Starting a Kerala yoga teacher training is a wonderful and life changing experience. Famous for its
backwaters, tropical forests, and an unforgettable cultural past, Kerala is perfect for deepening
one’s practice. Whether you are signing up for a 200 hour yoga teacher training in Kerala or in any
other level, it is important that you pack right to get the most from your trip.
Below is a detailed guide to the ten essentials which you should carry to yoga teacher training
course in Kerala for your comfort during the training period.

Comfortable Yoga Clothing

Kerala’s climate is warm and humid year-round, so lightweight and breathable fabrics are
essential. Choose clothing that allows flexibility for dynamic sequences and comfort during
meditation or pranayama sessions.

• Why it’s essential: Proper clothing supports your movement and keeps you cool and dry during intense sessions.
• Packing tip: Include light-colored clothes as they reflect heat, and avoid synthetic materials that trap sweat.

Suggested items:

• 3–4 pairs of yoga pants or leggings.
• Loose-fitting cotton tops or tank tops.
• A shawl or lightweight scarf for cooler mornings or modesty during temple visits.

Yoga Mat and Props

Though most schools provide basic equipment, bringing your own yoga mat ensures hygiene and
familiarity, especially if you’re used to a specific type of mat. Lightweight travel mats are ideal for
portability.

• Why it’s essential: Having your own mat can help maintain consistency in your practice and provide comfort during long sessions.

If space allows, pack small props like yoga straps or resistance bands, as they may not always be
available at your school.

Notebook and Stationery

A Kerala yoga teacher training involves not just physical practice but in-depth theory and
philosophy. You’ll need to take notes during classes on anatomy, teaching methodology, and yoga
philosophy.

• Why it’s essential: Documenting your learning will help you retain knowledge and serve as a reference when you start teaching.

Consider packing:

• A durable notebook or journal.
• Pens, pencils, and highlighters.
• Sticky notes for marking important pages in handouts or books.

Lightweight Footwear

Kerala’s yoga retreats and teacher training schools often involve moving between indoor and
outdoor spaces. Bring comfortable, slip-on footwear that’s easy to take off before entering yoga
spaces.

• Why it’s essential: Most yoga spaces require you to be barefoot, and slip-ons save time and effort.

Sandals with good grip are also helpful for walking around Kerala’s often wet and uneven terrains.

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial in Kerala’s tropical climate. A sturdy, reusable water bottle will keep
you hydrated during practice and throughout the day.

• Why it’s essential: Prevent dehydration and reduce plastic waste.

Opt for an insulated bottle that keeps water cool or herbal teas warm, which can be refreshing
after sessions.

Traditional Attire for Ceremonies

Cultural rituals and ceremonies are integral to many yoga teacher training courses in Kerala. You
might participate in opening and closing ceremonies, pujas, or meditation sessions that require
modest, traditional attire.

• Why it’s essential: Respecting the local culture enhances your connection to the spiritual essence of the training.

Suggestions:

• Women: A simple saree, salwar kameez, or kurta with leggings.
• Men: A dhoti or kurta-pajama set.

Personal Care Essentials

Kerala’s tropical environment can be challenging if you’re not prepared. Carry a kit with essentials
to keep you comfortable and healthy.

• Why it’s essential: Humidity and outdoor activities can affect your skin and overall well-being.

Must-haves:

• High-SPF sunscreen and aloe vera gel for sunburn relief.
• Mosquito repellent to avoid bites, especially in the evenings.
• Natural toiletries like Ayurvedic soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste to match the yogic lifestyle.
• A basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers.

Swimwear and Quick-Dry Towel

Kerala’s yoga schools often include relaxation time near backwaters, beaches, or pools.
Additionally, some programs incorporate water therapy or Ayurvedic treatments requiring
swimwear.

• Why it’s essential: Having swimwear ensures you can fully enjoy these experiences.

A quick-dry towel is useful for yoga sessions, as well as beach visits, and takes up minimal space in
your luggage.

Electronics and Adapters

While yoga training emphasizes minimal use of electronics, some gadgets are necessary for
staying connected or for study purposes.

• Why it’s essential: Stay in touch with loved ones, access online study resources, or document your journey.

Essentials:

• A smartphone for communication and photos.
• A universal power adapter to match Kerala’s power outlets (220V, Type C/D/M plugs).
• A portable charger or power bank for outdoor excursions.

Books and Reading Material

Reading is a significant part of yoga teacher training. Your school may recommend texts to bring,
but it’s also a good idea to carry personal favorites for additional inspiration.

• Why it’s essential: Enhancing your understanding of yoga philosophy deepens your practice and helps you become a better teacher.

