Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening Reviews

Timo Hänseler 2025.12.13

     

„Was ist eigentlich der nächste Schritt in meinem Leben?“ Eine Frage, mit der viele hadern. Auch ich. Der Alltag lässt in der Regel kaum Raum, sich dafür wirklich Zeit zu nehmen. Heute stellt sich ja oft nicht die Frage, ob man Stress hat – sondern wie viel. Durch Zufall bin ich auf das Hari Retreat gestoßen. Sechs Tage Digital Detox.
Runterkommen. Keine Ablenkung. Stattdessen: gute Gespräche, neue Impulse
und eine Menge Erkenntnisse. Absolut Dankbar für die Erfahrung, die Ruhe und die Verbundenheit mit großartigen Menschen <3

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.12.13

Vielen Dank für Ihre wunderbare Bewertung, Timo! Es freut uns sehr zu hören, dass Sie die Zeit im Hari Retreat als bereichernd empfunden haben. Die Möglichkeit, sich zurückzuziehen und in einer stressfreien Umgebung neue Impulse zu entdecken, ist uns sehr wichtig. Wir sind glücklich, dass Sie positive Erfahrungen sammeln konnten und hoffen, dass Sie weiterhin von den Erkenntnissen profitieren. Kommen Sie bald wieder!

Food by Malti 2025.12.11

     

Joel and his team have created an amazing sanctuary for people seeking a safe and comfortable environment to be themselves and transcend their own sense of who they are and what they may think they are….. The accommodation and facilities are at a different level to the what we saw when we visited Joel at his previous venue in 2019. He has translated his vision and passion into the best retreat in Cambodia. Thank you Joel for your time, the warm hospitality, tour of the facilities, delicious lunch and sharing your plans for the next phase of the Hariharalaya evolution and how it will be an even better environment for people seeking authenticity enabling their own greater awareness. Highly recommended.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.12.11

Thank you for your wonderful review and kind words about our sanctuary. We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your experience and that our accommodation and facilities exceeded your expectations. It's our passion to create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone, and we're excited about the future developments at Hariharalaya. Your recommendation means a lot to us and motivates our team to continue delivering exceptional experiences. We hope to welcome you back soon!

Anne 2025.12.06

     

The 6 day retreat was such a wonderful experience. It’s actually really hard to find words to describe how good this retreat is. Detoxing from unhealthy habits has changed many things I do - and don’t do. So well structured with practice details that can easily be added to every day. Such beautiful people. Great selection of delicious food. So many special little details. Highly recommend this retreat ❤️

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.12.06

Thank you so much for your kind words, Anne! We're thrilled to hear that the retreat had such a positive impact on your life and that you appreciated the structure and details we put into it. It's wonderful to know that the community and food contributed to your experience. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you back for another transformative retreat in the future!

Shikha G 2025.12.04

     

Verified

Home away home Thank you Joel sir and entire team for a wonderful experience. A retreat came at the right time . I found myself here. From the ambience to the employees, everything felt like home coming. Left with hearts full of love n gratitude for organizing this retreat.

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Matilda Lawrence 2025.11.23

     

Hariharalaya was the most wonderful gift I have ever given myself. I feel truly reset to continue my life as a more present and authentic version of myself. The experience was profound and playful and beautiful and nurturing and has left me with a daily practice that I’m now excited to do each morning and feel the benefits from every time. I am so grateful for this experience and intend to share with as many people as I can Lovely accommodation and food as well 🙏🏻🥰

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.23

Thank you for your heartfelt review, Matilda! We're thrilled to hear that Hariharalaya provided you with such a transformative experience. It’s wonderful to know that you feel more present and have established a daily practice that brings you joy. We appreciate your kind words about our accommodation and food, and we can't wait to welcome more people through your recommendations. Your gratitude inspires us to continue creating profound and nurturing experiences.

