What is ARTCATION All About?

ARTCATION with Project Aaina is a holistic retreat experience that merges art and vacation into one transformative journey, redefining experiential travel. It's about embracing creativity, connecting with oneself, and immersing in the beauty of nature, while exploring new destinations. Through a carefully curated itinerary, participants engage in various art forms, mindfulness practices, and outdoor activities, fostering self-reflection and growth. It's an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and create lifelong memories in the company of like-minded individuals.

Wondering if you have to be an artist to join us? 

Well, let us give you some awesome news: you already are one! You do not have to be a master of the craft to know art. We are here to inculcate artistic expression through the free flow of conversations and experiences. We help build a safe space for our guests to explore their creativity, build meaningful connections, and share their stories.

Through a blend of deep research and spiritual practice, we have curated a sanctuary for the soul. Our sessions invite you to gently peel back the layers of your external world, releasing the person you’ve had to be to rediscover the essence of who you truly are.

The sessions include art, movement-based activities, yoga, meditation, sound healing, breath-work, drum circles, along with various recreational sessions.

NOTE: You don’t need to have any background in Art or be an Artist. It’s about flowing from one medium to another.

When is it Happening?

This 5-day retreat is from 1st to 6th October, 2026

Where is it Happening?

Just a few kilometres away from the bustling town of Manali, nestled amidst the grandeur of the Himalayan mountain range, lies a hidden gem that has the power to soothe your soul - Sonaugi village. It's hard to describe the magic of this place, where the serene and tranquil air wraps around you, and the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar range tower above you. Located at an altitude of 1920 M / 6300 ft, Sonaugi is a world away from the crowds of Manali.

Legend has it that the land was named Sonaugi, or the "Land of the Golden Crop", after nearby villagers discovered fields of golden wheat growing here. Today, Sonaugi is a picturesque retreat for the senses, with towering Himalayan Cedars (Deodar) embracing the landscape on three sides, and lush apple orchards stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Where Will We Stay?

Nestled in the embrace of the Himalayas, The Sonaugi Homestead by Banjara Experiences is a unique and charming retreat that feels like it was built exactly for slowing down, breathing deeply, and returning to yourself.

Painstakingly hand-built by Italian architect Eris Binda in the traditional Kath-Kuni style, the homestead is not just a place to stay, it is a piece of living craft. Every beam, every detail speaks to a deep respect for the land and the traditions of the region, while seamlessly blending with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

The rooms are warm, well-furnished and luxurious in their feel. With wooden interiors, earthy tones, and windows that open to sweeping views of verdant mountainsides and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, waking up here is an experience in itself.

This will be your haven at the end of each day; restorative, grounding, and quietly extraordinary.

What is the Price of Investing in Yourself?

You can experience this entire Retreat for a budget of

Triple Occupancy- INR 67,599/- per person 

Double Occupancy- INR 77,999/- per person (limited seats on first come, first serve basis)

Contact us to avail the Early Bird Discount or enquire about single occupancy. 

Actual cost of stay, food, transportation (to and from from Himachal and within) & cultural activities for 5 days- INR 43k

Program, experience, 15+ workshops/sessions, materials & curation fee- INR 25k

A portion of this money is used to provide activities for underprivileged children & women

Travel (Meeting Point)

THE MEETING POINT WILL BE CHANDIGARH ON 1st OF OCTOBER, 2026 AT 10 PM 

• You should arrive by 10 PM on 1st October, 2026 at the meeting point. You can meet with your co-participants and get to know the team (the exact location will be shared later) 

• We leave from Chandigarh at 10:30 PM

• We will be reaching our Retreat destination around 6 AM on the morning of 2nd October, 2026 and will be leaving from Sonaugi post 2 PM on 6th of October, 2026

• You should plan to return to your destination after 8:30 PM on 6th October, 2026

What’s the Group Size?

We keep the group size limited to 10 participants, to curate a personalized experience.

What Does the Day-Wise Journey Look Like?

Note - This is just an overview of the itinerary. You are in for a lot of fun surprises. 

Click on each day to expand for details.

What's Waiting for You?

Sometimes you don't need a reason. You just know. But if you're looking for one:

This is a space to rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul. To reclaim your creative spirit, reconnect with yourself through music therapy and sound healing, and be introduced to meditative and therapeutic practices you can carry into your everyday life long after the retreat ends.

It's a chance to finally take that getaway you've been putting off, one that's full of meaningful, joyful, and genuinely fun experiences. To connect with like-hearted fellow travellers and come home not just rested, but lighter, freer, and a little more like yourself.

🎨 Art Sessions · 🎵 Music Circles · 🪘 Sound Healing · 🧘 Meditation · 💃 Movement Therapy · 🎶 Live Music · 🏰 Naggar Heritage Tour · 🌲 Forest Bathing & Hiking · 🍽️ All Meals · 🏡 Accommodation · 🤝 Friendships & Memories that Last

Take a deep breath—you’ve earned a rest.

Get in touch today to save your spot 🎨

DISCLAIMER

* You are requested to respect Nature, the culture of the region, and the sentimental values of the locals. You must refrain from acts of littering, intoxication in public areas, and disrespecting people, animals, or any places of worship at all times.

* We at Project Aaina do not support the use of any kind of Intoxication since we’re here on a spiritual journey. The use of drugs, alcohol consumption and smoking is prohibited during the retreats.

*You have to be 18+ to attend our retreats. If you are below 18, we will require you to submit an NOC signed by your parents or guardian.

*All meals provided during the retreats will be vegetarian. The ingredients will be locally sourced with an aim of keeping meals fresh and nourishing, enhance the authentic cuisine experience.

* You are responsible for yourself and your belongings for the entire duration of the Retreat. The organisers are not responsible for any theft or loss of your personal belongings or for any personal injury caused to you.
*In the event of unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the organizers, such as natural calamities, government-imposed lockdowns, travel bans, or any other force majeure event, Project Aaina reserves the right to reschedule the retreat to a later date. In such cases, no refunds will be issued. However, the booking amount paid by the participant will be securely carried forward as a credit toward the rescheduled retreat. All participants will be informed of the new dates and provided with continued support to ensure a smooth transition.

*Uninformed movement by participants during the day and night outside the property is strictly prohibited; the host or the organizers will not be responsible for any unforeseen circumstances.

* Payment policy-  You can temporarily book your seat by paying the registration fee online. Interested individuals are requested to pay the full payment inorder to secure their spot for the retreat.

* Refund policy-  Please review our Retreat Cancellation & Refund Policy before booking.

* If a Retreat has been postponed/cancelled due to Covid or any natural disaster, the payments shall be adjusted towards the rescheduled Retreat.

*We don’t support any kind of mistreatment/bullying. Consent is a very important factor in the case of every participant and team member at Project Aaina. Happy hugs are always welcome.

*You will be asked to leave the retreat immediately if you fail to follow the above-mentioned policies.