Alchemy of Breath Retreat Southern India 2025

A once-in-a-lifetime retreat to reconnect with your soul in the heart of India

Embark on a Soul-Deep Journey

Join us for a transformative retreat that takes you across the spiritual heart of India. Beginning in Delhi, you'll immerse yourself in the ancient practice of breathwork and meditation. Explore sacred cities like Rishikesh and Agra, discover the magic of the Taj Mahal on the full Moon, and experience the serene beauty of Southern India—from the Ashrams of Bangalore to the tranquil houseboats of Alleppey. This journey is designed to reset your mind, body, and spirit.

The intention of this retreat is to experience slowing down—to immerse yourself in India’s rich, diverse culture while deepening your spiritual and somatic practices. You’ll walk away with new-found alignment to your body that leads to alignment of mind, self, and intelligence. Through this journey, you'll leave spiritually enriched and physically grounded.

Dates: 1st October 2025 - 23rd October 2025

Location: Southern India

Duration: 22 Days

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Explore Ancient Temples & Sacred Sites: Visit iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Rishikesh, and Kerala's ashrams.

Daily Meditations & Pranayama Practices: Experience profound spiritual growth with guided breathwork, yoga, and meditation.
Immerse in Local Traditions & Spirituality: Connect deeply with India's rich cultural heritage through ceremonial practices and spiritual insights.
Exclusive Spiritual Retreat Centers: Stay in serene, spiritually focused accommodations, including Ashrams and houseboats along Kerala's backwaters.
Soul Alignment & Somatic Practice: Walk away grounded, with a solid foundation in somatic and spiritual practices.

Highlights of the Southern India Retreat

Meet Your Facilitators

Nicole Schiller

As a renowned breath and somatic work facilitator with over 700 hours of client-facing experience, Nicole has dedicated her practice to helping individuals reconnect with their bodies and unlock the healing potential of conscious breathing & somatic practices. Her approach integrates deep knowledge of breathwork techniques with somatic (body based practices), allowing clients to release years of stored trauma, reduce stress, and cultivate a greater sense of emotional balance. Nicole believes that 80% of the work is in the body & 20% is in the mind. Therefore we all have the ability to heal ourselves through body based modalities. She says "So when you combine Breath & Somatic work, you are using the breath to integrate into the body so that we can begin to feel all of these little parts of us inside that are begging for our attention, love & awareness". Nicole has guided countless individuals through transformative journeys of self-discovery and healing, drawing on her extensive expertise to create a safe and nurturing space for exploration. With a compassionate and intuitive approach, she is skilled at tailoring sessions to meet the unique needs of each person, fostering deep personal growth and long-lasting change. Her commitment to holistic wellness and mastery of both breathwork and somatic practices has established her as a trusted leader in the field, helping people transform their lives from the inside out.

Meet Shabir Boktoo – Founder, Indian Tri Colour Tours

Shabir Baktoo - Founder of Indian Tri Colour Tours is husband to Gulnaz with 2 children Faisal 21 & Fatima 9. For generations, the Baktoo family has had strong connections with people from around the world. His great-grandfather was a cook to President Roosevelt, and my father served as a guide to Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. In 2021, Shabir started Indian Tri Colour Tours with his son Faisal, offering unique travel experiences across India. Their goal is to share the beauty and rich culture of India with travelers from all corners of the globe. Shabir's ability to create lifetime experiences for people far exceeds your average travel guide support and guidance. He is an incredibly humble man with a equally wonderful family. The ground roots of who people are reflects through their work they do. Nicole met Shabir & Faisal through a very close mutual friend, whom had worked with Shabir for many yrs. Shabir is a part of the Alchemy of Breath Team along with Faisal now.

Meet Faisal Baktoo

Faisal Baktoo is currently pursuing a degree in Finance, while also managing Indian Tri Colour Tours, a family-owned travel agency known for offering immersive cultural experiences across India. His strong interest in business and travel has helped him gain practical experience in the tourism industry, where he oversees operations and helps design memorable travel experiences. Outside of his studies and work, Faisal enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and trekking, along with exploring new destinations. His passion for travel and adventure fuels his drive to contribute to the continued growth and success of Indian Tri Colour Tours.

