ayurveda & arts retreat
Udupi, Karnataka, India
07-14 January, 2026
A 7-night immersion into sacred Vedic sciences among the lush, quaint & rich surrounds of Udupi.
Step into a treasure trove of heritage, spirituality, vibrant landscapes, and scenic beauty. A pilgrimage site for many, Udupi is an abode to thoroughly experience a spectrum of profound Vedic traditions – from iconography, sculpture, architecture, and painting, to ayurveda, Vedic astrology, and vastu (sacred geometry). All traced back at least 3000 years.
Envision an experience where:
— An entire week where every day you feel deeply enriched and renewed through an immersion in Vedic culture and arts.
— You relish in ocean breezes and fresh, wholesome, and nourishing South Indian meals.
— You are in awe and spiritually invigorated visiting sacred heritage sites and taken back in time.
— You’re steeped in yoga and ayurveda, and thereby feel the direct experience of cultural context in the environment which these are lived.
Meet Amy
A beacon for those craving a connection to tradition and timeless wisdom, Amy has cemented herself as a global teacher, mentor, mama, practitioner, podcast host, speaker, and eternal student.
Renowned for her sold-out retreats, Amy has contributed extensively to Australian Yoga Journal, Om Yoga & Lifestyle magazine, YOGA Magazine (UK), and Nature & Health magazine (AU). She has presented at Wanderlust, Evolve, Byron Spirit Fest, and Ekam Yoga Festival. You can listen to her Living In Alignment podcast on all major platforms.
Having travelled extensively across South Asia since 2008 – for study, work and leisure – Amy is wholeheartedly committed to offering others an experience of the birthplace of Yoga and Ayurveda. Specifically one that highlights the depth and beauty of the lands that have brought her the greatest richness across all facets of life.
What is Included?
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR VEDIC IMMERSION
DAY ONE
Check into the gorgeous Samanvay Boutique Hotel, Udupi. Includes same-day transfer from Mangalore International Airport.
Enjoy a nourishing group welcome dinner at the MTR restaurant, featuring local South Indian cuisine.
DAY TWO
A delicious breakfast included at the hotel. Spend the entire day immersed in the loca Udupi arts heritage. This includes a visit to the famous Krishna Temple, enjoying their free South Indian lunch meal for pilgrims to the temple, eaten on the floor of the temple grounds. Spend time with Shilpa Shastra artist, Drdha Vrata Gorrick, and learn about this ancient heritage art form.
DAY TWO cont.
Visit the nearby Hasta Shilpa Heritage Museum, spread over 3 acres, showcasing local arts and culture across time, including shrines of folk deities, old paintings and artefacts, traditional architecture, and more. Be driven to the Tara Prakashana Vedic Research Centre & Library to learn about the preservation and translation of old manuscripts.
DAY THREE
Breakfast at Samanvay included.
Check out from Samanvay Boutique Hotel and be transfered north along the lush ocean coastline to our stay at Balkatmane Ayurvedic Heritage Resort.
Enjoy a simply traditional group lunch at Balkatmane and exploring the beautiful surrounds as you settle in.
DAY FOUR
Breakfast & lunch at Balkatmane included. Morning yoga practice with Amy.
Time to schedule in consultation with Ayurvedic physician and book in for treatment program (one ayurvedic treatment included in your retreat – additional treatments at extra expense and up to your discretion with the doctor).
DAY FIVE
Breakfast & lunch at Balkatmane included.
Yoga practice with Amy (asana, mudra, bandha, pranayama, and mantra).
Time at leisure to immerse in ayurvedic treatments / program, to read, rest, or roam.
DAY SIX
Breakfast & lunch at Balkatmane included.
Yoga practice with Amy (asana, mudra, bandha, pranayama, and mantra).
Time at leisure to immerse in ayurvedic treatments / program, to read, rest, or roam.
DAY SEVEN
Breakfast & lunch at Balkatmane included.
Yoga practice with Amy (asana, mudra, bandha, pranayama, and mantra).
Time at leisure to immerse in ayurvedic treatments / program, to read, rest, or roam.
