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Yoga Alliance Certified School

Yoga Teacher Training
School in Rishikesh, India

Tradition Transformation A Brighter You

Rishikesh Yog Nirvana offers authentic 100, 200, 300 & 500-hour yoga teacher training programs, rooted in traditional yoga philosophy at the spiritual heart of India.

  • RYS 200 • RYS 300
    RYS 500 • RPYS
    Yoga Alliance Registered · ID 238411
  • Teaching
    since 2018
    Years of Trusted Learning
  • 4,000+Graduates Worldwide
4.9 from 186 Google Reviews

“More than a certification — a journey within.”

Two yoga teacher training students practising partner acro yoga on the sand beside the Ganga in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, IndiaWhere Yoga Lives

A Life-Changing Journey

Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India

Tradition Practice Transformation

Rishikesh Yog Nirvana students posing together in the yoga hall.

We are a Yoga Alliance-registered school (RYS 200) located in Tapovan, Rishikesh, offering residential 100, 200, 300, and 500-hour yoga teacher training programs since 2018. Rooted in traditional yoga philosophy, we have welcomed aspiring teachers from around the world, with over 4,000 graduates from 30+ countries.

Our yoga teacher training courses are designed for yoga practitioners at all levels, from beginners seeking a structured introduction to yoga to intermediate students who wish to deepen their practice. Whether the goal is to teach professionally or develop a personal practice, we encourage disciplined, authentic, and mindful learning.

We offer a guided exploration of yoga as a complete system that goes beyond physical asana practice. It covers yoga philosophy, traditional yogic practices, breathing techniques, meditation, mindful living, and the principles of safe and effective teaching. We also introduce students to disciplined practice in styles such as Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Vinyasa Flow, and Yin Yoga. We also include prenatal teacher training, taught under our RPYS registration with Yoga Alliance. This is a prenatal school registration that most schools in Rishikesh don't hold. Rooted in traditional yogic wisdom, our curriculum gradually builds greater self-awareness, confidence, and self-discipline, all under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Yogi Sajan Negi, co-founder of Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Written by

Yogi Sajan Negi

E-RYT 200 · M.A. in Yoga · Co-Founder, Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Sajan co-founded Rishikesh Yog Nirvana in 2018 with a simple belief: no knowledge should be held back from students. An E-RYT 200 with a master's degree in yoga, he specialises in meditation and yoga philosophy, guiding students toward stillness, self-awareness, and traditional yogic practice. Since founding the school, he has helped train over 4,000 graduates from 30+ countries.

  • Registered Prenatal Yoga School (RPYS) — Yoga Alliance
  • RYS 200 — Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School 200 Hour
  • RYS 300 — Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School 300 Hour
  • RYS 500 — Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School 500 Hour

Which Yoga Teacher Training Course is right for you?

Our Courses at a Glance

Beginner 100-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
  • Duration: 12 days
  • Price: $499 shared / $599 private
  • Prerequisite: No prior yoga teaching certification required; suitable as the foundation module of the 200-hour pathway.
  • Best for: Beginners and practitioners looking for a structured introduction to yoga, personal growth, and foundational yogic knowledge.
Primary 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
  • Duration: 25 days
  • Price: $899 shared / $999 private
  • Prerequisite: No prior teaching experience required; basic familiarity with yoga practice is helpful but not mandatory.
  • Best for: Aspiring yoga teachers and practitioners looking for internationally recognised professional training and the RYT 200 pathway.
Advanced 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
  • Duration: 28 days
  • Price: $999 shared / $1,099 private
  • Prerequisite: Completion of a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training programme from a Yoga Alliance-registered school.
  • Best for: Certified 200-hour graduates ready to expand their teaching expertise and progress towards the RYT 500 level.
Expertise 500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
  • Duration: 56 days
  • Price: $1,899 shared / $2,099 private
  • Prerequisite: No prior certification required; the programme integrates the 200-hour and 300-hour levels into one continuous training pathway.
  • Best for: Practitioners seeking a complete professional yoga teacher training journey in a single immersive residential programme.

