Must do's for Yoga and meditation lovers in Thailand

Thailand is a fantastic destination for yoga practitioners. There is a wide variety of yoga studios, yoga retreats and workshops held year round.

As well as Thailand being an amazing country with much to offer for all sorts of travelers, it is also a haven for nature lovers. They can rejoice in it's beautiful beaches and astonishing landscapes. Party animals won’t find a better nightlife than the one in Bangkok! Foodies can treat their palates to the delicious Thai cuisine and backpackers find ease in their pockets with the affordable lifestyle of Thailand. And of course yogi's are delighted with the deeply ingrained spiritual culture in this part of the world.

Most visitors head down to the islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Samui or Koh Tao. And they’re popular for a good reason. Koh Phangan Island is best known for the famous full moon party however the northernmost part of the island is still very unknown to a lot of people. There are amazing yoga schools, secluded beaches, vegan restaurants, and magical untouched forest surrounding. There's also a Buddhist temple that offers a ten-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat high on a mountain. Definitely a must!

"Big buddha statue at Wat muang, Thailand"

Top spots for yoga or meditation

There are so many beautiful places throughout the country and such an emphasis in living in the here and now that it's hard not to feel inspired to practice yoga anywhere in Thailand. However, our insiders have shared their favorite places to relax, find peace and be mindful.

• Mar Ngat Dam and Reservoir.
• Koh Phangan.
• For meditation, all Thai Buddhist temples dotted across the country. For yoga-you can find a studio in Chiang Mai that's situated in a traditional wooden Thai house surrounded by a tropical garden.

More adventurous activities for Yogi's

If you’re looking to add some adrenaline to your visit and complement your yoga practice, there are some activities that will for sure enrich your stay in Thailand. The Yoga Nomads recommend to try snorkeling, diving and rock climbing. “Thailand is known for their turquoise beaches and stunning limestone cliffs, which are great places to do these activities. Yoga compliments each of these in unique ways, but one common way is by using your breath. Creating awareness in your body and mind around your breath can influence your performance.”

And if you have a truly adventurous soul that want's to try something very unique, you definitely need to try If you’re looking to add some adrenaline to your visit and complement your yoga practice, there are some activities that will for sure enrich your stay in Thailand. The Yoga Nomads recommend to try snorkeling, diving and rock climbing “Thailand is known for their turquoise beaches and stunning limestone cliffs, which are great places to do these activities. Yoga compliments each of these in unique ways, but one common way is by using your breath. Creating awareness in your body and mind around your breath can influence your performance.”

If you want to try something very unique,you need to try free diving! Our insider Amelie explains “free diving, or free immersion, relies on your ability to calm your mind, breathe deeply, and hold your breath until resurfacing. It is such a calming and soothing experience, and pranayama exercises really come in handy. Truly the best yoga companion.”

Words by Alberto G. Guitron.

Alberto is a writer for BookYogaRetreats.com. He is a committed yoga practitioner who still can’t touch the ground with his heels in Downward Dog. One day he’ll do it and he will probably write a story bragging about it.