Rishikesh Yog Kendra

10 Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh, India (Swadhyay Yoga Retreat)

Retreat Highlights

  • Duration10 Days
  • LanguageEnglish and Hindi
  • ModuleResidential with Meals
  • LevelBeginner to Intermediate
  • StyleMulti-Style Yoga
  • AccommodationPrivate or Two Shared

Swadhyay Retreat Fee

10 Days
  • Private RoomSingle occupancy, own bathroom$749$999
  • Two Shared RoomShared with one guest$649
Enquire Now
Group meditation session during the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat overlooking the Rishikesh hills
Yoga retreat group forming a partner yoga pyramid above the Ganga valley
Acro-yoga partner pose practised during the 10 day yoga retreat in Rishikesh
Partner yoga balance pose with a Himalayan foothill backdrop
Backbend practice during the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat
Acro-yoga plank pose with partner assist overlooking Rishikesh

Ten days is enough time to slow right down and turn your attention inward. The 10 Day Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh at Rishikesh Yog Kendra, known as the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat, is built around exactly that. Swadhyay means self-study, one of the guiding principles of yoga, and this retreat gives you the space, the practices and the setting to explore it.

This is a retreat rather than a course, so there is nothing to pass and no experience required. It suits complete beginners looking for a strong foundation just as much as practitioners who want to go deeper, and it draws on years of experience running yoga teacher training to shape a calm, thorough programme.

Over ten unhurried days you take part in daily yoga, cleansing practices, breathwork, meditation and yoga philosophy, alongside quiet time to rest and reflect. The retreat sits on the hillside above Rishikesh, with the Ganga Valley in view, away from the noise of the city.

There is also time to explore beyond the yoga hall. Excursions take you to watch the sunrise at the Kunjapuri Temple, to trek to the Neer Waterfall, and to visit the Vashistha Cave, along with the evening Ganga Aarti and a walk through the colourful local market.

Taught in English and Hindi, with accommodation and Sattvic meals included, the retreat is kept small, with only fifteen places, so the atmosphere stays calm and personal.

If you are looking for a longer yoga and meditation retreat in Rishikesh built around self-reflection, gentle practice and time in nature, the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat is made to give you exactly that.

Retreat Overview

Swadhyay 10 Day Yoga Retreat: An Overview

Welcome puja ceremony for guests joining the Swadhyay yoga retreat
The Retreat

The Swadhyay Yoga Retreat is a ten-day residential yoga and meditation retreat at Rishikesh Yog Kendra in Rishikesh, India, built around the yogic idea of self-study. It includes daily asana, cleansing practices, pranayama, alignment and anatomy, yoga philosophy and meditation, with excursions to the Kunjapuri Temple, Neer Waterfall, Vashistha Cave and the Ganga Aarti. It welcomes beginners and intermediate practitioners, includes accommodation and Sattvic meals, and leads to a Certificate of Completion.

The word Swadhyay means self-study, and it gives this retreat its purpose. To bring body, mind and spirit into balance, yoga asks for steady practice, honest self-awareness and a little discipline, and these ten days are arranged to support exactly that. You practise, you rest, and you reflect, so you return home not only relaxed but with a clearer sense of yourself.

Asana practice on the banks of the Ganga during the Swadhyay yoga retreat
What You Study

The programme is complete without being rushed. Mornings begin gently with cleansing and asana, the middle of the day turns to alignment, anatomy and philosophy, and the evening settles into meditation. Along the way there is space to absorb what you are learning and to enjoy the peace of the surroundings.

Your retreat includes:

  • Daily multi-style yoga (asana)Suited to beginners and intermediate practitioners.
  • ShatkriyasThe traditional yogic cleansing practices.
  • PranayamaThe practice of breath control.
  • Alignment and anatomyFor a safe and informed practice.
  • Yoga philosophyDrawn from the classical texts.
  • MeditationIncluding yoga nidra and sound healing.
  • ExcursionsSunrise at the Kunjapuri Temple, a trek to the Neer Waterfall, the Vashistha Cave, the Ganga Aarti and the local market.
  • Sattvic foodsFresh Sattvic vegetarian meals Each day.
  • AccommodationResidential accommodation, private or shared.
Comfortable residential room provided during the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat
Living & Outcomes

The retreat runs for ten days and is fully residential, taught in English and Hindi, with only fifteen places on each retreat. On completion, you receive a Certificate of Completion from Rishikesh Yog Kendra. Because it is longer than a typical short break, it gives you the time to settle properly, and many guests leave feeling rested, clearer and reconnected with a calmer pace of living.

