Cappadocia, Türkiye
"Return to Essence" Retreat, Ashok Thakur, Cappadocia, Turkey
There comes a moment when the search ends, and the remembering begins.
Overview
Nestled within the timeless landscapes of Cappadocia, where ancient valleys, cave dwellings, and vast open skies invite stillness and reflection, Return to Essence is an invitation to step away from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with the deepest truth of who you are. Guided by Ashok, this immersive retreat is designed for those who feel called to slow down, breathe more deeply, and return to the wisdom that already exists within them. This is not a retreat about becoming someone else. It is a journey of remembering. A return to your natural rhythm. A return to presence. A return to simplicity. A return to essence. Expect sunrise practices beneath the Cappadocian sky, moments of profound stillness, authentic human connection, nourishing experiences, and the quiet transformation that unfolds when you finally give yourself permission to come home to yourself.
Hosts
Ashok Thakur
Listening to grandma stories of wisdom and reading ancient Indian scriptures while growing up in a small town called City of Saints, in the valley of Himalayas, seeded his subconscious with knowledge derived from thousands of years research by ancient sages that came handy when passing through tough times during his life journey including Near Death Experience.
At an early age of nine, he was given special award by the government for proficiency in scriptures.
Now Ashok Thakur runs a cyber security consulting company in New York. Being very comfortable financially, life changed dramatically in one evening from having everything to nothing. Since that time, he questioned the higher purpose and lessons to be learned from this experience. Ashok began to challenge all the norms and rules that keep us away from joy and love. During his search for answers, he met many beautiful and amazing souls that became his teachers and friends.
He published his first book “Infinite Love Finite Life” in 2016. The book is about the availability of Infinite Love to all of us if we follow certain mindset. His mission is to spread the joy and love he has now to everyone that crosses his path. He is an astrologer with multiple disciplines based on Vedic astrology. He also provides Astro Based Life coaching which means guiding your life to align with planets. He does workshops, retreats, teaches meditation and advice people on how to be in love, bliss and be joyful. He is a bridge between Eastern and Western Wisdom and brings best of both to help clients in present days.
Schedule
16:00 – Arrival / Hotel Check-In
17:00 – 19:00 – Welcome & Opening Circle with Ashok
19:40– Dinner out in Ortahisar included in the retreat package
Sunrise: 05:30 AM
Sunset: 07:30 PM
Recommended Flights:
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08:30 – 09:30 – Breakfast to start a new day.
09:30 – 11:00 – Session with Ashok
11:30 – 17:00 – Red Tour of Cappadocia.
20:00– Dinner out in Ortahisar included in the retreat package
08:30 – 09:30 – Breakfast to start a new day.
9:30 - 11:00 - Session with Ashok
11:30 – 17:00 – Green Tour of Cappadocia.
20:00 – 20:15 – Dinner out in Ortahisar included in the retreat package
04:00 – Wake-up / Light breakfast snack.
04:30 – Balloon transfer and pick-up.
05:30 – 06:30 – Hot Air Balloon Ride (optional, €270 per person).
09:30 – 10:30 – Breakfast
12:00 - 13:30 - Session with Ashok
15:00 – 19:00 – FREE DAY
Hammam & Spa sauna and swimming pool (Taxi is not included in the package)
20:00 – Dinner out in Ortahisar included in the retreat package
09:30 – 10:45 – Breakfast to start a new day.
11:00 - 13:00 - Session Closing Circle with Ashok
13:00 – 16:00 – Free time (Taxi cost apx 5-10 euro per person)
16:00 – 18:00:
Sunset Horseback Riding Tour through the valleys of Cappadocia (included in the package)
Tour with Antique cars (included in the package)
20:00 – Dinner out (not included in the retreat package).
22:00 - Departure for the hotel - Please prepare your luggage for departure.
08:00 – 09:00 – Breakfast.
09:30 – 11:00 – Embrace your final moments. Breathe deeply, be fully present, and carry this peace with you as we prepare for departure.
12:30 – Check-out.
Recommended Flights:
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What's included
Extras
Hot Air Balloon Flight
29 May - 3 June 2027
Touch the Sky. Embrace the Silence!
Gallery
FAQs
1) A 30% deposit of the total retreat cost is required at the time of booking.
To begin, you’ll need to log in or create an account on our booking platform. Please keep your login credentials safe and ensure your email address remains active, as important booking updates and retreat information will be sent there.
2) Book your travel insurance for global coverage.
Travel insurance is mandatory for all guests for peace of mind and coverage during your journey. If you want, we are happy to connect you with our trusted travel insurance partner to assist you. Please send us your travel insurance at bookings@myndretreats.com
3) Book your flights
Once the group is completed, you will be informed in order to book your flights according to the options we recommend for each retreat.
Taking the recommended flights ensures your arrival transfer will be fully arranged and covered by us, making your journey to the retreat smooth and worry-free.
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Please note that by booking the above flights, your transfer from/to the airport/hotel is included in the package cost.
