Himalayan Institute

I attended for the New Year’s Eve retreat (Tantric Alchemy). I did not benefit from this particular program and would not recommend it, unless you are already familiar with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait’s teaching style. I, unfortunately, did not find him to be a good teacher. Aside from the program, the facility, food, grounds, and people are wonderful. I’d return for the hiking trails and food alone! :) I stayed in the 9 bunk bed women’s dorm and was very comfortable. The shared bathroom/​showers were clean and there was never a wait, even on this sold-​out weekend. I was a bit intimidated to enter the «shrine» but it’s just a meditation room. Coffee is not served but is available for purchase at the café, which opens at 8 am. There is complimentary water, black tea, and non-​caffeinated tea. I’ll say it again, the all vegetarian food is wonderful! I was never hungry between meal times.
Tips: bring your own pillow (the one provided is very thin), there are no shoes allowed in the teaching spaces, bring sturdy shoes for hiking, and bring your own reusable water bottle. If in the dorm, bring a sleep mask and use a sleep/​white noise app on your phone with earbuds.

It’s a very special place. I’ve come to HI for New Year’s retreat, and it’s been one of my best New Year’s eves (and I can compare it to all night parties at a Russian restaurant on Brighton Beach; artsy warehouse parties in the Gowanus; salsa clubs, you name it. The philosophy is clear, accessible and «real»; the staff are thoughtful and kind; the food is vegetarian and has a nice homemade feel to it. I’ve stayed in a double with a sink, and it was fine. Next time I’d bring my own pillow. Communal bathrooms are on the same floor, and they were spotless clean. The yoga classes include breathwork, meditation and very thorough, precise instruction. I wish I were here in the summer or early fall!

The Himalayan Institute is a great place to learn and get healthy on all levels. Come
for weekend seminar, a monthly rejuvenation program, a 10-​day retreat, or just for a massage — and enjoy the 450 acre campus in the Pocono Mountains.