# The Heart of The Himalayas > A retreat in Nepal with James Rafael. Yoga, meditation, monasteries, mountain hiking, wild river swims, saunas & big adventures. - URL: https://reclaimyourself.club/our-holidays/nepal-yoga-adventure-wellness-retreat/ - Published: 2026-04-18 - Updated: 2026-10-19 - Author: Jools Sampson --- **Kathmandu and the Journey to the Himalayas** We begin our journey in Kathmandu, a city where ancient culture, historic temples and chaotic charm collide. Our base is a restored Rana-era palace tucked into a quiet courtyard. Together, we'll explore the beautiful Patan Durbar Square, with its Newari temples and rich heritage, before gathering for a traditional Nepali dinner. The next morning, we take a private charter flight to Phaplu, a remote region of eastern Nepal ringed by pine forests and high Himalayan peaks. The hidden valleys here are considered sacred places of refuge, steeped in spiritual energy and home to several important Tibetan monasteries. **Our Mountain Home** Our destination is a beautifully restored Sherpa lodge, once home to Sir Edmund Hillary. Nestled at 2,500 metres, this soulful retreat sits amongst pine trees and rhododendron forests, with sweeping mountain views, log fires, a yoga and meditation shala, [sauna, cold plunge pool](https://reclaimyourself.club/collections/sauna-and-cold-plunge-retreats/) and forest paths right from the door. Over the week, this becomes our home. **Yoga, Meditation and Mountain Life** Each day unfolds with a gentle rhythm. Mornings begin with Robby's guided meditation, followed by Josie's soulful yoga, weaving together breath, movement and grounded connection. After breakfast in the garden, we head out into the mountains to explore the valleys, villages and monasteries that make this region so special. **Monasteries, Villages and Sherpa Culture** One day, we'll hike to Chiwong Monastery, perched high on a ridge overlooking the valley. Here, we'll share a simple lunch before joining the monks for their daily prayers and Buddhist teachings. Afterwards, we may even be invited to join a friendly game of football before walking or mountain biking back to the lodge. We'll also visit Thupten Choeling, where monks and nuns live and study side by side. Here, we'll visit the monastery school and Tibetan medicine hospital before continuing to Junbesi village for a home-cooked lunch with a local Sherpa family. There is also time to visit the Phaplu Mountain Bike Club, a non-profit project run by our hosts to support young people in Phaplu and neighbouring villages. **Cold Water, Forest Trails and Mountain Views** This retreat offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. We'll hike to the peaceful village of Phera for a picnic lunch and an invigorating dip in the river. A slower day leads us through forest trails to Chyalsa, where we're welcomed into a Tibetan family-run teahouse before continuing to Solu Khola for another refreshing cold-water plunge. **Evenings in the Mountains** At the end of each day, we return to our mountain sanctuary with time to rest, read or enjoy the sauna. You might book a massage, relax beside the fire or simply take in the views. Evenings are slow and cosy, with candlelit dinners followed by restorative yoga with Josie and yoga nidra with Robby, helping you settle into a deep and restful sleep. **An Overnight Adventure on Ratnange Ridge** One of the highlights of the retreat is our overnight adventure to Ratnange Ridge. We hike through magical rhododendron forests to a remote mountain camp with extraordinary Himalayan views, where expedition tents await. Our chefs prepare a delicious meal, and as darkness falls, we gather around the fire beneath star-filled skies, sharing stories, tea and quiet moments together. At first light, we rise for a sunrise meditation on the ridge, watching the world's highest mountains emerge from the darkness. On clear mornings, Everest reveals herself in the distance. It's a moment of awe, stillness and deep connection to the natural world. **A Final Day in Kathmandu** After returning from our mountain adventure, we enjoy one final day at our lodge before flying back to Kathmandu. There, we'll spend a final afternoon soaking up the city's spirit, visiting Boudha, where pilgrims circle the great white stupa beneath fluttering prayer flags, and wandering the winding lanes of Thamel for last cups of chai, a little shopping and a gentle farewell to Nepal. ## The details ## Is this for me? This retreat is designed for our **Bold Explorers. **You’ll need a sense of adventure and a willingness to step beyond the familiar. We’re heading into a remote corner of Nepal, spending the week in the mountains at around 2,500 metres. Time has been built in to acclimatise, and most guests feel comfortable at this altitude. A good level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience fully. Across the week, we’ll take on three hikes ranging from two to five hours, along with a handful of drives on winding mountain roads as we reach monasteries, villages and hidden valleys. Glacial river dips are optional, but for those feeling brave, they are one of the unforgettable parts of the journey. This is also a retreat for curious travellers. We’ll share tea and lunch with local families, visit remote monasteries, take part in