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Popular Ashrams in India

There are several Ashrams in Rishikesh by the River Ganga or The Auroville Ashram in Tamil Nadu, which attract many people from around the world. Some of them come to seek spiritual guidance while others visit here just to relax and escape the busy world. There are famous spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekanand and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, who have spread the message of inner peace and self-discovery across the world.

Also Read - Rishikesh: A Journey to Inner Peace

Suggested Tour Packages - 4 Days - Rishikesh Tour from Delhi

These Ashrams provide individuals a space so that they can focus and rest simultaneously. The relaxed vibes here help them to focus on their inner souls and grow mentally and spiritually. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, these places offer a chance to reflect and find happiness within. If you are looking to reconnect with yourself, the ashrams are the perfect places to start a journey of self-discovery.
Here, we have shortlisted the top 11 ashrams of India that you should visit.

1. Sivananda Ashram Rishikesh: A Journey to Inner Peace


Located on the sacred bank of the river Ganga, Rishikesh, Sivananda Ashram is not just a spiritual retreat, it is a place where the souls find their true calling. This ashram was founded in the year 1936 by Swami Sivananda, who was a great saint and yogi, and since then, this place has acted as a guiding light to seekers from all over the world. With the mighty Himalayas standing as silent witness, this ashram offers a perfect space for yogic and meditation activities.

Swami Sivananda, a doctor turned spiritual leader, dedicated his whole life to spreading the message of “Serve, Love, Meditate, Realize”. He believed in simple living and high thinking, which inspired thousands to walk on the path of devotion and knowledge. His teachings, which are deeply rooted in Vedanta and Yoga, continue to transform the lives of many today. While you're here, every morning you can listen to the soft chants of Vedic hymns, which fill the air with spirituality. Visitors engage in Yoga sessions, meditation, and selfless services, experiencing a deep sense of peace. Currently, this abode is maintained and administered by an organization called The Divine Life Society.

How to Reach Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh
Sivananda Ashram is located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, a city known as the Yoga Capital of the World. It is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for visitors from India and abroad.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), about 20 km from the ashram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach the ashram in about 40–45 minutes.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Yoga Nagari Rishikesh Junction but it is not well connected to major cities of the country. So you get a train to Haridwar Junction (HW), which is located 25 km away. Haridwar is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. From Haridwar, you can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to reach Rishikesh in around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Road
Rishikesh has a good road network. You can take a bus or taxi from major cities like Delhi (240 km), Haridwar (25 km), and Dehradun (45 km).

More info about Rishikesh –

2.  Art of Living International Centre, Bangalore: A Sanctuary of Peace and Wellness


Located at a distance of 21 km away in the southwest direction of Bangalore city, The Art of Living Center is the headquarters of the cultural organization Art of Living Foundation established by Sri Sri Ravishankar. Constructed in the year 1986, on the Kanakpura Road atop the Panchagiri hills, this ashram focuses on creating a stress-free society through multiple programs, which include yoga, meditation n, ayurveda treatment, and many more.

A Retreat for Mind, Body, and Soul
The ashram is often called the "Bangalore Ashram" and welcomes over 1 million visitors annually. Located amidst the Panchagiri Hills, this ashram offers an escape from the stress and noisy city life. The serene gardens, tranquil water bodies, and lush greenery, all create an environment here that seems perfect for meditation, self-reflection, and healing. You can also engage yourself in yoga sessions, guided meditation sessions, and satsang, which are organized here daily through which you can uplift your spirit and get mental clarity. These ashrams also promote Sewa, which allows individuals to participate in Voluntary activities for inner fulfillment.

Key Attractions and Facilities:
Ayurveda Hospital

  • Spread in an area of 1 lakh sq. feet, this hospital has 172 beds and it offers more than 100 Ayurveda treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
  • Sri Sri Gurukul
  • The Gurukul has two parts. The first, Agama, teaches temple worship, while the second, Veda, focuses on studying the Vedas.
  • Goshala (Cow Shelter)
  • The Goshala, started in 2006, protects and breeds native cows. Cow dung from here is used for biogas and making Ayurveda medicines.
  • Annapoorna Kitchen
  • Built in 2004, this three-floor kitchen runs on solar power and serves pure, healthy food to residents.
  • Radha Kunj (Garden)
  • A beautiful garden with a lake offers a peaceful and calm space for visitors to relax.
  • Sri Sri Ayurveda Panchakarma Centre
  • Provides massages, organic spa treatments, and special diet plans to refresh and cleanse the body.
  • Sumeru Mantap (Open-Air Theater)
  • An open-air theater designed to hold large crowds during cultural events.

