Renowned as the ultimate destination for yoga getaways, Rishikesh has earned the reputation of being the global ‘Mecca of Yoga’. It is a sanctuary for retreats that specialize in ancient yogic practices and meditation. Countless ashrams in Rishikesh serve as magnets for tourists and yoga enthusiasts from all corners of the world. These retreat centers not only offer comprehensive yoga and meditation classes, but also provide accommodation, morning prayers, and daily meals. Enclosed within the serene embrace of the majestic Himalayas, these ashrams and yoga retreats aspire to impart complete wisdom about the yogic way of life and its principles. Below, you will discover a carefully curated selection of the finest ashrams in Rishikesh, perfect for anyone contemplating a profound spiritual escape to this sacred town.
10 Exceptional Ashrams in Rishikesh for the Ultimate Yoga and Meditation Experience
From engaging in enlightening satsang and kirtans at Parmarth Niketan to partaking in invigorating yoga sessions at Yoga Niketan, these remarkable ashrams in Rishikesh guarantee not only a revitalizing encounter but also a path to spiritual solace. Delve into the details to unravel more about each extraordinary ashram.
1. The Remarkable Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Among the city’s oldest and largest ashrams, Parmarth Niketan claims its rightful place at the top of our list of the finest meditation-oriented ashrams in Rishikesh. This spiritual sanctuary offers a myriad of activities including morning prayers, yoga, and meditation practices, making it one of the most distinguished yoga retreats in the entire country. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, Parmarth Niketan boasts a staggering capacity of 1000 rooms, in addition to daily yoga classes and three meals. The ashram ensures an all-encompassing experience through its diverse set of activities such as Satsang, kirtan, and lecture programs, which not only cleanse your body but also nourish your soul. Furthermore, this esteemed institution also provides comprehensive teacher training courses and educational classes on Vedic heritage and Yoga.
Location: Near Main Market Road, Ram Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – 249304
Timings: 09:00 a.m to 08:00 p.m
Trip Advisor Rating: 4/5
Official Website
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2. The Illustrious Sivananda Ashram
The Divine Life Society on Facebook
Securing its position as one of the finest cost-free ashrams in Rishikesh, Sivananda Ashram was established by the venerable Swami Sivananda and remains under the stewardship of the Divine Life Society. It stands as one of the most prestigious yoga centers in India, renowned not only within the town but also across the country. This ashram offers complimentary yoga and meditation classes along with free lodging and nourishment for serious spiritual seekers. The ashram organizes three courses annually, with the primary focus on five fundamental aspects of yoga: asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), savasana (relaxation), meditation, and sattvic diet. Each course spans two months, creating an ideal setting near the Ram Jhula for individuals in search of rejuvenation and inner peace.
Location: Near Ram Jhula, Ganga Vatika, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – 249137
Timings: 09:30 a.m to 11:00 a.m
Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5
Official Website
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3. Yoga Niketan
Yoga Niketan Ashram
Situated alongside the sacred Ganga River in the tranquil Muni-Ki-Reti area, Yoga Niketan stands as one of the most ancient ashrams in Rishikesh. In 1964, Swami Yogeshwaranand Paramahansa founded this sanctuary to propagate the essence of spiritual enlightenment. The teachings here revolve around Patanjali yoga shastra’s eightfold path, known for its holistic approach. Aspiring individuals must adhere to a stringent itinerary of daily yoga, meditation, and enlightening discourses. The ashram boasts 100 well-appointed rooms, with prices commencing at ₹500 for Indian nationals and ₹900 for foreigners. However, kindly note that children under 12 years old are not permitted on the premises.
Location: Muni-Ki-Reti, Ramjhula, P.O. Shivanand Nagar, Near-Ganga Vatika Flats, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192. Business Hours: Not Applicable. Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5 Visit Official Website
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4. Phool Chatti Ashram
Phool Chatti Ashram
Step into a world adorned with nature’s splendor at Phool Chatti Ashram, which translates to the “Land of Flower.” Established during the late 1800s, this ashram presents itself as an oasis of tranquility and rejuvenation. Phool Chatti Ashram encompasses all aspects of yogic paths and ashram life, delving beyond the mere physical practice of asanas. Its seven-day yoga programs allow participants to immerse themselves in the myriad dimensions of yogic living, including meditation, breathwork, cleansing techniques, chanting, silent contemplation, devotional music, and rituals. The ashram offers essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable sojourn for those seeking inner harmony.
Location: Neelkanth Temple Road Paliyal Gaon, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249302. Business Hours: 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5 Visit Official Website
5. Patanjali International Yoga Foundation
Patanjali International Yoga Foundation
Ideal for a family retreat, Patanjali International Yoga Foundation is renowned for its exceptional international yoga courses. Delve into a transformative two-week program comprising yoga, meditation, and revered Ganga aarti ceremonies. This ashram also offers specialized courses in Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda, as well as a plethora of workshops, seminars, and other enriching activities. Its core focus lies in imparting authentic yogic and meditative practices beneficial for both physical and spiritual well-being.
Keep the flame of spiritual growth alive by immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of Rishikesh’s exceptional ashrams.