DAY EIGHT
Final breakfast at Balkatmane included. We will close our time together celebrating Makar Sankranti / Pongal (Harvest Festival). Same day transfer back to Mangalore International Airport included after breakfast.
OUR TIME TOGETHER BEGINS:
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“If you are looking for a once in a lifetime experience, to truly delve into the rich, traditional culture and ancient roots of a country (off the usual beaten tourist track), and to have someone educated with such rich knowledge and a deep respect of that culture… then look no further- you’ve found her.
Amy Landry is a one of a kind human, a beacon of light, and I was truly stunned throughout the whole tour at how consistently she showed up. I was genuinely floored by her selfless continuous levels of enthusiasm and professionalism to ensure the best possible experience for all those in her care.
Amy made me feel so safe and supported in a country I would have been reluctant to travel alone… every detail meticulously planned and executed.
My life will be forever changed after retreating with Amy, a huge tick off my life’s bucket list, and one I will be eternally grateful for.”
– Addie Hockney-Davey, Australia
Noteworthy highlights of this experience:
— Visit the 13th century Shri Krishna Matha temple for darshan and be served a free sattvic lunch (prasaad) eaten on the temple grounds—quite literally—for all pilgrims and devotees.
— Roam the incredible Hasta Shilpa Heritage Museum which covers 3 acres and hosts a vast range of incredible artefacts and relics.
— Be taken to the rare Tara Prakashana Vedic / Sanskrit Research Centre & Library to learn of the invaluable preservation and translation of old manuscripts.
— If time is available, we may be able to sponsor a temple Seva offering and witness a cherished ritual performed by the Brahmin priests.
— Meet with Drdha Vrata Gorrick, a renowned Shilpa Shastra artist based in Udupi to learn of this exceptional art form that upholds tradition and meticulously sacred geometry.
— Receive transformative and healing ayurvedic treatments from local Indian physicians and specialists with panchakarma facilities.
— Experience the enchantment of Balkatmane’s wholesome stay with roaming animals, a Gho-Shala (abode/sanctuary for cows), small library, all located amidst the verdant greenery and mountains of the Western Ghats.
— In depth ayurveda-informed yoga sessions with Amy, including the spectrum of components of complete practice, such as asana, pranayama, mantra, mudra, bandha and meditation.
IMPORTANT DETAILS
Flights, travel insurance, tips/gratuities, visa costs, extra travel, incidental expenses, laundry, guides and extra meals are not included.
The itinerary, schedule, and visits are subject to change depending on delays caused by weather, traffic, and other unforeseen elements.
In the unexpected absence of availability of quoted hotels, all efforts will be made to confirm similar accommodation.
Participants are required to dress modestly. This includes covering knees, shoulders, chest/cleavage, and in some cases at temples this includes covering the head (for females). Please consider investing in traditional attire, such as a Kurta or Salwar Kameez for temple visits. Amy can assist with more details and where to purchase lovely cotton options.
Only 7 rooms are available. Rooms have only ONE bed. Therefore a single or double (2 persons sharing ONE bed) booking is available. No twin-share option.
Our accommodation is 2 nights at Samanvay Boutique Hotel and 5 nights at Balkatmane Ayurvedic Resort. Each offer wholesome and nourishing meals, and are highly rated for their cleanliness and beauty.
Got a question?
Here are some answers:
Do I need a visa?
Yes,. The cost varies depending on your nationality and the length of visa you would like.
Will I be safe?
Naturally, there is risk anywhere in the world. However, please know that this tour has been curated in collaboration with ChoLa Adventures, a tour operations company in Nepal, specialising in Nepal tours with international groups (mostly Australian). We have a team on the ground with reputable drivers and support contacts anytime. We will be visiting areas generally regarded as safe and all accomodations secure.
What should I wear?
Fortunately the weather should be just right – not too hot and not too cold. Be prepared to wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Please ensure you do not wear anything that reveals underwear or bra straps, nor cleavage. Avoid transparent or overly tight clothing (unless it is leggings with a long shirt dress or “kurta” on top). Full length pants or skirts are great. Short sleeve and long sleeved tshirts are also excellent options. It is recommended, for females, to purchase a couple of Kurtas on arrival to wear at temples. Plus a cotton scarf to put over shoulders and head if needed. Amy will advise you when booking as to the best stores to purchase these items that are lovely quality and beautiful enough to wear when you’re back home!
