PRESENTS | A Real India Experience
A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Yoga
South India
October 24 - November 4, 2026
≈ A Cultural + Spiritual Immersion ≈
This is not a vacation.
This is a pilgrimage.
This is an invitation to walk where yoga is lived, breathed, prayed, and passed down, not as a concept, but as a way of being. Together, we journey to South India, entering sacred spaces, studying within lineage, and allowing the land itself to teach us.
This immersion is co-led by Tiffany Jelliffe, owner of Blue Mango Yoga, and Eddie Modestini of Yoga on the Inside, and centers around a rare opportunity to study with Arun, a direct descendant of the Iyengar lineage.
This immersion is for those who feel the quiet pull, the longing to bow to something older, wiser, and vast.
For those willing to be changed not through effort, but through listening.
If you feel called, we would be honored to walk this path with you.
Come not to collect, but to listen.
Come not to perform, but to remember.
The Journey
October 24 | Arrival in Bangalore
We arrive in Bangalore, where the senses awaken through sound, color, prayer, and movement weaving together in living devotion.
Airport transfers are provided to La Marvella Hotel, a peaceful boutique hotel offering modern comfort and spacious rooms. It is a soft place to land after long travel and a gentle threshold into the journey ahead.
October 25 | Grounding and Intention
This day is devoted to arriving fully.
We rest, acclimate, and gather as a group to set intentions, naming not goals, but prayers for how we wish to walk this path together. The pace is slow, honoring the nervous system and the sacred pause between home and pilgrimage.
Breakfast Included | Lunch + Dinner on your own.
October 26 | Temples of Bangalore
We spend the day visiting some of Bangalore’s most iconic temples, entering spaces where devotion has been practiced for centuries.
Through ritual, architecture, and presence, we learn to listen to stone worn smooth by prayer, to bells, and to breath. This day invites reverence, humility, and curiosity.
Breakfast Included | Lunch + Dinner on your own.
We will most likely take the metro line to explore, this is an optional excursion day.
October 27 | Entering Lineage
We travel to Prashant Yogashraya Ramanagara Center, leaving behind the outer world and stepping into a space dedicated to study and practice.
Brunch is provided upon arrival as we settle in and meet Arun, whose teachings arise from a living connection to the Iyengar lineage. This day marks a turning inward, from movement through place to immersion in discipline and devotion.
October 28 to November 2 | The Immersion
These days form the heart of the pilgrimage.
We live simply and practice deeply, engaging in daily yoga study rooted in tradition, precision, and presence. Asana becomes prayer. Study becomes listening. Community becomes mirror.
Shared accommodations and all meals are included during this portion of the journey, allowing us to focus fully on practice, rest, and integration.
This is a time to be held by rhythm, lineage, and sincerity.
November 2 | Integration in Mysore
We depart Prashant Yogashraya Ramanagara Center and travel to Mysore, a city rich in cultural and yogic history.
We check into Grand Mercure Mysore, an elegant and spacious hotel offering comfort and quiet. It is a place to soften after the intensity of study and allow the teachings to settle.
November 3 | Mysore Exploration
We explore Mysore’s major landmarks, including its historic and cultural treasures. This day bridges devotion and daily life, reminding us that yoga does not end on the mat. It walks with us through streets, stories, and human connection.
Breakfast Included | Lunch + Dinner on your own.
November 4 | Departure
We return to Bangalore together for departures, carrying home not just memories, but practices that are subtle, embodied, and alive.
What’s Included?
Transportation to and from Prashant Yogashraya Ramanagara Center
Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
Shared accommodations in Bangalore and Mysore
Daily breakfast during hotel stays
All meals during the immersion at Prashant Yogashraya
Temple visits and cultural exploration (metro fares not included)
Yoga immersion and teachings with Arun
Pranayama Practices and Cultural Programs with Arun
Ongoing guidance from Tiffany Jelliffe and Eddie Modestini
The experience of a lifetime
About Prashant Yogashraya Ramanagara Center + Arunji
After capping off 2015 with 31 successful years of teaching in the world of Yoga, on November 2nd, 2016 Prashant Yogashraya, Bangalore, celebrated the official opening of their Ramanagara center, 64 kilometers from Bangalore. The Prashanth Yogashraya Ramanagara Center has been the dream child of the founders - Shri H.S. Arun and his wife Shreematha.
