At the Yoga Department, the places we stay are an extension of the retreat experience itself. From Morocco to Sri Lanka and beyond, our accommodation choices are carefully selected for their ambience, authenticity, comfort, and alignment with a wellness-focused lifestyle.
Rather than large hotels, we seek out intimate properties that offer a sense of calm, cultural depth, and a natural connection to the environment.
Below, we share a few of our favourite styles and standout properties in Morocco, India, and Sri Lanka, giving you a glimpse into the kinds of spaces you can expect to stay in on a Yoga Department journey.
Moroccan Riads
Morocco is renowned for its stunning traditional riads—historic homes or palaces, often found tucked away in the medinas (old towns) of cities like Marrakech and Fes. These inward-facing residences are built around a central courtyard or garden, creating a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle outside. You’ll often find lush greenery, mosaic-tiled fountains, carved plasterwork, and intricate zellige tiles—showcasing the artistry of Moroccan design.
Originally built for wealthy families, riads reflect the cultural richness and architectural heritage of Morocco, offering an authentic and tranquil stay for today’s travellers.
What Makes Riads Special?
- Timeless, intricate design
- Peace, privacy, and a sense of calm
- Use of traditional, handcrafted materials
- Warm, personalised Moroccan hospitality
Yoga Department Favourites in Morocco
Marrakech – Riad Nyla
Tucked away in the Medina, Riad Nyla blends traditional Moroccan charm with modern comfort. Expect elegant design, intimate spaces, rooftop terraces, and warm hospitality in the heart of Marrakech.
Atlas Mountains – Domaine de la Roseraie
Set among lush gardens and mountain views, this peaceful retreat offers spacious rooms, a spa, and fresh air. Perfect for rest, nature walks, and post-yoga rejuvenation in the High Atlas.
Essaouira – Kasbah d’Eau
A relaxed coastal hideaway near the beach, Kasbah d’Eau features rustic charm, a peaceful atmosphere, and simple comforts—ideal for unwinding after a few vibrant days in Morocco’s cities.
North India: Havelis & Heritage Hotels
In North India, many of our stays and retreats take place in beautifully restored havelis—traditional townhouses or mansions that once belonged to merchants, nobility, or royal families. The term haveli comes from the Persian word hawli, meaning “enclosed space” or “private residence,” and these buildings are known for their striking architecture, hand-carved details, and serene inner courtyards.
Much like Morocco’s riads, havelis are designed to offer privacy and calm within a busy city or village setting. With arched doorways, intricate latticework, frescoed walls, and open-air courtyards, staying in a haveli offers a rich cultural experience and a perfect setting for rest, reflection, and yoga.
What Makes Havelis Special?
- Richly detailed architecture and decorative features
- Tranquil courtyards offering peace and privacy
- A strong sense of history and cultural authenticity
- Personalised service in a homely, heritage setting
Yoga Department Favourite Indian Havelis and Palaces
Jaipur – Samode Haveli
A heritage mansion in the heart of Jaipur, Samode Haveli offers regal charm, Mughal-style architecture, lush courtyards, and an inviting pool—an oasis of calm in the bustling Pink City.
Udaipur – RAAS Devi Garh
Perched in the Aravalli Hills, this restored 18th-century palace blends contemporary luxury with historic elegance. Sweeping views, minimalist suites, and serene spaces make it ideal for yoga and stillness.
Varanasi – BrijRama Palace
Located on the sacred Ghats of the Ganges, BrijRama Palace is a beautifully restored 18th-century palace with courtyards, carved stonework, and riverfront yoga spaces—offering peace in India’s spiritual heart.
Sri Lanka: Eco Lodges, Boutique Villas & Coastal Retreats
Sri Lanka offers a captivating mix of boutique accommodation, with a strong focus on eco lodges that embrace sustainability and harmony with nature. From restored colonial villas to jungle hideaways and beachside sanctuaries, these stays are thoughtfully designed to reflect the island’s cultural richness and natural beauty.
Many properties feature open courtyards, shaded verandas, organic gardens, and locally crafted décor, blending traditional Sri Lankan architecture with modern comforts. Whether nestled in the misty hills of Kandy, perched in tea country, or hidden along the coast, these eco-conscious retreats provide a peaceful environment ideal for yoga, reflection, and reconnecting with nature.
What Makes Sri Lankan Eco Lodges Special?
- Immersive natural settings that foster peace and presence
- Sustainable design using local materials and practices
- Farm-to-table cuisine, often with organic and Ayurvedic options
- A strong connection to wellness through yoga, spa, and healing traditions
Expect warm hospitality, nourishing cuisine—often with homegrown ingredients—and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly unwind.
Yoga Department Sri Lankan Favourites
Knuckles Mountain Range – Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge
Perched high in Sri Lanka’s hill country, this eco-lodge offers luxury safari-style tents, sweeping mountain views, and a peaceful setting among tea plantations—ideal for nature-based yoga and quiet reflection.
Dambulla – Amaya Lake
Set on the shores of Kandalama Lake, this eco-friendly resort offers tranquil villas, lush grounds, and Ayurvedic treatments—an ideal base for yoga, reflection, and exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.
Negombo – Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions
Just minutes from the beach, this boutique wellness hotel specialises in Ayurvedic healing. Private villas, tranquil gardens, and holistic treatments make it perfect for rest and rejuvenation on arrival or departure.
When you travel with the Yoga Department, your accommodation is more than a place to sleep—it’s a carefully chosen part of your journey. Each stay adds its own energy to the retreat experience, offering comfort, calm, and a deeper connection to local culture and nature. Whether you’re soaking in the silence of the Atlas Mountains, meditating beside the Ganges, or watching the mist rise over a Sri Lankan tea plantation, you can rest assured your stay has been handpicked to support your wellbeing from the moment you arrive.
