The Expanding Light Retreat

Set in the midst of nature, this retreat center offers a peaceful sanctuary away from the pace and pressure of everyday life.

For some guests, the energy here is immediate and unmistakable the moment they arrive. For others, it unfolds gradually throughout their stay, quietly shifting their experience day by day. Some wake up to a surprising sense of joy, while others only fully understand the impact of this place after they have left. However it is recognized, the uplifting presence here is constant, powerful, and deeply nourishing.

How to get to The Expanding Light Retreat

The retreat is a bit off the beaten path, and many guests are glad it is once they arrive.

Address: 13930 Expanding Light Drive, Nevada City, CA

Guest Services welcomes visitors:
Monday – Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Please use and print the directions provided.

Accommodations

Serenity House is an inn-style residence with twelve rooms and four shared hallway bathrooms. Most rooms include two twin beds, with queen or converted king options available in limited quantities and by special request. Each room includes a bedside table, wardrobe, and mini split heating/cooling unit.

Guests also have access to a centrally located lounge with a television, video player, and a library of inspirational books and videos, plus a small kitchenette with tea and a refrigerator for personal items.

All Inclusive Rates

Rates include everything for one person*, with a shared or private room, a shared hallway bathroom, and three vegetarian meals per day. A minimum two-night stay is required.

Standard Shared Starting at $308

Standard Private Starting at $436

*Extra charge for additional people.

Harmony House rooms feature a private entrance, private bathroom, desk, mini split heating/cooling unit, ceiling fan, and hairdryer.

Harmony House reflects Yogananda’s expansive view of religion and his belief in honoring God through beauty. Simple and elegant, each room is decorated around one of the great world religions.

All Inclusive Rates

Rates include everything for one person*, with a shared or private room, ensuite bathroom, and three vegetarian meals each day. A minimum two-night stay is required.

Ensuite Shared Starting at $384

Ensuite Private Starting at $588

*Extra charge for additional people.

Cabins: Each cabin offers one larger, more private room than the standard accommodations. Cabin guests use separate men’s and women’s shower houses located about a one-minute walk away. All cabins have A/C.

All Inclusive Rates

Rates include everything for one person*, with a shared or private room, access to a shared shower house, and three vegetarian meals each day. A minimum two-night stay is required.

Shared Cabin Starting at $293

Private Cabin Starting at $406

*Extra charge for additional people.

Tent camping is available at a variety of campsites. RVs are welcome year-round, though RV facilities and hookups are not available.

Meals are included for tent and RV guests. Because of wildlife, food is not permitted in the tenting area, and tent sites do not include cooking or picnic facilities. A refrigerator is available on an outdoor deck behind the kitchen for guest use. Tent guests should bring their own camping gear.

All Inclusive Rates

Rates include everything for one person*, with a tent or RV space, access to a shared shower house, and three vegetarian meals each day. A minimum two-night stay is required.

Tent/RV Starting at $236

*Extra charge for additional people.

FAQs

I'm new to meditation. Will I be able to do this retreat?

Yes. A meditation practice is not required for any retreat, and beginner meditation classes are offered several times each week.

What is included in my retreat price?

3 vegetarian meals/day
Tea, coffee, fruit throughout the day
Twice daily yoga & meditation sessions
Classes, activities and community events
Lodging according to your selection
A Personal Retreat host to guide and support you in your experience

What is not included in my retreat price?

Airport transport
Additional healing services (massage, spiritual counseling)
Extra snacks (available in our community market)

Can I come as a day guest? What does a day pass include?

Yes, day guests are welcome. The pass includes all meals, access to the facilities, and two yoga and meditation sessions.

What's your cancellation policy?

If you cancel or reschedule on or before 7 days prior to arrival, the full payment is refunded minus a $55 processing fee.

If you cancel or reschedule within 7 days of arrival, the deposit is held for one year as credit toward a future stay, minus a $55 processing fee. If more than the deposit has been paid, the remaining balance is refunded.

Do you offer any discounts?

Yes. Guest Services can help apply a discount to your registration. Exclusions apply.

Promotional Discounts:
Bring a Friend: 15% off each guest when you bring a friend with you (must be a first-time guest).
Awake & Ready: 15% off when you book 2+ months in advance.
Longer Stay: 20% off when you book 28+ consecutive days with us.
Book Your Next Stay: 15% off when you book your next stay with us before departure.

Needs Based Discounts: Additional discounts are available for certain groups, including Seniors, Veterans, Ananda Kriyabans and Sevakas. These are offered by request and on an as-needed basis.

Exclusions: These promotional discounts apply to Personal Retreat stays described on this page, but not to certain other programs, including certificate programs through the Ananda School of Yoga and Meditation, Karma Yoga Immersion, Inner Renewal Retreat, Kriyaban Retreat or Spiritual Renewal Week.

I'm coming from a distance. What is the nearest airport, and how do I get to The Expanding Light Retreat?

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the best option. Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is also possible, though less preferred.

Both airports are about 1.5 hours away by car, so guests will need to rent a car or arrange a driver. Contact information for drivers who have previously served guests can be shared if needed.

What if I have special dietary requirements?

Some dietary needs can be accommodated with non-dairy, non-wheat, and egg-free options. If you have other requirements, you may need to bring supplementary food for yourself.

A small refrigerator is available for guests in Serenity House Lounge, and a full-size refrigerator outside the kitchen can be used for storing special foods. A market near Ananda Village is also available for specialty items.

What do I need to bring with me?

The atmosphere is casual, and layers are recommended because the elevation is 2,500 feet.

For yoga postures and meditation, bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

If you plan to attend Sunday Service, a slightly less casual outfit is ideal.

Slip-on shoes are useful, since shoes are removed when entering the Temple and living quarters.

If you enjoy walking, bring good walking shoes to explore nearly 700 acres of beautiful grounds.

You may also want to bring a bathing suit in summer for a visit to the Yuba River, about 20 minutes away.

Towels and unscented all-purpose liquid soap are provided.

Do you have a dress code?

Yes. As a spiritual ashram, the retreat maintains a modest and inward-focused atmosphere. Longer shorts and sleeved T-shirts are preferred, though wide-strapped tank tops are acceptable. Outside of yoga classes, please wear a modest cover-up with leotards, leggings, or swimsuits.

Can I bring my children?

The retreat is designed for adults, though older and mature children who will appreciate the experience are welcome.

Younger children may come as well, but they must be supervised by a parent at all times. Please speak with Guest Services before booking if your reservation includes younger children.

Babies and toddlers, unless especially calm and mild, can disturb the experience for other guests and generally cannot be accommodated.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets cannot be accommodated on the property. Guests are asked to leave pets at home with a family member or sitter.

Do you have wifi? What about cell service?

Yes, wifi is available in certain areas. The dining room is electronics-free, but wifi is available elsewhere, including rooms in Harmony House and Serenity House.

Cell service can be inconsistent in the area, with AT&T and Verizon typically offering the best reception.

If you would like to fully unplug, Guest Services can store your phone or electronic devices in a safe.

How can I make a donation to The Expanding Light Retreat?

Donations are appreciated, as the retreat is part of Ananda Worldwide, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. You may add a donation on your registration form, or ask Guest Services to include one after registration.

I would like to bring a group of people for a private retreat. How can I do that?

Group retreats can be arranged in a variety of ways, including tailored experiences for specific needs. To explore the options, contact Guest Services and they will connect you with the Guest Groups host.