FAQ

Kerala enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, with relatively little variation in temperature.
October to March is the dry season, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This is the most popular time for sightseeing, yoga retreats, and longer stays.
April and May are the hottest months of the year. Temperatures are typically around 28°C (82°F) in the morning and can reach 35°C (95°F) during the day.
June to September is the monsoon season. Some days experience steady rain, while on others the showers are brief and followed by sunshine—it does not rain continuously every day.
After the rain, Kerala’s lush greenery becomes even more vibrant, the air feels fresh and clean, and the slightly cooler temperatures create a peaceful atmosphere. This season is especially recommended for those seeking a quiet, relaxing retreat.
Each season has its own unique charm, so the best time to visit depends on your travel goals and personal preferences.

Yes, absolutely. We can arrange airport pickup at any time to match your flight’s arrival.
You are welcome to check in at any hour, including late at night or early in the morning, so there’s no need to worry.
Please note: Airport transfers are available by advance reservation only.

Check-out is at 11:00 a.m.
Depending on room availability on the day, you may be able to continue using your room after check-out.
If the room is not available, you are welcome to relax in our shared spaces until your departure.
Shared shower and toilet facilities are also available, so you can freshen up before heading to the airport.
We can also store your luggage, allowing you to explore the surrounding area comfortably before your departure.

If you would like an airport transfer, please book it in advance.
Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport arrival exit, holding a sign with your name.
Airport transfers are available at any time, including late at night and early in the morning.
Trivandrum International Airport is relatively small and has a single main arrival exit,
making it easy to meet your driver.
If you are traveling by train, the nearest station is Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station.
It is approximately 2 km from the retreat, about a 5–10 minute drive.

No. Your room is not reserved simply by submitting an inquiry.
Your reservation will be confirmed once we receive your US$50 deposit.
The remaining balance can be paid before your departure, so there is no need to bring a large amount of cash with you.

Yes, absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and you are welcome to join on the dates that suit you best.
A solo stay is perfect for those who wish to relax at their own pace and
enjoy some quiet time without worrying about others.

There are no specific age restrictions. Anyone who is able to take care of
themselves independently is welcome to join.
No previous experience with yoga or Ayurveda is required.
All activities and treatments are adapted to your individual fitness level
and physical condition, so even beginners can join with confidence.

The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, located less than 40 km from our retreat. The journey takes approximately 1 hour by taxi.
Alternatively, you can fly into Cochin International Airport, which is about 190 km away. From there, it takes around 5–6 hours by taxi or train.

Yes. A visa is required to enter India. Most travelers can apply for an e-Visa online before departure.
You can apply between 120 days and 4 days before your arrival in India. We recommend applying around 2–3 weeks before your departure to allow plenty of time for processing.
Please be aware that there are many unofficial websites that look very similar to the official one. We strongly recommend applying only through the official Government of India website.

Official e-Visa application:
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

Kerala has a warm tropical climate, so lightweight summer clothing is suitable throughout most of the year.
December and January are considered Kerala’s winter, and you may want a light jacket or cardigan for the cooler mornings and evenings.
April and May are the hottest months of the year. During the monsoon season (June to September),
lightweight, quick-drying clothing is recommended due to the high humidity.
When visiting temples, please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is required for entry.
If you are sensitive to the sun, you may also wish to bring a hat, sun umbrella, or other sun protection.
Summer clothing and traditional Indian clothing can also be purchased locally.
As India can be dusty and clothes or shoes may get dirty, we recommend leaving your favorite or valuable items at home.

The standard voltage in India is 220V, 50Hz. If your device is not compatible with 220–240V,
you will need a voltage converter.
Most laptops, smartphones, and other devices with universal voltage support do not require a converter.
India uses different plug types from Japan, so a Type C plug adapter is required.
We provide one adapter in each room for your convenience.