PYRC, as it is popularly called is in the perfect spot. The hilly landscape and the wide open spaces of relatively untouched nature makes Ramanagara a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle we live in. The center has a beautiful Yoga hall for 100 + students to practice. The hall boasts of large windows & glass doors that provide a great view of the majestic mountains behind with cool breeze through the day. It also has a two-story building with 18 rooms that can accommodate up to 40 students, a large kitchen with a dining hall, a gazebo and soon to come will be an organic vegetable garden with lots of fruit trees around.
PYRC is a Health and Education Center dedicated to the practice of Yoga imparted through H.S. Arun: Guru/Master/Teacher/Sir or simply called as Arunji. His vision is to provide as many people as possible a path to a healthier lifestyle through yoga and this vision is unified by a commitment to high-quality teaching and respect for each student's requirement. For the past seven years, Yoga practitioners local and abroad have come to Bangalore to celebrate the annual Prashant Yogashraya Yoga festival and longed for a place of their own. Their dreams, generous monetary support and dedication for Yoga blossomed and gave rise to the new center.
In India, the relationship between a ‘Guru’ (Teacher) and his ‘Sishya’ (Pupil) is a very unique one where the Guru leads his pupil from darkness towards light. When the seeker of knowledge meets his master and the master recognizes the sincerity in the pupil, it is the beginning of a long and beautiful relationship between the Guru and the Sishya.
It is never easy for a pupil to talk about his relationship with his guru. Sri Arun says, “It is not easy for me to compress in a few sentences my relationship with Guruji. As Guruji himself says, it is the duty of a pupil to see the best in his master, and try to gain maximum knowledge. I can only say that I have tried my best to follow the path shown by Guruji”.
So, how did he meet Guruji?
It’s a trip down memory lane with him as he recollects incidents leading to his meeting with Guruji and life thereafter. He started learning Yoga from late Sri. Janakiraman in 1974, who was a source of great inspiration to him. Intense and grueling practice of Kundalini Yoga gradually helped him in overcoming his health problems at the end of three months. He accompanied Sri. Janakiraman in his lecture-demonstrations. Soon, at the request of the institute’s management, he started teaching Yoga in the year 1976, which marked the beginning of his life as a Yoga teacher. At the end of a yoga demonstration session at an institution, one of the organizers gave him a copy of Sri B.K.S.Iyengar‘s “Light On Yoga”. He says, “When I saw the photographs in the book, I was highly impressed with the perfection in the postures and felt strongly compelled to learn”. Fortunately one of Guruji’s senior students Late Sri Ajith Kumar, from Rashtrotthana Shareerika Siksha Kendra, recognized his interest and initiated him into Iyengar Yoga.
He met Guruji at that institution in 1978.
A Day at Ramanagara
7:30 – 10:30 AM
Intensive Asana Practice
Deep exploration of Iyengar yoga postures with precise alignment
11:00 AM
Vegetarian Brunch
Sattvik vegetarian meal with fresh local ingredients
4:30 – 6:00 PM
Pranayama Session
Breathing techniques and meditation practices
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Cultural Programs
Yoga philosophy discussions and traditional performances
8:00 PM
Sattvik Vegetarian Dinner
Authentic Indian cuisine in a community setting
Who is this Immersion for?
This immersion is open to dedicated practitioners, yoga teachers and anyone who feels called toward depth, tradition, and sincere inquiry.
You do not need to be a teacher.
You do need to be willing to arrive with humility, curiosity, and respect for the culture and lineage.
This journey may be especially meaningful if you are:
Seeking a deeper relationship with yoga and the self
Drawn to the roots, philosophy, and cultural context of practice
Ready for an immersive experience rather than a fast-paced tour
Willing to live simply, practice sincerely, and listen deeply
This is not a retreat for luxury or escape.
It is for those who feel the quiet pull toward something older, steadier, and true.
Bangalore + Mysore
Bangalore (Bengaluru)
Bangalore, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India,” is a vibrant city known for its thriving technology industry, diverse culture, and pleasant climate. The city boasts a rich history reflected in its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore a blend of modernity and tradition, enjoying local cuisine, cultural festivals, and a dynamic arts scene. With its welcoming atmosphere, Bangalore is an ideal destination for those seeking both innovation and tranquility.
Mysore
Mysore, famed for its royal heritage and stunning palaces, is a city that embodies the essence of South India. Known as the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga, Mysore attracts yoga enthusiasts from around the world. The serene ambiance, combined with historical landmarks such as the Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill, offers a unique blend of spirituality and culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional practices, vibrant markets, and local cuisine, making Mysore a must-visit destination for a holistic and enriching experience.
