TL;DR
The Yoga Scene in Cambodia
Yoga has grown significantly in Phnom Penh. The scene is notably mission-driven - many studios support local communities. AZAHAR trains trauma-affected youth, United Yoga sponsors disadvantaged Cambodians for teacher training, and Nataraj's profits fund NGO work.
| Style | Studios |
|---|---|
| Vinyasa/Flow | AZAHAR, United Yoga, Nataraj |
| Iyengar | Yoga Satya, Yoga Rasa, Yoga Mata |
| Jivamukti | AZAHAR (official affiliate) |
| Ashtanga | Nataraj, Peace Cafe (Siem Reap) |
| Aerial | AZAHAR, Blue Indigo |
Phnom Penh Studios
AZAHAR Foundation Cambodia
Nonprofit Jivamukti affiliate with the best rates.
What you get:
- Official Jivamukti Yoga Affiliate Studio
- All teachers are Cambodian
- Supports trauma-affected youth
- Vinyasa, Jivamukti, Fly Fit/Aerial, Sound Healing
- Mats, props, water, towels included
Pricing:
Best for: Budget-conscious, Jivamukti enthusiasts, supporting local community
United Yoga Asia
Most comprehensive schedule and transparent pricing.
What you get:
- International crew of teachers
- Precision-based instruction
- Mission: Train 10 Cambodian instructors in 10 years
- Nature retreats and wellness events
Pricing:
Best for: Variety, international teaching styles, structured practice
Yoga Satya (Iyengar)
Dedicated Iyengar studio with excellent reviews.
What you get:
- Exclusive Iyengar Yoga focus
- 97% recommend on TripAdvisor
- Certified Iyengar teacher Delphine Vann
- Well-equipped with props
- Private classes for health issues
Best for: Iyengar practitioners, precise alignment, beginners seeking solid foundation
Nataraj Yoga Studio
Phnom Penh's longest-running studio (since 2004).
What you get:
- Project of Krama Yoga NGO
- 100% profits support NGO activities
- Trains Khmer yoga teachers
- Ashtanga, Sivananda, Pre-natal, Restorative, Vinyasa
- Beautiful two-storey building with courtyard
Pricing:
Best for: Supporting local NGOs, variety of styles, yoga therapy
Siem Reap Studios
Navutu Dreams Resort (Siem Reap)
Wellness resort with drop-in classes and pool access.
What you get:
- Pioneer in Cambodia wellness since 2012
- 2 yoga shalas, 3 swimming pools
- Class access includes pool access
- Pranayama at Angkorian temples
- Forest bathing in Angkor Archaeological Park
Pricing:
Best for: Combining yoga with resort amenities, temple meditation
Peace Cafe (Siem Reap)
Siem Reap's longest-running yoga center.
What you get:
- Traditional wooden house setting
- Ashtanga, Hatha, Vinyasa
- Free Buddhism for beginners sessions
- Free monk chats
- Vegetarian restaurant below
Pricing:
Best for: Budget yoga, cultural experiences, vegetarian food
Pricing Comparison
Phnom Penh
| Studio | Drop-in | 5 Classes | 10 Classes | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZAHAR | $5-8 | Discounted | Discounted | Available |
| United Yoga Asia | $10 | $45 | $85 | $110 |
| Nataraj | ~$9 | - | - | - |
Siem Reap
| Studio | Drop-in | 5 Classes | Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navutu Dreams | $9 | - | $76 |
| Yoga Space | $8 | $35 | $68 |
| Peace Cafe | $6 | - | - |
| Seven Candles | $3-5 | - | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to class?
Most studios provide mats and props. Bring comfortable clothing, a water bottle (often provided), and arrive 10-15 minutes early.
What's the best style for beginners?
Hatha or beginner Vinyasa are most accessible. Iyengar is excellent for learning proper alignment. Most studios clearly mark beginner-friendly classes.
Are classes taught in English?
Yes, most classes at expat-oriented studios are in English. Some teachers are bilingual (English/Khmer).