Tantra Yoga Levels 4 to 8

Become a True Disciple

Choose Date and Location

- Tantra Yoga Retreat for Levels 5 and 6
- 5 – 19 October Oct 2025
- Rishikesh, India
- Tantra Yoga Retreat for Levels 8 and 9
- 5 – 19 October Oct 2025
- Rishikesh, India

Enter the Disciple Program: A Deeper Dive into Tantra Yoga

Welcome to the transformative Disciple Program, the next profound cycle in our Tantra Yoga module, encompassing Levels 4 through 8. This is where your yogic journey evolves into a true spiritual adventure, unveiling deeper layers of ancient wisdom and unlocking new dimensions of consciousness.

At this stage, you will discover Mahavidya Yoga, the ten cosmic forces that shape the universe, revealing the divine intelligence that governs all existence. Chakra science deepens, introducing the intricate sub-levels of each chakra, expanding your ability to work with these powerful energy centers. You will receive rare initiations of the bija mantras for the first four chakras—Muladhara to Anahata—allowing you to tap into their immense potential like never before.

Duration:

Levels 4 to 8 each include 8 classes, lasting 4 hours each.

Total hours:

32 course hours per Level

Prerequisites:

Tantra Yoga Level 2 and 3

Additionally, you will be guided through advanced pranayama techniques, refining your control over prana, the universal life force. These powerful breathing practices will elevate your energetic mastery, fuelling your spiritual progress and unlocking new levels of healing, focus, and inner power.

As you progress through Levels 4-8, your tantric yoga practice will evolve into something truly extraordinary. Your energy intelligence will sharpen, your spiritual maturity will deepen, and your healing abilities will become more refined. Mystical doors will open, and Tantra will no longer be just a practice—it will become a living, breathing force within you.

Tantra Yoga - Somananda lecturing about the mind

Tantra Yoga - students sharing their experiences on the last day of a yoga retreat

Dharmananda lecturing to students about key tantric principles

Tantra Yoga - students in meditation at a yoga retreat

Course Teachings and Content

Teachings of Levels 4 to 8
These teachings in Levels 4 to 8 will deepen your practice, guiding you through advanced techniques and spiritual practices.

Introduction to Mahavidya Yoga: Initiation into tantric Yoga working with powerful cosmic energies

The Kali Initiation: Deepening connection with the energy of Kali

The Chakra Debate: Expanding understanding of the 7 chakras

Laya Yoga Mantra Initiations: Mantras for Muladhara, Svadhisthana, Manipura, and Anahata chakras

Advanced Pranayamas: Learning 5 profound pranayamas, including Nadi Shodhana, Sukha Purvak, Shitali, and more

Bandha Initiations: Initiation into Jalandhara Bandha and Mula Bandha

Perfecting Hatha Yoga: Practicing 10 new advanced asanas

Laya Yoga Color Streams: Initiation into subtle color streams, beginning with red and orange

Shat Karma Kriyas: Continued teachings of Shat Karma, including 4 techniques of Trataka

Yogic Protection Techniques: Two additional techniques for energy protection
Guidelines for Yoga Levels
Keep an Open Mind: Approach each lesson with curiosity and a willingness to grow.

Punctuality Matters: Arrive on time for every class and practice session.

Be Fully Present: Stay focused, eliminate distractions, and immerse yourself in the teachings.

Maintain Purity: Refrain from smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.

Dedicate to Practice: Commit to applying the techniques for at least 14 days.

Integrate the Teachings: Practice diligently between levels to absorb and embody the knowledge.

Orange Sash Exam: A Milestone in Your Tantra Yoga Journey

Completing Level 8 marks the end of the third major phase in your Tantra Yoga evolution.

At the conclusion of this program, students will take the Orange Sash Exam (also known as the “Disciple Examination”), which evaluates proficiency in the practices and teachings from Levels 1 to 8.

The exam consists of:

Theoretical Questions: Multiple-choice questions covering material from Levels 4 to 8
Practical Assessments: Similar to the Red Sash exam, you will be required to demonstrate the precise execution of learned Yoga techniques, sustain specific practices for designated durations, and showcase your yogic knowledge and abilities.

Details of the exam will be provided at the start of Level 8. Successful completion requires personal practice and mastery of the teachings and techniques from all previous levels.

Tantra Yoga - Liisa offering certificates of completion to yoga students

Tantra Yoga - Mina teaching group yoga class

Choose Date and Location

Who Is This Retreat For?

This retreat is for dedicated students of Somananda Tantra School who have been studying Tantra Yoga with us. If you’ve completed several or many Tantra Yoga levels online and are ready for an immersive in-person experience, this retreat is ideal for you.

