What to pack for a retreat in India, by kind and season

• Clothes for the stay, loose and modest, in breathable cotton or linen. Laundry is often available but slow, so plan for a few days between washes.
• A warm layer: a shawl or light fleece. Meditation halls and air-conditioned rooms are cold at 5 am, even in the south.
• Two pairs of footwear: slip-ons for going in and out of halls, and comfortable walking shoes.
• A small torch, for paths after dark and power cuts.
• A refillable water bottle. Most retreats have filtered water.
• Your medicines in their original packets, enough for the stay and a few extra days, with prescriptions.
• Toiletries: some centres ask for unscented products, so pack plain soap and skip strong perfume.
• Earplugs and an eye mask, if you share a room or sleep lightly.
• A small lock, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat.

Vipassana and silent retreats

An alarm clock that isn't your phone, a shawl for the hall, and very plain clothes. No books, journals or music: they aren't allowed. Read your first Vipassana course.

Ashrams

Modest clothes, white if the ashram asks for it, slip-on sandals, and cash for a donation at the office. See ashram etiquette.

Ayurveda

Old, dark, loose clothes you don't mind ruining with oil, a cap or scarf for oily hair, and flip-flops. Bring your medical reports for the doctor. See Ayurveda retreat basics.

Yoga

Breathable practice clothes for two classes a day. Mats are usually provided; bring your own if you're particular, plus a strap or small towel.

Himalayan retreats

Layers for days that swing from warm to cold, a rain jacket, shoes with grip, and a sleeping bag where the centre asks for one. We list 51 retreats in the Himalayas and around Rishikesh.

Each retreat page has a “when to go” note with its best months. For the colder months, read our guide to winter retreats in the Himalayas.

• Photo ID: Aadhaar, passport, voter ID or driving licence. Most retreats ask for it at check-in.
• Overseas guests: your passport and visa. Hosts must register foreign guests, so they'll ask for copies.
• Your booking or confirmation email, printed or saved offline.
• Emergency contacts on paper, in case your phone is handed in or dies.
• Health insurance details, and a short note from your doctor if you have a condition the retreat should know about.
• Some cash in small notes. UPI works almost everywhere, but not when your phone is in a locker.

• Jewellery and valuables you'd hate to lose.
• A laptop, unless you truly need it. Many retreats have little or no Wi-Fi.
• Alcohol, cigarettes and non-vegetarian snacks: not allowed at most retreats. 196 of the retreats we list say their food is vegetarian or sattvic.
• Revealing or tight clothes, and anything with loud slogans.
• Strong perfume and scented products.

Remote retreats can be hours from a hospital. Note where the nearest one is, and keep a basic first-aid kit: plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets, and anything your doctor suggests.