been practicing for many years, however you may still enjoy the ashram life experience.

Question 27

How difficult are the asanas that you are teaching?

Accepted Answer

The asanas we are teaching are intended for beginners and intermediate students and increase in difficulty as the program develops. Sequences include a variety of asanas, including inversions, however we always offer variations, so our students can get the most out of the practice for themselves.

Question 28

English is not my first language; will I be able to understand everything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all our students are coming from different parts of the world and for many English is not their first language. The program is easy to understand and if you have any questions at any point, we are here to help you.

Question 29

Do I have to prepare anything before coming to the retreat?

Accepted Answer

No, there are no reading materials or anything like that. Just prepare your mind frame for a week of immersion into the yogic lifestyle.

Question 30

What should I wear for the Ganga Ritual Bathing Ceremony?

Accepted Answer

The Ganga Bathing ritual takes place fully clothed and you should follow the same dress code as in the ashram: shoulders and knees covered and preferably white clothing.

Question 31

What should I wear for the Party in the Garden?

Accepted Answer

The party in the garden on day 6 does not require any special clothing. It’s like a relaxed camp fire atmosphere. We advise you to bring mosquito repellent.

Question 32

What should I wear for the Fire Ceremony on the last day?

Accepted Answer

On the last day, we ask that before the Fire Ceremony you take a bath from top to toe and arrive ready for the ceremony clean and in white clothes, covering shoulders and knees.

Question 33

What kind of food do you serve at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

We serve 100% vegetarian, traditional Indian food, including a variety of dals and vegetable curries, lots of fresh fruit and many ingredients are homegrown and organic from our garden. See our Food page for more information and pictures. The seasonal menu changes every day.

Question 34

I am vegan, is your food suitable for vegans?"

Accepted Answer

We offer a vegetarian menu. Most meals include some lactose-free or gluten-free options, but this option is not formally programmed into the menu. For example, we offer water-based porridge, which may be lactose free, and although oats are usually gluten-free, we cannot guarantee this. For lunch and dinner, we offer cooked vegetable dishes, legumes and salads. Milk products are usually offered separate, but sometimes dishes contains paneer (cottage cheese). Therefore, it is up to you to exercise some discretion with meal time, and you may skip any foods you wish.  We also have a small kitchenette and fridge for guests. You are welcome to bring your own foods from Laxman Jula and prepare them during your own time. This option may suit you if you better.

Question 35

Is there filtered drinking water available at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have filtered drinking water available all day, please bring your water bottle with you.

Question 36

Are there private rooms available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have single and double rooms available for private use.

Question 37

How many people can share a room?

Accepted Answer

Maximum two people can share one room.

Question 38

Do you allocate room mates for shared rooms?

Accepted Answer

No, we don’t allocate room mates. If you would like to share a double room, please arrange your room mate before arrival and inform us of your arrangements. OR You may ask other guests on arrival day and can find a compatible room mate. We suggest that you reserve a space by making a single booking now, and then later change from single to double if you find a roommate. That way you are assured to have a room.

Question 39

Can a man and a woman share a room?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it’s allowed for a man and woman to share a room.

Question 40

Are all rooms with private bathrooms?

Accepted Answer

Most double rooms have an attached toilet and bathroom. Single rooms have an outside bathroom shared only by two people.

Question 41

Is there hot water available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all bathrooms have hot water available.

Question 42

Do the bathrooms have showers?

Accepted Answer

Most bathrooms have showers, however showers may operate with cold water only. As part of the ashram life experience, we keep everything simple and recommend that you mix cold and hot water in a bucket to your desired temperature.

Question 43

Do you have heating in the rooms?

Accepted Answer

We don’t have heating in the rooms, however you will not be cold even during cooler temperatures as we provide woolen blankets.

Question 44

Do you have air conditioning in the rooms?

Accepted Answer

We don’t have air conditioning in the rooms or anywhere else in the ashram, but ceiling fans are installed throughout should you need them.