Before You Book

Is the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat Right for You?

This retreat suits anyone who wants a longer, gentler reset: people who need a genuine break from a busy life, complete beginners building a foundation, solo travellers seeking a calm and safe experience in India, and experienced practitioners who want time for self-reflection and deeper study. No previous experience is required, and there is no fitness level to meet.

A ten-day retreat is a real commitment of time, so it helps to know whether it fits what you are looking for. The short answer is that it is built for depth and rest rather than for pushing hard.

This retreat is likely a good fit if you recognise yourself in any of these:

  • You want a proper reset, not just a weekend

    A few days never feels like enough, and you would rather give yourself ten days to genuinely slow down and reconnect.

  • You are drawn to self-reflection

    The theme of Swadhyay, or self-study, speaks to you, and you want a retreat that makes room for looking inward as well as practising.

  • You are new to yoga and want a strong foundation

    You are curious and want to begin properly, with cleansing, breath, asana and philosophy taught from the ground up.

  • You are travelling solo

    You want a calm, safe and welcoming place to spend your days, with a small group and a settled routine.

  • You already practise and want depth

    You have a yoga or meditation practice and want the time and quiet to deepen it, and to study its philosophy and anatomy more closely.

The retreat is taught in English and Hindi, and with only fifteen places it stays calm and personal. Because everything is gentle and open to a range of levels, people of very different ages, backgrounds and fitness settle in easily together.

If a longer, restful and reflective retreat in a peaceful setting is what you are looking for, the Swadhyay Yoga Retreat is very likely a strong fit.

Still deciding?

Speak With Our Yoga Retreat Advisor

Choosing the right yoga retreat is an important decision. Speak with our Retreat Advisor to discuss the itinerary, daily schedule, accommodation, fees, and everything you need to know before joining. We're here to make your journey simple and stress-free.

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Rishikesh Yog Kendra

Why choose Rishikesh Yog Kendra for a 10 day yoga retreat?

Yoga student holding revolved side angle pose
10+Years
Experience

Rishikesh Yog Kendra offers a longer, ten-day yoga and meditation retreat built around self-study, in a peaceful hillside setting above the Ganga Valley. It brings together daily asana, cleansing, pranayama, philosophy, meditation and meaningful excursions, in a small group of only fifteen, with everything included, and it is run by a traditional yoga school rather than a commercial resort.

There are many retreats to choose from, so it is fair to ask what makes ours worth choosing.

  1. Guests practising partner acro-yoga during the ten day retreat Backbend practice showing the depth of daily asana

    Ten days for real depth

    Many retreats last only a few days. The extra time here lets you genuinely settle, so the rest, the practice and the reflection go deeper than a short stay allows.

  2. Advanced asana practice as part of the complete retreat programme Group asana practice on the riverbank during the retreat

    A complete, traditional programme

    Rather than yoga alone, the retreat covers cleansing, asana, pranayama, alignment and anatomy, philosophy and meditation, shaped by years of teaching experience.

  3. A teacher guiding a student through a supported stretch Group practising Trikonasana together on the Ganga riverbank

    Built around self-study

    The theme of Swadhyay gives the days a reflective focus, so the retreat offers understanding and self-awareness alongside relaxation.

  4. Group yoga session by the Ganga during the retreat Partner yoga pose practised outdoors during the retreat

    Meaningful excursions

    Sunrise at the Kunjapuri Temple, the trek to the Neer Waterfall, the Vashistha Cave, the Ganga Aarti and the local market take you into the natural, spiritual and everyday life of Rishikesh.

  5. Tree pose practised against the Himalayan foothill scenery Guests ringing the temple bell during a retreat excursion

    A peaceful, authentic setting

    The retreat looks out over the Ganga Valley in the Himalayan foothills, away from the noise of the city.