How to Reach
This center is well connected by air, rail, and road transportation.
By Air
Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR) is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of just 50 km from the ashrams. You can hire a private taxi which will take nearly 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Train
Bengaluru City Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 25 km from the ashrams. You can get a government bus, taxi, or an auto-rickshaw from here which will take you to the ashrams.
By Road:
You can get a BMTC bus from almost every part of Bengaluru, or you can drive your own vehicle. Taxi options are also available while you are here.

3. Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore – A Place for Inner Transformation

Located at the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains in Tamil Nadu, Isha Yoga Centre is a well-known spiritual and yoga retreat center that attracts millions of visitors every year from across the world. Founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudeva, this non-profit, non-religious organization is dedicated to the well-being of individuals through meditation, yoga, and self-transformation programs. This center offers several programs such as Inner Engineering the Isha Yoga Programme, which lasts from 3 to 7 days, and many more. These programs are designed in such a way that they improve physical health and give mental clarity and inner peace. If you are here you can also choose a yoga-intensive retreat which will help you to reconnect with yourself which led to give you a more balanced life. The peaceful natural surroundings, coming with teaching of yoga, make this center a perfect place for self-discovery and healing.
Main Attractions at Isha Yoga Center
* Adiyogi Statue
The Adiyogi Statue is one of the most iconic landmarks in Isha yoga Centre. This massive 112-foot-tall sculptures of Lord Shiva hold the Guinness Book of World Records as the Largest Bust Sculptures in the worlds. This sculptures represent Shiva as the first yogi (Adiyogi) who introduced yoga to humanity. The sight of this magnificent structure, set against the backdrop of the mountains, is truly breathtaking.
* Dhyanalinga – The Meditation Space
At the heart of the center is the Dhyanalinga, a unique yogic temple designed for meditation. The temple’s dome-like structure houses a lingam (sacred stone) that is 13 feet tall and made of black granite. Visitors are encouraged to meditate silently for 15 minutes, allowing them to experience deep peace and stillness.
* Surya Kund and Chandra Kund – Sacred Water Pools
For purification before meditation, visitors can take a dip in the Surya Kund (for men) or the Chandra Kund (for women). These pools contain energized lingams, which are believed to enhance one’s spiritual and physical well-being.
* Nandi Statue and Linga Bhairavi Temple
The Nandi Statue, a symbol of patience and devotion, is located near the Dhyanalinga. Close by is the Linga Bhairavi Temple, dedicated to the Divine Feminine, where devotees can seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.

How to Reach Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore
Isha Yoga Center is well connected by air, rail, and road transportation.
By Air:
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) is located just at a distance of 40 km from the center. This airport is connected with regular flights from Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.
By Rail:
Coimbatore junction is the nearest railway station which is located at a distance of 30km from the center. This Railway station is well connected to major cities of India. From here you can get a bus or private taxi which will drop you at the center in 1 hour.
By Road
Isha Yoga Center is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by:
Bus: Regular government and private buses run from Coimbatore to Poondi village, which is near the ashram. From Poondi, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Taxi or Cab: You can hire a private taxi or book an Ola/Uber from Coimbatore city, which takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Self-Drive or Private Car: If you are driving, you can take the Coimbatore – Siruvani Road, which leads directly to the ashram. Parking facilities are available on the premises.