Matilda L 2025.11.23

     

Verified

A truly magical gift for yourself Hariharalaya was the most wonderful gift I have ever given myself. I feel truly reset to continue my life as a more present and authentic version of myself. The experience was profound and playful and beautiful and nurturing and has left me with a daily practice that I’m now excited to do each morning and feel the benefits from every time. I am so grateful for this experience and intend to share with as many people as I can Lovely accommodation and food as well 🙏🏻🥰

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.23

Matilda – thank you for your beautiful words and for being part of our community – it was a joy to have you with us and we’re sending you lots of love from the village. Hariharalaya Team 🌿

Mary Mann 2025.11.22

     

The past six days I spent at a meditation retreat in Siem Reap, Cambodia — learning not only about meditation and yoga, but about myself through stillness. We practiced mindfulness, ate nourishing vegan, gluten- and dairy-free meals, and completely unplugged from technology. I was blessed by monks, took part in an ice bath and a fire ceremony, and spent a full day in silence — which we ended together at sunrise at Angkor Wat. It was an unforgettable experience that reminded me how peaceful and alive life feels when you slow down and look within.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.22

Thank you for sharing your beautiful experience at the meditation retreat in Siem Reap. We're thrilled to hear that you found peace and nourishment through our program. It’s wonderful to know that the practices, meals, and ceremonies resonated with you and contributed to your journey of self-discovery. Your insights about slowing down and looking within truly capture the essence of what we aim to provide. We hope to welcome you back for another transformative experience in the future.

Danaé Valterio 2025.11.21

     

My week at Hari Hara in Cambodia was truly transformative. I arrived stressed and unsure of what to expect, but was immediately welcomed into the safest, warmest space. Each day blended meditation, yoga, and meaningful activities—from a monk blessing ceremony to a fire ceremony and an energizing fitness class with Gabi. The entire retreat felt like a journey inward, shared with a group that quickly became family. The experience was beautifully guided by Fiona, Gabi, and Johanna, whose care and expertise created an environment of trust and support. And meeting Joel Lokta, the founder, was something incredibly special. His teachings on meditation and breathwork were at the heart of the retreat and profoundly impacted me. The highlight of the week was the sunrise meditation at Angkor Wat—one of the most peaceful and unforgettable moments of my life. Hari Hara is more than a retreat; it’s a space of healing, connection, and genuine transformation. I’m deeply grateful to the whole team and would encourage anyone seeking clarity or renewal to experience it.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.21

Thank you for sharing your transformative experience at Hari Hara! We're thrilled to hear that you felt welcomed and supported throughout your stay. It’s wonderful to know that the blend of activities resonated with you, especially the sunrise meditation at Angkor Wat. Your kind words about our team and the environment we've created mean a lot to us. We look forward to welcoming you back for more healing and connection in the future!

Danaé V 2025.11.21

     

Verified

A Life-Changing Week at Hari Hara My week at Hari Hara in Cambodia was truly transformative. I arrived stressed and unsure of what to expect, but was immediately welcomed into the safest, warmest space. Each day blended meditation, yoga, and meaningful activities—from a monk blessing ceremony to a fire ceremony and an energizing fitness class with Gabi. The entire retreat felt like a journey inward, shared with a group that quickly became family. The experience was beautifully guided by Fiona, Gabi, and Johanna, whose care and expertise created an environment of trust and support. And meeting Joel Lokta, the founder, was something incredibly special. His teachings on meditation and breathwork were at the heart of the retreat and profoundly impacted me. The highlight of the week was the sunrise meditation at Angkor Wat—one of the most peaceful and unforgettable moments of my life. Hari Hara is more than a retreat; it’s a space of healing, connection, and genuine transformation. I’m deeply grateful to the whole team and would encourage anyone seeking clarity or renewal to experience it.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.23

Danaé – thank you for trusting us with your week and for sharing such a heartfelt reflection – it was a joy to witness your journey and to have your presence in the community – sending love from all of us, including Joel, Fiona, Gabi, Johanna – Hariharalaya Team 🌿

Guilherme Bier 2025.11.20

     

I came to the retreat with no expectations and a healthy dose of skepticism in the whole thing. Cant say it wasn’t difficult to bear the stillness of meditation and quiet contemplation. But at one point something just clicked in me and I found a new peace which im not sure I had experienced beforehand. Nowadays I feel there is undeniable value in meditation and I have incorporated many practices I learned with Lokta Joel in my daily life. I cant recommend enough that you go there and experience it for yourself.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.20

Thank you for sharing your transformative experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you found peace and value in the meditation practices taught by Lokta Joel. It's wonderful to know that you’ve incorporated these lessons into your daily life. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you back for another enlightening experience.