  6. Small retreat group practising partner yoga together Guests practising tree pose together at sunset

    Small groups and everything included

    With only fifteen places, and accommodation, Sattvic meals and all activities included, the retreat stays personal and there is nothing to arrange once you arrive.

A retreat is really about trust: trusting that you can put your days in careful hands and simply rest. We aim to earn that through a calm, well-run experience, rooted in tradition, rather than any promise.

What You Learn

What Does the 10 Day Swadhyay Yoga Retreat Include?

The retreat covers Shatkriyas (yogic cleansing), asana, pranayama, alignment and anatomy, yoga philosophy and meditation, along with time for self-study. Practices are drawn from the traditional teachings and taught at a level that suits beginners and intermediate practitioners, so you leave with a rounded and well-grounded experience of yoga.

The retreat follows a clear structure, moving from cleansing and movement in the morning to study and stillness later in the day. The areas below make up the heart of what you practise.

CoreThe Six Areas of the Retreat
  1. Shatkriyas (Yogic Cleansing)

    Purification

    The days begin with the Shatkriyas, the traditional purification practices that prepare the body for yoga. You are introduced to Jal Neti for the nasal passages, Jihva Dhauti for the tongue, and Netra Shudhi for the eyes. Gentle and carefully taught, these practices support the breath and leave you feeling clear and refreshed.

  2. Asana

    Movement

    Each day includes asana, the physical practice of yoga. Mornings are given to the Pawanmuktasana series, a gentle, systematic sequence that prepares the body, and the practice is taught with alignment, adjustments and modifications that keep it safe and support healing rather than strain.

  3. Pranayama

    Breath

    You learn pranayama, the practice of working with the breath to steady the mind and regulate energy through the body. The retreat focuses on well-known, effective techniques including Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Bhramari (the humming bee breath) and Ujjayi (ocean breath).

  4. Alignment and Anatomy

    Safety

    Good alignment is what allows a posture to be both safe and effective, so the retreat gives real attention to it. You learn how the body should be positioned in each asana, how misalignment can create tension, and enough practical anatomy and physiology to understand why alignment matters and how to protect the body.

  5. Yoga Philosophy

    Reflection

    On the reflective side of the retreat, you are introduced to the philosophy of yoga through the classical texts, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, and to the wider cultural roots of yoga in India. Taught simply, this gives your practice meaning and context beyond the physical.

  6. Meditation

    Stillness

    Because the days are full, the retreat makes room for meditation to settle the mind and turn the attention inward. You are guided through practices such as trataka (yogic gazing), ajapa japa (silent repetition), yoga nidra (yogic deep relaxation) and sound healing, all of which help you rest and find a sense of stillness.

The Syllabus

10 Day Yoga Retreat Curriculum

6 Subjects

Shatkriyas — Purification

The Rishikesh Yog Kendra campus

Shatkriyas are a set of purification methods that prepare your body for the yogic journey ahead. During our 10 days yoga retreat, we introduce Jal Neti, Jihva Dhauti and Netra Shudhi for cleansing the nasal passages, the tongue and eyes. These techniques harness the full potential of the breath, amplify the sensitivity of taste buds and nurture vision to radiate with a vibrant glow.

Asana, the physical aspect of yoga, is noticeably integrated into modern fitness regimes to master advanced postures. However, its primary purpose has always been to develop the necessary ability for meditation: sitting comfortably in one position for an extended period of time. At our 10 days yoga retreat, we honor this tradition by dedicating the mornings to the Pawanmuktasana Series, which serves as a preparatory exercise for laying a firm foundation in yogic life. In the afternoons, we lead multi-style classes to explore the spectrum of yogasanas, ranging from classical (Hatha, Ashtanga, Iyengar) to modern (Vinyasa, Yin) practices.

Pranayama, defined as the control of the breath, offers methods to activate and regulate the energy flow throughout the body in order to attain a higher state of consciousness. Among the various exercises, Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), Bhramari (the humming bee breath) and Ujjayi (ocean breath) stand out for their therapeutic effects. At our retreat, we prioritize these techniques, emphasizing awareness of the respiratory process to establish correct breathing habits.

