Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.0
261 reviews
Excellent
158
Very good
52
Average
17
Poor
14
Terrible
21
maya_sathyan
Sunnyvale, CA2 contributions
Dec 2019
The ashram itself is in a beautiful setting since Kerala is so green and lush. Small groups of students and friends would go for afternoon swim in the dam right across the street. Breathtaking.
That being said the ashram is also a little more conservative than I would've liked and a little more religious than I expected. Nothing egregious, it's just some staff seemed to enforce the rules more than others (e.g. where you can take cell phone calls or what types of pants to wear).
Oh yes that's super important! Ladies! Do not wear western "yoga" pants to the ashram. Somehow I missed this before entering and had to buy new pants at the ashram and during local travels. Nothing form fitting especially for pants but also for tops.
Other than that the yoga practice itself was wonderful and the teachers very approachable and knowledgeable. Be ready for a hectic day if you follow their schedule to a tee. Otherwise go at your own pace with the yoga, classes, and other activities. Just make sure you're up by 5:30am for satsung every morning because they do enforce that strictly (though not the evening satsung as much).
That being said the ashram is also a little more conservative than I would've liked and a little more religious than I expected. Nothing egregious, it's just some staff seemed to enforce the rules more than others (e.g. where you can take cell phone calls or what types of pants to wear).
Oh yes that's super important! Ladies! Do not wear western "yoga" pants to the ashram. Somehow I missed this before entering and had to buy new pants at the ashram and during local travels. Nothing form fitting especially for pants but also for tops.
Other than that the yoga practice itself was wonderful and the teachers very approachable and knowledgeable. Be ready for a hectic day if you follow their schedule to a tee. Otherwise go at your own pace with the yoga, classes, and other activities. Just make sure you're up by 5:30am for satsung every morning because they do enforce that strictly (though not the evening satsung as much).
Written 24 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Maya. Thanks for taking the ashram schedule and rules in your stride. ; ) We hope to see you again.
Written 27 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paco Lucas G
2 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
A very nice place, surrounded by nature. You can do several courses either as a beginner or intermediate (15 days) ,but you can join or leave whenever you want, the teachers are highly qualified and are professionals always ready to help you. The food is delicious and you can repeat without problem, if you are hungry there is a restaurant where you can drink delicious smoothies. You will live a
Written 26 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Om Namah Sivaya. Thanks for the positive review and taking the time. 🙏
Written 27 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ranga
5 contributions
Nov 2021 • Solo
Great experience. Excellent place. I did TC here
I regret for not coming to this place all these years of my life :(
The yoga classes and the teachers are really top quality, I felt like I learned a lot about yoga and my practice really accelerated there.
The jungle location is exquisite, there is a lot of wildlife to enjoy and a beautiful lake you can swim in.
You are bound to meet some beautiful human beings from all over India and the world to share your time with there :-)
I regret for not coming to this place all these years of my life :(
The yoga classes and the teachers are really top quality, I felt like I learned a lot about yoga and my practice really accelerated there.
The jungle location is exquisite, there is a lot of wildlife to enjoy and a beautiful lake you can swim in.
You are bound to meet some beautiful human beings from all over India and the world to share your time with there :-)
Written 25 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Ranga or your review.
Written 5 January 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ire M
Orgosolo, Italy6 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
I feel very blessed to stay in a this beautiful and peaceful place for 16 days.
I loved everything of it,the food, the accommodation, the people, the teachers, the satsang...just amazing.
Sometime it was hard do everything but once that I have done I felt so strong as I achieved superpowers...after almost 2 months I still can feel the benefits!
I surely recommend it.
It was a time for myself, my soul and a good opportunity to detox from phone, sugar, salt, smoke, alcol and so on😊
I wish you all the best beautiful and blessed souls, I hope to come back.
Big hug and positive prayers and energies from Sardinia(Italy)🥰😘
I loved everything of it,the food, the accommodation, the people, the teachers, the satsang...just amazing.
Sometime it was hard do everything but once that I have done I felt so strong as I achieved superpowers...after almost 2 months I still can feel the benefits!
I surely recommend it.
It was a time for myself, my soul and a good opportunity to detox from phone, sugar, salt, smoke, alcol and so on😊
I wish you all the best beautiful and blessed souls, I hope to come back.
