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Welcome to Govinda Valley 

Welcome.​ You are about to begin a unique and immersive experience of living, studying, and practicing yoga in an ashram environment.

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This page will guide you through everything you need to arrive prepared, settled, and ready to begin. Please read it carefully. The more prepared you are, the more you will benefit from your stay.

What to Expect

Life at Govinda Valley follows a structured daily routine designed to support your growth and practice.

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During your stay, you can expect:

  • Early mornings and a steady daily rhythm, with some variation

  • Daily yoga, meditation, and study

  • Approximately 28 hours of seva (selfless service) per week, typically spread across seven days

  • Simple shared living in a natural environment

  • A sattvic lifestyle with no meat, fish, eggs, alcohol, drugs, or stimulants

 

This environment is supportive and rewarding, and at times it can also be challenging. Come with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Before You Arrive

Please complete the following before your arrival.

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Read the Required Documents​​

  • Code of Conduct Agreement
    This outlines the expectations and standards for living in the ashram.

Read document here

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  • Student Handbook
    This contains practical information about daily life, facilities, and guidelines.​​​​​​

Read document here

 

Please read both documents before arriving. They will help you settle in more smoothly.

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Prepare Your Documents

Please bring the following with you on arrival day:

  • Two forms of identification (e.g. Driver's Licence, Passport, Medicare card)

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If you are unsure whether your documents meet the requirements, please contact us before arrival.

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Install Communication Apps

  • WhatsApp
    Used for general announcements and updates

  • Connecteam (requires an Australian mobile number)
    Used for service and course-related communication

Please install both apps (available for free on Apple App Store and Google Play) and ensure your phone is working and accessible on arrival day.​

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Arrival Day

Arrival time: 4 pm to 6 pm

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Please arrive within this time unless you have arranged otherwise.

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When you are close, follow the directions provided below and contact us if needed. Keep your phone on so we can reach you if necessary.

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If you encounter any delays or difficulties on the day, or if you are running late or lost, please call Aithne at 0402 812 808.

How to Get Here

Govinda Valley is located in a natural, semi-rural area, so please plan your journey in advance.

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Address

51 Lady Carrington Road, Otford NSW 2508

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For the most accurate directions, use Google Maps and search for "Govinda Valley Ashram & Yoga School".

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By Car

If entering the address manually, ensure it is 51 Lady Carrington Road (NOT Drive, otherwise you'll find yourself in the middle of the bush).​

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Parking is available on site. Please follow signage on arrival and park only in designated areas.

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By Public Transport

T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line

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Otford Station is a short walk (650m) away. Please allow extra time for transfers or planned track work.

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Please exit the station from Platform 1 (north/Sydney bound) and follow signs to Govinda Valley. 

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Heritage Weir

Access to Govinda Valley requires crossing a heritage weir (water bridge). This applies whether you are arriving by car or on foot.

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During periods of high or sustained rainfall, water levels may rise over the weir.​

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If you are arriving on foot or are unsure, please contact us before crossing.

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If the weir looks or feels unsafe, please call us and we will assist you with access.

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On Arrival

When you arrive, follow the signs to Reception to check-in.​

What to Bring

Essential

  • Bed linen including sheets, doona cover, and pillowcase (a single mattress, pillow, and doona are provided)

  • Modest (i.e., no short shorts or skirts, no midriffs or low cut shirts, no transparent or revealing clothing), comfortable clothing suitable for service

  • Towels

  • Notebook and pen or laptop for study

  • Neti pot

  • Personal reusable food container/lunchbox, including a drinking cup and water bottle

  • Warm clothing for early mornings and evenings (winters can get quite cold here!)

  • Enclosed footwear

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Highly Recommended​ 

  • Umbrella or rain jacket

  • Gumboots or sturdy waterproof shoes

  • Torch or headlamp

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Optional

  • Personal yoga mat

  • ​Swimmers

  • Journal

  • Books or study materials

  • Personal items that help you feel at home

 

Please note that accommodation may be shared and space is limited, so pack thoughtfully.​

Preparing Yourself

This experience offers an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

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To make the most of your time here, come with:

  • An open mind

  • A willingness to participate fully

  • A readiness to step outside your comfort zone

 

The more you engage with the process, the more meaningful your experience will be.

Final Notes

If you have any questions before arrival, please contact us.

 

We are looking forward to welcoming you to Govinda Valley. With the right preparation and attitude, this experience can be deeply rewarding.

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See you soon!

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