General Questions
What is Shri Sivalaya Holistic Wellness & Retreat?
Shri Sivalaya is a holistic wellness and healing retreat set amidst serene natural surroundings in Tamil Nadu, India. We offer Naturopathy therapies, Yoga, Meditation, Therapeutic diets, and Mindful living programs to restore balance, health, and inner peace.
Who can join the programmes at Shri Sivalaya?
Our retreats and healing programmes are open to anyone seeking wellness, stress relief, detoxification, lifestyle change, or deeper self-awareness—whether you are a beginner or experienced in holistic practices.
What types of programmes do you offer?
We provide a range of experiences including:
Healing & wellness retreats
Detox & rejuvenation programmes
Yoga & meditation sessions
Day care wellness packages
Online healing consultations & yoga classes
Yoga Alliance Certification courses
What languages are services offered in?
Most of our sessions are conducted in English and Tamil, and we support international guests with translators or bilingual staff when needed.
Stay & Accommodation
What accommodation options are available?
We offer various room types such as Standard, Deluxe, Cottages, Elite Cottages, and Premium Rooms immersed in natural surroundings.
How many people can stay in one room?
Rooms are typically designed for single or double occupancy. Additional guests require prior approval and may incur extra charges.
Do you offer airport pick-up and drop services?
Yes, we provide pick-up and drop services for guests at fixed charges. Advance booking and arrival details are required.
How far is Shri Sivalaya from the nearest airport/railway station?
Approx. 85 km from Coimbatore International Airport
Approx. 40–45 km from nearby railway stations and bus terminals.
Transportation assistance can be arranged with prior notice.
Meals & Diet
What kind of food is served?
We provide wholesome, plant-based meals including millets, raw salads, vegetables, fruits, juices, and nutritious diets customized according to individual health needs and doctor’s guidance.
Can I bring outside food?
Outside food is not allowed to maintain the integrity of the healing diet and overall wellness experience.
Wellness, Treatments & Therapies
What therapies are included in the programmes?
Retreats include Naturopathy treatments (e.g., Hydrotherapy, Mud therapy), Yoga & Meditation, Massage therapies, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Breathwork, Physiotherapy, Sound healing, and Personalized lifestyle guidance.
Is Shri Sivalaya suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely! Our programmes are tailored for all levels—from beginners to advanced wellness seekers. Our team will guide you step-by-step.
Are the therapies supervised by qualified professionals?
Yes, treatments and consultations are delivered by registered Naturopathic physicians and trained therapists with extensive experience and clinical expertise.
Medical & Insurance
Is medicine provided during the stay?
We do not generally prescribe internal medications. Guests may continue regular medicines if required, with doctor’s approval.
Is health insurance or cashless treatment available?
Cashless insurance claims are currently not available. Eligibility for insurance reimbursement depends on individual policy terms and specific AYUSH coverage.
Bookings & Duration
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 20 days to months in advance to secure your preferred room type program and dates.
Can I choose how long my stay is?
Yes. Stay durations vary depending on your wellness goals and doctor’s advice. Typical programmes range from 7 days to several weeks.
International Guest Queries
Do you assist with visas or travel planning?
We can provide invitation letters and travel guidance for visa purposes, but guests are responsible for their own visa applications and travel arrangements.
Are flights and airport transfers arranged?
We assist with airport transfers on request but do not book flights. Guests should arrange their own air travel.
What should international guests pack?
We recommend bringing comfortable clothes for Yoga, personal toiletries, medication, travel documents, and items for a calm, digital-minimal retreat.
Can I use my phone during treatments?
To enhance healing, mobile usage during sessions is discouraged. Digital detox is encouraged for the best experience.
Is internet available?
Wi-Fi access available, but guests are encouraged to maintain minimal usage during their wellness journey.
What should I carry during check-in?
Essentials like a water bottle, Yoga clothes, comfortable loose clothing, personal toiletries, medical reports, and ID documents.
Is accommodation included in the programme fee?
Yes. Most residential wellness and Yoga programmes include accommodation and meals. Details vary depending on the selected programme and room category.
Are single-occupancy rooms available for international guests?
Yes. Single and twin-sharing accommodation options are available, subject to availability and prior booking.
Is the stay suitable for long-duration international guests?
Yes. Our infrastructure and routines are designed to support both short-term and long-term international stays focused on wellness, Yoga, and lifestyle transformation.
