India vs Bali: Where Should You Do Your Yoga Teacher Training?

If you’re feeling called to do a Yoga Teacher Training Course (TTC), chances are you’ve narrowed your search down to two of the most popular yoga destinations in the world: India and Bali.

Both places offer something beautiful — but they are very different. As someone who’s practiced and lived in both, I want to help you understand what each location actually feels like — beyond the Instagram reels and fancy retreat photos.

So here’s a grounded, honest comparison to help you decide where your soul (and savings) will feel more aligned.

1. Cultural Roots

India India is the birthplace of yoga — not just asanas, but the entire philosophy, lifestyle, and spiritual depth behind it. When you do your TTC in India, you're studying yoga in its original soil, surrounded by temples, chanting, ancient texts, and generations of lineage. This atmosphere carries a rawness and authenticity that’s hard to describe — but deeply felt.

Bali has a beautiful spiritual energy of its own, rooted in Balinese Hinduism. While not the birthplace of yoga, Bali attracts many international teachers and well-designed courses. It’s more modern, curated, and at times more “retreat-like” than traditional. If you want tradition, India offering that to you. If you want tropical vibes with a spiritual touch, Bali has its own charm.

2. Cost (Course, Stay, Food)

India Hands down, India is more affordable. You can complete a full TTC (including food and stay) for a fraction of what it might cost in Bali. Local food is cheap, and many schools offer basic but clean accommodation included in the course price.

Bali is more expensive — especially in tourist areas like Ubud or Canggu. Courses often charge in USD, and while the quality is great, the prices reflect international standards. Food, stay, and even transport can add up quickly.

On a budget? India will stretch your money much further.

3. Vibe & Lifestyle

India Life during a TTC in India tends to be more simple and raw. You’ll wake up early, eat sattvic meals, live in a quiet ashram or basic guesthouse, and be immersed in yogic studies without many distractions. You’ll also witness the daily spiritual rhythm of Indian life — temple bells, incense, prayers, mantras in the air.

Bali feels more relaxed and designed for comfort. Many TTCs happen in eco-lodges, surrounded by rice fields or tropical forests. You’ll often have access to cafés, spas, and wellness culture around the corner. It’s peaceful, yes, but a bit more curated.

India is more immersive and traditional. Bali offers more comfort and convenience.

4. Food

India If you love Indian food (like dal, chapati, sabzi, rice, herbal teas), you’ll enjoy most TTC meals. Most schools serve simple sattvic food: vegetarian, nourishing, and designed to support your practice. It may take your stomach a few days to adjust — but once it does, it’s grounding.

Bali is heaven for health-conscious eaters. Smoothie bowls, vegan cafés, organic salads, and fresh tropical fruits are everywhere. TTCs usually offer a fusion of local and western healthy food.

India = grounding, sattvic meals. Bali = modern wellness cuisine.

5. Visa Ease

India offers a simple e-tourist visa for many countries, often valid for 30 to 90 days. However, the visa process can sometimes feel slightly bureaucratic. Make sure you apply in advance and mention tourism not study.

Bali offers a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for many passport holders and can be extended for longer stays. The process is usually smooth and friendly. In terms of ease, Bali is a bit more tourist-friendly.

6. Yoga School Quality

India has a wide range of schools — from deeply traditional ashrams to modern TTCs. The quality varies, so it’s important to choose wisely. The best part? You can find authentic teachers with deep experience at a reasonable cost. If you're drawn to the roots of yoga, this is where you’ll find them.

Bali offers well-structured and highly organized TTCs, often led by international teachers with western experience. The style is more modern — often focused on Vinyasa, Yin, or Hatha — with a retreat-like feel. It’s polished, but can sometimes feel more fitness-oriented than spiritually immersive.

India = tradition, depth, spiritual immersion. Bali = modern, polished, accessible teaching.

Final Thoughts from Abhishek

Both India and Bali are beautiful places to begin (or deepen) your yoga journey. But they offer very different experiences.

• If you're seeking roots, rawness, and ancient wisdom — choose India.

• If you're looking for beauty, comfort, and a gentle entry into yoga — Bali might be your path.

At Indian Yoga Guide, I help students reflect not just on what’s popular, but on what they truly need at this moment in life.

If you’re still unsure which place will serve you best, I invite you to book a free 60-minute consultation with me. I’ll help you choose with clarity and confidence — based on your story, energy, and intention.

Wherever you go, go with sincerity. The right place will meet you there.

 Abhishek Founder, Indian Yoga Guide