HARIHARALAYA - Holistic Wellness Sanctuary Reviews

My 3rd time here over 8 years - simply the best retreat on offer. I've just come home from my 3rd retreat here (1st time at new location) and it is always as profound and as life changing as the last. As I move through different stages and situations in life, I find myself craving to 'come home' to reset from the daily life stresses, the monkey mind, the constant worry about the future, to find inspiration etc etc. The new location is stunning and the rooms spacious and comfortable (I stayed Villa room). I loved walking around the Lotus pond track every morning before practice. The teaching staff were exceptionally supportive and knowledgeable (much gratitude to Fiona and Kranti). The local staff so fantastic, I adore them, as with all Cambodian people. The yoga catered to all levels, following traditional asana, breathwork, and meditation, but the focus is more on how to best create a daily practice and to truly understand the benefits of said practice. Joel follows the teaching of many wise sages and I have much respect for his mission and commitment to helping people be the best version of themselves and to understand what the philosophy behind yoga is (its not just exercise) and how it can apply to your life. There is plenty of opportunity to pick his brain and ask questions. The highlight believe it or not was the digital detox and day of silence. No to mention the community we created - we are all still messaging each other after 2 weeks, and I def made some lifelong friends. I mean when do you ever get to talk for 5 mins without interruption, by someone else not actively listening but only thinking of their response. Such a simple task can be so profound in effect. To feel seen and to be heard is truly wonderful. The massages and acupuncture were also a fantastic way to support your time there, as were painting, reading, gym, pool, rock climbing, music room, swinging in a hammock, journaling, and reading from the extensive and diverse library. Ecstatic dance, ie dance like no one watching, is always too much fun. I could go on and on but let me say this, I feel transformed again - peaceful, calm, living in present moment and following a daily practice (which ive never managed to keep previously). My friends and family notice the difference in my physical appearance (fit, and a more relaxed face) and see a calmer more peaceful and confident woman. As an added bonus Cambodia is a fantastic place to visit, the food, people, temples, culture will be sure to delight the senses. Invest in yourself, you are worth it and will come back a better version of yourself.

A peaceful sanctuary surrounded by beautiful nature that runs amazing retreats filled with joy, meditation, mindfulness, laughter, plenty of delicious vegan food and unlimited fresh coconuts. The perfect place for anyone wanting to explore meditation or anyone who just needs a break from life. The digital detox was the highlight. I will definitely be back! Thanks again to the wonderful staff for making this a truly life- changing week.

My review now i've returned for a second time in Oct 2024: I am just back from my second time at Hariharalaya (the first was 2 years ago and i promised myself i'd come back because it was so wonderful.) This time was even better, I did not think it was possible. My feeling when I walked through the front gate again was one of joy, excitement and also like was coming home. This time I booked for two weeks, and I’m so glad that I did. Doing a second week allowed me the space to sink deeper into the program, my mind/body connection and allowed me the time to nurture the parts of me that needed it most. The staff and teachers are fantastic, lovely humans who significantly add to the wonderful Hari experience. The food is delicious and the treatments included in the package are top notch (and I’m very picky about my massages!) Don’t get me started on the coconut ice cream or unlimited free coconuts! 5 stars again, and I will definitely be back - again. This yoga & meditation retreat is a balm and nourishment for the soul. HIGHLY RECCOMMED! ---------------- My original review (unedited) from Oct 2022: I absolutely loved my week at Hariharalaya. This is much more than a yoga and meditation retreat, it's a wonderful community that welcomes and embraces you from the start and gives you the space and place to be open, honest, vulnerable, playful and have such a wonderful time. The yoga and meditation classes are suitable for any level of experience and the food is incredible (i don't think there was a meal where i didn't go back for seconds!) Highly recommend and cannot wait to get back there again!