Why Train In Rishikesh

There are many more factors to consider when deciding where to complete your yoga teacher training than just receiving a certificate at the end of the program. A wide range of factors come into play, including the overall cost of the program, the specific teaching tradition or lineage we follow, the local climate and how it might affect your practice, the surrounding cultural environment, and, ultimately, the kind of personal and professional experience you're hoping to gain from the training. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh offers an appealing blend of genuine spiritual immersion, deeply rooted traditional yoga instruction, and affordability that few other places can match.

Cost: Get More for Your Money

Of these locations, Rishikesh is by far the most reasonably priced. A 200-hour program in Rishikesh often costs between $800 and $1,200, while similar courses in Bali typically cost between $2,000 and $3,500, and programs in Thailand typically cost between $2,500 and $4,000. In addition to the standard tuition, Rishikesh training programs frequently include lodging and meals in the package, which significantly reduces additional living costs and simplifies trip budgeting.

Yoga Schools, Traditions & Lineage

Rishikesh offers access to disciplines rooted in India's rich yoga history, such as Hatha, Ashtanga, and Vedic philosophy, and has an exceptionally high concentration of Yoga Alliance-registered schools. The experience encompasses philosophy, meditation, rituals, and a yogic lifestyle in addition to physical practice of yoga.

Although there are large international yoga groups in Bali and Thailand, their TTC scenes are typically more modern, retreat-oriented, or fusion-focused. Goa lies in the middle, fusing its well-established beach and health culture with traditional elements.

Climate

Compared to tropical locations, Rishikesh has a more diverse climate. The best times for an intensive practice are usually from October to March. Goa and Thailand are typically warmer and more humid, but Bali is always tropical and humid. Thus, the weather you choose can be just as important as the training itself.

Compare training destinations

Destination Typical 200-Hour
Cost
Best
Months
Tradition, Culture & Practice Climate
Rishikesh, India $800 – $1,200 Oct–Mar Deep spiritual immersion + temperate Himalayan foothill climate; ashrams, Ganga Aarti, temples and traditional yoga culture support focused practice.
Bali, Indonesia $2,000 – $3,500 Apr–Oct Resort-style wellness culture + tropical, humid climate; better suited to students who enjoy a contemporary yoga setting and warm weather.
Goa, India $1,200 – $2,000 Nov–Mar Moderate cultural immersion + hot, humid coastal climate; combines traditional and modern yoga with a relaxed beach environment.
Thailand $2,500 – $4,000 Nov–Feb Retreat/resort-based experience + hot, humid tropical climate; suitable for students who prefer a modern tropical setting.

What Your Training Includes

Living and learning at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana means being part of a disciplined ashram setting where education, yoga, healthy meals, relaxation, and meditation are combined. The purpose of your residential program is to help you stay focused on your training while encouraging you to spend time with your teachers, fellow students, and yourself.

Students practising a morning yoga class on the sand beside the Ganga in Rishikesh
The Rishikesh Yog Nirvana yoga hall set up with mats, blocks and cushions for a class

Daily Rhythm
at the Ashram

A day at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana begins early, with morning cleansing practices, pranayama, and asana practice, followed by breakfast and classroom sessions. These classes cover yoga philosophy, anatomy, alignment, and teaching methodology. Afternoons combine further practice with time for rest or self-study, while evenings may include meditation and reflective sessions.

Sample day

  • 6:00 – 7:00 AMShatkarma & Pranayama
  • 7:00 – 8:00 AMAshtanga Vinyasa
  • 8:00 – 9:30 AMBreakfast
  • 10:30 – 11:30 AMYoga Philosophy
  • 11:30 AM – 12:30 PMBody Alignment
  • 12:30 – 1:30 PMYoga Anatomy
  • 1:30 – 2:30 PMLunch & rest
  • 4:30 – 6:00 PMVinyasa Flow Yoga
  • 6:00 – 7:00 PMMeditation
  • 7:00 – 8:00 PMDinner

Timings and sessions may vary slightly depending on the programme, season, teacher availability, and special activities.