Question 45

How can I make a booking?

Accepted Answer

To reserve your space, please fill in the contact form and we will get in touch with you.

Question 46

Can I change my booking after I made it?

Accepted Answer

If for any reason you can no longer attend your chosen program, we are happy to change the dates for you, however once you have paid we don’t offer any refunds.

Question 47

What is the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

If you decide to leave the course early, you must still pay for the full course as we do not fill the spaces with other students. There is no refund. If your plans change before the start of the program, we are happy to change the dates for you and offer you a space on another retreat, however no refund will be given.

Question 48

How can I pay?

Accepted Answer

You can pay cash on arrival at the ashram or with credit card (3% fee applies).

Question 49

What visa do I need to attend the retreat?

Accepted Answer

We recommend you opt for an e-Visa for tourists which you can easily obtain online. No special visa is required to attend the program.

Question 50

Where is Phool Chatti Ashram?

Accepted Answer

Phool Chatti Ashram is located about 5 km east of Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh, foothills of the Himalayas, North India.

Question 51

How to get to Phool Chatti Ashram and how much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost from Delhi directly to Phool Chatti Ashram is INR 4,500 Rupees and is about 7 hours’ drive. From Haridwar to Phool Chatti is INR 1,200 Rupees. From Dehradun to Phool Chatti is INR 1,200 Rupees. From Laxman Jhula to Phool Chatti INR 500 Rupees.

Question 52

How do I reach Phool Chatti Ashram from Rishikesh?

Accepted Answer

The least expensive way to get here from Rishikesh is to take a taxi from Laxman Jhula from the same side of the footbridge where the Trayambakeshwar Temple is located to Phool Chatti Ashram (500 Rupees). Another option is to take a taxi from Haridwar or Rishikesh, across the New Green Bridge. Tell the taxi driver that 4kms after Laxman Jhula is the new Green Bridge on Badrinath Road. Cross the bridge and turn left on Neelkanth Road. Phool Chatti Ashram is around 2kms north of the New Green Bridge. This bridge is always open.

Question 53

How can I buy train tickets?

Accepted Answer

You can buy train tickets directly at the train station. You can get a train from Delhi to Haridwar and then on to Rishikesh. If you want to book tickets online, you can do so on the IRCTC website or with the app.

Question 54

What is the nearest airport?

Accepted Answer

The closest airport is Dehradun Airport, called Jolly Grant Airport, located halfway between Dehradun and Rishikesh. You can get domestic flights from Delhi with a number of airlines.

Question 55

Will you help me with travel arrangements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please contact us if you need help with travel arrangements.

Question 56

Is it safe to travel to Rishikesh alone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Rishikesh is a very safe place for everyone, whether you are travelling in a group or by yourself. The locals are very friendly, just use your common sense in the same way as you would at home.

Question 57

Is it safe to travel alone as a woman?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Rishikesh is a safe place for female solo travellers. The locals are nice and friendly. Use your common sense in the same way as you would at home, avoid walking by yourself in the dark.

Question 58

What vaccinations do I need to travel to India?

Accepted Answer

You can find out about recommended vaccines for international travel from your local travel clinic.

Question 59

I am on medication, will I be able to get this in India if I run out?"

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you bring enough supply of any medicines with you, however should you run out, Indian hospitals have the same facilities as Western hospitals. The medicine might not be the same brand, but you will be able to get it here as well.

Question 60

What if I get sick during the program?

Accepted Answer

If you get sick during the program, injured or need any medical assistance, we will provide you with care or take you to a hospital, depending on what is needed.

Question 61

Is India affected by Malaria?

Accepted Answer

Rishikesh is a very low-risk of Malaria, so you shouldn’t worry about it. We recommend if possible that you speak to a travel clinic before your trip to check your need for vaccinations and preventative tablets with a qualified advisor.

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