Big hug and positive prayers and energies from Sardinia(Italy)🥰😘
Written 11 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Sardinia Ji Blessed Self,
Thanks for your positive feedback. Well done for making the most of our resources. Wish you all the best for your future and we look forward to welcoming you back to the Ashram.
Written 27 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
aadhya.aum
Houston, TX4 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Sivavanda ashram is a santuary of peace, love and inner transformation. This beautiful ashram has upheld the teachings of swami Sivananda over the years. It has been a place of going inward through the beautiful practices offered in the daily schedule.
Right from the morning silence and sadhana to yoga classes and satsangs. the beautiful vibrations of the lalitha sahasranamam in the devi temple every aspect of the ashram gives you an opportunity to grow.
What I have learnt in the ashram can never be described in words as it is subtle nature of these practices is so profound that words don't do justice. I have been going to the ashram for past 20 years and this will be the first time when I will go and volunteer there for a year with my husband and little daughter.
The beauty of the ashram, the teachings and practices can only be felt if you simple come without any expectations, judgement and just an open heart. As only then will you allow the place and its vibrations to do its work through you. Being like a flute empty so music can happen is the way to experience the profoundness of a place like this. I am very much in gratitude of Swami Nataraj to give us an opportunity to serve in the ashram as a family. We love the ashram. I cant say its my second home. Its the first place I call 'home'.
Namaste
aadhya
Right from the morning silence and sadhana to yoga classes and satsangs. the beautiful vibrations of the lalitha sahasranamam in the devi temple every aspect of the ashram gives you an opportunity to grow.
What I have learnt in the ashram can never be described in words as it is subtle nature of these practices is so profound that words don't do justice. I have been going to the ashram for past 20 years and this will be the first time when I will go and volunteer there for a year with my husband and little daughter.
The beauty of the ashram, the teachings and practices can only be felt if you simple come without any expectations, judgement and just an open heart. As only then will you allow the place and its vibrations to do its work through you. Being like a flute empty so music can happen is the way to experience the profoundness of a place like this. I am very much in gratitude of Swami Nataraj to give us an opportunity to serve in the ashram as a family. We love the ashram. I cant say its my second home. Its the first place I call 'home'.
Namaste
aadhya
Written 15 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Om Namah Sivaya.
Thank you for your encouraging and appreciative words. I hope you find what is best for you and your family.
Written 16 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Anup C
Dubai, United Arab Emirates3 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
I did the 21 day Panchakarma treatment at Sivananda Ashram - Neyyar Dam.
I am so glad that I came there and the de-tox Programme. A perfect setting to hit the big RESET button in our daily routines. The schedule at the ashram helped and so did the rejuvenating massages / heath treatments. The place itself is beautiful and you can feel the energy vibe. Loved every bit of it. Made some great friends. Special mention Dr Vishnu, who was approachable, knowledgeable and perceptive of my underlying issues. I now feel better, lighter and healthier. Thank you. Hope to comeback soon
I am so glad that I came there and the de-tox Programme. A perfect setting to hit the big RESET button in our daily routines. The schedule at the ashram helped and so did the rejuvenating massages / heath treatments. The place itself is beautiful and you can feel the energy vibe. Loved every bit of it. Made some great friends. Special mention Dr Vishnu, who was approachable, knowledgeable and perceptive of my underlying issues. I now feel better, lighter and healthier. Thank you. Hope to comeback soon
Written 26 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Blessed Self - We apologize for the late response due to some technical issues.
Thank you for taking the time to provide us with your feedback on your experience at Sivananda Ashram - Neyyar Dam. We are thrilled to hear that you found our 21 day Panchakarma treatment to be beneficial, and that it provided you with the perfect setting to hit the "big reset button" in your daily routine. We're glad that our schedule and health treatments were helpful in your journey and that you found the Ashram to be beautiful and filled with positive energy. We are also pleased to hear that you made some great friends during your stay.
We are particularly glad that you found Dr Vishnu to be approachable, knowledgeable and perceptive of your underlying issues. We are happy to hear that you now feel better, lighter and healthier. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to the Ashram soon. Om Shanti
Written 26 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Florendia B
12 contributions
Jan 2020
-beautiful location, had a private room for two of us, very basic but all we needed, and with an amazing view of the surrounding jungle trees from the balcony.