D Amor 2025.11.20

     

I arrived with more baggage than just my suitcase. I learned techniques to relax, calm my mind and to let my past go. I got more out of my 5 days there then I did from years therapy. I have been doing yoga everyday since. I hope to return again

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.20

Thank you for sharing your transformative experience! We're thrilled to hear that our program helped you find relaxation and clarity, and that you’ve integrated yoga into your daily routine. Your journey is inspiring, and we would love to welcome you back anytime. Wishing you continued peace and growth on your path.

Shiran B 2025.11.20

     

Verified

A beautiful journey into myself I went on a retreat by myself and it was incredible. I learned so much about myself, managed to slow down the pace of my thoughts, and found moments of true peace . The tools I gained there and the whole experience still stay with me today. The connection with those amazing people was truly moving — a one-of-a-kind experience I’ll never forget

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.23

Shiran – thank you for sharing so openly and for trusting us with your solo retreat – it was beautiful to see you soften, slow down and connect so deeply with yourself and the group, and you’ll always have a place in our village – Hariharalaya Team 🌿

Kate P 2025.11.20

     

Verified

My past was drowning me. Hariharalaya helped me swim to shore I arrived with more baggage than just my suitcase. I learned techniques to relax, calm my mind and to let my past go. I got more out of my 5 days there then I did from years therapy. I have been doing yoga everyday since. I hope to return again

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.11.23

Your words really touched us, and we feel honoured that your time here could support you in turning a heavy chapter into something lighter – it’s beautiful to hear your yoga practice is now part of your everyday life, and we’ll be here with open arms whenever you feel called to return – Hariharalaya Team 🌿

Christina T 2025.11.20

     

Verified

a great deep dive into yourself. i had the most needed digital detox and introspective time at Hariharalaya. loved every minute of my time there and look forward to returning!

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Anne Bolsius 2025.10.31

     

I just experienced this retreat for one week. They gave me the key to inner peace and happiness. It was practical, logical, fun, energising, relaxing, renewing, insightful and playful. Truly life changing. And the place, staff, food: just paradise. Thank you!!

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.10.31

We're thrilled to hear that your retreat experience was transformative and brought you inner peace and happiness. It’s wonderful to know that our atmosphere, staff, and food contributed to your enjoyable stay. Thank you for sharing your feedback; it inspires us to continue creating memorable experiences for all our guests. We look forward to welcoming you back to paradise!

corjashon henson 2025.10.20

     

I recently spent a few days at Hariharalaya, and even though my stay was short, it left a lasting impact. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with kindness, warmth, and genuine care. The community creates such a peaceful and supportive environment that you can’t help but feel at home. After years of living in high-stress environments and struggling to reconnect with myself, I found exactly what I had been searching for here — balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. The combination of yoga, meditation, and community living helped me rediscover stillness in a way that no online video or solo practice ever could. I especially appreciated the inclusive approach to yoga. I’ve always found traditional yoga a bit intimidating, but at Hariharalaya I learned that yoga can be flexible, personal, and accessible to every body. The movement, breathwork, and stillness sessions gave me tools I can take home and use every day. To the entire team and staff — thank you for your kindness, authenticity, and dedication to creating such a healing space. Even after just three nights, I left feeling full, grounded, and deeply grateful. If you’re looking for a place to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the joy of simply being — this is it.

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.10.20

Thank you for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. We are thrilled to hear that your stay at Hariharalaya was impactful and that you felt welcomed and supported by our community. It’s wonderful to know that our inclusive approach to yoga and the tools you gained will benefit you at home. Your kind words inspire us to continue providing a nurturing and healing environment for all. We hope to see you again for another transformative experience.

Gabriela Magalhaes 2025.10.11

     

My first week at this retreat in Cambodia has been beyond anything I could’ve imagined. The space is beautiful, clean, and sacred — filled with knowledge, love, and intention in every detail. From the yoga classes to the activities, everything is so thoughtfully curated. The staff is absolutely incredible — kind, attentive, and always present. The food is divine, the atmosphere peaceful, and the energy truly transformative. Daily meditation, pranayama, asana, fitness classes, and even unlimited fresh coconuts by the pool — it’s the perfect blend of discipline, learning, and joy. This place is more than a retreat — it’s a deep, heart-opening experience. Highly recommend to anyone ready to reconnect with themselves and expand in every way. 🙏✨

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.10.11

Thank you for your heartfelt review, Gabriela! We're thrilled to hear that your experience at our retreat has been so transformative and filled with joy. It's wonderful to know that you appreciated the beautiful space, our dedicated staff, and the thoughtfully curated activities. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. Wishing you continued growth and connection during your time here!

