Many people ask me the same question. What is the average yoga teacher salary in India? If you’re thinking about teaching yoga as a career, it’s a valid concern. I’ve taught across India in studios, schools, retreats, and ashrams. Here’s what I’ve seen and learned over the years.
Yoga as a Profession in India
Yoga is deeply rooted in Indian culture. But as a profession, it has only recently become more visible. Many new teachers, fresh from their yoga teacher training course, want to teach full-time. Some start in a yoga studio. Others look for jobs in a yoga school or retreat center.
Like any profession, earnings depend on location, experience, and type of work. There is no fixed number. Some teachers earn a modest living. Others make enough to support a family. But it takes time.
Starting Salary for Yoga Teachers in India
Let’s start with the basics. A beginner yoga instructor salary in India usually ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per month. This applies mostly to full-time jobs in small yoga schools or local wellness studios.
If you teach part-time, you may earn ₹300 to ₹500 per session. That means your total monthly income depends on the number of classes you teach.
In bigger cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore, the pay might be higher. Studios there serve more clients and charge more per class.
Yoga Studio Jobs: What to Expect
Working at a yoga studio offers structure. You may be expected to teach 2–4 sessions daily. These may include group classes, private lessons, or therapy-based sessions.
Studios often pay based on class attendance or hourly rates. On average, instructors earn between ₹500 to ₹1,200 per class. That can add up if you teach daily.
But there are no shortcuts. Studios want experienced teachers. If you’re new, they may offer fewer slots or trial periods.
Income from Private Yoga Classes
Some teachers prefer going freelance. They visit clients’ homes or teach online. Here, you set your own rates. Many freelance yoga teachers in India charge ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per session, depending on city and client profile.
Private teaching pays better but takes effort. You must handle your own scheduling, travel, and promotion. Still, with 4–5 clients a day, you can earn a decent income.
Teaching in a Yoga School or Retreat Center
Yoga schools that run teacher training programs also hire instructors. If you’ve completed a 200-hour YTT and gained experience, this could be your next step.
These jobs offer steady work. You may be paid ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per month during high seasons. However, work may slow during off-seasons.
In places like Rishikesh or Goa, many retreats hire teachers on a seasonal basis. Pay is often lower than urban studios, but food and lodging are included.
Teaching at an Ashram or Non-Profit
Some yoga teachers choose the spiritual path. They teach at ashrams or seva-based centers. Here, the yoga teacher salary in India is not the main focus.
Often, teachers get a small monthly honorarium, around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, along with food and stay. This setup suits those looking for simplicity and service.
Does Certification Matter?
Yes. A proper yoga certification improves your chances of getting hired. Most studios ask for a Yoga Alliance-approved 200-hour course.
More advanced teachers may hold 300-hour or 500-hour certificates. While these don’t always increase salary directly, they help in securing better teaching roles.
Also, some schools in India now look for anatomy and therapy knowledge. If you have training in yoga therapy, you might earn more.
City vs Rural: Salary Differences
Location makes a big difference. In cities like Bangalore, Delhi, or Pune, studios pay more. But competition is also higher.
In smaller towns, you might earn less. However, your cost of living is lower. Teaching in rural yoga schools or ashrams may pay little, but offer peace and learning.
How Yoga Teachers Get Paid
Most studios pay monthly, based on number of sessions taught. Freelancers get paid per class, often in cash or online.
Some schools offer fixed contracts for teacher training programs. These are paid either per day or per course.
You may also get tips, bonuses, or referrals, especially if students like your style and progress under your guidance.
Online Teaching Opportunities
Post-2020, many yoga teachers started teaching online. This works well if you have regular students or teach abroad.
Online sessions can pay ₹500 to ₹1,500 per class, or more if you teach in English and reach global students.
You need good internet, a quiet space, and comfort with tech. It also helps to offer classes at flexible times.
Challenges in the Profession
Yoga teaching is rewarding but not always easy. Income is not stable in the beginning. You must build your student base.
You may face seasonal slowdowns. There’s competition in metro cities. Some months will be better than others.
But if you keep learning, stay disciplined, and build trust with students, the work becomes steady.
Tips to Increase Your Income
- Specialize: Learn prenatal yoga, therapy yoga, or senior yoga.
- Teach in English: Helps you reach international students.
- Record classes: Sell them online or offer on subscription.
- Take workshops: Teach weekend or short-term retreats.
- Offer private sessions: Clients often pay more for one-on-one.
These steps take effort but pay off over time.
Final Thoughts on Yoga Teacher Salary in India
If you’re serious about teaching yoga, start with clear expectations. The yoga teacher salary in India varies. In the beginning, it may feel small. But with time, the work grows.
Yoga is not a shortcut to quick money. But it’s steady, honest work. You meet kind people. You help others feel better.
If you stay committed, income and respect both follow.
FAQ: Yoga Teacher Salary in India
Q: How much does a beginner yoga teacher earn in India?
Usually between ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per month.
Q: What is the average income for yoga teachers in big cities?
Instructors in Delhi or Mumbai may earn ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 per month.
Q: Can I make a living as a yoga teacher in India?
Yes, with experience, good planning, and steady clients.
Q: Do yoga teachers get paid more in studios or privately?
Private sessions usually pay more per class.
Q: Is it better to work at an ashram or a studio?
Depends on your goal. Ashrams offer spiritual focus. Studios offer higher pay.
Q: Does having a certification help?
Yes. Most schools ask for certified teachers, especially Yoga Alliance credentials.
Q: Can I teach yoga online from India?
Yes. Many Indian teachers offer online classes globally.
Q: Do yoga schools hire recent TTC graduates?
Yes, but they often start with lower pay or internship roles.
Yoga teaching is a path of practice and patience. The salary grows with time, effort, and experience. And if your heart is in the right place, the rewards go beyond just money.