What Awaits You

Breathwork & Meditation: Engage in daily practices that ground and align body, mind, and spirit, deepening your inner connection.

Sacred Ceremonies: Participate in traditional rituals that enhance spiritual growth and self-awareness.
Spiritual Guidance: Receive tailored wisdom and personal support to help you navigate your inner journey.
Cultural Immersions: Experience India’s spirituality through local traditions and sacred sites.
Personalised Healing Sessions: Tailored somatic healing for holistic alignment.
Yoga & Embodied Movement: Explore body awareness and expression through various movement practices.

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The Experience of Past Retreat Attendees

“I came with no expectations which is very unlike the old me .... I so greatly appreciated the space to go with the flow and if I didn't want or feel like I wanted to be part of any activity I could honour myself and needs. Surrendering so easily and flowing of tears. The diversity of the areas we visited within the month and how each area felt so different. The men of India and how they served us so unlike anything I have experienced. Shabir looking after everything and everyone. How I fell apart and was gently and graciously supported”

- Kate
“Immersing in the vast Indian cultures..And the diversity of the country.. from the cities to the mountains. Wonderful itinerary that encompassed so much. Awesome travel partners. The mountains were my calling… and my absolute highlight.”

- Jodie
"The wonder of The Lotus Temple & The Taj Mahal. learning about the street school in Dehli. The cuisine of each region. The houseboats in Srinigar & the early morning lake tour. Sunsets & sunrises. Dinner in a Muslim home. The kindness of Shabir, our guide. Interactions with local stallholders & shop owners. Meeting a guru & undertaking a guided yoga class with him. Indian Chai. My interaction with a female Buddhist Monk & Ayurvedic Dr. Breathwork sessions.”

- Robin

What’s Included:

Accommodations: Enjoy comfortable, exclusive lodging throughout the retreat, providing a serene environment for your journey.

Meals: Savour nourishing meals crafted with local ingredients, supporting your health and wellness.
Workshops and Ceremonies: Participate in enriching workshops and sacred ceremonies that deepen your spiritual connection.
Local Transport: All necessary transportation for excursions and activities is included, ensuring a seamless experience.
All Activities and Excursions: Engage in all planned activities and excursions designed to immerse you in local culture and spirituality.

What's NOT included:

Lunches: Enjoy flexibility with your midday meals, allowing you to explore local dining options.
Spending Money: Personal expenses, souvenirs, and additional activities not included in the itinerary are at your discretion.
Tips: Gratuities for guides and service staff are not included and are appreciated at your discretion.
International Flights: Participants are responsible for their flights to and from India.

Your Journey Day by Day

01-10-25 : Arrival in Delhi, pick up from airport and transfer to hotel. Alchemy of Breath Opening Ceremony followed by Dinner

02-10-25 Morning breathwork & meditation. Followed by breakfast & local sightseeing in Dehli.

03-10-25 : Delhi to Rishikesh. Morning breathwork & meditation. On arrival at Rishikesh, check in to the hotel.

Rishikesh is a city in Uttarakhand, India, on the banks of the Ganges River. It is a Hindu pilgrimage site, a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, and the "Yoga Capital of the World". Delhi / Rishikesh , after breakfast drive to Rishikesh approx 4.5 hours ( 250 km)
Drive, on arrival at Rishikesh check in hotel.

04-10-25 : Rishikesh - Morning breathwork & meditation. Followed by breakfast and daily activities.

05-10-25 : Rishikesh - Morning breathwork & meditation. Followed by breakfast and daily activities.

06-10-25 : Drive from Rishikesh to Delhi (4.5hrs) - Morning breathwork & meditation. Followed by breakfast & travel.

07-10-25 : Delhi to Agra. Morning drive to Agra (approx. 3.5 hours, 225 km). On arrival at Agra, check in to the hotel.

We will explore the Beauty of the famous Taj Mahal, in the light of the full moon. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most romantic monuments in the world. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is considered a monument to eternal love. This story that the Taj Mahal is built out of love is argued by many and holds many secrets of the amount of lives that were tortured & killed during the building of this timeless structure. It is said there are thousands of bodies buried beneath the Taj Mahal.

