Two destination yoga & ayurveda retreat in tranquil Kerala, India

About Birds Island

Birds Island is a sanctuary for yoga, healing and wellbeing, nestled in the serene landscape of Ernakulam, a two-hour drive inland from Cherai.

It provides an ideal setting for rest, rejuvenation and reflection. Surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife, the property offers a peaceful environment for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, a slower pace of life, and an invitation to turn inwards.

Retreat programme

Lara will offer Scaravelli Inspired yoga teaching thoughout the retreat. A traditional fire ceremony will mark the beginning of the retreat in the shala overlooking the peaceful backwaters of Cherai. Then each day will begin with a morning class of chanting, meditation, somatic movements and asana to gently open the body. The afternoon classes will be a more gentle and restorative. Elements of Kirtan will be woven into the retreat.

Between classes there will be ayurvedic treatments, time to relax in the grounds or head to the beach. Alongside there will be a programme of cultural visits and activities.

At Birds Island, life moves at a slower rhythm, encouraging you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of rural Kerala. The schedule of twice-daily yoga and treatments will continue, with time for village walks, boat trips on the lake, or quiet evenings under the stars.

Throughout the retreat there will be two yoga-free half days, no yoga on travel days and the classes will be suitable for all levels and experience.

Things to do

At the beginning of the retreat, there will be an individual consultation with the ayurvedic doctor. Following this each person will have daily ayurvedic supplements and massage treatments, all included as part of the retreat at both locations.

During your stay in Cherai, there will be morning and evening yoga classes and time in between classes and treatments to relax in the grounds or head to Cherai beach, a 20 minute walk or short tuk tuk ride away.

You will also experience Kerala’s rich culture through a programme of activities. These will include a sunrise boat trip on the backwaters, an afternoon and evening exploring Fort Kochi, a visit to a Shiva temple, and an evening of classical music and dance.

At Birds Island, the retreat will gently shift into a quieter, more reflective phase. Daily yoga and treatments will continue, with ample time to rest, walk in nature, observe local wildlife, or simply enjoy the stillness of the surroundings.

Accommodation & food

At Ayurveda Chjerai, there are two types of rooms offered. Cottage rooms with double beds and private patio or heritage style wooden rooms with double or twin beds and a shared terrace. All have en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.

At Birds Island, accommodation is simple, comfortable and air-conditioned, set within a peaceful forest environment with river or garden views. Four twin rooms are more spacious with a balcony. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms.

Throughout the retreat, you will enjoy delicious, light and nourishing meals. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are vegetarian and prepared in the Keralan style using fresh, local ingredients. There will also be the option to dine out on two evenings.