Kerala or Rishikesh? 

People often ask this, and it can be seen why. Both places are famous. Both carry their own energy. But the truth is, the experience in each one is very different. The choice depends on what you want from your training, and also on your surroundings.

When people visit India, they will either prefer Kerala or Rishikesh to learn and learning wellness. But picking one out of these two blessed places can be a very difficult choice. There is no flaw in either of the cities; both are great in their own place. The major factor that matters is what the learner is looking for. Many visit for the best Yoga teacher training course in Kerala if they have already explored Rishikesh for healing, and vice versa. The major aim is to experience the wellness industry of both of these famous cities. 

In this blog, we will be discussing some interesting factors that can help you choose between the two biggest industries of yoga and Ayurveda. These include the temperature, the availability of the course at that time of the year, weather conditions, routines, cost, culture, etc. Let’s read what it is!

What Rishikesh Feels Like

There is a buzz in Rishikesh! The beauty of the city cannot be ignored. The cold water of the holy river Ganges, surrounded by the lush green belt, the sounds of bells ringing in temples, the morning aartis, the sessions conducted by the bank of the river, the sadhus and sages walking down the lanes of this city, chanting the mantra “Om Namah Shivay”. You can see some people self-practising calmly. Others are having great conversations. The whole place is soaked in healing and spirituality. Almost everyone, everywhere, is just immersed in yoga, pranayama, or meditation. The place is sometimes crowded, sometimes not!

Kerala Has a Different Pace

Kerala feels slower. The smell of wet earth after rain, coconut trees swaying, and the sound of birds everywhere. The backwaters are calm, broken only by a canoe gliding across or children laughing on the banks. You feel no pressure here. Life invites you to slow down. Yoga schools often weave Ayurveda into the program, so after class you might find yourself sipping herbal tea or even lying down for a massage. It is both healing and training.

Daily Routine in Both

Rishikesh mornings begin before sunrise. Besides serenity, Rishikesh is also known for discipline. Be it yoga asanas, classes of pranayama, meditation sessions, or any other wellness class, everything has a strict routine. At first, the body protests, but slowly you fall into the rhythm. The discipline shapes you.

Kerala’s schedule is looser. The same practices are there, but there is room for rest. A tea break, a walk by the water, a pause under the trees. The learning is serious, but it does not feel heavy. Energy is restored instead of

The Culture Around You

Rishikesh is full of spiritual noise. Morning aartis, temple rituals, festivals. People from across the world gather here, and conversations spring up over meals or during walks. The town pulls you into its rhythm.

Kerala is gentler. Villages, local markets, small temples, and traditional art forms like Kathakali or boat races. Nothing shouts here. You notice the details: the smell of spices in the air, the way sunlight reflects off water in the morning.

Costs and Food

Rishikesh is usually cheaper. Shared rooms, vegetarian meals, simple living. The crowd can get too much sometimes, but it keeps the cost down.

Kerala can be more expensive, especially near tourist areas. But quieter villages or backwater regions are affordable. Meals are fresh, with coconut and spices at the centre. Eating here is slower, more enjoyable.

Community Vibes

In Rishikesh, you meet people easily. A chat over tea, a walk together, or group discussions after class. Friendships form quickly.

Kerala creates smaller, closer groups. Teachers spend more time individually with students. The quiet environment lets you connect more deeply, both with yourself and with others.

So, Which One?

Rishikesh gives structure, energy, and social life. Kerala offers calm! You can decide upon the place according to your convenience and considering the above factors…

The availability of the course, the weather conditions at the time of your visit to India, the cost of the course, the food choices, and other factors can determine your choice. Sometimes, a common connection or personal experiences of your known ones can also determine the choice. For example, if your sister went for a Yoga TTC in Kerala and she has a great experience, then you will also join the same instead of taking a risk anywhere else, because that place is already tried and tested, same for Rishikesh. 

For the best yoga teacher training course in Kerala, you can always ping us…