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Temple of Light

A Diwali Pilgrimage Into Your Inner Radiance

Temple of Light

Rishikesh & Himalayan Solitude | Sanātan Dharma Immersion
November 4-18, 2026

Please explore the tabs below to find more information about this journey, activities or events to choose from while in India, and information to finalize your booking:

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Meet Lakia Meaden

Lakia Meaden is an E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher who has studied and taught yoga across the globe. A passionate traveler, she loves collecting stamps on her passport as much as she enjoys sharing her love for yoga. Her deep connection to nature, yoga, and holistic living stems from a transformative journey that began in her early 20s.

Lakia’s path into healthy living was inspired by the needs of her special needs son, who required extensive care. When traditional Western medicine didn’t provide all the answers, Lakia began exploring alternative healing modalities. This led her to practices like Reiki, acupuncture, and herbalism. She became a Reiki practitioner in 1999, marking the beginning of her lifelong pursuit of healing and wellness.

Her introduction to yoga dates back to high school gym class, but it wasn’t until her twenties in Chula Vista, California, that she joined her first yoga class. Like many, her early practice was sporadic, attending classes here and there. Over time, her love for yoga deepened, eventually inspiring her to embark on a Yoga Teacher Training.

In 2020, Lakia moved to Norfolk, Virginia, where she realized her dream of opening her own studio. Situated by the serene Chesapeake Bay, her studio welcomes yoga students of all levels and offers a variety of classes. Lakia’s teaching style is both challenging and accessible, combining breath with movement to guide students through creative, flow-based sequences. She provides insightful alignment cues and offers modifications to ensure inclusivity for all.

In addition to teaching various yoga styles, Lakia hosts workshops, private sessions, and a curated living coaching program. She takes pride in creating a safe and supportive space for her students to learn, grow, and thrive.

Lakia’s passion for yoga and her vibrant community of yogis led her to establish a scholarship program, launched this year, to create opportunities for those in need. Her commitment to inclusivity and the transformative power of yoga is evident in every aspect of her work.

Whether teaching, traveling, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Lakia embodies a life dedicated to healing, connection, and holistic wellness.

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About This Retreat

A Diwali Pilgrimage Into Your Inner Radiance:

Join Lakia Meaden and Sacred Earth Travels on a spiritual pilgrimage to the birthplace of yoga, the sacred lands of India. This immersive two-week journey begins on the banks of the holy Ganges River in Rishikesh at a world-renowned ashram during the festival of Diwali, a time of light, renewal, and devotion.

Here, you’ll experience the living essence of Sanātan Dharma, the eternal path, through daily yoga, meditation, chanting, and sacred ceremony. From there, the group will travel upward into the quiet majesty of the Himalayas for a week of solitude, seva (selfless service), and communion with nature. Days will include long walks through forested paths, mindful silence, opportunities for service, and deep rest for the body and soul.

This pilgrimage is not a vacation; it is a sacred return, a journey into the heart of yoga and into yourself. It is for those seeking spiritual deepening, connection, and a truer understanding of body, mind, and spirit.

Join us for an unforgettable journey where yoga meets the soul, and serenity embraces you. Reserve your spot now and let India’s magic transform your spirit.

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Highlights And Experiences

What's Included

One week Ashram experience in Rishikesh during Diwali — with daily yoga, meditation, chanting, sacred rituals, and the breathtaking evening Ganga Aarti.
One week in a Himalayan retreat lodge, surrounded by ancient forest and mountain air, designed for silence, introspection, and connection with nature.
Daily practice in asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, and journaling.
Opportunities for seva (selfless service) in both Rishikesh and the Himalayan villages.
Sacred immersion in India’s living traditions, experience yoga where it was born.
Community circles, teachings on self-care and sadhana, and ample personal time for reflection.
Beatles Ashram visit, temple tours and more
Single meal Indian cooking class, Karma Yoga Project at Ashram and retreat center

14 nights accommodation (7 nights at Ashram in Rishikesh, 7 nights in Himalayan retreat)
All vegetarian meals
Daily yoga, meditation, and guided practices
All domestic ground transportation to and between retreat locations
Cultural immersion, rituals, and guided excursions
Seva (service) opportunities
Support from the Sacred Earth Travels India team

Not Included:
Airfare*
Indian visa (required)*
Travel insurance (recommended)*
Personal items, spa services, or optional excursions*

*NOT included

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Testimonials

What are people saying about their experiences with Lakia?...

"Attending Lakia yoga retreat was a transformative experience. From the serene surroundings to their warm energy, every detail was expertly planned and executed, making the journey unforgettable.

The yoga sessions were magical, helping me deepen my practice through a perfect blend of movement, breath, and mindfulness. Their complementary teaching styles and supportive environment allowed me to explore new depths in my yoga journey.

Beyond yoga, the retreat’s cultural experiences and reflective moments were enriching and purposeful, fostering a sense of connection and inspiration. I left feeling rejuvenated and deeply inspired.

This retreat was a beautiful journey of self-discovery and growth. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a meaningful and expertly guided yoga experience."

—Bobbi Jensen

"I attended a yoga retreat in Costa Rica led by Lakia and Yolanda in February/March 2023. I had never been on a yoga retreat before and wasn’t sure what to expect. I went on this retreat promising myself to keep an open mind and heart and to challenge myself to go outside my comfort zone. Lakia and Yolanda created a perfect environment that allowed each person in the group to reconnect with themselves and encouraged connection as a group. The Kula ceremony we had on the last day of the retreat was an experience I won’t forget. I felt so connected to myself, to everyone in the group, and to the nature around us. This retreat was truly a spiritual experience. I am so grateful to Lakia and Yolanda for creating a safe space where we could all be vulnerable and feel so supported in each of our healing/growth journeys".

—Kimberly Landis

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I had the opportunity to attend Lakia's retreat to Costa Rica in February 2024. The connection with nature was unparalleled—practicing yoga while hearing the sounds of the rainforest was pure magic. The group was welcoming, and the sense of community was heartwarming. We had a great time off the resort as well, from swimming under a waterfall or volunteering for a Costa Rican elementary school. I returned home feeling grounded and with a new sense of inner peace.

— Lauren Anderson

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