For males specifically, longer shorts or pants and collared short sleeved shirts are recommended. T-shirts are also fine. However collared shirts are required for entering temples.
Is there a payment plan available?
After your deposit is placed, the amount owing can be paid in two split payments, as long as they’re made by the set due dates noted in the T&C.
Any bookings made after 30 June 2025 will require an immediate payment in full.
What if I would like a refund?
Payments are non-refundable. Payments, once received, are held in a trust account then sent to the team in Nepal. Hotels have strict policies in place which impact our T&C.
If you’re concerned that you may need to cancel due to a medical issue or unforeseen circumstances, you would be able to make a travel insurance claim. It is strongly advised you purchase travel insurance as soon as you have placed a deposit to give you security and peace of mind.
Do I need vaccinations?
You do not need to be vaccinated against COVID to enter India. No other vaccines are required either. There are recommendations for vaccinations and medication to take in preparation for your travels, however none are mandatory. Please consult your medical practitioner for professional advice.
Do I need to tip in India?
Tipping culture in India has been slowly developing. Often, Indian folks are more likely to expect a tip from someone who is from the US. Generally, a 10% tip on your restaurant bill is expected. In addition, tips are given to tour guides, drivers, and bag porters.
Do locals in India speak English?
It depends! But you will absolutely be able to get by using English. But learning some basic local phrases can be fun. Note that Hindi is NOT spoken all across India and will vary state by state. Each state and region has a local language. Hindi is more common in the Northern states.
READY TO JOIN US?
ONLY 7 ROOMS AVAILABLE – ALL HAVE ONE QUEEN BED ONLY.
PRICES SHOWN ARE PER PERSON.
Spaces are strictly limited to a small group due to the nature of our transportation and accommodation. ONLY 7 ROOMS AVAILABLE. All rooms have ONE queen bed. No twin-share option. Single room or Double (2 persons sharing ONE bed) are available.
Take a look at some of the Udupi beauty we will experience together:
TERMS & CONDITIONS OF BOOKING
Deposit is strictly non-refundable, but transferable. Should you need to transfer your place, you will be required to find your replacement participant and arrange the transfer of your portion of payment.
50% of remaining balance is due no later than July 31, 2025. Final payment is required in full by September 30, 2025.
Payment plans are available should this be required – by advance written request only. If payments are late and overdue, without communication on the matter, your booking will be released and non refundable.
You are responsible for and must ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover costs if your travels are cancelled due to personal illness, injury, or any unforeseeable event. Mantra Wild & The Blue Yonder (the “Supplier”) and / or Amy Landry shall not be liable for any losses incurred associated with your travel due to any circumstances outside of our immediate control.
You may be required by law in your own country of origin or residency/citizenship to travel with COVID cover as a part of your travel insurance policy. You may also be required to be fully vaccinated upon leaving and reentering your country of origin. As a participant, you are fully responsible for knowing the requirements and laws of travel, which could be subject to change at any time. Should you be unable to attend due to changes in your capacity to travel, any losses are to be directed to your travel insurance provider and are not the responsibility of Amy Landry or Mantra Wild & The Blue Yonder (the “Supplier”).
All payments are non-refundable after their due date. However, payments are refundable should you pay prior to each due date and decide to cancel before the due date arrives (excluding your non-refundable deposit).
Any outstanding payments not received by the due date give both Mantra Wild & The Blue Yonder and Amy Landry the right to void/release/cancel your booking. Please be in communication with us via email if you’re in financial difficulty and we can make adjustments with advance written notice.
Travel insurance is essential for your participation.
Your passport details will be required once your deposit is made.
The tour itinerary and inclusions are subject to change, pending weather, delays, traffic, and other unforeseen circumstances out of the control of Amy Landry, Mantra Wild & The Blue Yonder. All efforts will be made to organise alternative details as close to the original quoted inclusions.