I enjoyed every moment, loved It! It gives you the chance to deeply dive into an OASIS of peace, to reconnect with yourself and recover your balance at all levels, body, mind and heart. Lovely place surrounded by nature, and a very well organiced planning of activities and the most caring staff taking care of every detail. The food IS delicious. I Will Love to come back sometime! . CONGRATULATIONS for this great place and thankyou so much to every one Who makes It possible

Hariharalaya is a truly magical place. From the moment I arrived, I felt by welcomed and part of the community. The delicious food exceeded expectations every meal. The beautiful grounds surrounded by nature nature had many places to be social or have time alone. It was great to unplug—no watches, no technology, just being present. The well-thought-out schedule took us from lots of support to more independent as the week progressed, preparing us to transfer our new knowledge and skills into our home lives. The schedule took away any decision fatigue, giving me the time and space to come back to myself. This retreat offered so many opportunities to play, create, and be present,. It was a safe space to step out of my comfort zone and be vulnerable. The staff set the tone for genuine connections, making it easy to open up and experience the richness of the community. I left with a full and happy heart, a calm mind, and a renewed simplicity in my life. I also gained valuable knowledge and habits that I have brought home with me. If you're looking for a place to reconnect, recharge, and experience true community, Hariharalaya is the perfect escape.

A life changing experience. A beautiful and mindful community where everyone feels welcomed. I hesitated before booking because of a couple of negative reviews here, but I should not have. This place is an AMAZING place. Excellent setting within nature, outstanding vegan gluten-free food, an amazing Kmer support staff, passionate yoga and meditation teachers,... The reality is that I have already extended my stay with another week. Whether you are looking to get back in touch with your inner self, would like to brush up on your meditation skills or want to integrate meditation into your yoga practice, this is a true gem.

I feel words can’t fully describe how amazing the retreat was. Truly transformative. First of all the location: simply magical immersed in the nature. Cozy rooms, pool, ice bath, library, small gym, music room etc etc Then the food: I am not vegan but I have truly loved the each meal. So flavorful and delicious. They also offer unlimited free fresh coconuts! The program is absolutely awesome and so complete that you really feel you learn a lot. Two complimentary massages. Joel and all the teachers are also amazing. I came here with not much expectations as a solo traveler and met many like minded people. We all connected beautifully and we all felt safe to be vulnerable and share. I can say I have learned practices and a way of seeing life that has changed me forever Do not hesitate and book! I am sure you will not regret. Thank you very much! Much love and light 💕

What an incredible week, words can't really describe it. The retreat facility, the program, the food, the facilitators, the staff, the follow up manuals, and can't forget Joel, just everything was 1000%. I didn't know what to expect but couldn't recommend it highly enough, if you gotten as far as reading these reviews, get it booked!

Inspiring week with amazing teachers, workshops, treatments and wholesome food - topped off by amazing and loving staff which made everyone’s week wonderful 🙏🏻 Has not been the last time!

I had such a transformative experience, I stayed for a second retreat! A fabulous program that supports, nourishes and rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit. The food was delicious and the team went above and beyond. I am grateful for the connections and the feeling as though I was coming home to family. I highly recommend the retreat - I left feeling lighter and more expansive with a renewed zest for life and some great ideas to incorporate into my life. Thank you thank you thank you Hariharalaya.

Just spent one of the most meaningful weeks of my life at Hariharalaya with two of my sons. Such an essential life message and focus in this time of disconnectedness. Joel and the staff have built a beautiful oasis founded in love and presence. I could not recommend this place and experience more.

I had the best time at Hariharalaya. I highly recommend this place if you wanna slow down, be in a very serene, clean and beautiful environment. Team was wonderful. Food is so tasty and healthy. This retreat helped me a lot to get deeper into meditation and to be reminded about the foundations of Yoga. From beginning to end, I felt very welcome and held. Thank you so much again Joel. I will surely visit again.

Hard to put the last 6 days into words… but I will give it a go. I went in with no expectations for this retreat but I have come out feeling more myself and alive than I have in a very long time. This place provides a safe environment with the perfect balance of yoga, meditation, creativity, dance and more. Bringing people from all over the world, where you have the opportunity to make deep connections which feels very rare nowadays. I am deeply grateful for my time on this retreat (it is so much more than a retreat) and for the beautiful people I got to share it with. A huge thank you to all of the teachers, they help you grow, with so much love and care. I will be back!!! I will never forget this week. Thank you from the bottom of my heart ♥️

What an amazing experience. A week to truely reflect on one’s self and dig deep within. The staff were extremely knowledgeable, experienced and kind. The day was full of mindful activities, with time to relax by the pool and drink coconuts. I cannot fault my experience at Hariharalaya. I will be returning