Vrindavan Pilgrimage 2026

This ten-day kirtan retreat takes place in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, the town on the banks of the Yamuna River long associated with Sri Krishna. Led by London-based kirtan leader and bhakti yoga teacher Radhika Das, the Vrindavan Pilgrimage brings together japa meditation, yoga asana, Bhakti Yoga teachings and candlelit evening kirtan, with visits to some of the region's best-known holy places. It suits newcomers to Bhakti as well as long-time practitioners, and those travelling to India for the first time.

What to Expect

The days follow a steady rhythm built around practice and place. Mornings begin at 7:00 with japa meditation, followed by yoga asana at 8:00 and breakfast at 9:00. At 10:30 the group gathers for a Bhakti wisdom class held at an ancient holy site, such as Varsana, Radha Kund or Govardhan Hill. The classes draw on the Bhagavad Gita, the Srimad Bhagavatam and other Bhakti texts, and are aimed at a deeper understanding of self, God and purpose.

Lunch is at 2:00, either onsite or at the MVT restaurant. At 6:00 the evening kirtan begins, held by candlelight in different settings around Vrindavan, and dinner follows at 8:00. The schedule includes a few surprise days, and the places visited include the main temples, the Yamuna River, Radha Kund, Varsana and Govardhan Hill. There is some free time to rest, reflect or visit temples, though most of the programme is shared group activity.

Invited guest facilitators, including swamis and kirtan artists, join Radhika Das during the retreat.

About Radhika Das

Radhika Das is a London-based mantra artist, kirtan leader and bhakti yoga teacher. His website describes sixteen years of bhakti practice behind his work, which he shares with students around the world through mantra chanting, meditation and teachings from the Bhagavad Gita. He says he was fascinated by the power of sound from an early age, by how a single melody could shift a mood, calm a restless mind or bring people together, and that this led him to mantra meditation. What began as small gatherings has grown into mantra meditation nights in London, New York, Mumbai and beyond, led with a band of musicians.

The Setting

The retreat is based at MVT Vrindavan, where participants stay in ensuite rooms for nine nights, either in a shared twin room or in a private single-occupancy room. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are vegetarian, with vegan and gluten-free options available if requested in advance. Wi-Fi is available in the accommodation, though it may not reach every room, and the strongest signal is near the MVT reception.

Vrindavan lies a few hours from Delhi. The nearest major airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, and from there a private taxi takes about three hours. A taxi is the recommended option over train or bus, and the organizers can help arrange one closer to the time.

Before You Go

No prior experience of yoga, kirtan or Bhakti is needed, and no particular religious background is required. Sessions are guided and meet each person where they are. The retreat is held in English, and people are welcome to come alone.

The cost includes the ensuite room for nine nights, three vegetarian or vegan meals a day, all adventures within Vrindavan and all workshops, including the japa meditations. It does not include flights, visa arrangements, airport transfers, spending money (including temple donations), personal trips outside the schedule, extra snacks and drinks, or travel insurance. Most travellers will need a tourist visa for India and should arrange it well ahead.

Places are limited and are requested through an application, with payment details sent once an application is accepted. Check-in is at 3pm on the first day and check-out at 11am on the last. Any accommodation outside those times is arranged by participants themselves.