Chapatti, chai and chill.…

India is socially-diverse across the country. In the South you are going to want light, breathable material. Linen and Cotton are great. Light pants with elastic ankles is beneficial to cool off and stay clean.

We began in Trivandrum, Kerala, South India and stayed at an AirBNB, in a small village, outside the main city called, Vizinjam. It was hot and abundant in coconuts. Textiles are elegant and the jewelry selection is substantial. The holiday, Dewali was being celebrated when we landed. Dewali is also called The Celebration of Lights and associated with Lakshmi, Goddess of prosperity in the New Year. From there we took a sleeper train north, to Uttarakhand, it took two nights. On the way we visited our friend, Sameer, who took us on a fabulous tour of Cheruthuruthi, Kerala and introduced us to Eco Gardens. A beautiful, quiet place to stay with peacocks and plenty of places to practice yoga and meditation. I learned how to wrap a sari with Princess.

Yog Sadhana Dham is the Ashram we stayed at for one month. It is located in Jak Village in The Almora District of Uttarakhand, India. An Ayurvedic Meditation and Yoga Retreat Center with prime focus on Prakriti, which means natural form or true nature in Sanskrit. When we connect with nature, we can connect deeper with ourselves. All we have to do is watch, feel and listen.

What to Bring North

Toe socks
Slippers
Hiking Shoes
Warm Hat
Tee Shirt
Long Sleeve Tee Shirt
Thermal Top
Thermal Bottoms
Compactable Down Coat

India What to Bring South

Sandals
Scarf- Scarves are big here, bring one to wrap upon landing then support the local economy by taking some home from local vendors
Sun Glasses
Hand Sanitizer
Slippers