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VISIT

ENJOY A SUMMER RETREAT

at Mount Madonna, California

Liberation Yoga Retreat

An annual summer gathering

The idea of liberation goes back to the earliest longings of human beings to realize the Self, that mysterious essence at our core, of god, truth, bliss, peace.

Explore pathways to peace at our signature annual summer yoga retreat. Practice classical Yoga methods of asana (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation – the foundational branches of the ancient wisdom of Yoga – and enjoy kirtan (devotional singing) and thematic presentations and reflections on the theme of liberation.

In 1973, before Mount Madonna Center was founded, a group of students began coming together in retreat to study the classical traditions of Ashtanga Yoga (eight-limbed yoga) under the guidance of Baba Hari Dass. Babaji shared his wisdom and time freely, imparting a vast body of Yoga methods and philosophy. As a community of volunteers, staff, teachers, and fellow seekers, we look forward to sharing these teachings and engaging in dialogue with you.

Our campus is located in Northern California, just a short distance from Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and the Bay Area. It offers breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and features hundreds of miles of hiking trails through tranquil meadows and majestic redwood forests.

mount madonna tilak

Stable aim, faith, devotion, and one-pointed contemplation on God [universal divine consciousness] is the path of yoga through which one achieves liberation [realization of our true nature or higher consciousness].

BABA HARI DASS

Upcoming Yoga Retreats

April 2025

Hanuman Jayanti 2025

On the auspicious day of Hanuman Jayanti, you are invited to come visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple at Mount Madonna to offer prayers to Hanuman. The day's events will include a parade, chanting, a yajna (Vedic fire ceremony), and a bhoj (feast) to conclude the festivities.
Apr 12
6:30 am - 1:30 pm
In-Person/Online
445 Summit Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076

Living Yoga Retreat | Spring 2025

Deepen your understanding of Yoga at the Living Yoga Spring Retreat, a Northern California Yoga Retreat at Mount Madonna. This experience blends practical, real-life applications of Yoga with a holistic approach that balances science and spirituality—going beyond physical practice.
Apr 23 - 27
In-Person
445 Summit Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076
July 2025

47th Annual Liberation Yoga Retreat

Deepen your understanding of Yoga at the Living Yoga Spring Retreat, a Northern California Yoga Retreat at Mount Madonna. This experience blends practical, real-life applications of Yoga with a holistic approach that balances science and spirituality—going beyond physical practice.
Jul 02 - 06
In-Person/Online
445 Summit Rd, Watsonville, CA 95076
October 2025

Yoga Diwali India: A Cultural Immersion

Experience India’s most joyful festival season while deepening your Yoga practice and spending time with the children of Sri Ram Ashram. Led by local guides and seasoned yoga practitioners, embark on an immersive journey to engage with the cultural and spiritual traditions of India.
Oct 13 - 24
Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India
No events found. Please see our full calendar for a list of all our upcoming events.
our campus mount madonna

Northern California

our campus mount madonna

Overlooking Monterey Bay

The Mount Madonna campus is centrally located in California, with close proximity to Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, and Monterey, and near to the greater San Francisco Bay Area. The property features miles of beautiful walking or jogging trails with magical sunset viewing points and clear skies for stargazing.

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Nourishing Vegetarian Meals

vegetarian meals
vegetarian meals

Nourishing Vegetarian Meals

Fresh, Flavorful & Crafted with Care

Enjoy three thoughtfully prepared buffet-style meals each day in our cozy communal dining lodge. Our diverse menu showcases fresh, high-quality ingredients and globally inspired flavors. Each meal provides a wholesome balance of vegetarian proteins, grains, vegetables, and dairy. Special dietary needs, such as gluten-free and dairy-free, can also be accommodated.

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Our Campus

An inspirational and spacious mountaintop setting overlooking the Monterey Bay.

THE LAND

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