Special Group Programmes & Retreats

Dharmalaya Institute offers a unique variety of customised experiential learning programmes and retreats for groups, including student groups, tour groups, schools and universities, gap-year programmes, service organisations, women’s groups, corporate/leadership retreat programmes, and more.

Groups come to Dharmalaya from across India and around the world to experience the Institute’s compelling combination of life-transforming programmes, kind-hearted people, and breathtakingly beautiful setting.

Group programmes at Dharmalaya Institute can be tailored to the specific needs and interests of each group. Read on to learn more.

Activities & programmes

Your group programme can be customised to include any combination of the following activities and programmes:

Sustainable Living

• Earthen building techniques: Traditional, eco-friendly building with mud, stone, and bamboo

• Vernacular eco-architecture: Design, philosophy, and techniques of the local traditions

• Organic gardening: Growing our own food using natural, high-yield organic techniques

• Natural landscaping: Creating an edible landscape with garden beds, paths, and more

• Village crafts: Learn to make things by hand by working with local artisans

Well-Being

• Meditation: Instruction and practice sessions in various types of meditation

• Yoga: Instruction and practice sessions in hatha yoga, pranayama, etc.

• Healthy cooking: Learn to cook healthy and delicious, plant-based (vegan) Indian and international cuisine

Other Activities and Experiences

• Outdoor activities: Hikes, treks, walking meditations, paragliding, hot springs, and more

• Personal development: Facilitated workshops for self-awareness, empowerment, leadership, etc.

• Group process: Icebreakers, group/team building, cooperation, communication, etc.

• Creativity workshops: Writing, music, drawing, photography, etc.

• Documentary film screenings: A variety of important films on topics of local & global interest

• Seminars: Presentations and discussions on various local and global issues 

Accommodations

For groups wishing to stay for multiple days, Dharmalaya Institute offers several accommodation options:

• Group campground (with spacious and comfortable tents, mattresses and bedding)

• Dormitories (either gender-segregated or co-ed, as per the needs of your group) 

• A few private rooms and two self-contained studio cottages

For details on accommodation options (including photos), see our eco-campus page.

Costs

Costs for customised group programmes vary depending on several factors, including group size, length of stay, facilitation/education/training to be provided, type of accommodation required, and food catering preferences. For most programmes with shared accommodation and local-style meals, the typical range is from Rs 1500 to Rs 2500 per person per day depending on group size, programme duration, and facilities required, with higher rates for private accommodation, more elaborate meals, special programmes and services, and other options. After discussing the needs and preferences of your group, we will provide you with a personalized estimate.

Designing a programme for your group

We will be happy to work with you to design a custom-tailored programme for the unique needs and interests of your group. The first step is for you to introduce yourself and give us a brief description of your group, the kind of program you’d like to have, the main interests of your group, the desired time window in which you’d like the programme to happen, and your approximate budget range. To do so, please use the form here.