Alignment in yoga refers to the precise positioning of the body to derive maximum benefits from each pose. When the body is not properly aligned, such as leaning to the left or right, it can create blockages in the energy channels. Therefore, finding a neutral state in asanas is crucial, as it enables the mind to turn inward and fully inhabit the physical form. At our 10 days yoga retreat in Rishikesh Yog Kendra, we conduct interactive classes aimed at observing and addressing common imbalances that may arise during asana practice. Through these sessions, we discuss and apply exercises to improve body awareness both on and off the mat.

Exploring Hinduism is essential for comprehending yoga philosophy, as both accentuate the pursuit of self-realization, inner peace, and harmony with the universe. During the retreat, we delve into the rich tapestry of Hindu literature and cultural heritage, which thrives in India, the birthplace of yoga. As yoga spreads across the globe, it naturally evolves to better suit the needs of contemporary society. At our 10 days yoga retreat, we draw inspiration from this transformation, yet remain firmly committed to preserving the traditional spiritual roots through authentic teachings.

The program at our retreat is very thorough, spanning from the break of dawn to dusk. Hence, we have deliberately included soothing meditation sessions, such as trataka (yogic gazing), apa-japa (silent repetition), yoga nidra (yogic sleep) and sound healing, to assist in shifting attention from the outside world inward, embarking on a journey towards Samadhi, the blissful state of mind.

Daily Schedule

10 Day Yoga Retreat Schedule

A gentle rhythm — from first breath at dawn to stillness at night.

  1. Dawn

    06:30 — 09:00
    • Shatkriyas (Jal Neti / Eyes Cleansing) 06:30 – 07:00
    • Asana 07:00 – 08:30
    • Pranayama 08:30 – 09:00
  2. Morning

    09:00 — 12:30
    • Breakfast and Break 09:00 – 11:00
    • Alignment and Anatomy 11:00 – 12:30
  3. Midday

    12:30 — 15:30
    • Lunch and Break 12:30 – 14:30
    • Philosophy 14:30 – 15:30
  4. Afternoon

    16:00 — 17:30
    • Asana — Multi-Style 16:00 – 17:30
  5. Evening

    18:00 — 19:00
    • Meditation 18:00 – 19:00
    • Dinner 19:00

* Schedule may vary slightly depending on the programme and season

Course Fee

Retreat Dates, Fees & Registration

The retreat runs monthly, from the 24th, and takes fifteen people at a time. One fee covers your room, three sattvic meals a day, every session and every excursion. Places do go — the availability against each batch below is current.

Course Timeline

August 2026Aug 24 - Sep 3, 2026
September 2026Sep 24 - Oct 3, 2026
October 2026Oct 24 - Nov 3, 2026
November 2026Nov 24 - Dec 3, 2026

Course Fees

Two Shared Room
USD649/ Person
Group of 15 maximum
What's Included
  • All Six Subjects Daily
  • 3 Sattvic Meals Daily
  • Temple & Waterfall Excursions
  • Certificate of Completion
Enquire & Book

Secure Booking • Only 15 Places • Small Group

What We Offer

What's Included & Not Included in the Retreat Fee

One fee covers the whole ten days — your room, your food, all six subjects and every excursion with the transport to reach it. Here is the full list, and the short list of what sits outside it.

Yoga practice in Rishikesh
We Offer

What's Included

Everything covered inside your program fee

  • AccommodationPrivate or two shared room for the length of the retreat
  • Sattvic Meals3 vegetarian meals daily, prepared on Ayurvedic principles
  • All Six SubjectsShatkriyas, asana, pranayama, alignment and anatomy, philosophy and meditation
  • Kunjapuri SunriseThe pre-dawn trip up to the temple for sunrise over the Himalaya
  • Neer Waterfall TrekA guided trek out to the waterfall
  • Vashistha CaveThe cave where Sage Vashishta is said to have meditated
  • Ganga Aarti & MarketThe evening ceremony at the ghats, and an afternoon in the market
  • CertificateCertificate of completion at the end of the ten days
Travel and personal expenses
We Don't Offer

Not Included

Good to know before you book

  • Travel CostsTravel to and from Rishikesh
  • Personal ExpensesLaundry, telephone, shopping and any extra meals
  • Optional ActivitiesAnything not listed in the retreat programme
  • Extra StayAny nights before or after the retreat dates
Our Team

Meet the Teachers on Your Retreat

The retreat draws on the same faculty who teach our yoga teacher training courses, so the six subjects are led by people who teach them daily rather than for the odd retreat group. They take time to explain the reasoning behind each practice, correct you personally, and answer the questions a shorter class never has room for. Meet the team below.

