A Sacred Journey of Canyon Hikes, Autumn Beauty & Lakshmi Practices for Diwali

If your heart has been craving beauty, nature, and deepening into devotion, join me in Sedona this November for a retreat of canyon hikes, fall colors, and immersion into Lakshmi practices during Diwali.

Early November in Sedona is one of the most magical times of the year. The colors of the maple leaves contrasted with the red rocks leaves you mesmerized. During this retreat, our days will be spent hiking some of Sedona’s most breathtaking trails.

So many of us feel the pull toward deeper devotion, yet it can be difficult to create the space for it in everyday life. This retreat is an opportunity to step away from the noise and immerse yourself in something nourishing and sacred. Please join me!

Lakshmi represents beauty, abundance, and the blossoming of the heart. Her energy reminds us that devotion can be joyful, creative, and deeply nourishing.

Diwali is known as the Festival of Light, a time when we honor the triumph of light over darkness and invite prosperity, harmony, and renewal into our lives. This year, Diwali is Nov. 6-11, exactly the dates of the retreat. We'll align with the collective celebration globally.

My intention is to offer a specific sadhana (daily practice) that you can practice and integrate on your own after the retreat. Our mornings and evenings, we’ll gather in sacred practice, exploring Lakshmi mantras, rituals, and devotional teachings as we celebrate the sacred energy of Diwali together.

These practices invite us to welcome more harmony, gratitude, and inner radiance into our lives.

As we walk through these stunning landscapes, we’ll also take moments to reflect, connect with nature, and deepen into the spirit of devotion. Surrounded by the beauty of autumn in Sedona, these hikes invite us to experience the qualities Lakshmi represents, beauty, harmony, and appreciation for life’s abundance.

The hikes will be moderate with some elevation change (300–700 feet). Most hikes will be 3–5 miles and last 2–3 hours, with a relaxed pace and plenty of time to enjoy the vibrant fall colors of Sedona’s maple trees.

Trails include a mix of dirt paths and red rock terrain, so comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Participants should feel comfortable hiking for a few hours on uneven trails. All hikes are optional, and there will always be time to rest and enjoy the peaceful retreat setting.

Early November weather in Sedona is one of the most pleasant times of the year, with cool, crisp mornings and warm sunny afternoons. Daytime temperatures are typically in the 60s–70s°F, making it ideal for hiking, while mornings and evenings can be cooler, so layering with a light jacket or sweater is recommended.

• 7:00-10:00 AM: Sattva Yoga, Meditations & Lakshmi Teachings

• 10:00 AM: Brunch

• 11:00 pm-5:00pm: Hikes

• 5:00 PM: Dinner

• 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Kirtan and Lakshmi Ceremony with Ananda Das

To view a previous training I've held here, click here.

Sky Castle is your sanctuary for this journey, a private estate where Cathedral Rock frames every practice, chant, ritual and meal.

Key Details:

• Check-In and Check-Out Information:

  • Check-In: You can settle into your accommodations starting from 4 PM. This allows you ample time to arrive, relax, and familiarize yourself with the estate.

  • Check-Out: The check-out time is set for 11 AM. This schedule provides a comfortable pace for your departure preparations.

To see a video of the center and accommodations, click here. 

Throughout the retreat we’ll enjoy beautiful organic vegetarian meals prepared by our private chef, inspired by an alkaline approach that supports cleansing, balance, and vitality.

Make this also part of your Fall cleanse!!

My greatest joy is helping others awaken and anchor their devotion into a meaningful, daily rhythm that supports the heart and soul.

As you may know, I'm a seasoned kirtan leader, yoga teacher, and founder of the Modern Bhakti Yoga Academy. For over 15 years, I've been guiding others in devotional practice through mantra, music, movement, and sacred ritual. With 17 mantra albums released and a global community of students, I've seen how powerful this path becomes when it’s truly embodied. I don’t just teach bhakti, I live it.

“Best training I've ever done! Truly encapsulated the meaning of embodiment with the flow from morning asana, to japa meditation, space and time to integrate, and rounded out with ritual and musical merriment. The depth of knowledge and skill Ananda Das has in sharing these teachings is priceless!” Laura Erickson (Founder of Kula Yoga Festival and Owner of Kula Yoga Studio & Yoga Teacher)

For those traveling to our event, the most common and economical option is to fly into Phoenix. From there, it’s approximately a 2-hour drive to Sedona. Alternatively, you can opt to fly into Flagstaff, which is closer, being about a 45-minute drive away.

Regarding transportation to Sedona, you have a couple of options:

1. Car Rental: You can rent a car for the duration of your stay, which offers flexibility and convenience for exploring Sedona and its surroundings.
2. Car Sharing: If you’re interested in sharing a car with another participant, let us know. We can assist in connecting you with someone else seeking to share transportation, which can be a cost-effective and sociable option.
3. Groome Shuttle Service: We also recommend considering the Groome Shuttle service for affordable and reliable transportation from the airport. They offer the added convenience of dropping you off directly at the estates for a small additional fee.

For more details and to make a booking with the Groome Shuttle service, please click here. Planning your transportation in advance will ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your experience in the magnificent setting of Sedona

It's important to note the following details regarding the deposit for your stay:

1. Payment Plans Available: Select the room style you want and then upon check out there is the option for a payment plan or to pay in full. 
2. Cancellation Policy: Please be aware that all payments made are non-refundable. Should you need to cancel, payments can be used for a future trainings or retreats.

For inquiries or to schedule a free consultation call, please email AnandaDasEvents@yahoo.com 

Understanding these terms will help you plan accordingly and make informed decisions regarding your booking and potential changes to your travel plans. This policy is designed to be fair and transparent, acknowledging the complexities of event planning while also considering the needs and circumstances of our participants.

You’re not meant to walk this path alone — and you don’t have to. This is not a large retreat or a drop-in immersion — it’s a deep, intimate journey with a small group of dedicated practitioners.
We’re keeping the container intentionally small to ensure everyone receives personal attention, spacious support, and true transformation.

✨ Only 5 rooms remain
✨ Maximum 15 participants total

If your heart is calling you toward deeper devotion, sacred structure, and embodied bhakti — this is your moment.

👉 Secure your spot now before it fills.