08-10-25 : Agra- visit Agra fort and Fatehpur sikri. Overnight stay at Agra. ( option of seeing Taj mahal one more time)

09-10-25 : Agra to Bangalore. Morning flight to Bangalore. On arrival in Bangalore, pick up from the airport and transfer to the ashram (2.5-hour flight). The Art of Living International Centre! Situated on the top of the Panchagiri Hills, 36km southwest of Bangalore, near Udipalya village. Started in 1986 and spread over 65 acres. It is a haven of beauty and simplicity, offering an effortlessly enriching spiritual experience. Home to around 1000 Desi cows, this ashram encompasses ancient wisdom and deep meditation & a great place to learn ancient Indian wisdom of yoga and kriya.

10-10-25 : Bangalore – Ashram run activities & dining - meditation, yoga, kriya

11-10-25 : Bangalore to Coimbatore. Afternoon flight to Coimbatore. On arrival in Coimbatore, transfer to Ashram (1-hour flight). Isha Yoga Center is a scenic spiritual destination, set at the foothills of the Majestic Velliangiri mountains in Coimbatore, the uniqueness of the center is one can explore all the four Major Paths of Yoga. Founded by Sadhguru, this destination is a varied mix of various offerings for seekers and tourists. Here, you can drink the breathtaking beauty of the Nilgiri Biosphere.

12-10-25 : Coimbatore – Ashram run activities & dining

13-10-25 : Coimbatore to Kochi. Morning drive to Kochi (approx. 4 hours, 200 km). On arrival in Kochi, check in to the hotel.

Kochi (Cochin), located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is renowned for its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It has a long history of foreign influence, having been ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. This mix of European influence is visible in its architecture, especially in Fort Kochi, which boasts colonial-era buildings, churches, and streets that reflect a blend of Indian and European styles. Kochi blends diverse cultures, stunning beaches like Cherai, vibrant cuisine, scenic backwaters, iconic Chinese fishing nets, and modern infrastructure.

14-10-25 : Kochi – Morning Breathwork, Yoga & Meditation followed by breakfast & a day trip to the beach.

15-10-25 : Kochi to the Thekkady morning drive approx 4 hours (160 km) ,( this is only the place on whole trip where we stay only for one night).

16-10-25 : Thekkady to Munnar. After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Munnar (approx. 3 hours, 95kms)

Munnar is known for its rolling tea plantations, mist-covered hills, cool climate, stunning viewpoints like Top Station, rich wildlife at Eravikulam National Park, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls.

17-10-25 :Munnar - Morning Breathwork, yoga & meditation followed by breakfast and daily activities.

18-10-25 : Munnar to Alleppey. Morning drive to Alleppey to board for a backwater cruise for 2 nights (approx. 4.5 hours, 170 km). The beauty of Alleppey houseboats lies in their tranquil charm as they glide through serene backwaters. These traditional wooden vessels, adorned with coir and bamboo, offer panoramic views of lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and calm waters. The gentle rhythm of the boat, coupled with golden sunsets and peaceful surroundings, creates a magical experience, blending nature’s serenity with Kerala’s rustic elegance. At night, the starlit sky reflects off the water, enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere. Inside, the cozy, well-furnished interiors ensure a perfect blend of comfort and tradition.

19-10-25 : Alleppey Houseboats. Day of leisure and relaxation

20-10-25 : Alleppey to Trivandrum. Morning drive to Trivandrum (approx. 3 hours, 155 km). Check into the hotel and discover Kerala’s charming capital. Trivandrum has a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, palm-fringed beaches like Kovalam, and serene backwaters. Its lush greenery and tranquil landscapes are complemented by iconic landmarks such as the grand Padmanabhaswamy Temple and colonial architecture. The city's coastline, bathed in golden sunsets, contrasts beautifully with its vibrant urban life. With rich art, history, and nature in harmony, Trivandrum is a picturesque mix of tradition and modernity, offering scenic views and a calm, welcoming atmosphere

21-10-25 : Trivandrum - Morning Breathwork & Meditation followed by breakfast and daily activities or a day of leisure. Ending the day with Alchemy of Breath Closing ceremony & dinner.

22-10-25 : Trivandrum to Delhi. Morning flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport, pick up and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Delhi (3.5-hour flight).

23-10-25 : Morning departure transfer to catch your return flight on time.