The Expanding Light Retreat - Nevada City, California

Rachel Ishani Ebgi

The Expanding Light has been my go-to retreat for years, offering the perfect blend of rejuvenation, relaxation, and inspiration. The serene, magical grounds create a truly peaceful atmosphere, making every visit feel like a glimpse of heaven on earth.

Hue Anh Nguyen

Beautiful peaceful center. Very friendly staff. Lovely healthy meals . I love the gardens and the energy. Perfect get away

Barbara Fiesterman

Staying at The Expanding Light Retreat is a magical experience. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. The programs are top quality and meaningful. The food is delicious with a high vibration. The best part is the beautiful, caring and warm hearted staff. I am so grateful there is a place relatively close to the Bay area where I can retreat and recharge. Thank you!

Kamaladevi Beswick

The quality of the program I attended was superb. The activities were very well thought through and provided opportunities to meet new friends, to introspect, and to have fun. The meals were wonderful and generous, and my room was very comfortable and peaceful. The retreat property is lovely, and the vibration of the place is one of the most uplifting I have ever experienced.

Darren Woodworth

Amazing day with the snow falling outside to give this place a warm and wonderful spiritual experience. ? Never allow anyone or anything to steal your joy life's way too precious and way too short. Godspeed ?. So grateful we moved up to this area. Paradise.

Sebastian Yavar (Seb)

Ananda Village is one of the most enchanting places I've ever been to. This place has changed the lives of many people, including my own, and continues to be one of the strongest centers of light and energy in the western hemisphere. This place brims with wise and caring individuals and is a hub of harmony for all religions and their practitioners. In the spring one can experience the miracle of life as the tulips begin to bloom in the Crystal Hermitage gardens, but all year round this place has an infinity of things to offer.

Fawn Pokrywka

I recently attended the Christmas retreat at the Expanding Light at Ananda Village, and I can wholeheartedly say it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt enveloped in an atmosphere of peace, love, and spiritual upliftment.

Sagar and Krishna Das were exceptional teachers, making everyone feel welcome, cherished, and deeply cared for. Their warmth and genuine passion for sharing the teachings of Yogananda were evident in our lessons. They provided insightful guidance, creating an environment where spiritual growth was not only encouraged but felt natural and uplifting. Their enthusiasm for the teachings of self-realization was contagious, and their dedication to supporting the spiritual journey of each guest was truly inspiring.

The food at the retreat was healthy and delicious. Every meal was prepared with love, offering wholesome, plant-based options. It was clear that the kitchen staff, including the karma yogis, were deeply committed to providing food that was both healthy and spiritually uplifting, making each meal a joy.

What always stands out here is the sense of community. The karma yogis, residents, and other guests were incredibly warm and loving. There was a genuine sense of interconnectedness, where people supported one another on their spiritual paths.

The retreat itself was a perfect balance of quiet reflection, uplifting teachings, and joyful celebration of the Christmas season. I left feeling recharged, inspired, and more connected to my own spiritual journey. If you're looking for a place that combines deep spiritual teachings with genuine community, healthy food, and loving hospitality, the Christmas retreat at the Expanding Light is a truly transformative experience.

Elizabeth Vinaya Quill

The Expanding Light retreat is heaven on earth. I wouldn’t want to keep this secret to myself, because Ananda’s mission is to SHARE love and light. I travel from the East coast many times per year to attend retreats, and bring my adult children when they can come.
The Christmas Retreat marks our third time in attendance and every year it is better and better. Krishnadas and Sagar are the dream team of instructors, bringing lifetimes of experience, humor, and practical insights. This year we discussed the true interpretation of the beatitudes and it was eye opening for all of us.
We are leaving full of love, wanting to share with the world. Many of us come from religious backgrounds where we were inclined to feel shame and guilt over our many perceived transgressions. Imagine the effect just this one idea has on our psyche, that all men are born sinners. How does one overcome this?
We leave here knowing that God, Jesus and the Masters are LOVE. There is no room for guilt, shame, etc.
But one does not have to participate in a formal retreat..there are opportunities for personal retreats. You will be taken care of, I promise. Nourishing vegetarian meals (vegan and gluten free available), beautiful surroundings, and the most peaceful vibrations are all available to you.
I could go on. I can’t wait to return!