Kendall Stuart 2025.10.02

     

Go and experience this incredible place for yourself, Let this be a sign or the extra little nudge you were waiting for. The location is perfect, although it looks like it is in the middle of the city, you feel as if you are in a lush garden of secrets and beautiful surprises, everywhere you look there is something new to soak in and yet if anything is needed, its close enough to every convenience. the facilities are exception from the rooms to every bit of entertainment you can imagine from a holistic and authentic space of safety and discovery. It is beyond clean, the food is very easily the best vegan food I have ever eaten. Coconuts on tap, healthy cake all round- I have never been so full, so healthily satisfied and yet so felt so light. The staff, other group members and facilitators were exceptional and all played such a grand part in all the synchronicities that popped up, that I had been missing for the longest time. The knowledge that was shared I value greatly and continue to integrate into my routine, especially the questions I asked were specifically answered according to what I needed for motivation and working on self regulation instead of external resources and the need for validation. The magic of the temple was also exceptional being able to go as a group. Most of all, The perfectly curated program that the team has developed over the years I regard as a beautiful map to topping up all our internal cups, building on the spirit and joy, and play in the real sense. Being wrapped up in nature was the treat that held it together for me and the beautiful space created. I could keep going on but will leave the rest to your own experience and surprise. My time here was needed, perfectly on time and beyond value for the experience is beyond measure for what it has opened to me. Would love to make this an annual adventure. So expansively grateful!

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Reply from Hariharalaya - Center for Awakening 2025.10.02

Thank you for your wonderful review, Kendall! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a transformative experience at our location and that our facilities, food, and program resonated with you so deeply. It’s heartening to know that the environment, along with the support from our staff and community, contributed to your journey of self-discovery and motivation. We appreciate your recognition of the magic within our space and the value you found in your interactions here. We look forward to welcoming you back for your annual adventure!

Kays D 2025.10.02

     

Verified

Perfectly on Time and beyond Value Go and experience this incredible place for yourself, Let this be a sign or the extra little nudge you were waiting for. The location is perfect, although it looks like it is in the middle of the city, you feel as if you are in a lush garden of secrets and beautiful surprises, everywhere you look there is something new to soak in and yet if anything is needed, its close enough to every convenience. the facilities are exception from the rooms to every bit of entertainment you can imagine from a holistic and authentic space of safety and discovery. It is beyond clean, the food is very easily the best vegan food I have ever eaten. Coconuts on tap, healthy cake all round- I have never been so full, so healthily satisfied and yet so felt so light. The staff, other group members and facilitators were exceptional and all played such a grand part in all the synchronicities that popped up, that I had been missing for the longest time. The knowledge that was shared I value greatly and continue to integrate into my routine, especially the questions I asked were specifically answered according to what I needed for motivation and working on self regulation instead of external resources and the need for validation. The magic of the temple was also exceptional being able to go as a group. Most of all, The perfectly curated program that the team has developed over the years I regard as a beautiful map to topping up all our internal cups, building on the spirit and joy, and play in the real sense. Being wrapped up in nature was the treat that held it together for me and the beautiful space created. I could keep going on but will leave the rest to your own experience and surprise. My time here was needed, perfectly on time and beyond value for the experience is beyond measure for what it has opened to me. Would love to make this an annual adventure. So expansively grateful!

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Alina G 2025.08.31

     

Verified

Full heart, deep gratitude, and a big smile Hariharalaya retreat was absolutely amazing! Everything was so thoughtfully organised, and the atmosphere was filled with warmth and positivity. I met the most incredible people and finally had the time to slow down, be still, and reconnect with myself. Joel’s gentle reminders that “the time is now” were very powerful and he really helped bring us back to the present moment again and again. The retreat offered such a wonderful variety of practices, from laughter yoga to a beautiful fire ceremony, each one leaving its own mark. The moments of stillness and the visit to Angkor Wat were unforgettable highlights. Honestly, everyone should treat themselves to this experience at least once in their lifetime (though once a year would be even better!). I’m leaving with a full heart, deep gratitude, and a big smile.

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