Shampoo, conditioner, and soap are provided in your room.
If you have a preferred sunscreen, skincare products, or cosmetics,
we recommend bringing your own.
Basic medicines are available locally, but if you regularly take any medication,
please bring enough for your stay.
You may also wish to bring sandals or flip-flops for indoor use or around the property.
Please avoid bringing your favorite clothes or shoes, as India can be dusty and muddy,
and they may become dirty or damaged during your trip.

Yes. There are small local shops within walking distance where
you can buy daily necessities such as toiletries, snacks, and drinks.
The center of Varkala town is about 2 km away and can be reached in just a few minutes by tuk-tuk.
You will also find restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops along the nearby beach.
For more extensive shopping, there is a large shopping mall in Trivandrum,
about an hour away by car. As it is close to the airport, many guests stop there before departure.
Credit cards are accepted at most shops, except for some small local stores.
ATMs are available in the town center.

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the retreat,
so you can easily stay in touch with your family and friends.
If needed, you are also welcome to share our phone number
with your family or emergency contact before your trip.

Yes, in most cases you can. However, if you are experiencing a very heavy flow or severe menstrual pain, some treatments may be postponed or adjusted.
Our Ayurvedic doctor will assess your condition each day and recommend the most suitable treatments to ensure your comfort and well-being.

Yes. Mosquitoes are most common during the early morning and for a few hours after sunset.
Mosquito repellent sprays and coils are available locally. However, anti-itch creams are less common,
so if you usually use one, we recommend bringing it with you.
Our garden is home to tulsi (holy basil) and curry leaf plants,
whose leaves have traditionally been used as a natural remedy to help soothe insect bites.
Each room is also equipped with a plug-in mosquito repellent for your comfort.

Varkala is a popular beach destination that welcomes many international visitors and
is generally considered one of the safer areas in India.
The restaurants and souvenir shops along the beach are usually open until around 11:00 p.m.
As in any country, we recommend avoiding walking alone late at night and taking
normal precautions to protect your belongings from pickpocketing or theft.

The tap water at the retreat comes from a tested well and is used safely throughout the property.
While many local people drink it, we recommend that our guests use the filtered drinking water
provided by the water dispenser during their stay.

We serve healthy vegetarian Kerala-style meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Vegan meals are also available. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions,
please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
If you would like to dine out, the beach area offers a wide variety of restaurants serving
Tibetan food, pasta, pizza, noodles, sandwiches, pancakes, and more.
A shared kitchen is also available if you would like to prepare your own meals.

We kindly ask our guests not to bring alcohol or cigarettes onto the property.
Smoking and drinking are not permitted anywhere within the retreat.
To maintain a peaceful and healthy environment for everyone,
we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Yes, it is possible to visit Kochi, Alleppey, or Kanyakumari.
However, as each destination is several hours away,
we recommend planning these trips before or after your retreat rather than during your stay.

• Kochi: Approximately 4–5 hours by car (about 180 km)
• Alleppey: Approximately 3–3.5 hours by car (about 130 km)
• Kanyakumari: Approximately 2.5–3 hours by car (about 100 km)

During the retreat, your schedule includes yoga and Ayurvedic treatments,
so we generally do not recommend taking long sightseeing trips.
However, if you would like to take a day off from the program to explore,
this can be arranged depending on your schedule. Please let us know in advance.
We are also happy to help arrange taxis, private drivers, and sightseeing tours.

Yes. In India, occasional power outages may occur due to scheduled maintenance
or unexpected technical issues.
During a power outage, our backup power system provides lighting,
ceiling fans, and electrical outlets. However, high-power appliances such as air conditioning,
hot water showers, and hair dryers are not available until the electricity is restored.

Yes. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, hot water showers, and a hair dryer for your comfort.
Please note that during a power outage, these high-power appliances will not be available until the electricity is restored.

Yes. The beach is about 800 meters from the retreat and can be reached on foot.
Swimming is generally possible from around November through April,
depending on sea conditions.
Within walking distance, you’ll find a peaceful beach, a lively area with restaurants,
cafés, and souvenir shops, as well as a sacred area where local people gather
to perform traditional puja (prayer) ceremonies.