Meet Your Guides
Tiffany Jelliffe
Tiffany Jelliffe is the founder and owner of Blue Mango Yoga, where she is devoted to creating grounded, inclusive spaces rooted in embodied awareness and thoughtful practice. Her teaching emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and curiosity, inviting students to meet yoga as a living, evolving practice rather than a fixed ideal. Known for her warm, steady presence, Tiffany weaves movement, breath, and self-inquiry in a way that feels supportive and intentional. As a retreat leader, she values rhythm, relationship, and respect for place and tradition, guiding students to listen deeply, move with care, and connect both on and off the mat
BMY Founder + Senior Teacher
Eddie Modestini
Eddie Modestini is a senior teacher whose life and work are deeply informed by years of study in India. His teaching honors precision, humility, and reverence for the roots of the practice. Learn more about Eddie and Yoga on the Inside here: https://yogaontheinside.com/
YOI Founder + Senior Teacher Together, Tiffany and Eddie serve as stewards of this journey, guiding the group with respect for tradition, community, and inner transformation
PYRC Founder + Senior Teacher
Shri H.S. Arun
International Iyengar Yoga Teacher. A direct living connection to the Iyengar tradition of yoga.
A Blessing for the Journey
May you arrive with soft eyes and steady breath.
May the land remind you of what the body already knows.
May practice become prayer, and listening become wisdom.
May what you touch here walk home with you, quietly changing the way you live.
If you feel the call, trust it.
We will meet you on the path..
Investment
Pricing
Double Occupancy – $3200 per person
Peaceful, simple accommodations shared with one other person
Payment and Cancellation
Reserve Your Spot
$500 non-refundable deposit required to book
Balance due September 1, 2026
Cancellation Policy:
Cancel before March 1, 2026 → full refund minus deposit
Cancel between March 1 - July 31, 2026 → 50% refund minus deposit
Cancel on or after August 1, 2026 → no refund
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.
What Is Not Included
Flights to and from India
Lunch and dinner during hotel stays
Metro/taxi fares in Bangalore and Mysore to major attractions
Travel insurance, strongly recommended
Personal expenses + tipping
Application Process
Participation is by application to ensure alignment and care within the group container.
Applications are reviewed thoughtfully, with emphasis on readiness, curiosity, and respect for the practice rather than experience level.
Things You Need to Know
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“The Morocco 2024 retreat will forever be imprinted on my soul. I arrived excited about doing yoga everyday and learning to surf. I ended up leaving with new lifelong friends and epic memories. I have a new found love and appreciation for Arabic culture and the local people of Agadir/Taghazout. Hands down would attend future retreats.”
“This was my first yoga/ surf retreat I loved everything about it, I could have surfed everyday 😉 I met some really nice people and can’t wait to hang out with them in the near future.”
“Incredibly rich cultural experience, breathtaking views and practice ! A very big thank you for this wonderful opportunity! Namaste 🙏”
“The Blue Mango Yoga retreat to Morocco was the highlight of my 20 year yoga journey. I was counting on the experience of connection that comes from sharing space on and off the mat with others, in an exotic location. I received that gift—those who shared the experience are now cherished friends. What I wasn’t expecting was that I’d fall in love with the person I am in that setting, and that now in my day to day life I am reminded that I am still the person I discovered in Morocco, with that beautiful confident way, connected to source and to all that is through breath and the actions I choose to take and those I refrain from. Thank you for helping me peel back the layers and reveal myself as I am, away from the roles I play and the projections of others. May my purest self help to guide others to seek their own truth.”
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All participants should fly into Bangalore International Airport (Kempegowda International Airport). For your convenience, transportation will be coordinated with La Marvella Hotel, where we will arrange taxi transfers to ensure a seamless arrival experience.
Important Tips for Flying into Bangalore International Airport:
Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the appropriate visa before traveling to India, as it is necessary for entry.
Currency Exchange: Currency exchange services are available at the airport if you need to obtain Indian Rupees upon arrival.
Airport Facilities: The airport offers a range of amenities, including dining options, shopping, and free Wi-Fi, providing a comfortable environment while you wait for your transfer.
Local SIM Cards: If you plan to use your phone in India, consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for convenient access to data and calling services. Alternatively you can set up international service with your provider.
We look forward to welcoming you to this enriching retreat experience in Bangalore and Mysore!
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Yes — U.S. passport holders must obtain a visa before entering India. India does not offer visa-on-arrival for U.S. citizens, so you need to apply in advance.
The most common and convenient option for short stays for tourism or retreats is the e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa), which you can complete entirely online.