Vimlesh Joshi Ji, yoga teacher at Rishikesh Yog Kendra

Vimlesh Joshi Ji

Founder · Hatha, Aerial & Ashtanga

Founder of Rishikesh Yog Kendra, Vimlesh Ji has spent more than a decade teaching Hatha, Aerial and Ashtanga yoga in the Himalayan tradition.

  • Morning practice at Rishikesh Yog Kendra
  • Group yoga session in Rishikesh
Food & Accommodation

Accommodation, Sattvic Meals & Campus Life

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills, we welcome you to the tranquillity of our secluded campus. The gentle rhythms of the mountains and the view of the Ganga valley as it cascades down towards Rishikesh blend to create a rejuvenating atmosphere, away from the noise of the city.

Rooms are available as private or two shared, each with an attached bathroom, free Wi-Fi and the essentials you need for ten days — and enough space to sit and practise in on your own between sessions.

Food here is more than sustenance. Our chefs select the finest seasonal fruit and vegetables alongside wholesome grains and legumes, so each meal carries the essence of sattvic nutrition. Following Ayurvedic principles, the yogic diet cultivates mindfulness in eating by nurturing the doshas — pacifying Vata, soothing Pitta, balancing Kapha.

Rooftop terrace at the Rishikesh Yog Kendra campus with a swing seat and views of the Himalayan foothills

School Campus

Our campus sits in the quiet foothills of the Himalayas — open practice halls, a rooftop terrace to sit out on, and the hills in full view from sunrise to dusk. Close enough to the Ganga for a morning walk, far enough for the silence a practice needs.

  • Open practice halls
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Quiet location
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Excursion

Excursions Included in Your Training in Rishikesh

We strongly believe that a student needs practical exposure apart from book knowledge to have a great career. For the same reason, we organise weekly excursions to various holy sites as well as picturesque sites in Rishikesh. The excursions are an important part of the curriculum. You can avail yourself of the opportunities to practice yoga and meditation in some of the serene and tranquil spots in the region.

Rishikesh has some famous spots, like Kunjapuri Temple, Ganga beach, Rishi Vasishta’s Cave, and the Beatles Ashram. Many tourists also throng the region for various pursuits. You can experience the heights of spirituality at such places. Moreover, you can establish a stronger connection with nature. So, it is important for you to go on such excursions as part of your training in Rishikesh.

  • Kunjapuri Temple excursion during the training in Rishikesh
    Kunjapuri Temple
    Sunrise Trek
  • Ganga Beach excursion during the training in Rishikesh
    Ganga Beach
    River Meditation
  • Rishi Vasishta's Cave excursion during the training in Rishikesh
    Rishi Vasishta's Cave
    Sacred Site
  • Beatles Ashram excursion during the training in Rishikesh
    Beatles Ashram
    Heritage Walk
Student Reviews

Our Student Reviews & Success Stories

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4.8
Reviews on Google
  • Review left on Google
    Ashok Fangoo Yoga Retreat

    “I spent 2 weeks on a retreat with Rishikesh Yoga Kendra - teachers have good technical skills and very knowledgeable, most importantly they are honest people. Deepak ji has lot of wisdom to share on yoga as well as our vedas…. amazing experience with them. Price was reasonable as well and got the chance to have one to one classes with them. All in all very good experience - will definitely recommend them”

  • Review left on Google
    Naresh Verma Yoga Retreat

    “The best yoga experience e of my life. Amazing teachers at the yoga retreat. Clean and modern accomodation with healthy organic meals. A must boutique luxury yoga retreat experience in The Yoga Capital of the World - Rishikesh”

  • Review left on Google
    Boussouab Chaimae Boussouab Chaimae Yoga Teacher Training

    “I recently completed my yoga teacher training at Rishikesh Yog Kendra and it was an incredible journey. The program was incredibly rewarding, leaving me feeling confident and prepared to share yoga with others. The teachers were the heart of the program. Their knowledge and passion for yoga were infectious, and they created a supportive environment where we could learn, grow, and ask questions freely. The curriculum provided a strong foundation in yoga philosophy, anatomy and alignment. If you’re looking for a transformative yoga teacher training program in a supportive and inspiring environment, Rishikesh Yog Kendra is an excellent choice.”

