YCB – Yoga Volunteer Course (YVC)
Description
An ideal introductory foundation course, this program offers a certificate from the Yoga Certification Board, Government of India, and is designed to help participants build a safe, sustainable yoga practice for personal health and well-being. It is also a strong starting point for those who hope to become future yoga instructors and teachers.
About the campus and location
Set in the sacred Himalayas, the campus offers an environment that supports genuine yoga learning. Mcleodganj-Dharamshala is known as the home of the Dalai Lama and is a renowned destination in North India. Its natural beauty, mountain views, and Buddhist presence have made the region one of the country’s most visited hill stations. The word Dharamshala refers to a shelter or rest house for spiritual pilgrims, while our Swaraj Yoga campus is located in the peaceful tribal village of Dharamkot, which has preserved its quiet charm.
The course aims to prepare yoga professionals with a basic common standard of knowledge and expertise, in line with IYA certification expectations. Certification includes a permanent Indian Yoga Association certificate, free professional membership with IYA, and eligibility to appear for the Yoga Certification Board exam.
Course overview
- Duration: 1 week / 7 days
- Contact hours: 36 hours
- Maximum group size: 15
- Skill level: Beginner
- Language: English; Hindi explanation available for Indian students
- Instruction can be provided in Hindi, Himachali, or Punjabi if needed
Highlights
- 36-hour yoga foundation course with online and offline modules
- Live sessions with certified professional faculty
- Open to national and international students
- Accommodation available for both national and international participants
- Experience a yogic lifestyle in a supportive campus setting
- Live online sessions via Zoom, Google Duo, or Microsoft Teams
- Online timings follow Dharamshala, India Standard Time (GMT 5.5)
- Course can begin as soon as you sign up
- Self-paced learning is possible after discussion with the teacher
Yoga styles
- Hatha Yoga
- Kurunta - Yoga with ropes
- Traditional Yoga
- Ashtang Yoga
Schedule
Classes run Monday to Saturday, with Saturday as a half day and Sunday reserved for self-study. Each day includes two practical practice sessions covering multi-style yoga asanas aligned with the school and IYA syllabus, along with two theory lessons based on classical yoga texts, yoga philosophy, anatomy according to yogic science, the nine systems of the human body, and meditation practices.
The morning holistic practice session runs from 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. and includes cleansing and detox practices such as Jal Neti and eye cleansing, followed by pranayama in the open air on the Himalayan rocks, with exposure to the five elements. Physical postures are practiced in the studio and may include Hatha, traditional yoga, Sun Salutations, and Iyengar-inspired rope work. Relaxation is offered through guided Yoga Nidra for overall well-being, and each session ends with prayers for humanity and mantra chanting.
The second multi-style yoga practice session takes place at 4 p.m. from Monday to Friday. The third lesson, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday, focuses on yogic philosophy, pranayama, and meditation techniques such as mudras, Trataka, and mantras. Extra classes can be arranged on request.
Practical information
Course materials include two sets of T-shirts and a course manual. Additional recommended books, including the Bhagavad Gita and other syllabus texts, are available separately. Meals are simple Indian vegetarian meals served twice daily, and the program cannot accommodate personal dietary preferences beyond yogic-vegetarian food.
Check-in is at 12:00 and check-out is at 13:00. During the training, participants stay in eco-friendly accommodation or approved nearby associate rooms within walking distance. Options include shared and private rooms with comfortable beds, bedding, and attached or non-attached bathrooms. The campus offers a natural ashram-style setting with trees, flowers, Himalayan birds, and farming fields, along with essential modern conveniences such as Wi-Fi and hot water.
Facilities
- 24-hour hot and cold water
- Filtered free drinking water
- Free detox water prepared on site according to individual needs
- Attached and non-attached bathrooms
- Bed, blankets, mattress, and bed sheet
- Free detox tea, up to three servings
- Common dining area with a traditional Himachali rustic kitchen
- Laundry service available at reasonable cost nearby
Health, hygiene, and safety
Cleanliness is a top priority. The campus is regularly disinfected, props are cleaned before and after use, and hygiene protocols are maintained throughout the stay. Hand sanitizer, first aid, protective masks, and health checks for participants are in place. Cashless payment is available, and only fully vaccinated students and guests may apply.