guided meditation, and spend meaningful time with the communities who call these mountains home. An open mind and a warm spirit will take you far here. One night will be spent at a remote mountain camp, where guests share a comfortable expedition tent with one other person. If tent-sharing is not for you, there is the option to remain at the house, though we’d encourage you to join. It is one of the most memorable nights of the trip, and often the moment people talk about long after they return. Read about our traveller categories. ## What's the yoga like? **Your teacher: James Rafael** Yoga on our retreats is open to everyone, whether it’s your first class or something you’ve practised for years. Our groups are always a mix, and there’s no pressure to keep up or perform. You’re encouraged to move in a way that feels right for you. Sessions are thoughtfully designed to be grounded and accessible, often becoming a natural way to stretch, slow down, and reconnect after a day outdoors. We work with experienced teachers who know how to support beginners while also helping more regular practitioners deepen their practice, creating a space where people often surprise themselves in the best way **Who is teaching?** Your yoga teacher will be James Rafael, a vinyasa yoga, movement, and meditation teacher who emphasises kind and welcoming practice spaces for all. On this retreat you’ll enjoy flowing, lighthearted practice with an emphasis on breath, integrated strength, flexibility, and loads of options for all levels of experience. Each class will be 60-90 minutes long combining fluid sequences of postures linked through breath and awareness. There will be a focus on alignment tailored to the individual, with details and personal attention you don’t usually get in regular weekly yoga classes so you can refine and deepen your practice. Philosophy, poetry, and ancient wisdom will be gently offered (without being overbearing!) to truly make this a mind, heart, and body experience. Find out more about James and try some free classes or join a live online class. ## A day on retreat Mornings Mornings begin in the clear mountain air, with tea or coffee as the sun rises over the hills. There is time to ease into the day quietly, take in the views, or enjoy a few peaceful moments before practice begins. Yoga and meditation take place from 8:00–9:30am, blending yoga, meditation, breathwork and stillness to prepare body and mind for the day ahead. Afterwards, a nourishing breakfast is served using fresh local ingredients. Daytime Each day is active and immersive, with time spent out in the mountains exploring this remarkable region of Nepal. We’ll hike scenic trails, visit remote monasteries, spend time in traditional villages, and experience landscapes that feel far removed from everyday life. Along the way, there will be moments of connection with local communities, shared meals, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and views that stay with you long after you return home. Midway through the retreat, we journey higher into the mountains for a special overnight stay at our remote camp. Expect open skies, fireside conversations, deep stillness and extraordinary stargazing far from city lights. Afternoons We return in the later afternoon for an invigorating wellness ritual built into the rhythm of the retreat. Sauna sessions and cold dips in the glacial river form a memorable part of the experience, helping to restore tired muscles, reset the nervous system, and awaken the senses after a day in the mountains. There is also time to rest, take in the views, or simply enjoy the peace of the house before evening begins. Evenings Evenings are calm and grounding. Dinner is shared together, with wholesome food and a relaxed atmosphere after the day’s adventures. Before bed, we gather for gentle relaxation sessions such as meditation, breathwork or yoga nidra, helping you settle deeply and sleep well in the mountain silence. Each day combines mountain adventure, contrast therapy, yoga and meditation and proper time to recover. ## What's included Included in the Retreat | 8 nights accommodation | Breakfast, lunch, dinner, mineral water, tea and coffee | Airport transfers in Kathmandu | Walking tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site Patan Durbar Square in Kathmandu | Visit to Boudhanath Stupa and walking tour of Thamel in Kathmandu | Return charter flights between Kathmandu and Phaplu | Daily yoga and meditation classes with Josie and Robby | Unlimited use of the sauna and cold plunge pool | Two guided wild river dips | Hike to Chiwong Monastery, including meditation and Buddhist teachings | Visit to Thupten Choeling, including meditation and visits to the school and Tibetan medicine hospital | Visit to the Phaplu Mountain Bike Club | Hike to Ratnange Ridge and overnight stay at the mountain camp | ## What's extra Not Included | Return flights to Kathmandu | Nepali visa | Massages (prices TBC) | Local gratuities | ## Where will I stay? We’ll spend two nights in Kathmandu, one at the beginning and one at the end of the retreat, staying in an elegant heritage hotel in the heart of the city. This falls within our Premium category and offers a stylish, restful contrast to the mountain adventure in between. For five nights, we stay at a hidden