What type of food is served during the stay?
We serve plant-based, therapeutic, and healing diets based on Naturopathy principles. Meals are prescribed according to individual health needs and programme guidelines.
Can special dietary requirements be accommodated?
Reasonable dietary adjustments may be considered based on medical needs, allergies, or cultural preferences, subject to clinical advice.
Is outside food allowed?
No. Outside food is not permitted, as adherence to the prescribed healing diet is an essential part of the wellness programme.
Are yoga sessions conducted in English?
Yes. Yoga and wellness sessions for international guests are primarily conducted in English.
Are treatments supervised by qualified professionals?
Yes. All consultations, therapies, and Yoga sessions are supervised by qualified practitioners trained in Naturopathy, Yoga, and allied wellness disciplines.
Can I continue my regular medications during the stay?
Yes. Guests may continue prescribed medications. Any changes should be discussed with your primary physician. Our doctors may offer lifestyle and wellness guidance but do not replace your existing medical care.
Is health insurance or cashless treatment accepted?
No. Cashless insurance facilities are not available. Any insurance reimbursement depends on your individual policy terms and coverage.
Do I need to bring medical records?
Yes. International guests are advised to bring relevant medical reports, prescriptions, and health history for better programme planning.
Is emergency medical support available nearby?
Yes. In case of emergencies, guests will be referred to nearby medical facilities. Emergency hospitalization is not provided on-site.
How far in advance should international guests’ book?
We recommend booking at least 3–4 weeks in advance to facilitate accommodation availability and visa documentation.
What payment methods are accepted?
Payments can be made via international bank transfer or other approved digital payment methods as communicated at the time of booking.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
Cancellation and refund policies vary by programme and are shared at the time of booking. Guests are advised to review them carefully before confirmation.
Is Wi-Fi available for international guests?
Wi-Fi is available. Guests are encouraged to minimize digital usage to support the healing and yogic environment.
Are alcohol, smoking, or recreational substances allowed?
No. Alcohol, smoking, tobacco, and recreational substances are strictly prohibited within the campus.
Is silence or digital detox followed?
Yes. Silence periods, mindful routines, and limited device usage may be part of certain programmes, especially Yoga retreats and teacher training courses.
How can international guests contact Shri Sivalaya before arrival?
International guests may contact us via email, phone, or official website enquiry forms for programme details, bookings, and guidance.
Yoga Practitioners & Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) Participants
What styles of yoga are taught at Shri Sivalaya?
We follow a traditional and therapeutic approach to Yoga, integrating :
Hatha Yoga
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga
Therapeutic Yoga
Pranayama & breathwork
Meditation & mindfulness
Yogic cleansing practices (Shatkarma – where appropriate)
Yogic philosophy and lifestyle practices
The approach is holistic, safe, and rooted in classical yogic principles.
Are yoga sessions suitable for beginners?
Yes. Yoga sessions are structured to accommodate beginners, intermediate, and advanced practitioners. Practices are adapted based on age, health condition, flexibility, and experience.
Does Shri Sivalaya offer Yoga Teacher Training courses?
Yes. Shri Sivalaya offers Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) programmes, including Yoga Alliance–aligned certifications, conducted by experienced teachers with strong clinical and teaching backgrounds.
Who can enrol in the Yoga Teacher Training programme?
The YTT programme is open to :
Aspiring yoga teachers
Yoga practitioners seeking deeper knowledge
Health professionals (Naturopathy doctors, Physiotherapists, Counsellors, etc.)
International and domestic students
Prior teaching experience is not mandatory.
What is the duration of the Yoga Teacher Training course?
Course duration varies depending on the certification level (e.g., 200-hour, 300-hour, or advanced modules). The exact dates and schedules are announced in advance for each batch.
What subjects are covered in the Yoga Teacher Training?
The curriculum typically includes :
Asana practice & alignment
Teaching methodology
Anatomy & physiology (yoga-specific and applied)
Yogic philosophy (Yoga Sutras, Bhagavad Gita concepts)
Pranayama & meditation
Therapeutic applications of yoga
Practicum & assessments
Is accommodation included in the Yoga Teacher Training programme?
Yes. Residential accommodation and healing-based meals are usually included as part of the YTT package unless stated otherwise.
What is a typical day like for yoga students?
