Set in the Sierra foothills of Northern California, this retreat spans 72 acres and serves as the birthplace of the worldwide Ananda communities. Surrounded by forest and shaped by years of deep spiritual practice, it offers a simple, peaceful sanctuary for anyone seeking to step away from outer activity and reconnect with the Divine within.
The property includes a range of private cabins, each placed with intention. Some are tucked far into the landscape for greater seclusion, with sweeping views of distant Sierra peaks and the surrounding pine forest. Others are just a short two-minute walk from the temple, dining hall, lounge, and shower house.
This campus is devoted to personal spiritual seclusion and creates an ideal setting for silence, meditation, and renewal. Whether you choose a full seclusion, a secluded personal retreat, a supported silent retreat, or a group retreat, you will arrive to an atmosphere that naturally invites inward stillness.
Yes, the retreat is a bit off the beaten path. Once you arrive, you may find that distance is part of its charm.
Address: 18443 MacNab Cypress Road, Nevada City, CA, 95959
Guest services staff are available to welcome you:
Monday – Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Please use the printed directions provided, as GPS and online maps are not always reliable and phone reception may be limited.
Cabins
Choose from a variety of private cabins, each uniquely decorated and nestled in nature to support a quiet, restorative stay. Some are more remote, while others are closer to the gardens and central facilities.
All Inclusive Rates
The rates below are per person, per night*, and include your cabin, three vegetarian meals each day, and full participation in the program.
Full Kitchen + Private Bathroom
Starting at $202
Best for those who want the most comfort and independence. These cabins, such as Devotion, Generosity, Peace of Mind, and Krishna, include full kitchens, private baths, decks, and peaceful surroundings.
Kitchenette + Private Bathroom
Starting at $177
A practical middle ground between simplicity and convenience. Cabins such as Kindness and Contentment include a compact kitchenette and a private shower, making them well suited for solo guests or couples who do not need a full kitchen.
Kitchenette + Shared Bathroom
Starting at $131
A more affordable option. Some cabin-style lodgings, including Renunciation, Lahiri, and Happiness Lodge, offer a small kitchenette and shared bath facilities in the nearby shower house.
*Minimum two-night stay. Extra charge for additional people.
Bungalows
These simple, cozy accommodations provide easy access to shared bath facilities. They are insulated for seasonal comfort, but do not include cooking or food storage facilities.
All Inclusive Rates
The rates below are per person* and include your bungalow, three vegetarian meals each day, and full participation in the program.
Garden Bungalows
$124
Comfortable and convenient, these are located near the dining hall, lounge, and temple, with the shortest walk to shared facilities.
Secluded Bungalows
$115
More tucked away for extra privacy, while still offering easy access to the Shower House. A good choice for one person or for those who prefer a quieter setting.
*Minimum two-night stay. Extra charge for additional people.
Camp/RV
This is the most economical lodging option, set beneath a forest canopy with no hookups. It is ideal for guests who are comfortable with very simple, nature-immersed accommodations. A Porta-Potty is available in the campground area, and the shower house and toilets are nearby in the main retreat area.
All Inclusive Rates
The rates below are per person, per night* and include three vegetarian meals each day and full participation in the program.
Tent
$72
RV
$82
*Minimum two-night stay. Extra charge for additional people.
Do I need prior experience with yoga or meditation?
No prior experience is needed. The retreat welcomes all levels, including beginners.
What is included in my retreat price?
Prices listed above are per person and include:
3 vegetarian meals/day
Tea, coffee, and fruit throughout the day
Daily yoga & meditation sessions
Classes and activities
Lodging based on your selection
What is not included in my retreat price?
Airport transport
Additional healing services such as massage and spiritual counseling
Extra snacks
If you would like any of these services, please arrange them in advance.
Are meals included, and when are they served?
Yes. For both Guided Group Retreats and Personal Retreats, all guests receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner as part of the program. Meals are served in the dining hall on the following schedule:
Breakfast: 8:30–9:30am (Thursdays: 9:30–10:30am)
Lunch: 12:30–1:30pm (no lunch on Sundays)
Dinner: 6:30–7:30pm (times may vary slightly)
What's your cancellation policy?
If you cancel or reschedule on or before 7 days prior to arrival, your full payment can be refunded, less a $55 processing fee.