Over two weeks, you’ll complete two new levels while absorbing the spiritual energy of Rishikesh, India. It’s a unique chance to meet your teachers and classmates, connect with fellow Tantra yogis, and deepen your practice in the Yoga Capital.

Five groups from our school will join, each following their own teachings and levels. There will also be shared practices, events, and satsangs for greater connection and learning.

This retreat offers a rejuvenating spiritual experience, including visits to sacred sites, meditations by the Ganges River, and immersion in the mystical energy of India.

Prerequisites:

Completion of the previous Yoga Levels with STS

Retreat Schedule

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

5 October 2025
This is the day to arrive at the Tantra Yoga Retreat venue in Rishikesh. You may want to arrive in India, or even Rishikesh, a few days earlier in order to have some rest after your travels and before the program begins.

General schedule for this first day is as follows:

12:00 Group meeting at the pick-up location in Rishikesh to be taken to the venue (a 10-minute ride with a 4×4)
18:00 Group welcome dinner at the venue and getting to know everyone
Days 2 to 14: The Retreat

4-18 October 2025
On the 2nd day the retreat commences. You will be studying and practicing Tantra Yoga for several hours daily. The days begin at 7:00 with group morning practice and generally end with dinner at 19:00. There will be breaks throughout the day.

This Yoga retreat includes Yoga sessions each day, as well as meditation practices, lectures and other teachings. There will also be a couple of free days for exploring Rishikesh and its many spiritual treasures.

General daily schedule:

07:00 Morning Yoga
09:00 Breakfast
10:30 New teachings of your Tantra Yoga Level
13:30 Lunch break
16:30 Practice session of your Tantra Yoga Level
19:00 Dinner
20:00 Occasional satsang, spiritual movie or special meditations
22:00 Lights out!
Day 15: Final Ceremony and Conclusion

19 October 2025
The last day of the retreat is dedicated to a spiritual ceremony conducted in accordance to the Indian yogic traditions with tilak, protective thread, prasad and a blessing from the teachers.

Last day’s schedule:

10:00 Breakfast
11:00 Final Ceremony and conclusion of the retreat
13:30 Lunch
15:00 Departure

Please do not plan your departure from the venue earlier than 15:00 on that day, and we recommend to schedule your departure from India earliest the day after the retreat ends, on 20 October 2025, if possible.

Why Do a Retreat in Rishikesh?

A spiritual yoga retreat in Rishikesh, India, offers a profound chance to connect with your soul’s essence in an environment like no other. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh has been home to spiritual masters throughout centuries, whose teachings continue to inspire seekers worldwide. Nestled in the Himalayas, Rishikesh is blessed by the sacred Ganges River, revered for its purifying energy. The vibrant culture, temples, rituals, and ancient traditions create an enriching backdrop for deep spiritual growth. This retreat offers transformative yoga, meditation, and an invitation to awaken your inner self in the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred land.

Places You Will Visit During Your Retreat

Kriya Yoga Ashram of Yogananda: Immerse in the teachings and spiritual energy of Yogananda.
Sivananda Ashram: Visit this renowned ashram and join meditation sessions inspired by Swami Sivananda.
Mystical Spiritual Bookstores: Explore unique bookshops filled with rare spiritual texts and teachings.
Statue Hunting in Local Bazaars: Discover beautiful statues and spiritual artifacts in local markets.
Prayer and Blessing at the Ganges: Experience the purifying energy of the Ganges River through prayer and blessings.
Local Food and Culture: Enjoy traditional Indian cuisine and immerse in the rich cultural life of Rishikesh.

This retreat offers not only physical and mental transformation but also a deep connection to sacred sites and the mystical atmosphere of Rishikesh, bringing peace, clarity, and a higher sense of purpose to your life.

Your Travel Guidelines

Arrival in India

Recommended arrival to India

We recommend that you arrive in India a couple of days before the course begins. This leaves you some time to get acquainted with the culture and have some rest. Earlier arrival offers also a buffer in case of unexpected travel delays or changes.

Best would be to fly to New Delhi or to Dehradun. From either place you can arrange for a taxi transport to Rishikesh either on the day of the course beginning, or earlier if you wish. Please note that you can arrive to the course venue only at the first day of the course (5 October 2025) and not earlier.

Taxi from New Delhli to Rishikesh takes about 6-10 hours, depending on traffic. Taxi from Dehradun to Rishikesh takes about 1 hour. Alternatively, you are welcome to take a train from New Dehli to Haridwar and a 30 minute taxi ride to Rishikesh from there.