4. Sri Aurobindo Ashram, New Delhi – A Center for Spiritual and Mental Well-Being


Located in Sarvodaya Enclave, New Delhi, Sri Aurobindo Ashram is one of the oldest and most respected spiritual centers in the country. Established in the year 1956, this ashram serves as a peaceful retreat for those who are seeking spiritual growth, mental well-being, and inner reflection. These ashrams follow the teaching of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother, a teaching which is the blend of yoga, meditation, and amazing self-improvement programs that help individuals lead a good and balanced life which will help them to achieve inner peace.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram provides a welcoming and inclusive space for people from all walks of life, no matter what their backgrounds are. This ashram does not discriminate against people based on caste, gender, religion, or social status. It ensures that everyone who visits here gets a sense of equality and unity in the ashrams. The serene atmosphere which is surrounded by simple yet meaningful architecture, makes this place an ideal location for healing and self-reflection.
The therapeutic program is one of the major attractions of the ashrams which is designed in such a way that it focuses on the mental and emotional well-being of the individuals.

This program offers yoga sessions that not only help you to improve your physical health but also help you to keep your mind calm. Special discourses of Sri Aurobindo are conducted here regularly which help visitors to get a deeper understanding of life and consciousness. The ashrams also organise workshops on mental enrichment which focus on stress management and emotional balance.
In addition, this ashram also provides selective psychiatric services, which help individuals to overcome the mental challenges which is a major problem among youth nowadays.

A combination of spiritual guidance and psychological support works like magic on the mental status of individuals and helps them to deal with anxiety, stress and other emotional struggles. ;

Apart from that, these ashrams organize a special camp for different age groups. So if you are here with your child there is an Adolescent camp that focus on character building and self-confidence boosting of the Child. While there is a geriatric camps which is for senior citizen which help them to find peace and purpose in their later life. These family camps allow people to reconnect with their loved ones in a spiritualistic and peaceful environment.
How to Reach Sri Aurobindo Ashram:
This ashram is well connected with air, rail, and road transportation as it is located in the capital city of India
By Air:
Indira Gandhi International Airport is the nearest airport to the ashram which is located at a distance of 12 km from here. You can get a cab from here which will take 30 min to 1 hour depending upon the traffic on the route.
By Metro
Hauz Khas Metro Station On the Yellow Line metro is the nearest metro station to Ashrams. Located at a distance of 2 km from here you can get an auto or e-rickshaw.
By Train:
Being the Capital city of India, Delhi is connected with major cities of India through a number of trains. You can reach here from any part of the country are regular trains are there. From the railway station, you can get a metro rail or private cab to the ashrams.
By Road
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by:
Bus: Several DTC buses operate from different parts of Delhi to Sarvodaya Enclave. You can check for buses heading towards Hauz Khas, IIT Delhi, or Malviya Nagar and get down near the ashram.
Taxi or Auto-Rickshaw: You can easily hire a cab, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw from anywhere in Delhi. Ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are also available.
Self-Drive or Private Car: If you are driving, the ashram is located near Sri Aurobindo Marg, close to Hauz Khas and IIT Delhi.

5. Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry – A Spiritual Haven



A well-known spiritual center in the country, founded in the year 1926 by Sri Aurobindo Ghose, Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry has been spreading the light of knowledge for almost centuries across the country and to the world. Sri Ghose who doomed many hats of poets, philosophers, and yogis, along with The Mother (Mirra Alfassa) his spiritual companion, established this center.  This ashram is dedicated to Integral Yoga, which is the way that harmonizes the body, mind, and soul of human beings. It guides humans towards inner peace and self-realization. Sri Aurobindo came to Pondichery in the year 1910, stepping away from the Indian freedom movement and to focus on his spiritual journey. At the later stage his teaching attracted followers, later in the year 1926, he established the ashram. The Mother, who joined him on the journey in the year 1920, played a major role In expanding and managing the ashrams. After several years when Aurobindo withdrew from public life, she made sure that the ashram continued to thrive as a center for spiritual growth.

This Ashram is a unique destination for individuals who are seeking tranquility and wisdom. It is more than a spiritual site. It is a place where a collective of individuals gather at a place and explore spirituality through meditation, education, and altruistic services.

Rather than renouncing the world, individuals here learn to harmonize meditation, self-discipline, and wellness while engaging in ordinary life. A key location within the ashram is the Samadhi (resting place) of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. Visitors from around the globe come to sit in silence and absorb the serene energy that permeates the area.