What's Included In Our Sessions

Our residential course fee is designed to cover all the essentials needed for a comfortable and focused training experience. These include:

  • Private or shared ashram accommodation
  • Sattvic vegetarian meals (three times a day)
  • Complete study and course materials
  • Structured training and guided practice sessions
  • Certification upon course completion
  • Excursions and cultural experiences (only for select programmes)

What's Not Included

When planning your travel, please take note that the course fee does not cover the following:

  • International or domestic flights to Dehradun (nearest airport) or Delhi
  • Visa fees
  • Yoga Alliance USA registration fee ($50, paid directly to Yoga Alliance after graduation)
  • Travel or medical insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses, medical costs, or other services not specifically listed as included

Getting Here From Abroad Visa, Flights & Arrival

Tera Manzil temple and Laxman Jhula bridge on the Ganga at Rishikesh, with rafts on the river
Rishikesh, India

Visa

An Indian Tourist e-Visa can be used for short-term yoga study for the majority of qualifying nationalities. Choose “Recreation/Yoga” as your purpose when applying via the official Indian e-Visa portal. Once you make a reservation, we will support your application with an admission letter. We recommend that you apply at least four weeks before your batch begins.

When applying, make sure to consult the official government portal because different nationalities and types of visas have different fees and processing timeframes. A regular 30-day e-Visa is adequate for the 25-day, 200-hour course, but for the 56-day, 500-hour program, a regular tourist visa is recommended.

Flights

For the easiest way to get to Rishikesh Yog Nirvana, take an international flight to Delhi (DEL) and either continue by road or catch a connection flight to Dehradun (DED). Tapovan is about 21 km away by taxi from Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport. If you drive to Rishikesh from Delhi, the journey will take approximately five to six hours. If booked in advance, we can set up pickup from Dehradun Airport on the day your batch begins.

Best Months to Come

Our yoga teacher training programs are available all year round, with new batches beginning on the first of each month. You can choose the month that best suits your schedule and personal weather preferences.

  • March–AprilSpring
  • May–JuneSummer
  • July–AugustMonsoon
  • September–NovemberAutumn
  • December–FebruaryWinter

Choose the season that you are most comfortable with and start your yoga practice at a time that is most convenient for you.

What to Pack

Bring appropriate workout clothes, modest daily attire, toiletries, walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers for a basic residential yoga routine. Carry your necessary travel documentation, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medication, a reusable water bottle, and basic first aid supplies. It's also a good idea to keep digital and printed copies of your passport, visa and booking information.

Money, SIM & Wi-Fi

You don't need to carry large amounts of cash to cover your daily expenses in Rishikesh. Although there are several ATMs and digital payment options in Tapovan, it's a good idea to keep some Indian rupees for local shopping, transportation, and small-scale shops. Bring an unlocked phone if you plan to use an Indian SIM or eSIM. Although we offer laundry facilities, clean water, and Wi-Fi, students who work remotely should have backup mobile data.

Safety for Solo Female Travellers

Although Rishikesh is a popular destination for foreign tourists, solo travellers should still take the necessary safety precautions. Use reliable transportation, stay in populated areas after dark, secure your passport and belongings, and stay away from remote riverbank or forest regions. If you are travelling outside of the immediate region, let us know where you are going.

Wear appropriate clothing when visiting temples, avoid accepting random ride offers and maintain emergency contacts close at hand. We can assist with arrival arrangements, but personal awareness remains important throughout your trip.

A graduate holding her yoga teacher training certificate while balancing in a standing pose on the school rooftop in Rishikesh

What Yoga Alliance Certification Actually Gets You

Completing a yoga teacher training program is just the start of your teaching career, not its conclusion. You can select the best course and make realistic plans for your next steps if you are aware of the differences between school registration, teacher registration, and the progression from 200 to 500 hours.