Schedule was pretty packed but very well organised and never went hungry despite only 2 meals a day.
Staff were great, one in particular, Ranjiv who was our geeeter upon arrival, was super helpful and went out of his way on numerous occasions to be helpful .. Eg. showed us an amazing spot for great energy and meditation, toured us round with explanations round the Shiva temple and Vishnu Devananda’s room, helped us plan our day off and introduced us to Kumar’s tea shop which became a regular hangout for wonderful opportunities for meeting interesting people or just sitting and reading over a cup of masala tea and banana cake .
Overall a wonderful experience thank you to all the staff that made it possible.
Ps. Take some trainers for the stunning walks and some earplugs if u are in the dorms, and a meditation cushion (a lot if sitting!) or u can buy a block from the shop :)
Schedule was pretty packed but very well organised and never went hungry despite only 2 meals a day.
Staff were great, one in particular, Ranjiv who was our geeeter upon arrival, was super helpful and went out of his way on numerous occasions to be helpful .. Eg. showed us an amazing spot for great energy and meditation, toured us round with explanations round the Shiva temple and Vishnu Devananda’s room, helped us plan our day off and introduced us to Kumar’s tea shop which became a regular hangout for wonderful opportunities for meeting interesting people or just sitting and reading over a cup of masala tea and banana cake .
Overall a wonderful experience thank you to all the staff that made it possible.
Ps. Take some trainers for the stunning walks and some earplugs if u are in the dorms, and a meditation cushion (a lot if sitting!) or u can buy a block from the shop :)
Written 21 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Blessed Self. Thank you for your review.
Written 24 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
VIO
2 contributions
Mar 2023
Some intermediate yoga classes resembled western boot camp style classes, instead of the the original spiritual calm classes I hoped for. Meals (rice with veggies) without salt, protein, fat. If you stay longer this can be a problem. Hygienic and covid policies are not properly implemented. Was assigned to the wrong dorm. After my departure, my credit card was charged one extra night , although i paid evth in advance. I waited 1.5 hr when checkin-in. My reservation was first not found. If you stay in the dorm, then prepare for sleepless nights. On the other hand, the natural park environment is beautiful. The daily lectures were amazing. You may visit the place, but I do not suggest to stay too long, nor to have too high expectations.
Written 22 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. I am sorry you could not adjust with the local food which us mostly Kerala rice based. Currently our COVID policy is that people wear a mask if exhibiting COVID like symptoms and getting tested at our Ayurveda clinic.
Written 20 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Juliette M
3 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
I stayed 1 month in this ashram, which is a haven of peace. Of course there are rules and a program to follow (It’s an ashram!).
Staff is very kind.
The place is very beautiful (especially the nature inside and outside the ashra) and everything is simple and clean.
It is a wonderful place to practice meditation, yoga, and attend morning and night satsangs. Ideal for personal retreat or if you want to develop your own practice.
Staff is very kind.
The place is very beautiful (especially the nature inside and outside the ashra) and everything is simple and clean.
It is a wonderful place to practice meditation, yoga, and attend morning and night satsangs. Ideal for personal retreat or if you want to develop your own practice.
Written 29 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Blessed Self - Thank you for your comprehensive and positive review. It encourages us to continue to share the Gurus teaching with all. Best wishes.
Written 13 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sabinedd62
5 contributions
Nov 2021
After a travel-intensive year, I was once again in the ashram in November 2021. I immediately come to rest there from my hectic city life. The green, subtropical vegetation and the whole lifestyle in the ashram create a peaceful atmosphere in which I can relax wonderfully. The spiritual ashram program, the healthy food, the people and of course the excellent yoga classes make this place absolutely worth visiting.
Written 29 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Sabine Om Namah Sivaya. We look forward to your next visit.
Written 5 January 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What food/juice/supplements do you have on the fasting programme as I’d like to do it but not sure I can have everything m?
Written 13 February 2020
After an Ayurvedic consultation the doctor will prescribe herbal .drink that you will have twice a day .Also after the detox period you will have some medicines take back be with you.. You will not not need.to.ise any of your usual supplents whilst on the programme.
Written 14 February 2020
Hi I am looking at the 21 day Panchakarma in December this year. Can I have my own room? will the treatments be tailored and is ayurvedic food provided? do I still partake in all ashram activities as a part of panchakarma is to rest and rejuvinate?