The tranquillity and serene environment at the ashram make it an ideal place for relaxation and mental clarity.
In addition to meditation, this place also serves as an education hub that operates schools, libraries, and workshops that promote understanding of philosophy, self-discovery, and personal development.

If you seek inner tranquility, spiritual insight, or simply a peaceful retreat from everyday pressures, Aurobindo Ashram is an ideal destination. It supports visitors in calming their thoughts, acquiring new knowledge, and connecting with their authentic selves. A trip here can profoundly transform anyone in pursuit of peace and inspiration.

How to Reach Aurobindo Ashram:
You can reach Pondicherry by air, rail, and road transportation.
By Air:
Puducherry is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of 5 km from the ashram. However, Puducherry has limited flight connectivity, so better is to get a flight to Chennai International Airport which is around 150 km from here. From Chennai, you can get a train, bus, or cab to reach the ashram.
By Rail:
Puducherry Railway Station is located just 2km from the ashram. You can get a train from major parts of southern India. From the station, you can get an auto rickshaw to the ashram.
By Road:
You can get regular buses from Chennai, Bangalore, and other nearby cities to Pondicherry. The bus stand is located at a distance of 3 km from the ashram.

6. Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh – A Spiritual Retreat


One of the most famous and spiritual centers in India is Parmarth Niketan Ashrams, which is located in Rishikesh. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred Ganga River, this ashram is a peaceful retreat for those who are looking for spiritual growth, inner peace, and mental well-being. This ashram welcomes people from all over the world and offers them a serene atmosphere. Here, you can rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. The Ashram was founded to serve humanity and promote the values of spiritual intellect and hence, Parmarth Niketan is not just an ashram; it is a complete spiritual experience. It provides a mixture of ancient wisdom and modern teaching, which make it an ideal place for self-discovery and transformation.

Apart from yoga and meditation, Parmarth Niketan also organizes Satsang (spiritual discourse), Kirtans (devotional song), Vedic lectures, and cultural programs. This session as led by spiritual leaders and saints who help seekers to gain wisdom and clarity on the spiritual journey.

The ashram is well-known for its Yoga and Ayurveda programs, which focus on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Yoga sessions are organized here on a daily basis where participants are allowed to connect with nature and to their inner self on the bank of the river Ganga.  Ayurvedic treatments and therapies help human being to cleanse their body and restore balance. While you are here, Ganga aarti in the evening at the Ganga ghat is the most beautiful thing which you will witness. Lightning of oil lamps, chanting of mantras, the sound of Dhol and Ghanta fills the air with a sense of peace and devotion. This event leaves a lifelong imprint on the visitor's mind.

Apart from yoga and meditation, the ashram also organizes Satsangs (spiritual discourses), Kirtans (devotional singing), cultural programs, and Vedic lectures. These sessions are led by spiritual leaders, saints, and teachers, helping seekers gain wisdom and clarity on their spiritual journey. The ashram is also involved in various humanitarian and environmental initiatives, promoting selfless service and ecological awareness.

Visiting Parmarth Niketan is an opportunity to experience spiritual bliss, holistic healing, and personal growth. Whether you stay for a day or immerse yourself in its teachings for weeks, the ashram offers a transformative journey that nourishes the soul and inspires a deeper connection with life.

Also Read - Top 10 Things To Do In Rishikesh

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How to Reach Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh
You can reach Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh by air, train, or road, depending on your location.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), about 20 km from the ashram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach the ashram in about 40–45 minutes.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Yoga Nagari Rishikesh Junction but it is not well connected to major cities of the country. So you get a train to Haridwar Junction (HW), which is located 25 km away. Haridwar is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. From Haridwar, you can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to reach Rishikesh in around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Road
Rishikesh has a good road network. You can take a bus or taxi from major cities like Delhi (240 km), Haridwar (25 km), and Dehradun (45 km).

