Som Swar Retreat Brings Healing Through Music to Gir Forest This June

Gir Forest, Gujarat — As travellers seek increasingly meaningful and culturally immersive experiences, Woods at Sasan is launching Som Swar, a four-day retreat dedicated to exploring the restorative power of Indian classical music. The programme will run from June 19–22, 2026, in celebration of World Music Day.

Curated in collaboration with musician and senior journalist Abhilasha Ojha, the retreat integrates classical raag traditions with wellness practices and nature-based activities, all set within the natural surroundings of Gir Forest. The initiative responds to a broader shift in travel preferences, where visitors increasingly prioritise experiences that foster personal reconnection and cultural engagement over conventional sightseeing.

Laurent Guiraud, Chief Operating Officer at Woods at Sasan, explained the philosophy behind the retreat: "Hospitality is moving beyond simply offering accommodation and destinations. Guests today want experiences that allow them to reconnect with themselves, explore cultural heritage, and engage meaningfully with the natural world. Som Swar embodies this vision, grounded in the distinctive landscape of Gir."

The retreat structure centres on two core offerings. Som-Raag focuses on healing raags paired with grounding practices and attentive musical engagement. Som Baithak, drawing from the traditional Hindustani baithak format, creates an intimate setting for classical music that deepens cultural and emotional resonance among participants.

Ojha highlighted the contemporary relevance of such initiatives: "There is growing appetite for experiences rooted in music therapy, sound-based healing, and culturally grounded travel. People increasingly value journeys that feel restorative and purposeful rather than superficial."

She added, "Som Swar aims to reframe Indian classical music beyond performance contexts — as a medium for healing, connection, and intentional slowing down. We hope participants depart with a heightened sense of calm and meaningful connection."

The curated itinerary includes guided raag therapy sessions, intimate baithak performances, forest listening walks, sound therapy practices, silent dining experiences, mindful dialogues, and immersive nature activities. Each component is designed to foster restoration, contemplation, and deeper connection.

The retreat takes place at Woods at Sasan, a regenerative boutique property encompassing eight acres of mango orchard on the boundary of Gir National Park, operated under 1000 Island Hotels & Resorts.

Som Swar represents an initiative of Som Wellbeing, reflecting the growing momentum in music tourism and experience-led cultural travel as visitors seek alternatives to conventional urban tourism circuits.