There is a saying: “There is no Yoga without Hinduism and no Hinduism without Yoga.”
Yoga might have originated in India hundreds of years ago, but it’s the beautiful island of Bali that’s become the yogi’s preferred destination in the region.
It’s the texture of spirituality, as much as the physical beauty of the island, that makes Bali an ideal sanctuary for learning and practicing yoga.
It offers the perfect balance between the possibilities for connecting with the yogi community and the right to privacy when you’d rather retreat into silence.
A burgeoning of sensational yoga establishments in Bali over the past two decades has dramatically changed the cast of characters who come to Ubud. New aged pilgrims, from diverse backgrounds, come seeking asylum from an impetuous life to retreat within the verdant landscape of Bali – to connect with a greater power.
The sense of true inner peace found in Bali’s light breezes resonates from the daily rituals and humble devotion of its people. The Balinese people practice Bhakti, an unconditional gratitude for life that permanently resides in the heart.
Here, the art of yoga is a way of living, and they say it has to be “caught” rather than learned.
So here are 10 of Bali’s best yoga studios where you can seek the spirit of yoga.
#1 The Yoga Barn, Ubud
The Yoga Barn is Ubud’s most popular yoga mecca among spiritual seekers and vegans. The onsite Garden Kafe serves living vegan foods, the sophisticated in-law of raw foods.
This is a place to connect with the masses. Classes run throughout the day, held in large studios. So if you prefer your yoga in an intimate group setting, then the herd mentality here might overwhelm.
The Yoga Barn
Jalan Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Kec. Gianyar
+62 361 971236
#2 Radiantly Alive, Ubud
This yoga studio is often compared to The Yoga Barn.
The eco-hip concepts are similar, except Radiantly Alive has only two yoga studio, the classes are smaller and more intimate but – and this is a big but for yogis on a budget – it’s pricier. Not for the yogi who makes a living selling dream catchers.
Each treatment is tailored for your individual needs and is composed of the most powerful and direct methods to heal, restore and improve your Radiance. The place does exactly what it says on the tin!
Radiantly Alive
Jalan Jembawan No. 3, Padangtegal, Ubud, Kec. Gianyar
+62 361 978055
#3 Intuitive Flow, Ubud
Yoga teacher Linda Madani is known for being emotionally intense, occasionally bursting into tears in the middle of her studio. First timers either love her approach, which involves lots of chanting that’s intended to heal the spirit, or they find themselves wishing they could leave.
It’s certainly an authentic and alternative experience that takes a “let it all out” approach to healing as opposed to those eerie silent journeys of other studios.
Intuitive Flow
Jl. Raya Tjampuhan, Penestanan Kaja, Ubud
+62 361 977824
#4 Prana Spa Bali, Seminyak
Yoga classes at Prana Spa Bali is for the lady who prefers a luxe spa treatment after her yoga session. Serious yogis might have something to say about this. Along the lines of “Why have you come all the way to Bali to practice yoga in an indoor studio that looks like a Moroccan king’s harem after a furniture fire sale?”
The answer: Creative Power Flow and the Elemis fruit active glow facial.
Prana Spa Bali
Jln Kunti No.118 x, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung
+62 361 730840
#5 Taksu Yoga, Ubud
Taksu” is Balinese for “the indescribable essence of Spirit.” Our yogis and yoginis live yoga. They have dedicated their life path and intention to set a space for your awareness of the “Taksu” dwelling within.
Taksu Yoga & Movement Arts is great for private classes and intimate workshops. However the studio spaces aren’t roomy enough for group classes, so this is probably not the best place to take your tribe of 20.
Taksu Yoga
Ubud, Gianyar
+62 361 971490
#6 Power of Now Oasis, Sanur
The Power of Now Oasis appeals to the ocean loving yogi who wants to hear the sound of the waves breaking gently on the shore. In keeping with the holistic nautical theme, the studio is built entirely out of bamboo and shaped like a green turtle’s back.
Power of Now Oasis
Jl. Merta Sari, Denpasar Selatan
+62 878-6153-4535#7 High Vibe Yoga, Ubud
High Vibe Yoga is an excellent place for yoga retreats, workshops and 200 hour teacher training. In fact, education is their core purpose (you won’t find many classes here at all).
Group sizes are small and the studio has a casual atmosphere – all to make your learning experience easy.
#8 Shankari’s Yoga Retreat
Shankari’s Yoga Retreat separated itself from the Ubud and centrally located yoga cult, and placed itself in along the Sacred Balian river. It’s a beautiful part of Bali where development drops off drastically.
The black sand beaches and completely deserted coastlines are absolutely stunning. This is a great spot to lose your geographical sense of bearing.
Shankari’s Yoga Retreat
Jln. Denpasar – Gilimanuk, Desa Suraberata, Kecamatan Selemadeg Barat, Tabanan
+62 361 814993
#9 Desa Seni
Desi seni Eco village has breathtaking surroundings with their yoga shala set in the heart of it! From Angela’s goddess tantra retreat (not as naughty as it sounds) to their weekly guided meditation. It’s a one stop shop for a spiritual awakening.
Desa Seni
Jalan Subak Sari No.13, Canggu
+62 361 8446392
#10 Samadi
Right in the heart of Canggu.
Samadi focuses on traditional Mysore Ashtanga yoga. Using teachers trained exclusively in Ashtanga to ensure you are getting the height of training!
Samadi
Jl. Padang Linjong, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung
+62 812-3831-2505