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7. Phool Chatti Ashram, Rishikesh – A Place of Peace and Spiritual Growth



Situated along the banks of the sacred Ganges and embraced by the stunning Himalayan mountains, Phool Chatti Ashram is a spiritual retreat with a history stretching back a century in Rishikesh. It serves as an ideal destination for pilgrims, seekers, and yoga practitioners eager to experience genuine ashram life while soaking in the tranquil beauty of nature. Established in the late 1800s by Shree Devi Dayal Ji Maharaj, the ashram has long been a refuge for those in search of peace, self-exploration, and personal transformation. Since 1977, under the mentorship of Swami Dev Swarup Nanda, it has expanded its teachings while preserving its profound spiritual roots.

Phool Chatti Ashram stands out because it offers more than mere yoga classes; it delivers a comprehensive experience of traditional ashram living. Unlike many contemporary yoga studios that focus solely on physical exercises, this ashram embraces the complete yogic journey, incorporating a variety of spiritual and meditative practices. A key highlight is its week-long yoga and meditation program, which provides participants the chance to fully engage with ashram life.
Visitors at the Ashrams enjoy a well-rounded schedule that includes:
Meditation: to keep the mind calm.
Breathing Techniques (Pranayama) – Utilizing breath control to improve mental clarity and physical wellness.
Kirtan: Spiritual song and mantras for purification of the soul.
Mauna (Practising of Silence) - A dedicated period of inner tranquility.
Puja: Traditional ways of Hindu Prayer
Walk: Trails of the surrounding Himalayas enrich you silently.
Phool Chatti Ashram offers a modern and convenient way that ensure a pleasant stay at the same time preserving the serenity, and piousness of the the atmosphere.
Visitors arrive not only to practice yoga but also to adopt a simple and mindful lifestyle.  For anyone seeking a spiritual getaway away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Phool Chatti Ashram provides an ideal environment to unwind, learn, and grow in peace. Whether you are a novice or an experienced yoga practitioner, this ashram offers a transformative experience that lingers long after you depart



How to Reach Phool Chatti Ashram, Rishikesh

Phool Chatti Ashram is located on the banks of the Ganges, about 5 km from Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh. It is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easily accessible for visitors from different parts of India.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (DED), about 20 km from the ashram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or cab to reach the ashram in about 40–45 minutes.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Yoga Nagari Rishikesh Junction but it is not well connected to major cities of the country. So you get a train to Haridwar Junction (HW), which is located 25 km away. Haridwar is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi. From Haridwar, you can take a bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi to reach Rishikesh in around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Road
Rishikesh has a good road network. You can take a bus or taxi from major cities like Delhi (240 km), Haridwar (25 km), and Dehradun (45 km).

Tour Packages of Rishikesh:

8.  Amritapuri Ashram, Kollam – A Spiritual Haven of Love and Devotion


Amritapuri Ashram, located in Kollam, Kerala, is a revered site established at the birthplace of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), who is endearingly known as the "Hugging Saint." Amma has dedicated her life to fostering love, compassion, and selfless service. Visitors from every part of the world make their visit to Amritapuri to seek the blessing, guidance, and assistance of Mata. Amma's darshan offers a unique experience to its visitors.

Amritapuri is more than just an ashram; it represents a spiritual community where people from various backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs live together in harmony and peace. The ashram believes in the principle of Vasudeva Kutumbakam, which means the entire world is one family. This place creates a rich environment i unity and selfless service.
Located on a tiny island that is surrounded by the backwater of Kerela and the Arabian Sea, the serenity of the surroundings of Ashram amplifies its spiritual significance.  The ashram accommodates approximately 3,000 international devotees committed to Amma’s humanitarian missions and personal development.

A variety of spiritual activities are available at the ashram, such as meditation, yoga, devotional singing (bhajans), spiritual teachings, and seva (selfless service). Guests are encouraged to take part in charitable endeavors, like assisting in community kitchens, supporting educational initiatives, and participating in environmental projects. A visit to Amritapuri is filled with experiences that promote inner peace, love, and self-development.

Before becoming a well-known spiritual hub, Amritapuri was Amma’s residence. In the early days, her followers, known as Brahmacharis, used to sleep outside under the stars on the beach. Amma herself lived in a simple hut next to her parents’ home. The first prayer hall originated from a cow shed, where Amma welcomed her followers. Later, her father transformed it into a temple, and as more devotees began to come, a larger prayer hall was constructed between 1988 and 1992.