Written 3 February 2020
Dear Blessed Self - Thank you for your query. You can have a room subject to availability. Ayurvedic food will be provided. You can join all Ashram activities and other treatments as per the Doctor's advice. Om Shantih. S..
Written 5 February 2020
hi,
I am aware you can not bring any Indian currency in and out the country??
can you recommend a money card I can use in and out the ashram instead of a bank card .
many thanks R
Written 31 January 2020
Dear Blessed Self - You are allowed to bring in some Indian currency. Also, you can exchange foreign currency from the authorized outlets. In addition credit cards such as Visa Card and Master Card is acceptable in the Ashram. Please see below some currency import guidelines (courtesy IATA):
Currency Import regulations:
1. Local currency (Indian Rupee-INR): up to max. INR 25,000.-.
a. not allowed for nationals of Bangladesh or Pakistan residing outside India;
b. if arriving from Bhutan or Nepal, only currency notes in denominations of max. INR 100,- are allowed.
2. Foreign currencies : unlimited. However, amounts exceeding USD 5,000.- (or equivalent) in cash, or USD 10,000.- (or equivalent) in traveler's cheques must be declared.
Foreign currencies include currency notes, traveler's cheques, cheques, drafts etc. (Re)exchange only through banks and authorized money exchange points.
Have a safe journey and we look forward to welcoming you to the Ashram.
Written 5 February 2020
Hi, Please can somebody help me, I am travelling to the ashram in February and have booked a cab from the airport to the ashram using the company Taxi 2 Airport I am interested if anybody has used this company before ? as I want to check for safety and reliability as we arrive in the early hours of the morning. Many thanks R
Written 28 January 2020
Hi. I am Nataraj, ashram director. I am not aware of any safety issues with any of the taxis in n Trivandrum. Wishing you a pleasant journey 🙏
Written 29 January 2020
Hi, I’m planning on visiting the Ashram in July. I’m curious, is therapy with a counselor available?
Written 31 October 2019
Not really, but the ashram will do you a world of good. Most problems come from when we allow our minds to take over, most often since the mind-body connect has been lost. At the ashram, you learn to mind watch, (if you attend the lectures as well). There are 2 parts to the ashram -the yoga meditation, walks in nature (not in the pouring rain though) and lectures and part 2 would be the aryuveda section - where you can do massages and see an aryuvedic doctor. I would recommend the first part with a maybe three massages (with the pounding) to try it out. I'd also recommend reading books like Ekhart Tolle's The Power of Now or A New Awakening.
Written 31 October 2019
Hi there, I have emailed twice now but not having any responses?
I'd like to come in Jan, how do I speak with someone or book it? Many thanks
Written 11 November 2018
Hi
Your email will be answeted normally by a staff. It is possible they are busy. Howver if you are going for yoga vacation you do not need to book in advance. Just turn up with your photo id card.
Do read up ashram rules and regulations on th website if this is your first time.
Although you can go anytime of the year the ashram is really busy during teachers training courses. Prerably avoid those dates if it is avoidable.
Hope you find this information useful.
Written 12 November 2018
Hi there, I have emailed twice now but not having any responses?
I'd like to come in Jan, how do I speak with someone or book it? Many thanks
Written 11 November 2018
Dear Miscara,
My hotel did the reservation for me; but to my knowledge, you can walk in and stay, you don't need any preparations. Just try to arrive in a convenient time. But if you wanna be sure, try calling them.
Enjoy your trip, you will gather a lot of wisdom and magic out there.
Written 12 November 2018
Moekamel2018
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Hi , I want to know which airport in india shall i plan my flight to and also how to get from airport to ashram ?
thanks
moe
Written 2 June 2018
And take a taxi from airport about one hour
Written 2 June 2018
You should email the ashram (guestindia) for twin room sharing accommodation. No booking necessary for dorm space.
Written 19 April 2018
Hi, Can anyone tell me how much the prepaid taxi is from Trivandrum airport to the ashram in Neyyar Dam? Thanks
Written 23 January 2018
Hi, in Dec 2017 it either 1200 or 1500 rupees (I cannot remember which one it was!). Hope that helps.
Written 24 January 2018
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