Finding the Story - Writing Retreat

Writer's Room by Nihal brings together 11 writers with Nihal Parashar and Chirag Garg to develop the stories they have been carrying. Bring an idea, a character, a conflict or a story world, and explore whether it belongs in a novel or novella, film or short film, or web series.

Expect uninterrupted writing blocks, exercises, guided conversations, group feedback and a one-to-one session with Nihal and Chirag. The programme covers story structure, developing a first draft and preparing to approach publishers, producers and platforms.

The retreat begins with a welcome circle and bonfire. Further sessions explore character, desire and conflict; a shared outing visits monasteries and tea gardens with a writing exercise on the road. The final day includes readings, a discussion about taking work to market and a closing circle. Checkout is by 1 pm.

The residential setting is Terra Poetica in Gunehar village near Bir, with a garden and mountain-facing terrace. Accommodation comprises six places in same-gender twin-sharing rooms and five dorm beds. The package includes four nights of accommodation, all meals, every session and exercise, individual feedback, the Bir outing with transport, a welcome kit and a copy of the shared diary-book after the retreat. Meals are vegetarian.

Participation is by invitation only.