Visiting Amritapuri is a transformative experience, enabling individuals to embrace Amma’s teachings, participate in seva, and uncover profound inner tranquility and affection. Whether someone is looking for spiritual enlightenment, personal development, or simply a serene getaway, Amritapuri welcomes everyone with kindness and compassion.

How to Reach Amritapuri Ashram, Kollam
Amritapuri Ashram is located in the Kollam district of Kerela, which is well-connected by air, train, and road connectivity. You can easily reach the ashrams from the major city of Kerela.
By Air
Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport, which is located at a distance of 110 km from the ashram. From the airport, you can hire a taxi which will take another 3 hours to reach the ashram.
By Rail:
Kayamkulam Railway Station is the nearest railway station, which is at a distance of 12 km from the ashram. Another option is Karunagappally Railway Station, which is located at a distance of 10 km from the ashram.
By Road:
You can get a KSRTC and private buses from major Kelera cities. Also, from Trivandrum, you can take NH66 towards Kollam, which takes another 3 hours to reach the Ashram.

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9. Ramana Ashram, Thiruvannamalai


Ramana Ashram, located at the foot of the Arunachala hills to the west of Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu, is famous for being the home of the contemporary sage and Advaita Vedanta thinker, Ramana Maharshi, from 1922 until he died in 1950. The Samadhi shrine dedicated to Maharshi Ramana continues to draw devotees from various regions who cherish the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate away from the chaos and clamor of urban life.

Sage Maharshi Ramana was viewed as an extraordinary enlightened soul by his followers. His magnetic personality attracted numerous devotees, and his teachings have now spread over many areas, earning him respect and fame worldwide. This might explain why Ramana Ashram remains a sought-after tourist destination, visited by thousands of devotees annually.

The ashram developed into its current site following Ramana Maharshi's settlement near the Samadhi shrine of his mother Alagammal, who passed away on May 19, 1922. Initially, a single small hut was constructed in the area. By 1924, two huts were erected, one positioned opposite the samadhi and the other to the north. Ramana Ashram serves as an ideal spot not only for those interested in Vedanta but also for individuals curious about Indian spirituality and eager to learn more.

History of Ramana Ashram
Following the death of his mother Alagammal in 1922, Ramana Maharshi made the Ashram his home. He settled close to a Samadhi tree, and over time, the ashram expanded in size. Numerous notable and influential figures have visited the Ashram since its inception, contributing to its popularity and rich historical significance.

The British writer Paul Brunton was one of the first Western visitors, arriving at the Ashram in 1931. Brunton was instrumental in introducing Ramana Maharshi to the Western world through his books 'A Search in Secret India' and 'The Secret Path.' In 1938, writer W. Somerset Maugham visited the ashram and later modeled the character of the holy man Shri Ganesha in his novel 'The Razor's Edge' after Ramana Maharshi. Other prominent visitors include Swami Sivananda, Paramahansa Yogananda, Alfred Sorensen, and Wei Wu Wei.

Arthur Osborne spent over twenty years at the Ashram, where he lived alongside the Maharshi and edited the ashram's journal, The Mountain Path.' He authored several works about Ramana Maharshi and his teachings. Additionally, Mouni Sadhu visited the Ashram in 1949 and spent several months there. David Godman arrived at the ashram in 1976 and has since written or edited fourteen books concerning Sri Ramana Maharshi. He continues to reside near the ashram to this day.
Ramana Maharshi's younger brother, Niranjananda Swami, relocated to the ashram with their mother in 1916 and remained there for the rest of his life. He managed the ashram's operations, a responsibility that later passed to his son and grandson, who continued to oversee the ashram.

How To Reach Ramana Ashram 
Sri Ramana Maharshi Ashram is connected by air, rail, and road transportation:

By Air

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 190 km away from the ashram. From Chennai, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach Tiruvannamalai.
Another option is Bengaluru International Airport, which is about 210 km away.

By Train

Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is the nearest railway station, which is 3 km from the ashram. It is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Villupuram.