Pricing
- Without stay and food, offline or online: ₹8000 / ₹7000 | $177 / $133
- Stay and food, shared accommodation, 7 days 6 nights: ₹17000 / ₹16000 | $355 / $265
- Stay and food, non-shared accommodation, basic comfort, 7 days 6 nights: ₹24500 / ₹21500 | $400 / $300
- Stay and food, non-shared accommodation, deluxe comfort, 7 days 6 nights: ₹34000 / ₹29000 | $460 / $370
- Stay and food, non-shared accommodation, super deluxe, 7 days 6 nights: ₹40000 / ₹36000 | $530 / $450
Additional notes
Scholarships and rebates may be available for deserving students in need, subject to management approval. Travel, insurance, medical and visa fees, yoga books, and the Yoga Certification Board exam fee are not included. The cancellation policy applies from 1 April 2023, with refund conditions based on the number of days before arrival and the stage of participation. If the institute cancels the program, the full amount is refundable.
Guests are expected to follow the campus rules, including maintaining silence in class, respecting the 10 p.m. return time, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs, dressing modestly, helping maintain cleanliness, and supporting the peaceful family-like atmosphere of the campus.
Accommodation Options
Basic Comfort Rooms (Shared Accommodation – Basic Comfort) *Washroom Non-attached
These eco-friendly accommodations offer a simple, restful stay in a natural ashram environment, designed for guests who value comfort, calm, and a close connection to nature. Each room includes a comfortable bed with bedding, along with the basic facilities needed for a peaceful and practical experience.
Guests can choose between attached and non-attached bathroom options, depending on availability and preference. The setting supports a quiet, mindful atmosphere, making it well suited for retreat participants looking to slow down, recharge, and enjoy a more grounded way of living during their stay.
With a focus on simplicity and sustainability, these rooms provide everything essential for a comfortable shared accommodation experience while keeping the environment serene and uncluttered.
Basic Comfort *Washroom Non-attached (Single Occupancy shared room)
Simple, comfortable mud house accommodation is available on campus, offering a peaceful stay in a natural setting. Designed for guests who value a grounded, no-fuss atmosphere, these rooms provide the essentials for a restful experience while keeping you close to the retreat environment and daily activities.
This option includes a non-attached washroom and single occupancy in a shared room setup, making it a practical choice for travelers looking for basic comfort and a calm place to unwind. The mud house setting adds a rustic, authentic feel that blends naturally with the surroundings, creating a quiet space to relax between sessions, meals, and time spent in nature.
Private and shared rooms are available on campus, allowing guests to choose the arrangement that best suits their stay. With its modest charm and peaceful location, this accommodation is ideal for those seeking simplicity, comfort, and easy access to the retreat grounds.
Basic Comfort *Washroom Non-attached (Single Occupancy private room)
These basic comfort mud house rooms offer a simple, peaceful stay on campus, with both private and shared options available. Designed for guests who value a grounded, no-fuss atmosphere, the rooms provide a comfortable space to rest between yoga, meditation, and wellness activities.
Ideal for solo travelers seeking privacy, the single occupancy option gives you your own room while keeping you close to the heart of the retreat environment. The setting supports a calm daily rhythm, making it easy to slow down, recharge, and fully enjoy your time on site.
Room features:
- Basic comfort mud house accommodation
- Single occupancy private room
- Washroom non-attached
- Located on campus
- Shared room options also available
Basic Comfort *Washroom Non-attached (Double Occupancy for couple)
Enjoy a simple and restful stay in a basic comfort mud house room on campus, designed for guests seeking a peaceful and grounded atmosphere. This room is a washroom non-attached option with double occupancy for a couple, offering a practical and cozy setting for your time away.
With both private and shared options available on campus, these accommodations are well suited for visitors who value simplicity, comfort, and a close connection to the retreat environment. The mud house setting creates an earthy, calming feel that supports a slower pace and a more mindful experience throughout your stay.
Guests can expect a no-fuss space that provides the essentials for a comfortable visit, while keeping the focus on the overall atmosphere of rest, wellness, and ease. Ideal for couples looking for an affordable and uncomplicated room choice, this option offers a welcoming base during your time on campus.
Teachers
SYIWR - Swaraj Yoga Institute & Wellness Retreats
Place
Village Dharamkot, Ward 2, 68WJ+V4P Post Office, Bhagsunag Rd, Dharamkot, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176216, India
Dharamshala