If you cancel or reschedule within 7 days of arrival, your deposit will be held as a credit for one year for a future stay, less a $55 processing fee. If you paid more than the deposit, the remaining amount will be refunded.
I'm coming from a distance. What is the nearest airport, and how do I get to The Seclusion Retreat?
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the best airport to use. Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is also an option, though less convenient. Both are about two hours away by car, so you will need to rent a car or arrange a ride. Driver contact information can be shared if needed. Address: 18443 MacNab Cypress Road, Nevada City, CA 95959
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 4 pm to 5 pm.
Check-out is at 11 am.
What if I have special dietary requirements?
Some dietary needs can be accommodated with non-dairy, non-wheat, and egg-free options. For other dietary requirements, the kitchen may not be able to accommodate them, so we recommend bringing supplemental food.
What do I need to bring with me?
Please bring a flashlight, water bottle, your own yoga mat if you have one, journal and pen, uplifting reading material, sturdy shoes and sandals, and comfortable modest clothing suitable for layering. If you are staying in a cabin with a kitchen and plan to prepare your own meals, bring food as well. Optional items include a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and rain gear as needed.
Do you have a dress code?
As a spiritual ashram, the retreat asks guests to dress modestly to help maintain its uplifting inward 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 to the Seclusion Retreat?
The retreat is designed to support a quiet, inward-focused experience, so children do not usually join meals or programs. In some cases, an older child may be accepted by prior arrangement. Please reach out in advance so the best support for everyone can be considered.
Can I bring my pet?
Although pets are loved, they cannot be accommodated on the property. Please make arrangements for them at home and enjoy the peace and quiet of your stay.
Is internet and cell phone service available?
Cell service is limited between Nevada City and the retreat. On-site, Verizon and AT&T generally have fairly good coverage. Guest Wi-Fi is available in limited capacity, and additional Wi-Fi usage fees may apply. When possible, guests are encouraged to rely on personal cell phone data plans for internet access.
How can I make a donation to The Seclusion Retreat?
The retreat is part of Ananda Worldwide, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Donations may be added directly on the registration form.
Comfortable, simple cabins—many nestled in wooded areas—offer seclusion without isolation. Each space includes heating, electricity, and the quiet needed for sustained inner work. Choose from a variety of options to fit your budget. Guests also have access to our cozy lounge, with wood burning fireplace and extensive library filled with inspirational books and videos. Our main dining room has a guest refrigerator for personal items, and a tea/coffee station available.
Comfortable, simple cabins—many nestled in wooded areas—offer seclusion without isolation. Each space includes heating, electricity, and the quiet needed for sustained inner work. Choose from a variety of options to fit your budget. Guests also have access to our cozy lounge, with wood burning fireplace and extensive library filled with inspirational books and videos. Our main dining room has a guest refrigerator for personal items, and a tea/coffee station available.
Each Harmony House room has a private entrance, a private bathroom, a desk, mini split heating/cooling unit, a ceiling fan, and a hairdryer. Harmony House is dedicated to expressing Yogananda's expansive approach to religion and his belief in celebrating God through beauty. Simply and elegantly appointed, each room is decorated in the theme of one of the great world religions.
Each Harmony House room has a private entrance, a private bathroom, a desk, mini split heating/cooling unit, a ceiling fan, and a hairdryer. Harmony House is dedicated to expressing Yogananda's expansive approach to religion and his belief in celebrating God through beauty. Simply and elegantly appointed, each room is decorated in the theme of one of the great world religions.
Each cabin has one room, which is larger and more private than other standard rooms; cabin occupants share separate men's and women's shower houses about a minute's walk away. All cabins have A/C.
Each cabin has one room, which is larger and more private than other standard rooms; cabin occupants share separate men's and women's shower houses about a minute's walk away. All cabins have A/C.
Tent camping is available on varied campsites. RVs are welcome year-round, but we do not have RV facilities or hookups. All meals are included for tenters and RVers. Because of wild animals, food is not allowed in the tenting area, and tent spaces DO NOT include facilities for cooking or picnicking. We have a refrigerator on an outside deck behind our kitchen, which guests can use. Tenters are expected to bring their own tenting gear. Please note : We are in fire country. No campfires are allowed. Tenters cannot use candles, kerosene lamps, or anything with an open flame.
The Seclusion Retreat
Duration
2 nights / 3 days
Available any date