What to expect from a 200-hour YTT in Bali

“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” , The Bhagavad Gita

A few years ago, while I was curled up with a turmeric latte at Woods restaurant in Pererenan and a deadline I’d long missed, I stumbled across a stat that said over 25,000 people enroll in 200-hour yoga teacher trainings (YTTs) every year and Bali?

Bali’s top of the list. I wasn’t surprised, really. Something about that island pulls on the soul.

I remember googling “What to expect from a 200-hour YTT in Bali” and falling into a rabbit hole of perfectly curated retreat photos and vague, influencer captions. Honestly? I wanted more than dreamy shots.

I needed the real stuff. Like, what time would I wake up? What if I didn’t want to teach but just wanted to feel more… centered? (Also, did they have good coffee?)

If you’re here wondering the same, let’s talk. No fluff, no perfection. Just a sisterly rundown of what this journey might really look like for your body, your brain, and your beautiful, overbooked heart.

Why Bali?

Serene sunset scene in Bali with a person enjoying the view from a seafront bale.
Serene sunset scene in Bali with a person enjoying the view from a seafront bale.

Bali is kind of yoga’s spiritual Disneyland. But beyond the sarongs and smoothie bowls, it’s genuinely a powerful place.

You feel it. In Ubud the cultural heart, morning incense wafts through the air like some kind of soul-reset mist. The island isn’t just beautiful. It’s sacred, and it shows.

Yoga teacher trainings in Bali have exploded. There’s a reason the top searched phrase is “200 hour yoga teacher training Bali”.

Women like you and me are craving something deeper. If you’re seriously considering attending, check YOGI TIMES’s 200-hour yoga teacher training in Bali for certified options, dates.

What is a 200-hour YTT anyway? (and do I have to be bendy?)

Good news: you don’t have to touch your toes or quote Sanskrit to show up. A 200-hour YTT is the standard certification for aspiring yoga teachers, but truth be told, many women take it just to grow.

Here’s what you’ll explore:

  • Asana (poses, with purpose)
  • Pranayama (breathwork)
  • Meditation and philosophy
  • Anatomy and alignment
  • Teaching methodology
  • Business of yoga (marketing, ethics, class planning)

Also expect to practice teaching yes, in front of other people. It gets easier, I promise.

Daily life – from sun salutes to moonlit stillness

Days start early. Like, 5:30 a.m. early, 6.30 am if you are lucky.

Your schedule might include:

  • Meditation or breathwork to wake up
  • Morning yoga practice
  • Group breakfast
  • Anatomy or philosophy lecture
  • Peer teaching or journaling
  • Evening gentle yoga or quiet time

Most programs offer one day off each week for rest or exploring Bali.

The styles you’ll practice

Yoga practitioners stretching in a peaceful natural setting with golden morning light Group yoga practice in Bali surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight
Yoga practitioners stretching in a peaceful natural setting with golden morning light Group yoga practice in Bali surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight. Photo credit: @ZunaYoga. 

Most Bali programs offer a blend of styles. You might encounter:

  • Hatha Yoga (traditional)
  • Vinyasa (flowing and modern)
  • Ashtanga (structured and strong)
  • Yin or Restorative (deep and slow)
  • Meditation and breathwork
  • Yoga philosophy (Vedas, Sutras, Upanishads)

You’ll leave with exposure to various systems and perspectives, not just one approach.

Food, beds, and bugs

Expect:

  • Vegan or vegetarian meals (often sattvic)
  • Eco-resorts, or boutique stays, glamping hotels, dedicated retreat centers…. they are plenty. on the Island.
  • Shared or private rooms
  • On-site laundry
  • Good WiFi (in most places)
  • Tropical bugs, bring repellent

Packing musts: yoga towel, reusable water bottle, light breathable clothing, sunscreen, a power bank.

What it costs?

Most 200-hour YTTs in Bali cost between $1,000 and $2,500.

Typically included:

  • Lodging
  • Meals
  • Course materials
  • Excursions or ceremonies

Not included:

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa (30 days for $35 on arrival; extendable with an Visa Agent, your school can help you with that easily. You can also organize your visa yourself on the official government website here: https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/)

Some schools offer scholarships or trade for volunteer programs.

How to choose the right school?

Group of yoga students on the famous Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, must do
Group of yoga students on the famous Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, absolute must do! Photo credit: @ZunaYoga. 

Ask these questions:

  • Is it Yoga Alliance 200-Hour Standards certified?
  • Are teachers E-RYT 500 or experienced?
  • What are real students saying?
  • What’s the student-to-teacher ratio?
  • Does the style and vibe feel aligned with your goals?

Always read third-party reviews or reach out to past graduates.

What you’ll actually walk away with

By the end, you’ll have:

  • A Yoga Alliance-recognized certificate
  • The ability to lead a class with confidence
  • A deeper personal practice
  • Understanding of yogic philosophy
  • Tools to build a teaching career or deepen your life path

Some leave to teach. Others just feel changed in the best way.

Real talk: is this for me?

If you’re still thinking about it, probably yes.

You don’t need to be a teacher, or perfect, or advanced. Just curious. If you’re looking for purpose, peace, or maybe just space to breathe, YTT in Bali is worth considering.

Before you go: a few tips

  • Practice yoga daily, even if just 10 minutes
  • Prep emotionally, it might get intense
  • Journal often, it helps you track growth
  • Pack smart, not heavy
  • Don’t over-plan your free time. Let Bali guide you.

FAQs

Yes. Absolutely.

Yes, most programs are Yoga Alliance approved.

Yes, especially in Ubud and retreat areas.

That’s okay. Many come just to deepen their practice.

Your next chapter is calling

Students learning to become yoga instructors during a YTT in Bali
Students learning to become yoga instructors during a YTT in Bali. Photo credit: @ZunaYoga. 

Maybe this isn’t about teaching. Maybe it’s about remembering who you are beneath the noise. About stillness. Strength. Something honest.

If you’re feeling that pull… it might be time.

Watch this video: Vinyasa Flow from a Bali Grad
Read more: Visa & Travel Guide

mm
Written by
About Tea Tea is a passionate yoga instructor and wellness advocate who has devoted her life to helping others find balance, inner peace, and strength through the transformative power of yoga. With a deep love for holistic living and mindfulness, Tea’s mission is to inspire her students to
Read more
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments