So you are headed to India for a life-altering new experience with Yoga. As you prepare for your journey here’s a list of things you must and must-not pack to travel to India. Whether you are headed to Rishikesh, Dharamsala, Goa, or anywhere else in India, remember that these cities are used to receiving a large influx of visitors and so offer easy access to almost everything a student/ tourist would require.

Pack your absolute essentials and remember to travel light.

Clothes:
As in most countries, it is very important to respect the local cultural sensitivity of the people. The type of clothing will also depend on the time of year which you are attending. The spring and summer months (across the country including Rishikesh and Dharamsala) are generally very warm, so it is best to pack thin, loose fitting clothing. Winters in Rishikesh are known to get very chilly, so it is recommended to pack in layers so that you are able to cover up before and after classes.
As for Yoga gear, we recommend carrying a couple of pairs of leggings or yoga pants and supportive tops, especially if you have a favorite style. Yoga schools usually allow western style spandex yoga clothing and/or tank tops or camisoles at the yoga center, however make sure you are suitably covered up when you go into town with more loose fitting and modest clothing. There are a lot of comfortable local styles and designs to choose from like the popular Kashmiri shawls, harem/Indian pants or a kurta, which can be worn over pants.

Clothing check-list:
• Pants (for yoga, town, travel, hiking)
• Tops (for yoga, short or long sleeved shirts for other activities)
• Scarf for warmth and covering up (inside temples, etc)
• Outer layer (sweatshirt or light jacket/fleece)
• Sleepwear
• Tennis Shoes (something to hike and walk in)
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Hat, Sunglasses and Scarf (for protection from sun)
• Underwear
• Socks

Yoga Gear:
In cities like Rishikesh, Dharamshala or Goa where Yoga schools are in plenty, you can pick up a good Yoga mat, Yoga towels, bags and other props for a couple of dollars. Most Yoga schools too offer mats however, if you are used to use your own, bring one from home.

Toiletries:
When in India for Yoga, leave behind all the cosmetics since you’ll want to wear your fresh face. Unless you have specific allergies, you can buy local and branded face-care products available in most supermarkets. Natural ingredients like Coconut oil (for skin/hair) or Kohl (for the eyes) are some local favorites, used by most Indians and easily found in most local stores. Carry other essentials like deodorants, mosquito-repellents, sanitary towels, and tampons – though these are all locally available too.
Avoid carrying hair dryers and flat irons – even with adapters they run the chance of overheating and getting fused out. If you must have them, buy one locally.

Medicines:
Yoga Schools usually offer Saatvic vegetarian meals. If you are not used to a completely vegetarian meal, we recommend carrying your supplements or multivitamins. In addition carry your supply of prescription medicines, medicines for allergies, flu, muscle pains or even eye drops for dryness.
No vaccinations are required to enter into India; however if you feel more comfortable receiving vaccinations before your trip, it is completely your decision. Please check with your doctor to see which vaccinations they recommend.

Money:
In India, the currency is rupees (INR). You may exchange money or use an ATM at the airport in Delhi or Mumbai. ATMs are also available across most cities.
Remember to inform your banks and credit card companies that you will be traveling to India to avoid fraud protection freezes. Make sure you check the latest exchange rate at www.xe.com.

Backpack:
We recommend using a traveler’s backpack instead of a suitcase – something that will let you carry it all rather than lugging a wheeled or otherwise suitcase.

Books:
Your Yoga teacher training course will include some reading, which in most cases will be provided by the yoga schools. If not, you are sure to find some local bookstores (especially in Rishikesh) where you can find every manner of yoga books or texts.

Other Essentials:
Some other essentials would be an adaptor, umbrella (depending on the time of year you come), head lamp or torch, face wipes, sunscreens and sanitizers (all of these are locally available too) and a water bottle.
If there is one thing we believe you DO NOT need, it is all the digital distractions. Use your free time to read, catch up on sleep, explore the city or just socialize with fellow students and teachers. Trust us; you won’t miss your Netflix shows!

For any questions or suggestions, please leave a comment below or contact us on cs@ayuruniverse.com