  • Review left on Google
    Yoganshu Yoga Studio Yoganshu Yoga Studio Yoga Student

    “I enjoyed the Rishikesh Yog Kendra very much, the nature and vibes of that place are very good, all the sir and mam there are very experienced, all the sir and mam have guided me very well, How should I do yoga, how should I not do it, I would like to say thank you to all sir and mam, thank you very much.”

  • Review left on Google
    María Isabel Sainz Yoga Student

    “It was a unique experience! Great teachers, excellent service, and fantastic classmates! A huge thank you to Neha for providing the best possible opportunity to learn yoga at Rishikesh Kendra Yoga!!”

  • Review left on Google
    Nabila Boundra Yoga Teacher Training

    “This Yoga teacher training school in Rishikesh is truly exceptional. The teachers go above and beyond with their kindness and patience, ensuring you have the time you need to learn while offering genuine guidance every step of the way. The positive and uplifting vibe creates an atmosphere of healing throughout the journey. I consider myself fortunate to have come across such a remarkable school for my yoga teacher training. I enthusiastically recommend it! More than just a school, you’d feel at home!”

  • Review left on Google
    Mairead Ann Bennett Yoga Teacher Training

    “My time spent in Yog Kendra was nothing short of amazing. The teachers were outstanding and they were ready to provide extra help and answer any questions I may have had. Everyone on the course was so welcoming and I truly feel like I have made some very important and lasting friendships during my time here. I would recommend this course to anyone looking to complete their yoga teacher training and guarantee it will be a brilliant experience for all!”

Ready to begin your own practice? Apply for a course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any yoga or meditation experience to join?

No. The retreat is open to complete beginners as well as intermediate practitioners. The yoga is multi-style and taught from the foundations, and everything, from cleansing to breathwork to philosophy, is gently guided. All you need is the willingness to take part at your own pace.

What is Swadhyay, and why is the retreat named after it?

Swadhyay means self-study, one of the guiding principles of yoga. The retreat is named after it because these ten days are designed to help you look inward through practice, study and reflection, not only to relax but to understand yourself a little more clearly.

What is included in the price?

Your accommodation, fresh Sattvic vegetarian meals and all the retreat activities, including the daily yoga, cleansing, pranayama, philosophy, meditation and the excursions, are included. You can choose a private or shared room. Once you arrive, the essentials of your stay are taken care of.

Are the excursions included?

Yes. The sunrise visit to the Kunjapuri Temple, the trek to the Neer Waterfall, the Vashistha Cave, the Ganga Aarti and the local market visit are all part of the retreat.

Is it suitable for solo travellers, including women?

Yes. Rishikesh is a well-established destination for international visitors, and many people join this retreat alone, including many women. Because it is residential and the group is small, you are among fellow guests and staff in a settled, welcoming place.

How many people are on each retreat?

Each retreat is limited to fifteen places, which keeps the group small and the experience calm and personal. Because of this, retreats fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Getting Here

How to Reach Here?

From Delhi to your mat in Tapovan — by air, rail, road or bus, here is every way students make their way to us.

  • By Air

    Jolly Grant Airport, about 25 km from Rishikesh, has daily flights from Delhi. We can arrange a cab from the airport to the school for an additional fee.

  • By Train

    Daily trains connect Delhi to Haridwar railway station. Once you arrive at Haridwar, we can organise a pickup for you at a reasonable charge.

  • By Taxi

    We can also arrange a cab to bring you the whole way from Delhi to the school in Rishikesh, for a reasonable fee.

  • By Bus

    Buses run from Delhi to Rishikesh bus stand through the day. On arrival we can arrange a cab for the short hop to the school.

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