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 3rd to 8th June 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 64 599/- per person 

Double Occupancy- INR 74,999/- per person (limited seats on first come, first serve basis)

Note: please contact us if you are interested in single occupancy. 

Actual cost of stay, food, transportation (to and from from Himachal and within) & cultural activities for 5 days- INR 41k

Program, experience, 15+ workshops/sessions, materials & curation fee- INR 24k

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

Travel (Meeting Point)

THE MEETING POINT WILL BE CHANDIGARH ON 3RD OF JUNE, 2026 AT 10 PM 

• You should arrive by 10 PM on 3rd June, 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 of 4th June, 2026 and will be leaving from Sonaugi post 2 PM on 8th of June, 2026

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

The Location