RYS vs RYT:
Know the difference

RYS stands for Registered Yoga School. It describes the educational institution or training course that satisfies Yoga Alliance's requirements. A Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) is a teacher who has completed qualifying training at a RYS. To put it simply, you become RYT; the school is RYS.

We offer Yoga Alliance-registered teacher training programmes, holding Yoga Alliance registrations at both RYS 200 and RYS 300 levels, plus RPYS for prenatal teacher training (ID 238411). That means our 300-hour course counts toward your RYT 500.

Where can RYT 200
take you?

Teachers who complete a qualified 200-hour program can earn the foundational Yoga Alliance credential, the RYT 200. It does not serve as a teaching licence given by the government, but it does prove that you have finished the necessary training.

You can use the credential when applying for teaching opportunities at yoga studios, wellness centres, retreats and other settings where an RYT credential is requested. Your training, proficiency, studio, and local laws all influence the real scope of your teaching.

The Yoga Alliance Pathway

  1. 200-hour
    training
  2. Teaching
    experience
  3. 300-hour
    training
  4. RYT 500
    registration

Registration requirements apply.

The practical training requirement for the majority of new teachers is 200 hours → teaching experience → 300 hours → RYT 500. The 200-hour course builds your foundation. The 300-hour programme focuses more on advanced practice, sequencing, anatomy, philosophy, and teaching methods once you pass RYT 200. Completing the additional 300 hours makes you eligible to register as RYT 500.

If you wish to do the entire course in one visit, we offer a 56-day, 500-hour program. This programme combines the 200- and 300-hour training and doesn't require prior certification.

Students practising together on the sand beside the Ganga with the Rishikesh hills behind them
Practice together
A group of students posing together on the school rooftop with prayer flags and the mountains behind
Breathe deeper

Registration after graduation

You apply independently for your Yoga Alliance certificate after completing your RYS training. Currently, RYT registration is $115 (a $50 application fee plus a $65 first-year membership). Annual membership thereafter is $65. Fees are paid directly to Yoga Alliance, and hence are not included in your course fee.

A foundation for your teaching career

An RYT certification serves as proof that you have fulfilled the prerequisites for registration and completed a recognised teacher training course. It does not ensure full-time employment, a teaching position, a particular salary, or international teaching opportunities. Your ability to teach, expertise, communication skills, networking, specialisations, location, and willingness to grow professionally are all important factors in creating a long-lasting yoga career.

A student meditating on a rock above the Ganga near Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh
Space for stillness
Sound practice
Shared moments

Practice Learn Belong Make a Brighter World

Meet Your Teachers

Learn from teachers with distinct areas of expertise, from meditation and Vedanta to alignment, Ashtanga Vinyasa, teaching methodology, and wellness.

Yogi Sajan Negi, yoga teacher at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Yogi Sajan Negi

E-RYT 200 · M.A. in Yoga · Co-Founder

Meditation & Yoga Philosophy

Known for mantra chanting and a meditative teaching presence, Yogi Sajan Negi guides students towards stillness, self-awareness, and releasing negativity through traditional yogic practices.

Full Profile
Manish Thapliyal, yoga teacher at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Manish Thapliyal

10+ Years Teaching · Co-Founder · Alignment Master

Ashtanga Vinyasa & Body Alignment

Manish Thapliyal is known for precise posture correction and adapting asanas to suit each student's ability, helping practitioners develop safer and more mindful movement.

Full Profile
Heena Thakwani, yoga teacher at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Heena Thakwani

E-RYT 500 · 10+ Years in Wellness

Teaching Methodology & Wellness Training

As the faculty member holding the E-RYT 500 credential, Heena Thakwani brings advanced Yoga Alliance experience to teaching methodology, wellness training, and the development of confident yoga teachers.

