Willow is a four-day retreat in Letibunga at Shoonya – a quiet mountain property in Mukhteshwar, where the Himalayas sit right at the edge of the property, and the Kumaon hills do most of the gentle work of slowing you down.
We named it Willow for a simple reason. The property is full of them – old trees rooted deeply, yet soft enough to move with the wind. This retreat is for anyone who’s felt the pull towards the hills, not to disappear into them, but to return a little lighter than when they first arrived.
This December, as winter settles over the mountains, we invite you to slow down, rest a little deeper, and let the mountains make space for what’s next.
Brief Itinerary
Meet the facilitators
Pankhuri & Gunjan
Pankhuri Nagpal
Hatha Yoga Facilitator
Trained at Sivananda Ashram, Kerala
Pankhuri is a yoga educator and facilitator whose work brings together traditional yoga, mindful movement and psychology. Practising since 2019 and teaching since 2021, she has trained in Rishikesh and at Sivananda Ashram, Kerala. With a background in Economics & Finance and a postgraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Glasgow, her approach is informed by her exploration of psychology, neuroscience and embodied awareness. At WILLOW, she creates space to slow down, reconnect and look within.
Gunjan Goel
Ashtanga Yoga Facilitator
Trained at Bharatha Yoga, Mysore
Gunjan is a former media professional and dancer turned yoga educator and facilitator. Her journey from dance to yoga brought together movement, breath and mindful living. She trained in Hatha Yoga at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga and deepened her Ashtanga Vinyasa practice at Bharatha Yoga, Mysore. Having run her own wellness and yoga studio, she now facilitates classes, workshops and retreats. At WILLOW, she brings together her love for yoga, wellness, travel and community to create space for embodied awareness and conscious living.
Location
Letibunga’ – the Lying (Leti) Hill Top (Bunga)- is an off-road mountain village at ~7,300 ft near Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand.
On clear days, this serene Kumaoni village offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Great Himalayas, with uninterrupted panoramas of Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. With its lush crops and vegetable farms, charming fruit orchards, and native trees, Letibunga showcases its unique beauty every season.
Letibunga is at ~7 hours drive from Delhi/Noida.
Venue
Uniquely built and designed accommodation units at Shoonya offer comfort and opulence blended with the vibes of a serene mountain abode while serving splendid views of the Himalayas.
What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions
- 3 nights’ accommodation at the retreat property
- Daily meals — lunch and dinner on all days, with breakfast included from Day 2 onwards
- Two guided yoga practices each day
- Progressive reflective practices each evening
- Guided nature excursions and hikes
- Art materials for creative and expressive sessions
- A journal and pen for reflection exercises
- Jal Neti pot and candle for cleansing practices
Exclusions
- Travel to and from the retreat property, including check-in and check-out day transfers
- Personal yoga mat and additional practice equipment
- Activities or experiences not mentioned in the retreat itinerary
- Medical or healthcare expenses, if required
- Additional food, beverages, or services not listed under inclusions
Why a winter retreat?
As December settles over the Himalayas, the forests turn quiet and the skies run clear. Wander through pine trails, sit under the stars on the stargazing deck, and follow the sun instead of the schedule. There is no better time to soak in this peace at Willow – before the year comes to a close.
Common Queries Answered
The retreat is located in Village Letibunga, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand.
By car: Approximately 7 hours from New Delhi and 9 hours from Lucknow. Hilly roads begin after Kathgodam.
By train or bus: Kathgodam is the nearest railway and bus station, approximately 2.5 hours from the property. Direct trains and buses are available from major cities.
By flight: Pantnagar Airport is approximately 3 hours away, while Bareilly Airport is approximately 4 hours away.
Transfers: Local cab drivers can be arranged for pick-up and drop-off from the railway station, bus stop, or airport.
Arrival: We recommend reaching the property by 11 AM–12 PM on 22 October to settle in comfortably before the retreat begins.
We serve wholesome vegetarian meals for a complete mind-body reset. The package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a special traditional Kumaoni farewell meal.
Yes. The retreat is open to all levels*, whether you’re new to yoga or have an established practice. Sessions include options for different experience levels.
Please let us know in advance. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs and offer appropriate modifications during practices.
* Warm layers for cool mountain mornings and evenings
* Comfortable clothing for yoga and outdoor activities
* Comfortable walking shoes for hikes and nature walks
* A reusable water bottle
* Personal toiletries and essential medication
Yes, you are free to extend your trip dates. Standard stay & food charges would apply.
Book your slot!
Floating Crest | नभ
A little sun-kissed, a little wind-blown, and decidedly lazy
Climb the spiral to welcome the morning sun. Mesmerize yourself with the sight of majestic snow peaks during golden hours. Witness the moonrise over misty hills, gaze at constellations in the night sky. Or simply relax high above, savoring your favorite drink with a cherished companion amidst the beauty of nature and community.
Sacred Oasis | जल
An aqua sanctuary amidst the water deficient Letibunga hilltop
A symbol to inspire human efforts towards reviving the natural water sources critical for healthy biodiversity, including human lives. A tranquil oasis in the making, beckoning the birds of Mukteshwar.
The word ‘sacred’ has been attached to this oasis taking inspiration from the book and movie, Dune (we would love to tell you more about it when you are here).
SunFire Lounge | अग्नि
A sun-drenched conversation and lounging spot
Built by the meticulous lifting, chiseling, and hammering of the mighty rocks and stones, the SunFire Lounge is the perfect spot to bask in the sun, sit by the fire and share the warmth of togetherness.