Recommended books:

• The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Swami Satchidananda’s translation is popular).
• Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda.
• Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar.

Bonus Tips

Umbrella or Rain Gear

Kerala’s tropical climate makes unexpected rain showers a common occurrence, even
outside the monsoon season. Carrying rain gear can save you from sudden drizzles while
keeping you dry and comfortable during outdoor activities.

• What to Pack: A compact, foldable umbrella or a lightweight rain poncho that fits easily in your bag.
• Extra Tip: Waterproof bags or covers for your electronics and notebooks are also helpfulduring heavy rain.

Snacks

While most yoga teacher training courses in Kerala include nutritious meals, there may be
times between sessions when you need a quick energy boost. Non-perishable snacks
ensure you’re prepared without relying on local shops.

• What to Pack: Trail mix, granola bars, dried fruits, nuts, or whole-grain crackers.
• Extra Tip: Choose snacks with minimal packaging to reduce waste. You can also try local Kerala snacks like banana chips and jackfruit chips, which are readily available.

Eco-Friendly Bag

Plastic bans are common in Kerala, so having a reusable tote bag is not only eco-friendly
but also practical. It can double as a shopping bag for local markets or a carry-all for beach
outings and excursions.

• What to Pack: A sturdy cotton or jute bag that’s lightweight and foldable.
• Extra Tip: Choose a bag with compartments or zippers for better organization, especially when heading to crowded markets.

Respect for Culture

Kerala’s culture is rooted in tradition and modesty, especially in rural areas and religious spaces. Dressing appropriately will not only help you blend in but also show respect to the local community.

• What to Pack:
  • Loose-fitting tops with sleeves and knee-length skirts or pants for outings.
  • A scarf or shawl to cover your head or shoulders when visiting temples or participating in ceremonies.
• Extra Tip: Lightweight kurtas and tunics are both modest and comfortable in Kerala’s humid weather. You can also shop for traditional attire locally, which doubles as a memorable keepsake.

Waterproof Footwear

The frequent rains and occasional muddy paths mean your footwear should handle wet conditions without slipping or getting damaged.

• What to Pack: Sandals or flip-flops made of rubber or waterproof material.
• Extra Tip: Anti-slip soles are particularly useful for navigating slippery temple steps or outdoor yoga platforms.

Reusable Containers

In line with Kerala’s eco-conscious practices, carrying reusable containers is a great way to store snacks, carry leftovers, or avoid disposable packaging when buying local treats.

• What to Pack: Collapsible silicone containers or stainless-steel boxes.
• Extra Tip: A reusable coffee cup or flask can also come in handy for enjoying local chai or herbal teas.

Power Strips and Extra Chargers

If your training school or accommodation has limited outlets, a power strip will ensure you can charge multiple devices efficiently.

• What to Pack: A compact power strip with surge protection.
• Extra Tip: Carry a couple of extra charging cables for your phone and other devices to avoid disruptions in case one gets damaged.

Natural Remedies and Essential Oils

The tropical environment, combined with intensive yoga practice, might lead to sore muscles, mild headaches, or digestive discomfort. Packing natural remedies can help you manage these issues holistically.

• What to Pack:
  • Essential oils like lavender for relaxation or peppermint for headaches.
  • Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger for digestion.
  • A small jar of coconut oil for skin hydration or minor irritations.
• Extra Tip: Kerala is famous for Ayurveda, so you can also buy Ayurvedic remedies locally if needed.

Reusable Cutlery and Straw

If you plan to explore Kerala’s street food or cafes, bringing your own cutlery helps reduce plastic waste while keeping things hygienic.

• What to Pack: A set of reusable bamboo or stainless-steel cutlery and a collapsible straw.
• Extra Tip: A small cleaning brush for your straw is handy for keeping it clean during your travels.

Travel Guide and Map

While smartphones are convenient, having a physical travel guide or map can be helpful in areas with limited network connectivity.

• What to Pack: A small guidebook specific to Kerala or a printed map of the area around your yoga retreat.
• Extra Tip: Mark places of interest like temples, beaches, and Ayurvedic centers in advance to make the most of your free time.

A yoga teacher training course in Kerala with the right essentials helps you be ready for the course and leaves no unnecessary distractions or concerns. Whether a delegate at a 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training in Kerala, or embarking on a mind, body, and soul sojourn in the region, preparing for the program is vital for gaining the right experience.

Kerala has a calm environment coupled with offering high-quality courses to train those who wish to become instructors. Before you go on this life transforming trip, it is absolutely important that your packing list symbolises your commitment towards the yoga lifestyle and the tranquility of Kerala.