If you are already in Rishikesh, stay at a hostel that offers yoga. Live Free Hostel offers donation-based yoga on their rooftop. This gives you an opportunity to meet other people, share experiences, ask for insight, and practice yoga without committing to a course.

It’ll also give you a chance to visit the ashrams for yourself before making a decision. You can try a few drop-in classes to help you get an idea of what you want to focus on. Some of the websites offer an “early bird” discount; a deal for booking online 3 or more months in advance. Don’t worry, it’s likely you’ll be able to bargain with them when you arrive at their door.

Shiva Yoga Peeth

seemed to be pretty hard-core/authentic. They had a list of guidelines strongly suggested to be followed so you receive the most from your experience. They were the only website or entity to inform that the whole experience may not be easy at times. Emotions may come up. Remember to have an open heart and be compassionate with yourself.https://www.shivayogapeeth.in/

Iyengar Yoga Centre

also had a list of guidelines and dress codes that must be followed. This ashram came across as being very authentic as well. If you’re at all interested in Iyengar Yoga, this is regarded as a must-attend school. This was the ashram Reka, the yoga instructor at Live Free Hostel, suggested to me. https://www.iyengaryoga.in/

Yog Amritam

Claims to be one of the oldest schools in Rishikesh. They primarily focus on the Hatha and Ashtanga yoga traditions. Their goal is to bridge the gap between yogis and non-yogis. They include the whole philosophy of yoga science in their curriculum, not just asanas. https://yogamritamrishikesh.org/

Jiva Yoga Academy

Boasts small class sizes to deliver an authentic yoga experience. They offer 100hr and 200hr teacher training courses and a few options for “detox retreats.” This ashram seems a little more low-key, less intense. The facilities and accommodations look beautiful. https://jivayogaacademy.org/

Jivan Chakra Foundation

Offers a holistic approach so students learn to develop a practice on their own and/or teach from true experience. They offer Hatha yoga teacher training, or if you want to study multiple styles; a multi-style ttc course. They also offer a pranayama course, which is nice if you’re looking for training in areas other than asana. https://jivanchakra.com/

Rishikesh Yog Mandir classes are all-inclusive, from asana, pranayam to meditation and philosophy per the Vedic standard. They offer 200hr, 300hr, and 500hr teacher training courses. They also offer meditation and Ayurveda classes. You can stay in their facilities or find your own if you require more accommodation. They didn’t have reviews on their website, I would personally check this one out before registering. They have a female yoga trainer! https://www.yogateachertrainingrishikesh.com/

World Peace Yoga School

offers teacher training in Hatha and Ashtanga yoga for a traditional, authentic yoga training experience. They claim to be #1 in Rishikesh. Their website is very comprehensive and will answer any questions you may have. They have a lot to offer. Their space looks beautiful. Read the orientation manual under the “About” tab if you’ve never been to India or have questions about what to expect when coming to Rishikesh. https://worldpeaceyogaschool.com/ No matter where you go, there you are. Best wishes on your yoga journey! Hari Om.