Himalayan retreat above the village of Phaplu. Our traditional mountain house sits within our Comfort category and has been thoughtfully restored, combining original character with modern ease. Each room has its own ensuite bathroom and individual charm, while hand-painted Buddhist thangka artwork brings a sense of place throughout the house. Surrounded by pine forest and organic gardens, the property also features a yoga and meditation shala, peaceful terraces, and a small wellness space with a massage room, sauna and cold plunge pool. We’ll also spend one unforgettable night at our mountain camp on Ratnange Ridge. Guests share comfortable expedition tents, two people per tent, with warm beds and cosy bedding provided. Facilities are simple, with basic toilet and washing amenities, but the reward is a night immersed in the wild, under vast Himalayan skies. This retreat is limited to just 14 guests, with six single rooms and four twin or double rooms available. Read about our accommodation categories. ## Food Our Nepal menu features seasonal, locally sourced dishes as well as western cuisine, offering both hearty and lighter options. The menu will feature some meat dishes but we are able to cater for vegetarian and vegan. Breakfasts Each morning begins with a generous spread of cereals, nuts, fruit, yogurt, and hot drinks, alongside warm options like eggs, pancakes, porridge, chapati, and toast with all the toppings — a comforting start to the day. Lunches Hearty and flavourful, lunches include traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhaat and thukpa, alongside biryani, fried rice, and vegetable curries — always served with fresh salad and bread. Dinners Evenings bring warming comfort: soups, risotto, pasta, sherpa stew, or momos, followed by simple desserts like cake, pie, or fresh fruit — a satisfying close to each day. If you have any dietary requirements or allergies, please contact us before booking, as we’ll need to check with our chefs to confirm whether we can accommodate your needs. **Please note: this is an alcohol-free retreat.** ## Travel You should fly to Kathmandu, arriving on 6th November departing on 14th November. International travel to Kathmandu You can fly from London (LHR) to Kathmandu (KTM) with one stop. Options include Thai Airways via Bangkok, Emirates via Dubai, or British Airways via Doha. Please arrive on 6 November — your first night in Kathmandu is included in the retreat. We return to Kathmandu on the afternoon of 13 November, and another night in the city is also included. You’ll be able to continue your onward travel from 14 November. Onward travel to East Nepal A return private charter flight to Phaplu is included in your retreat. These flights can occasionally be disrupted by weather, which is why we’ve included a night in Kathmandu at either end of the retreat — to give us flexibility with flight timings. ## Questions Are flights included? International flights are not included. We’ll provide suggested routes and travel guidance, and our team is always happy to help if you’d like support with booking. Your internal charter flight to and from the retreat is included in the trip price. As we are travelling into a Himalayan region, occasional weather conditions can affect mountain flight schedules. If needed, our experienced team will adapt plans and guide you through any changes with calm, practical support. Do I need a visa? Most guests will need a tourist visa for Nepal, which is typically quick and straightforward to obtain on arrival in Kathmandu or online in advance. We’ll provide clear guidance before departure so the process feels easy. What’s the group size and what kind of people are going? This retreat is limited to just 14 guests, creating an intimate group with plenty of space to relax, connect, and enjoy the experience at an easy pace. Our retreats attract a mix of solo travellers, friends and couples, typically aged 40–60, though we also welcome guests in their 30s and 70s. They are solo-friendly by design and draw open-minded people who value wellbeing, enjoy adventure, and appreciate sharing experiences with like-minded company. Some guests join for the yoga, others for the destination, and many discover they love both. The atmosphere is warm, grounded and easy to settle into. Do I need any vaccinations? Please check here for the latest vaccination guidance relevant to Nepal. Can I book on my own? Yes, absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and it’s one of the best ways to meet new people in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Can you cater for my dietary requests? Our chefs can cater for most dietary requirements with advance notice. Please include any requests on your booking form and we’ll confirm everything in writing. You’re also welcome to check with our team before booking. Who is hosting this trip? All of our retreats are hosted by a Reclaim retreat leader, who manages logistics and looks after the group, alongside a Reclaim yoga teacher who leads your yoga sessions. In Nepal your yoga teacher will be James Rafael. Our team works closely with our local hosts on the ground to ensure everything runs smoothly, so you can relax fully and enjoy the experience from start to finish. --- Site index for agents: https://reclaimyourself.club/llms.txt