Cafe Aum @ the yoga retreat phangan

Tucked into the jungle between Haad Salad and Mae Haad beaches on Koh Phangan, The Yoga Retreat Phangan has been a gathering place for sincere yoga practitioners since it was established in 2000. Founded by Teresa and Kes Kennard, the retreat is rooted in a deep and direct lineage: both teachers trained in Ashtanga under Paramaguru R. Sharath Jois in Mysore, India, with Kes receiving formal authorisation from Sharath Jois in 2016. Teresa brings an additional background in dance theatre, Reiki, and Seichem healing, giving the space a breadth of perspective that extends well beyond the mat.

The physical setting reflects the retreat's ethos. The open-sided wooden yoga shala lets in natural light, ocean breezes, and birdsong, creating a practice environment that feels connected to its surroundings rather than closed off from them. A natural pool, herbal steam room, and ice bath are available on site, and the attached Cafe Aum serves wholesome raw, vegan, and Thai dishes to support a conscious approach to daily living.

The weekly schedule runs across all levels and styles. Morning Mysore Ashtanga sessions run Monday through Friday, offering practitioners the self-paced, teacher-guided format traditional to the Ashtanga method. Afternoon and weekend classes cover Hatha, Vinyasa, and guided Ashtanga series, with a popular Friday evening Indian buffet rounding out the week. Drop-in rates are available for afternoon and weekend classes, while morning Mysore sessions are offered through class passes, reflecting the commitment expected of that particular practice.

Beyond the regular schedule, the retreat offers structured programmes throughout the year, including Ashtanga healing retreats, detox programmes, and accommodation packages ranging from short stays to extended month-long visits. A 200-hour Ashtanga Hatha Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training, internationally recognised with Yoga Alliance, is also offered. Massage therapy and holistic counselling using somatic techniques are available by appointment, and the retreat periodically organises group trips to practice at KPJAYI in Mysore, India. For those seeking a grounded, practice-focused environment on Koh Phangan, this retreat offers both the depth of tradition and the ease of a welcoming community.