Solitary Cliff | क्षिति
Distinctly quaint with a bit of whimsy
A handmade cliff built with the inspiration drawn from the rocky slopes of ‘Chauli ki Jali’- the famous sunset point of Mukteshwar.
Perched atop rests a solitary stone seat adorned by the cascading branches of weeping willow trees, with gentle streams of water flowing below.
Swing Canopies | वायु
A place to hang loose in the mountain breeze
Nestled beneath the Floating Crest, two canopies await with inviting swings, offering an opportunity for airborne relaxation and rejuvenating deep breaths.
Floating Crest | नभ
A little sun-kissed, a little wind-blown, and decidedly lazy
Climb the spiral to welcome the morning sun. Mesmerize yourself with the sight of majestic snow peaks during golden hours. Witness the moonrise over misty hills, gaze at constellations in the night sky. Or simply relax high above, savoring your favorite drink with a cherished companion amidst the beauty of nature and community.
Sacred Oasis | जल
An aqua sanctuary amidst the water deficient Letibunga hilltop
A symbol to inspire human efforts towards reviving the natural water sources critical for healthy biodiversity, including human lives. A tranquil oasis in the making, beckoning the birds of Mukteshwar.
The word ‘sacred’ has been attached to this oasis taking inspiration from the book and movie, Dune (we would love to tell you more about it when you are here).
SunFire Lounge | अग्नि
A sun-drenched conversation and lounging spot
Built by the meticulous lifting, chiseling, and hammering of the mighty rocks and stones, the SunFire Lounge is the perfect spot to bask in the sun, sit by the fire and share the warmth of togetherness.
Solitary Cliff | क्षिति
Distinctly quaint with a bit of whimsy
A handmade cliff built with the inspiration drawn from the rocky slopes of ‘Chauli ki Jali’- the famous sunset point of Mukteshwar.
Perched atop rests a solitary stone seat adorned by the cascading branches of weeping willow trees, with gentle streams of water flowing below.
Swing Canopies | वायु
A place to hang loose in the mountain breeze
Nestled beneath the Floating Crest, two canopies await with inviting swings, offering an opportunity for airborne relaxation and rejuvenating deep breaths.
Floating Crest | नभ
A little sun-kissed, a little wind-blown, and decidedly lazy
Climb the spiral to welcome the morning sun. Mesmerize yourself with the sight of majestic snow peaks during golden hours. Witness the moonrise over misty hills, gaze at constellations in the night sky. Or simply relax high above, savoring your favorite drink with a cherished companion amidst the beauty of nature and community.
Sacred Oasis | जल
An aqua sanctuary amidst the water deficient Letibunga hilltop
A symbol to inspire human efforts towards reviving the natural water sources critical for healthy biodiversity, including human lives. A tranquil oasis in the making, beckoning the birds of Mukteshwar.
The word ‘sacred’ has been attached to this oasis taking inspiration from the book and movie, Dune (we would love to tell you more about it when you are here).
SunFire Lounge | अग्नि
A sun-drenched conversation and lounging spot
Built by the meticulous lifting, chiseling, and hammering of the mighty rocks and stones, the SunFire Lounge is the perfect spot to bask in the sun, sit by the fire and share the warmth of togetherness.
Solitary Cliff | क्षिति
Distinctly quaint with a bit of whimsy
A handmade cliff built with the inspiration drawn from the rocky slopes of ‘Chauli ki Jali’- the famous sunset point of Mukteshwar.
Perched atop rests a solitary stone seat adorned by the cascading branches of weeping willow trees, with gentle streams of water flowing below.
Swing Canopies | वायु
A place to hang loose in the mountain breeze
Nestled beneath the Floating Crest, two canopies await with inviting swings, offering an opportunity for airborne relaxation and rejuvenating deep breaths.
Floating Crest | नभ
A little sun-kissed, a little wind-blown, and decidedly lazy
Climb the spiral to welcome the morning sun. Mesmerize yourself with the sight of majestic snow peaks during golden hours. Witness the moonrise over misty hills, gaze at constellations in the night sky. Or simply relax high above, savoring your favorite drink with a cherished companion amidst the beauty of nature and community.
Sacred Oasis | जल
An aqua sanctuary amidst the water deficient Letibunga hilltop
A symbol to inspire human efforts towards reviving the natural water sources critical for healthy biodiversity, including human lives. A tranquil oasis in the making, beckoning the birds of Mukteshwar.
The word ‘sacred’ has been attached to this oasis taking inspiration from the book and movie, Dune (we would love to tell you more about it when you are here).
SunFire Lounge | अग्नि
A sun-drenched conversation and lounging spot
Built by the meticulous lifting, chiseling, and hammering of the mighty rocks and stones, the SunFire Lounge is the perfect spot to bask in the sun, sit by the fire and share the warmth of togetherness.
Solitary Cliff | क्षिति
Distinctly quaint with a bit of whimsy
A handmade cliff built with the inspiration drawn from the rocky slopes of ‘Chauli ki Jali’- the famous sunset point of Mukteshwar.
Perched atop rests a solitary stone seat adorned by the cascading branches of weeping willow trees, with gentle streams of water flowing below.
Swing Canopies | वायु
A place to hang loose in the mountain breeze
Nestled beneath the Floating Crest, two canopies await with inviting swings, offering an opportunity for airborne relaxation and rejuvenating deep breaths.