By Road

From Chennai (200 km): Regular government and private buses run from Chennai to Tiruvannamalai.

From Bengaluru (210 km): You can take a direct bus or taxi from Bengaluru to Tiruvannamalai.
From Pondicherry (110 km): Buses and taxis are available from Pondicherry to Tiruvannamalai.

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10. Sathya Sai Ashram, Puttaparthi Overview

The main draw of this city, the sacred home of Sathya Sai Baba, is known as 'Prashanti Nilayam', meaning 'the dwelling of peace'. The ashram has attracted visitors for many years and persists in doing so year-round, symbolizing one of the most unique and revered religious institutions worldwide, establishing the town as a significant spiritual center.
Within the ashram, one discovers vast and beautiful educational institutions, stadiums, museums, hospitals, and all the modern amenities that attract a wide range of visitors. As an extensive and intricate complex, it can host thousands of individuals simultaneously.

Additionally, there are certain rules and regulations that have been established and must be honored and adhered to by the devotees. The most noticeable feature of this ashram is the assembly hall where Sathya Sai Baba grants Darshan to the followers. With its stunning architecture, it has created a historical moment with the influx of devotees on the occasion of Sai Baba's birthday. The tranquil, calming atmosphere makes this ashram the focal point of the town. One cannot overlook this active, expansive, and detailed religious center, which resembles a city of its own while visiting Puttaparthi. Here, one can witness devotion and spirituality in action as they manifest in the form of functioning institutions and organizations

How to reach:
Sri Sathya Sai Ashram, also known as Prasanthi Nilayam, is located in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. It is well connected to, air, rail and road transportation.
By Air:
Sri Sathya Sai Airport  (4 km from the ashram): This small airport has limited flights, mainly chartered ones.
Major Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru which is 120 km away from the ashram: From Bengaluru Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Puttaparthi (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours).
By Train
The nearest railway station is Sri Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam Railway Station, around 10 km from the ashram which is well connected to major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
By Road
From Bengaluru (120 km, around 2.5 to 3 hours): Direct KSRTC and APSRTC buses run frequently from Bengaluru to Puttaparthi. Taxis are also available for a more comfortable journey.

11. Anandashram and Nityanandasramam, Kasaragod Overview

For those seeking to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility and meditate peacefully for inner calm, these two ashrams are ideal destinations.
Anandashram, situated close to Kanhangad Railway Station, was founded in 1939 by Swami Ramadas. The ashram is surrounded by dense groves in which you will find various captivating structures. The hill to the east of the ashram serves as a perfect spot for meditation. The other well-known ashram, Nityanandasramam, was established by Swami Nityananda. This ashram features 45 caves hewn into the mountainside. Also nearby is a temple that mirrors the architectural style of the Somanatha Temple in Gujarat. A remarkable aspect of this temple is the beautiful idol of Swami Nityananda crafted from Panchaloha.

How to Reach:
Anandashram is well connected by air, rail, and road transportation from major cities of India.
By Air:
Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport to the ashram which is located at a distance of 86 km. From here you can hire a cab which will take another 2 hours to reach the ashram.
Kannur International Airport is another option where you can arrive as it is also located just 90m from the Anandasharam. Check the availability of both location and get your ticket accordingly.
By Rail:
Kanhangad Railway Station is the nearest railway station, which is located at a distance of 4.5 km from the ashram. From here you can get a taxi which will drop you the ashram. This railway station is connected with the major railway station of southern India and you can check the availability from the IRCTC website.
By Road:
Kasargod is well connected with KSRTC buses from the major part of kerala. Or also for a more comfortable journey, you can drive to the ashram.
From ancient times till today, Ashram in India has served as a place of serenity and educational hubs, assisting individuals on their spiritual journey. They help people in achieving their inner serenity and acquiring knowledge. In modern times, these holy sites have merged traditional and modern techniques and enhanced the accessibility of self-exploration.
Through yoga, meditation, and acts of kindness, ashrams provide a break from daily stress. While each ashram has its way of teaching, its goal remains the same—to help people connect with their true selves. As they continue to inspire and uplift, these spiritual havens remain places of calm and learning for people from all walks of life.

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