Full Profile
Swami Shivabrahmananda Saraswati, yoga teacher at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana

Swami Shivabrahmananda Saraswati

Vedanta Scholar · Arsha Vidya Peetham

Yoga Philosophy & Vedanta

A Vedanta scholar trained at Arsha Vidya Peetham (Dayananda Ashram), Swami Shivabrahmananda Saraswati brings a traditional philosophical perspective shaped by years of study and ascetic practice.

Full Profile

Vanessa Paes

200 Hour YTT · Jul 2026

★★★★★

I had an amazing experience at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana. The quality of the classes, the depth of the teachings, and the overall structure of the course truly exceeded my expectations. The location is perfect, the teachers have deep knowledge and genuine passion for what they teach, and I felt supported throughout the entire journey. One of the most special parts of this experience was meeting incredible people from…

Read on Google

Amisha Rana

Yoga TTC · Jul 2026

★★★★★

My experience at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana has been truly wonderful. I learned so many new things during my time here, and every moment was valuable. The teachers are highly knowledgeable and supportive, the food is excellent, and the overall stay is very…

Read on Google

Molnár Anna

200 Hour YTT · May 2026

★★★★★

I recently finished my 200 hour Yoga teacher program in this school. It was everything I wished for and more! The teachers are the best, they make sure everyone feels welcomed and included. They also have so much knowledge, it's a really special experience to…

Read on Google

Nirav Pakai

200 Hour YTT · Apr 2026

★★★★★

I had an absolutely transformative and enriching experience at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana, where I completed my 200 Hours Yoga Teacher Training Course in February 2026. From the very first day, the atmosphere felt serene, harmonious, and deeply rejuvenating. A…

Read on Google

Daksha

200 Hour YTT · Jun 2026

★★★★★

Blessed that the universe directed me to this yoga school out of so many in Rishikesh! I did my 200 hr YTTC here and all the teachers are superb, committed, and pure hearted. The rooms are comfortable and the location is beautiful with a lovely view of the…

Read on Google

Daniela Ribeiro

300 Hour YTT · Apr 2026

★★★★★

I completed my 300-hour YTTC in Yog Nirvana, and it was truly an incredible experience. This was already my third time in Rishikesh, and somehow my expectations keep getting higher each time, yet this school exceeded them all. Sajan is deeply inspiring…

Read on Google

Naz Yaldiz

200 Hour YTT · Jun 2026

★★★★★

My days at Rishikesh Yog Nirvana were very insightful and transformative. During the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, I had the opportunity to rebuild my lifestyle by developing new habits and gaining a deeper understanding of what Yoga truly is. The Yoga…

Read on Google
Read all 186 reviews on Google

Reviews are published on our Google Business Profile and shown here with the reviewer's name and date.

A graduating batch of Rishikesh Yog Nirvana students cheering together on the school rooftop
A shared practice. A lasting connection.

Our Story

The School

Rishikesh Yog Nirvana was founded in August 2018 by Yogi Sajan Negi and Manish Thapliyal. While teaching at several schools across Rishikesh, they repeatedly encountered the instruction to “not give students too much.” Together they decided to choose a different path, creating a school where no knowledge would be held back.

What started with just two international students in our first batch has since grown into a Yoga Alliance Registered School (RYS 200, RYS 300 and RPYS – ID 238411) with 4,000+ graduates from 30+ countries. Today, we offer residential 100- to 500-hour teacher training courses from our ashram in Tapovan, overlooking the Ganga.

  • Since 2018
  • 4,000+ graduates
  • 30+ countries
Read our story

Here to help

Frequently Asked Questions

A little clarity before your journey begins.

Do I need experience before joining a 200-hour yoga teacher training?

No. To enrol in the 200-hour program, you do not require prior experience teaching yoga or a professional yoga qualification. We describe the course as accessible to all skill levels, even complete beginners. The curriculum begins with basic asana, pranayama, meditation, philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology before moving on to teaching practice.

How much does yoga teacher training in Rishikesh cost in total?