Where: Badrinath Rd, Tapovan, Luxmanjhulla, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192Operating Hours: 06:00 a.m to 10:00 p.mTrip Advisor Rating: NAOfficial Website
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6. Anand Prakash Ashram
Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram – Rishikesh on Facebook
Anand Prakash Ashram stands as one of the renowned retreat centers in Rishikesh. Established in 2007, this ashram devotes its teachings to Akhand Yoga, which encompasses teachings from various sources without any sectarian bias. It imparts knowledge about harmonious integration between diverse elements such as asanas, pranayama, relaxation techniques, mantras, and meditation. Moreover, discussions and lessons on yogic philosophy and lifestyle are also conducted. Nestled in the region of Tapovan, this ashram has gained recognition for its 200-hour and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training programs as well as its Ayurvedic cooking classes. Anand Prakash Ashram offers a harmonious fusion of contemporary amenities and comfort, providing an expansive environment for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
Where: Tapovan, shivananda nagar, Badrinath Rd, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192Operating Hours: 07:30 a.m to 07:00 p.mTrip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5Official Website
7. Rishikesh Yogpeeth
Image courtesy: Rishikesh Yogpeeth
Recognized for its comprehensive 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses, Rishikesh Yogpeeth stands as one of the top ashrams in Rishikesh for meditation. Established in 2005 by a group of locals striving to promote yoga, this ashram focuses on spreading awareness about holistic living through yoga practices. Blending ancient yoga traditions with contemporary methods, it serves as an ideal retreat for cultivating discipline of both the body and mind. The ashram offers 18 well-appointed cottages and daily sessions of yoga and meditation for its visitors.
Where: Abhayaranya Yoga Ashram, Neelkanth Temple Road, near Patna Waterfall, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249302Operating Hours: 09:00 a.m to 02:00 p.m & 04:00 p.m to 08:00 p.mTrip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5Official Website
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8. The Himalayan Yogic Retreat
Himalayan Yogic Retreat
An eminent hub for traditional Himalayan Yoga Training in India, the Himalayan Yogic Retreat in Rishikesh offers a serene environment for physical and mental well-being. Nestled amidst the tranquility of its surroundings, this Rishikesh retreat is the ideal destination for individuals seeking spiritual equilibrium and solace. The programs provided by this retreat adopt a comprehensive approach to yoga, focusing on elements such as postures, breathwork, meditation, spiritual teachings, and nourishing organic Ayurvedic cuisine. Along with daily yoga and meditation classes, the retreat provides six guest houses for accommodation. Students here have the choice to stay for 13, 20, or 27 days and explore various other yoga forms including Ashtanga Yoga, Hatha Yoga, and Vinyasa Flow.
Location: 256, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192
Operating Hours: 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.
Trip Advisor Rating: 5/5
Website
9. The Hermitage of Swami Dayananda
Swami Dayananda Ashram
The Hermitage of Swami Dayananda, established during the 1960s by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, is another renowned sanctuary among the Rishikesh ashrams. It is renowned for its teachings on Vedanta and Sanskrit. The ashram conducts both long-term and short-term courses and retreats dedicated to yoga enthusiasts and anyone seeking knowledge on Vedanta or Sanskrit. It also houses an extensive library with over 5000 titles on Vedanta, Sanskrit Grammar, Indian and Western philosophies, religion, meditation, and yoga. With its 150 rooms, the ashram offers accommodations exclusively to students enrolled in the courses. This place is a haven for spiritual seekers, as all of its programs revolve around Bhagavad Gita, the ten principal Upanishads, and Vedic chanting.
Location: Dayananda Nagar, Chandreshwar Nagar, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137
Operating Hours: 07:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.
Trip Advisor Rating: 5/5
Website
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10. Osho Gangadham Ashram
Osho Gangadham on Facebook
Lastly, we have the Osho Gangadham Ashram, the ultimate meditation retreat among Rishikesh’s finest ashrams. Located alongside the sacred Ganges River, merely a few kilometers from Laksham Jhula, this ashram offers dynamic, dance, and Kundalini meditations, as well as evening satsangs. Guests have the option to choose from a variety of rooms, including dormitories, single rooms, or shared accommodations, and relish pure vegetarian meals. The ashram features a meditation hall that can accommodate up to 100 individuals and organizes regular camps and retreats for yoga enthusiasts. Osho Gangadham is renowned for its expert teachings in yoga and meditation, making it an idyllic sanctuary for those in search of tranquility and spiritual harmony.
Location: Jaanaki Cottage, Lease No-52, Badrinath Road, Brahmpuri, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201
Operating Hours: 06:30 a.m to 09:00 p.m
Trip Advisor Rating: 5/5Official Website
These are a few exceptional choices for yoga and meditation ashrams in Rishikesh. However, there are numerous other ashrams that are dedicated to providing deep spiritual experiences and revitalization. Next time you plan a visit to Rishikesh, make sure to explore these ashrams for a transformative and rejuvenating retreat.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ashrams in Rishikesh
Where can one find complimentary accommodation in Rishikesh?
Rishikesh is home to several ashrams that offer free accommodation options. Sivananda Ashram and Geeta Bhawan are just a couple of examples.
Which ashram provides affordable accommodation in Rishikesh?
Himalayan Yog Ashram, Rishikesh Yogpeeth, Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, and Yoga Niketan are among the cost-effective ashrams in Rishikesh providing accommodation at reasonable prices.
Is it safe to travel to Rishikesh amidst the ongoing Covid-19 situation?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit Rishikesh as long as you adhere to all the guidelines and necessary safety measures. Prioritize getting vaccinated before planning your trip, wear masks consistently, maintain social distance in public areas, and regularly sanitize your hands.
Which ashram is considered the best in Rishikesh?
Himalayan Yog Ashram, Rishikesh Yogpeeth, Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, Yoga Niketan, Parmath Niketan, and many others stand out as some of the finest ashrams in Rishikesh.
What is the average cost to stay in an ashram?
Staying in an ashram in Rishikesh is quite affordable, with prices ranging from ₹400 to ₹900 on average.
