Yoga is an ancient practice that has been around for centuries, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years. From India, the birthplace of yoga, to Thailand, Costa Rica, Bali and Australia, there are many places around the world where you can practice yoga and learn more about this ancient practice. But which country is best for yoga? In this article, we'll explore the 12 best cities to study yoga around the world. India is the birthplace of yoga and therefore has the most options available for yogis to choose from.
In India, you'll have the opportunity to flow alongside many other dedicated yogis and you'll be able to learn from some of the most sought after teachers. Come to India to do yoga and you'll learn more than just the different asanas (poses). You will learn a spirituality and a way of life. Visit Rishakesh for an authentic taste of the place where all yoga began.
However, if you prefer to bask in the Indian sun and, at the same time, light up, head to quiet Kerala or the hippie enclave of Goa, where you'll have plenty to choose from between yoga classes, workshops, courses and retreats. Whether you want to train as a yoga teacher or simply learn more about this ancient and ever-growing practice, India is the ideal place. Not only is it an authentic experience, but it's also incredibly affordable.Think of Thailand and you can think of beautiful beaches, first-class diving, full moon parties, tuk-tuk races in Bangkok. Because Thailand is such a popular tourist destination for everyone, it's no wonder that there are so many fantastic places to participate in yoga classes and retreats.
Alternatively, 'The Sanctuary' is another great option and may be more convenient to get to. One of my favorite places to do yoga in Thailand was Tonsai Beach, near Krabi. There was a small yoga studio nestled in the jungle, and here I fell in love with yin yoga, which is a much slower and more intense practice of stretching. If you'd rather be among the mountains than between the beaches, head to northern Thailand.
Here you can really get away from the masses and continue practicing yoga in a beautiful, meandering place. Food and accommodation prices are also usually lower.While Costa Rica is often labeled as expensive, especially compared to its Central American neighbors, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to quiet, illuminating places to practice yoga. Costa Rica is home not only to stunning beaches and ocean views, but also to an extensive jungle. Here you can't help but feel in harmony with nature, which, once again, makes it a fantastic setting for practicing yoga.
In addition, tons of incredible yoga teachers who live or have lived in Costa Rica, such as Sofiah Thom and Rachel Brathen, have put this country firmly on the map when it comes to practicing yoga.Bali is a dream destination for many travelers. It's also a popular vacation destination for Australians, and as such, some parts of Bali, such as Kuta, can seem very westernized. However, if you move away from tourist spots like Kuta and Seminyak and instead head to the surf town of Canguu or the inland cultural epicenter Ubud, you'll discover that Bali is actually a great place for a yoga vacation. Any surfing city also tends to practice yoga since the two activities are a great combination so if you are a beach-loving yogi Canguu is the ideal place for you.
However if you're looking for a more authentic Balinese experience during your vacation head to Ubud.Australia is also home to everything that makes it the perfect destination for practicing yoga: beautiful beaches and places for surfing; jungle; an emphasis on health fitness and well-being; and happy relaxed people.Did you know that statistics show that yoga is more popular in Canada than in the United States or India? But where exactly do you find the most fanatical yogis? And which styles are most popular in different countries? Yoga and travel are perfectly combined in this list of 12 best cities to study yoga around the world. Each destination offers a unique expression of the yogic lifestyle with small details that make each one stand out. Include some in your itinerary around the world and let yourself be carried away by exotic adventures while delving into your very important yoga practice. Muslims in several countries including Indonesia and Malaysia are officially banned from doing yoga by a fatwa or religious decree.
While the popularity of yoga in some countries is still quite small there are others where it is an integral part of everyday life.