Official government links:
• Apply for an India e-Visa (tourist & other categories) — India’s official e-Visa portal:
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html• General India visa information (official) — India Visa Online main page:
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/Other helpful information:
You must apply for your visa before travel — you cannot get one on arrival as a U.S. tourist.
Each traveler needs their own visa application.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and have two blank pages.Online processing times vary; apply as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Before beginning your application, double-check that you are using the official government portal above. There are third-party sites that may charge extra or are not officially endorsed.
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Yes. Having Indian rupees (INR) is strongly recommended while traveling in India.
While credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger businesses, cash is still widely used, especially for smaller shops, local restaurants, temples, tips, taxis, and markets. Some places do not accept cards at all, and card machines can occasionally be unreliable.
Tipping in India is appreciated and increasingly expected in tourism settings, though amounts are generally modest. When offered with respect and simplicity, tipping is a meaningful way to acknowledge service.
General Guidelines for Tipping:
Tips are usually given in cash (rupees).
Small bills are preferred.
Tip quietly and directly rather than leaving money on tables or beds unless customary.
Hotels
Hotel porters: 50 to 100 INR per bag
Housekeeping: 100 to 200 INR per day, left at the end of your stay
Hotel drivers: 300 to 500 INR per day, depending on distance and service
Restaurants and Cafés
If a service charge is not included, tipping 5 to 10 percent is customary in tourist-friendly restaurants.
For small local eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is sufficient.
Guides and Drivers (Group Travel)
Local guides: 500 to 1,000 INR per day, depending on length and quality of service
Group drivers: 500 to 1,000 INR per day
Temples
Donations are often welcome at temples, usually placed in designated donation boxes.
Tipping temple attendants is not required but a small offering is sometimes appropriate if assistance is given.
A Note on Intention:
Tipping is not about obligation, but appreciation. Offer what feels appropriate and sustainable for you. When given with kindness and respect, even a small tip is meaningful.
A gentle reminder:
As with all travel, stay aware of your belongings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash at once, and use hotel safes when available.
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Yes. You will be able to use your phone in India, and internet access is widely available, though it may vary depending on location.
What to expect:
Wi-Fi is available at hotels in Bangalore and Mysore and is generally reliable.
During the immersion at Prashant Yogashraya, internet access may be more limited or simple, supporting a quieter and more focused environment.
Cellular coverage is strong in cities and towns, but can be slower or intermittent in more rural areas.
Phone options:
Most travelers choose to purchase a local SIM card or use an international eSIM for data and local connectivity.
International roaming plans may work but can be expensive. Check with your provider before traveling.
Messaging apps such as WhatsApp work well and are commonly used in India.
A gentle note on use:
While phones are accessible, this immersion invites presence and simplicity. Many participants choose to use their phones primarily for essentials, photos, and communication with home, allowing space for deeper engagement with practice and place.
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Packing thoughtfully can go a long way in supporting comfort, health, and ease while traveling in India. Below are recommended essentials based on experience with retreat travel.
Travel and Daily Essentials
Passport and visa (plus digital and paper copies)
Travel insurance documents
Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather
Modest attire for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
A light scarf or shawl for sun, temples, or cooler evenings
Hat and sunglasses
Small day bag or backpack
Health and Wellness Items
Reusable water bottle with built-in filter
We strongly recommend the GRAYL GeoPress Water Filter. It allows you to purify water easily and provides peace of mind when refilling on the go.Anti-diarrhea medication (such as loperamide or what your healthcare provider recommends)
Probiotics, ideally started one to two weeks before travel and continued during the trip
Electrolyte packets or hydration tablets
Any personal medications in original containers, with copies of prescriptions
Small personal first-aid kit (bandages, pain reliever, motion sickness support, etc.)
Hand sanitizer and/or antibacterial wipes
Sun, Heat, and Environment
Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
Insect repellent
Lightweight long sleeves or pants for sun and insects
Travel-sized laundry detergent or soap for hand washing clothes
Yoga and Practice
Yoga clothing suitable for daily practice
Any personal yoga props you rely on (optional as Ramanagara is fully equipped with all yoga necessities)
Journal and pen
Small personal ritual or grounding items if meaningful to you
Technology
Phone and charging cables
Universal travel adapter
Portable power bank (helpful during travel days)
A Few Helpful Tips
Pack lightly.
Carry medications and essential items in your carry-on.
Less is more. Comfort, simplicity, and adaptability are key.