Course fees range from $499 (100-hour, shared room) to $2,099 (500-hour, private room). This fee includes accommodation, three sattvic meals a day, the course materials, and your certificate. A $200 deposit secures your booking. Budget separately for flights, your Indian visa, travel insurance, and the $115 Yoga Alliance registration fee that you pay directly to Yoga Alliance after graduating.

Is the certification valid in the US, UK and Europe?

Yoga Alliance registration is an internationally recognised professional credential, but it is not a government-issued teaching licence. Completing a qualifying programme at a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School will allow eligible graduates to apply for the corresponding RYT credential. Check the requirements of your destination country, employer or insurance provider before assuming that an RYT credential alone is sufficient.

Can complete beginners join yoga teacher training?

Yes. Beginners can join programmes designed for foundational learning, provided they are prepared for an intensive residential schedule. You do not need years of experience to start learning the principles behind asana, pranayama, meditation, anatomy, philosophy and teaching. Yoga teacher training aims to develop your understanding systematically rather than test how advanced you already are.

What is the difference between a 200-hour and 300-hour course?

A 200-hour YTT builds your foundational teaching knowledge, while a 300-hour programme provides advanced study and deeper specialisation for practitioners who have already completed foundational teacher training.

Do I need a visa to attend yoga teacher training in India?

International students need the appropriate Indian visa to enter India for their training. An e-tourist visa could be considered suitable for qualified students participating in a brief yoga program; longer programs necessitate careful visa planning. Before travelling, make sure you are aware of the current regulations set by the Indian government for your nationality.

What should I bring to yoga teacher training?

Bring comfortable yoga clothing, modest everyday clothes, toiletries, personal medication, suitable walking footwear, a reusable water bottle and weather-appropriate layers. You should also carry your passport, visa documents and important travel information. Pack for a residential ashram environment rather than a conventional holiday.

Are meals included in the course fee?

Yes. Three sattvic vegetarian meals a day are part of residential programs, which are aimed at supplementing your daily routine and training. Instead of being an optional restaurant package, meals are a part of the residential experience, ensuring that students adhere to a regular timetable throughout the course. Make sure to let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can accommodate your needs.

Can I pay a deposit to reserve my place?

Yes. A $200 deposit secures your spot on any course, with the balance due before your batch begins. The deposit is non-refundable, but you can transfer it to any future course date in case your plans change. That way, your booking stays protected even if your travel dates shift.

What if I have an injury, medical condition or physical limitation?

Before starting your training, you must inform us about any injuries, physical limitations, or health-related restrictions. Regular physical practice is part of yoga teacher training, and some sessions might need to be adjusted. Although teachers can adapt postures and techniques, the program is not a replacement for individual physiotherapy or medical care.

Is accommodation private or shared?

Accommodation options depend on the course and room category you select. We offer residential accommodation that includes both private and shared rooms depending on the programme and availability. Your accommodation is part of the immersive training environment, keeping students close to their classes, meals and daily schedule.

When should I book my yoga teacher training?

Book as early as possible, especially if you have a specific month, room type, or peak-season batch in mind. We run residential programmes throughout the year, but popular dates and private accommodations can fill up quickly. International students should also consider the time needed for visa processing and travel arrangements.

Still have a question?

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Three graduates holding up their yoga teacher training certificates on the school rooftop, with the Rishikesh hills behind them
Your journey begins with one simple step.

Begin your journey

How to Apply

  1. Choose your course & batch

    New batches begin on the 1st of every month.

  2. Reserve your place

    Pay the $200 deposit to reserve your place. It's fully transferable to any future date if your plans change.

  3. Get ready for Rishikesh

    Receive your confirmation and visa support letter, then book your flights.

Next start dates

  • 100-Hour1–12 Oct
  • 200-Hour1–25 Oct
  • 300-Hour1–28 Oct
  • 500-Hour1 Oct – 25 Nov

Have questions? We're here to help.

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