A typical day may include:
Early morning meditation or pranayama
Morning asana practice
Theory sessions
Therapeutic or self-practice time
Evening yoga or meditation
Silence or mindful reflection periods
The schedule supports discipline, focus, and inner transformation.
Is attendance mandatory for all sessions?
Yes. Full attendance is mandatory to meet certification requirements and to maintain the integrity of the yogic learning process.
Can international students join the Yoga Teacher Training programme?
Yes. Shri Sivalaya welcomes international yoga students. Instruction is primarily in English, and support is provided throughout the stay.
Will I receive an internationally recognized certificate?
Successful candidates receive certification as per the programme structure and applicable accreditation guidelines, where stated.
Will you provide documents for visa purposes?
Yes. Upon confirmation of enrolment, we can issue invitation or admission letters to support visa applications. However, visa approval remains the responsibility of the student.
Is digital detox or discipline followed during YTT?
Yes. To preserve the sanctity of the Yogic environment, limited phone usage, silence periods, and disciplined routines are encouraged, especially during training days.
Are alcohol, smoking, or non-vegetarian food allowed?
No. Consumption of alcohol, smoking, tobacco, or non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited during yoga programmes and teacher training, in alignment with yogic principles.
Will I receive a certificate after completing the Yoga Teacher Training?
Yes. Upon successful completion of the course, assessments, and attendance requirements, participants receive a Yoga Teacher Training Certificate as per the programme guidelines.
Visa Requirements for International Clients
What type of visa do international guests need to attend a wellness program in India?
Most international guests attending wellness, Yoga, Naturopathy, meditation, or lifestyle modification programs in India should apply for a Tourist Visa or e-Tourist Visa.
This visa is suitable for short-term, non-academic, non-employment wellness experiences focused on personal health and well-being.
Is a Tourist Visa allowed for wellness and healing programs?
Yes. A Tourist Visa / e-Tourist Visa is legally acceptable for :
Wellness retreats
Yoga and meditation programs
Naturopathy and holistic healing stays
Detox, rejuvenation, and lifestyle modification programs
Short-term Yoga Teacher Training programs (non-academic)
These programs are considered wellness and personal development activities, not medical treatment.
Who should apply for an AYUSH Visa?
An AYUSH Visa should be taken only by international guests who are coming to India specifically for medical treatment under the AYUSH systems of medicine.
This applies when :
The visit is for clinical or disease-specific treatment
Treatment is provided by a recognized AYUSH hospital or medical institution
There is a medical diagnosis and treatment plan
The stay is medically supervised and treatment-oriented
What treatments require an AYUSH Visa?
An AYUSH Visa is required for :
Clinical Ayurveda treatments (e.g., Panchakarma for chronic illness)
Long-term naturopathy treatment for specific medical conditions
Therapeutic yoga prescribed as part of a medical treatment plan
Any AYUSH-based treatment undertaken primarily as medical care
Do wellness retreats or lifestyle programs require an AYUSH Visa?
No.
Wellness retreats, preventive health programs, lifestyle modification, stress management, rejuvenation, and relaxation programs do NOT require an AYUSH Visa.
For these purposes, a Tourist Visa / e-Tourist Visa is sufficient.
What visa should attendants or family members take?
If accompanying a wellness guest Tourist Visa
If accompanying a patient on AYUSH medical treatment AYUSH Attendant Visa
Can a Tourist Visa be converted to an AYUSH or other visa in India?
Generally, visa conversion is not permitted within India. Guests are advised to apply for the correct visa type before arrival based on the true purpose of their visit.
What should international guests mention as the purpose of visit while applying?
Guests attending wellness programs may state :
Tourism / Wellness / Yoga / Retreat / Personal well-being
They should avoid selecting employment, business, or medical treatment unless applicable.
Guest attending ayush based medical treatment may have to select Ayush Visa
Does the wellness centre provide visa assistance?
The wellness centre can provide :
Program confirmation letters
Stay details for visa application support
However, visa approval and compliance remain the responsibility of the guest, subject to the rules of the Government of India.
https://www.mea.gov.in/Portal/CountryNews/19887_Ayush_Visa.pdf
Important Advisory
Visa regulations are subject to change and may vary by nationality. International guests are strongly advised to verify current visa requirements with the Indian Embassy, Consulate, or official Indian visa portal before travel.