A gentle reminder:
These packing suggestions are shared for general guidance only. Blue Mango Yoga and its teachers are not healthcare providers. Please consult your personal healthcare provider before travel regarding medications, supplements, or health-related preparation.
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The beautiful yoga shala is fully equipped with yoga mats, yogi toes, blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets! We do recommend traveling with your personal yoga mat if you can.
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The primary focus of this immersion is yoga study, cultural context, and integration. In addition to daily practice during the immersion period, the journey includes:
Guided visits to temples and cultural landmarks
Group travel days with intentional pacing
Free time for rest, reflection, journaling, or quiet exploration
There is intentionally space built into the schedule. This allows learning to settle and gives participants room to listen to their own needs. Optional activities may arise organically, but there is no expectation to fill every moment.
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Yes. While many core elements are included, participants should budget for the following additional expenses:
International and domestic flights
Lunch and dinner during hotel stays in Bangalore and Mysore
Personal snacks, beverages, or coffee outside of provided meals
Travel insurance
Personal shopping, souvenirs, or optional activities during free time
Metro fares in Bangalore
Tips for drivers, guides, hotel staff, and service providers
All meals are included during the immersion at Prashant Yogashraya. Daily breakfast is included during hotel stays.
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Deposits are nonrefundable
Cancel before March 1, 2026 → full refund minus deposit
Cancel between March 1 - July 31, 2026 → 50% refund minus deposit
Cancel on or after August 1, 2026 → no refund
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment
Cancellation Requests: All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to bluemangoyoga@gmail.com.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances.
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Travel, especially international travel, is unpredictable. Delays, weather changes, illness, cultural differences, and last-minute adjustments are part of the experience.
We ask participants to arrive with flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor.
Blue Mango Yoga and retreat leaders will do their best to communicate clearly and support the group if changes arise, but we cannot control airline schedules, local conditions, infrastructure, or unexpected events.
This immersion invites practice not only on the mat, but in daily life. How we meet uncertainty is part of the learning.
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India is vibrant, sensory, and deeply alive. With a few simple habits, most travelers move through the journey feeling well and supported. These guidelines are offered to help you care for your body while adjusting to a new environment.
Water and Hydration
Drink only bottled or purified water. This includes brushing your teeth.
Check that bottled water seals are intact before opening.
Avoid ice unless you are certain it is made from purified water.
Carry a reusable bottle with a built-in filter if that feels supportive.
Stay consistently hydrated, especially in warmer climates.
Food Awareness
Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
Avoid raw vegetables, unpeeled fruits, and salads unless you are confident in food preparation.
Choose fruits that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges, or papaya.
Eat mindfully and slowly, allowing your digestion time to adapt.
Trust your appetite. Lighter meals are often easier in the first days.
Hands and Hygiene
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Carry hand sanitizer for times when washing is not available.
Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes with unwashed hands.
Digestive Support
Bring any digestive supports you normally rely on, such as probiotics or herbal remedies.
Consider starting probiotics one to two weeks before travel and continuing throughout the trip.
If digestive upset occurs, rest, hydrate, and simplify food choices. Many travelers recover quickly with gentle care.
Rest and Pacing
Jet lag and sensory stimulation can impact immunity. Prioritize sleep, especially during the first days.
Allow yourself to move more slowly than usual. Rest is part of the practice.
Gentle movement and breath awareness can support circulation and digestion.
Sun and Heat Care
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the skin.
Use sun protection such as hats, scarves, and sunscreen.
Take breaks from direct sun during peak heat hours when possible.
Medical Preparation
Bring any prescription medications in original containers, along with copies of prescriptions.
Pack a small personal first-aid kit including basic medications you are comfortable using.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for peace of mind and medical support if needed.
Trust and Attunement
Perhaps the most important guidance is to listen to your body. If something feels off, pause. Choose rest, simplicity, and care. This journey invites attentiveness not only in practice, but in daily living.
Most travelers find that with awareness and gentle boundaries, they remain healthy and well throughout their time in India.
Important Health Disclaimer
The information shared here is offered for general educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Blue Mango Yoga, Tiffany Jelliffe, Eddie Modestini, and all associated teachers and organizers are not healthcare providers.
Individual health needs and circumstances vary. We strongly encourage all participants to consult with their personal healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before traveling internationally, especially regarding vaccinations, medications, digestive health, existing conditions, or any concerns specific to travel in India.
By choosing to participate in this immersion, you acknowledge responsibility for your own health and well-being and agree to seek appropriate medical guidance as needed.
