Lazarus holds five retreats a year in India. The dates of our retreats coincide with the most favorable and reliable weather conditions in our chosen areas. Our groups are comprised of twelve people and we aim for a balance of six men and six women. Each group member has their own, individual accommodation in order to deepen the process of silence and self-reflection.

During our group retreats there is a period of seven days where silence is maintained throughout and where you are asked to make a commitment to uphold this process. For our inner Himalayan retreats there is a further two day period of silence in the glacier regions. For the duration of your period of silence we use both Western and Ayurvedic methods of detoxification including a semi-fast using a pure, simple diet with fresh juices, clear soups and light, easily digestible food.

The group meets daily for a sunrise and sunset meditation in a secluded spot over-looking the glaciers (or the Ganges) where there is profound beauty and stillness. We also share a period of time together in the evenings around our ‘puja’ fire. Before the seven days of silence begins we give you guidance in relation to nearby walks in nature. One of the beauties of our settings is that you can be undisturbed in your process with no noise or intrusions of worldly life.

Varanasi, sometimes called Banares or ‘The City of Light,’ is situated by the banks of the Ganges and is claimed to be the oldest city in the world. Throughout India’s history it has been regarded as the most auspicious gathering place to debate the eternal cycles of birth and death, as well as the true nature of reality. Its captivating character and ceaseless flow of pilgrims, holy men and linen-bound corpses ensures a perfect environment to study spiritual maps of the most awesome journey we undertake. This is an invitation to anyone who wishes to share their insights into what happens to us at the point of death and also where our journey lies thereafter. It’s an opportunity to explore the greatest of all mysteries, as well as chance to acknowledge and honour just how many times we die metaphorically throughout our lives.

Costs and Available Dates

Dates & prices for our 2007 retreats are as follows:

• Himalayan Retreats September 11th to October 2nd inclusive £1,850.00
  
• Ganges Retreats 16th October to 30th October inclusive November 14th to November 28th inclusive £980.00
  
• Varanasi Retreats 27th December 2007 to 10th January 2008 inclusive £1,250.00
  

For booking information