Please note that we will offer an online live group briefing for everyone some weeks before the beginning of the retreat.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please do not make any travel arrangements until you have received a course confirmation email from us. That email will clearly state that you can begin finalizing your travel related bookings.
Departure from India

Recommended departure date from India: Earliest 20 October 2025 or later

Please do not plan your departure from India earlier than on 20 October 2025 (the day after the retreat ends). Ideally, we recommend leaving some time after the course for assimilation and integration and possibly stay in Rishikesh or India for some extra days.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please do not make any travel arrangements until you have received a course confirmation email from us. That email will clearly state that you can begin finalizing your travel related bookings.
India Is Different!
We would like to draw your attention to something very important related to your time in this Tantra Yoga Retreat. Namely, India and Rishikesh are very different places compared to the West.

If this will be your first time in India, you need to come with an open mind and, especially, with an open heart. Everything will be different than what you may have been used to. India is not the West!

You will encounter:

Very different culture and way of life

Different economic level and life standards

Unique cuisine with limited western choices but abundant Indian ones

The venue is up in the mountains of Rishikesh in the midst of nature. You may encounter local flora and fauna and need to be mature about it.

Your usual level of comfort may be challenged during your stay in the Tantra Yoga Retreat. However, through this you will discover a deep sense of peace in the simplicity of life and surrender to the spiritual quest even more.
Group Briefing
With the whole Tantra Yoga Retreat group we will have an online briefing a few weeks before the course to help you plan your local travel within India and to share other valuable information on how to prepare yourself for time in India.

You will also be connecting with your peers via a Telegram group and you are welcome to make joint travel plans.

Topics covered in the briefing:

Travel to and within India and getting to Rishikesh

What to bring with you for the course and in order to manage well in India

Clothing and foot-wear suggestions

How to go about money and local currency (cash or card)

Cultural aspect of India and Rishikesh to be considered

Any other questions and topics that you may want to discuss

Important Note on Force Majeure

In case the conditions of force majeure render it impossible to offer the Trika Meditation Retreat as an in-person physical course at the scheduled time (e.g. due to pandemic related travel restrictions, war, or other unforeseeable world events), we will make effort to reschedule and offer it at a later time.

Depending on the exact situation, we may also consider changing the course format and offer it either partially or fully as an online retreat. In case of force majeure no refunds of your paid fees are offered.

Venue

Rishikesh Valley

Rishikesh, India

This retreat takes place in Rishikesh, India, at the venue called the Rishikesh Valley. This is a family owned retreat center at the foot of the Himalaya mountains merged together with incredibly lush nature and undisturbed tranquility where you can study and truly transform.

The venue has two locations about 400 meters apart, which both will be at our disposal. First of them consists of 12 natural wooden cottages with a bathroom; a yoga hall; kitchen and dining area; and a mountain stream with a natural pool. Although furnished simply, cottages are elegant and come with a en suite bathroom.

The other location is a newly built hotel-style 4-story house with 12 apartments, each encompassing two bedrooms and a shared bathroom; two yoga areas are on top of the roof with stunning mountain views.

You will be placed in shared accommodation with 2 to 3 people per bedroom or cottage. Higher level rooms will be allocated to earlier registrants.

We are serving 3 vegetarian meals a day and filtered drinking water is available on site throughout the day.

Sign Up

Teachers

Somananda

Founder and Head Teacher

Spiritual yogi, lecturer, teacher and author, Somananda is the founder and head teacher of Somananda Tantra School. Read more

Liisa Maimon

Founder and Senior Teacher

An inspiring tantric yogini, Liisa is a strong driving force of the school – both as a senior teacher and general manager. Read more

Dharmananda

Senior Teacher

Born in Israel in 1977, Dharmananda could be described as a modern-day “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” of Yoga. He is a meditation master. Read more

Siegbert Büschel

Teacher

Siegbert’s initial Christian upbringing prompted him to explore the purpose of life, which ironically led him to Yoga. Read more

Lucila Croce

Teacher

A sense of deep incompleteness and a serious health issue were the forces that propelled Lucila to study spiritual Yoga. Read more

Maria Siimon

Teacher

In her early years Maria led what she would describe as a racy and provocative lifestyle. She was often left feeling empty and unfulfilled, yearning for answers and more meaning in her life. Read more

Teachers shown on this page may change due to unforeseen circumstances, and each may teach in various capacities. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility regarding the teaching team dynamics.

Tickets

Tantra Yoga Retreat for Levels 5 and 6

5 – 19 October Oct 2025 (15 days)

Rishikesh, India

See other Dates and Locations

Early Bird

Available until 5 June Jun 2025

Pay in full

Pay deposit (1050€)

Quantity:

2680€/ticket

Regular Ticket

Available until 5 August Aug 2025

Pay in full

Pay deposit (1050€)

Quantity:

2880€/ticket

Last Call

Available until 5 October Oct 2025

Pay in full

Pay deposit (1050€)

Quantity:

3080€/ticket

Course Fee Inclusions:

The course fee covers all teachings and materials, a comprehensive course booklet, 14 nights of shared accommodation (2–4 participants per room), three nourishing meals per day, and group transportation between Tapovan, Rishikesh, and the course venue (round trip).

