Slow down in Doi Saket. This full-day retreat strings together mindful walking, guided sitting meditation, and level-friendly yoga, then switches gears to Thai temple time and a local market stop. What I like most is how you get a real, calm rhythm in the morning, and how the day ends with a authentic Thai lunch that’s cooked by Ella herself.

You’ll also appreciate the small vibe: a maximum of 8 people, held in a garden area that can fit up to 20. One thing to plan for is logistics—private transportation isn’t included—so you’ll want to make sure you can comfortably get to the meeting point near Doi Saket.

Key points at a glance

• Mindful walking + sitting meditation kick off the day in a gentle, grounded way
• Yoga level-adapted for your body, with props that help (mat, block, strap)
• Lunch is prepared by the instructor, and it’s a big part of why people love this day
• Wat Phra That Doi Saket temple and a nearby local market add cultural context beyond the studio
• Restorative yoga later in the day shifts you from effort into recovery

Starting with mindful walking, then sitting still

The day begins with 30 to 60 minutes of morning mindfulness. You’ll start with mindful walking, then move into guided sitting meditation. The key here is that you’re not thrown straight into stillness. The walking practice helps you get your attention online first, so sitting feels less like a test and more like a continuation.

If you’re new to meditation, this structure is practical. You can treat the walking as a bridge: same focus, less pressure. And since the whole retreat keeps a relaxed pace, it’s an easier way to learn what it feels like to pay attention without forcing it.

Morning yoga in a studio or big garden setting

Next comes about an hour of morning yoga. The session takes place either in the instructor’s studio or in the garden, which is large enough to hold up to 20 people. With a group capped at 8, that extra space matters. It keeps the vibe from feeling cramped, and it makes it easier to adjust your position without bumping into someone’s mat.

This is also where the retreat earns trust. Ella adapts the practice to your level and any physical limitations. That doesn’t mean it’s sloppy or vague—it means you’re guided to options, not just a single “do it like this” path. You’ll have support from the included gear: a yoga mat plus block and strap, which are especially helpful if your body needs help finding safe alignment.

Lunch that feels personal, not rushed

After yoga, you’ll share lunch. It’s prepared by Ella, and the reviews highlight just how good it is—people called out the food as rich and satisfying, and even noted it was a standout part of their day.

From a value perspective, this is a smart inclusion. At $81.75, lunch is doing more than filling time. It gives you one meal that’s tied to the retreat’s calm theme instead of sending you off to hunt for food on your own during a packed day.

One more detail that makes this work: after a morning of movement and stillness, lunch isn’t “fuel for the next thing” only. It becomes a chance to settle, digest, and come back to your body before the temple and market.

Wat Phra That Doi Saket and a nearby local market

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Wat Phra That Doi Saket Temple. It’s a short ride—about 10 minutes by bike from the property—and it’s framed as a highlight for the scenery and feel of the place.

This stop is valuable because it moves beyond sightseeing checklists. You’re getting a cultural moment that fits the day’s focus on mindfulness. Temples reward a slower pace. Even if you’re not an expert on Thai religious details, being in that atmosphere for a while helps you shift out of “tour mode” and into observation mode.

Afterward, you’ll have access to a nearby authentic local market. That’s a great complement to the temple. Markets tell you what people actually buy and cook. It’s also a good spot to pick up small snacks or simple souvenirs if you want something easy to carry home—without turning the day into a shopping mission.

Optional 3:00 pm meditation, then restorative yoga at 3:30 or 4

Around 3:00 pm, there’s another mindfulness and meditation practice. It’s optional, which is a quiet kindness. If you’re feeling fresh, you can join. If you’re tired from the morning, you can rest and still keep the day on your terms.

Then, in the later afternoon—around 3:30 or 4 pm—you’ll do evening practice: Restorative Yoga. Restorative is slower and more “let the body receive” than “push through.” In other words, it’s designed to help you decompress after sitting, walking, and temple time.

For many people, that evening reset is the moment the retreat stops feeling like a schedule and starts feeling like a real break. It’s also a nice option if you don’t want a hard workout. Even if you’re active, restorative sessions can be a strong counterbalance.

Price and what you really get for $81.75

At $81.75 per person for about 8 hours, you’re paying for a full day that includes:

• A guided morning sequence (mindful walking and sitting meditation)
• One hour of yoga with instructor adaptation
• Lunch
• Yoga equipment: mat, block, strap
• Temple visit to Wat Phra That Doi Saket plus a nearby market stop

What’s not included matters too: private transportation. The temple ride is short from the property, but you still need your own way to reach the meeting point in Doi Saket. If you’re already in the area and can get there easily, the price starts to feel more like a “day retreat package” than a random collection of activities.

The small group size also supports the value. With a maximum of 8, you’re less likely to be treated like a number, and there’s more room for the instructor to adjust your practice.

Who this day retreat suits best

This experience is a good match if you want a break from city pace and you like a day that mixes body and mind without going extreme.

You’ll likely feel comfortable if:

• You’re okay with moderate physical fitness expectations
• You want level-adapted yoga rather than a one-size-fits-all class
• You’re curious about meditation but don’t want to figure it out alone

It may not be the right fit if you’re hoping for a fast, intense workout day or you want lots of free time. The structure is there on purpose, and it keeps the retreat gentle and focused.

Practical timing tips before you go

The start time is 9:00 am, and the day runs about 8 hours, ending back at the meeting point. Since your morning includes meditation and yoga back-to-back, arriving on time matters more than usual. If you’re late, you’ll likely miss part of the calm ramp-up.

Also, plan for the fact that there’s both movement and stillness, plus an optional meditation around 3:00 pm. If you prefer to rest when you need it, that optional slot gives you control.

Should you book this retreat in Chiang Mai?

I’d book it if you want a real reset day: gentle guidance, a warm instructor vibe, and a schedule that moves thoughtfully from mindfulness to yoga to culture. The strongest praise points are clear—Ella’s teaching style and the quality of the food. If you’ve been wanting to try meditation in a supportive way, this is built for that.

I’d hesitate only if transportation to Doi Saket is hard for you, or if you need a more independent, self-guided plan. Also, note the cancellation terms: it’s non-refundable and can’t be changed for any reason, so make sure your dates are solid before you pay.

If your goal is a calm, structured break that still feels authentically Thai, this is a smart use of a full day near Chiang Mai.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

The tour starts in Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai 50220, Thailand. It ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the experience start?

It starts at 9:00 am.

How long does the full-day retreat last?

It lasts about 8 hours (approximately).

What’s included in the ticket price?

Lunch is included, and yoga equipment such as a mat, block, and strap are also included.

Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?

No. A yoga mat, block, and strap are provided as part of the experience.

Is private transportation included?

No. Private transportation is not included.

Is the 3:00 pm meditation session required?

No. The 3:00 pm mindfulness and meditation session is optional.

What happens if I need to cancel?

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or request an amendment, the amount paid is not refunded.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes. Service animals are allowed.