What’s the traveling group like?
Each MYND Retreat welcomes an intimate group of 15–20 like-minded participants, allowing for personalized attention, deep connection, and a nurturing, high-touch experience. You’ll be joining a premium community of high-end travelers, entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and thought leaders, individuals who have achieved success and are now seeking something deeper: authentic connection, emotional clarity, and personal transformation.
Is the retreat suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with lifelong friendships, and in some cases, even love stories. Beyond the retreat itself, you’ll become part of the broader MYND network, a growing international community where you can connect, collaborate, and network with other purpose-driven professionals long after your journey ends.
Are flights included in the retreat package?
Flights are not included. However, we’re happy to connect you with our trusted travel agency partner to assist with booking and logistics.
Is Cappadocia a safe destination?
Yes, Cappadocia is a peaceful and welcoming destination. Together with our trusted local partners, the MYND team is on hand 24/7 to ensure your comfort, care, and security throughout the retreat.
How will I be supported during the retreat?
From the moment you book until the day you return home, you’ll be supported with love and precision. We provide pre-arrival guidance, on-site assistance, and create an environment rooted in privacy, emotional safety, and genuine presence.
What’s included in a MYND retreat?
Each MYND Retreat is a premium, thoughtfully curated experience. Your journey includes daily wellness sessions, breathwork, sound healing, mindful movement, as well as sacred ceremonies, nourishing meals, and intentional time for reflection and integration.
We explore authentic local destinations with the guidance of certified, trusted local experts, ensuring both cultural depth and your safety. You’ll enjoy exclusive excursions, soulful bonding moments, and the kind of meaningful stillness that renews you from the inside out.
Optional upgrades like spa rituals or the iconic hot air balloon ride are available for those seeking an extra layer of magic.
Is the retreat physically demanding?
Our experiences are accessible to most fitness levels. All activities (like hiking or horseback riding) are optional and adapted to your pace.
Are dietary preferences accommodated?
Yes. With advance notice, we can provide meals that align with your dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.
What about the hot air balloon ride?
The hot air balloon ride is an optional add-on and not included in the standard retreat price. It’s operated by certified, professional instructors, following strict safety protocols. Floating above Cappadocia at sunrise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we highly recommend it if you’re ready to see the world from a whole new perspective.
Clothing
3–4 sets of comfortable outfits for daily sessions (e.g., loose pants, oversized shirts, soft t-shirts — linen or cotton fabrics are ideal)
2 casual chic outfits for dinners at the hotel
1 boho or elegant outfit for photos in scenic spots (e.g., sunset with horses)
1 swimsuit (for spa, hammam, or pool use)
1 knitted shawl or pashmina — perfect for sessions or cooler evenings
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (ideal for the Red & Green Tour excursions)
1 pair of slides or sandals to relax at the hotel
1 sweater or hoodie for early mornings or cool evenings
1 light jacket or windbreaker (just in case of unexpected weather)
Underwear and socks for all days
A hat (fedora or wide-brimmed for sun protection)
Sunglasses
Wellness & Connection
Journal or notebook & pen for reflections and journaling
Sleep mask & earplugs for restful nights
Your favorite book or e-reader
Reusable water bottle
Healthy snacks (e.g., nuts, energy bars, dried fruit)
Personal Care
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Deodorant
Light makeup or beauty essentials (natural look recommended for photo moments)
Face and body sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal hygiene products
Shampoo, body wash & conditioner (in case not provided at the hotel)
Moisturizer for face and body
Lip balm
Travel Documents & Essentials
ID card or passport
Mandatory: Travel insurance
Flight tickets (printed or saved offline)
Cash and credit/debit cards
Mobile phone & charger
Power bank
Camera or Polaroid to capture unforgettable moments
Deposit:
A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to confirm your booking. This deposit may not be credited to other events or retreats.
Balance Payment:
The remaining balance is due no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date. Failure to pay on time will result in cancellation of your booking without refund.
The following payment schedule applies:
1. Deposit – 30% (Non-Refundable) at the time of the booking
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit secures your place and is not transferable or refundable under any circumstances.
2. Remaining Payment – 70%
The remaining 70% balance due must be paid no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date.
Cancellations by the Client:
All cancellations must be made in writing via email.
Refunds are issued according to the timeline below:
---> Deposit is Non Refundable in any case.
---> Refund Entitlement:
* Up to 60 days (2 months) before the starting day of the retreat: 100% refund (excluding deposit & bank fees)
* Less than 60 days (2 months) from the starting day of the retreat: No refund available
Cancellation by the Company:
The Company reserves the right to cancel any retreat due to force majeure, insufficient registrations, safety concerns, or other uncontrollable events. In such cases:
* We will refund 100% of the amount paid, excluding a 4% fee. This 4% covers unavoidable bank/transaction charges (including international transfers, interbank fees) and the online payment platform processing fee OR you will be offered a credit or transfer to a future retreat, subject to availability.
* No refund will be given for travel costs or external bookings
.