Not Included in the Course Fee:

Participants are responsible for arranging their flights and transport to Rishikesh, India, as well as personal supplies required for the course, such as a yoga mat and blankets. A detailed packing list will be provided before the course.

Cancellation & Refund Policy:

Before booking, please carefully review our Terms of Service and Liability Waiver. By making a payment, you confirm your full acceptance of our cancellation and refund policies, along with all other terms outlined in these documents.

Who Is This Retreat For?

This retreat is for dedicated students of Somananda Tantra School who have been studying Tantra Yoga with us. If you’ve completed several or many Tantra Yoga levels online and are ready for an immersive in-person experience, this retreat is ideal for you.

Over two weeks, you’ll complete two new levels while absorbing the spiritual energy of Rishikesh, India. It’s a unique chance to meet your teachers and classmates, connect with fellow Tantra yogis, and deepen your practice in the Yoga Capital.

Five groups from our school will join, each following their own teachings and levels. There will also be shared practices, events, and satsangs for greater connection and learning.

This retreat offers a rejuvenating spiritual experience, including visits to sacred sites, meditations by the Ganges River, and immersion in the mystical energy of India.

Prerequisites:

Completion of the previous Yoga Levels with STS

Retreat Schedule

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

5 October 2025
This is the day to arrive at the Tantra Yoga Retreat venue in Rishikesh. You may want to arrive in India, or even Rishikesh, a few days earlier in order to have some rest after your travels and before the program begins.

General schedule for this first day is as follows:

12:00 Group meeting at the pick-up location in Rishikesh to be taken to the venue (a 10-minute ride with a 4×4)
18:00 Group welcome dinner at the venue and getting to know everyone
Days 2 to 14: The Retreat

4-18 October 2025
On the 2nd day the retreat commences. You will be studying and practicing Tantra Yoga for several hours daily. The days begin at 7:00 with group morning practice and generally end with dinner at 19:00. There will be breaks throughout the day.

This Yoga retreat includes Yoga sessions each day, as well as meditation practices, lectures and other teachings. There will also be a couple of free days for exploring Rishikesh and its many spiritual treasures.

General daily schedule:

07:00 Morning Yoga
09:00 Breakfast
10:30 New teachings of your Tantra Yoga Level
13:30 Lunch break
16:30 Practice session of your Tantra Yoga Level
19:00 Dinner
20:00 Occasional satsang, spiritual movie or special meditations
22:00 Lights out!
Day 15: Final Ceremony and Conclusion

19 October 2025
The last day of the retreat is dedicated to a spiritual ceremony conducted in accordance to the Indian yogic traditions with tilak, protective thread, prasad and a blessing from the teachers.

Last day’s schedule:

10:00 Breakfast
11:00 Final Ceremony and conclusion of the retreat
13:30 Lunch
15:00 Departure

Please do not plan your departure from the venue earlier than 15:00 on that day, and we recommend to schedule your departure from India earliest the day after the retreat ends, on 20 October 2025, if possible.

Why Do a Retreat in Rishikesh?

A spiritual yoga retreat in Rishikesh, India, offers a profound chance to connect with your soul’s essence in an environment like no other. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh has been home to spiritual masters throughout centuries, whose teachings continue to inspire seekers worldwide. Nestled in the Himalayas, Rishikesh is blessed by the sacred Ganges River, revered for its purifying energy. The vibrant culture, temples, rituals, and ancient traditions create an enriching backdrop for deep spiritual growth. This retreat offers transformative yoga, meditation, and an invitation to awaken your inner self in the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred land.

Places You Will Visit During Your Retreat

Kriya Yoga Ashram of Yogananda: Immerse in the teachings and spiritual energy of Yogananda.
Sivananda Ashram: Visit this renowned ashram and join meditation sessions inspired by Swami Sivananda.
Mystical Spiritual Bookstores: Explore unique bookshops filled with rare spiritual texts and teachings.
Statue Hunting in Local Bazaars: Discover beautiful statues and spiritual artifacts in local markets.
Prayer and Blessing at the Ganges: Experience the purifying energy of the Ganges River through prayer and blessings.
Local Food and Culture: Enjoy traditional Indian cuisine and immerse in the rich cultural life of Rishikesh.

This retreat offers not only physical and mental transformation but also a deep connection to sacred sites and the mystical atmosphere of Rishikesh, bringing peace, clarity, and a higher sense of purpose to your life.