Yoga and meditation in a Rishikesh ashram topped my bucket list for 25+ years. So, finally, experiencing serenity along India’s sacred Ganges River filled me with happiness. Noelle here, by the way.
Rishikesh is a city in Uttarakhand, India, nestled in the Himalayan foothills. Its main claim to fame is that it is the “Yoga Capital of the World.”
This area is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and draws spiritual seekers from around the globe. There are numerous ashrams and yoga centers for beginners and those seeking yoga teacher training programs.
Beyond its spiritual significance, visitors come to Rishikesh for white-water rafting and trekking. You also can’t miss attending an evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Rishikesh is a fantastic place for relaxation, excitement, and cultural experiences. It’s a great spot to find inner peace and connect with yourself.
Keep reading: Top Things to Do in Rishikesh.
What is an Ashram?
An ashram is a place of spiritual retreat and learning. It’s often a community where people come to study with a spiritual teacher or guru. Most have weekly and monthly programs. However, some also have extended stays for guests wanting to dip into the lifestyle. People lived at the ashram where we stayed for more than a year.
Ashrams can vary greatly in size and style. Some are simple, while others are quite elaborate. Ours had simple accommodations, beautiful grounds, spiritual guidance, and excellent meals. I don’t know exactly what I expected, but Yoga Niketan made my bucket list dream a reality.
Many ashrams offer a structured daily routine that includes meditation, yoga, chanting, and the study of religious texts. The atmosphere is generally peaceful and conducive to introspection and spiritual growth. Some ask for silence, while others (like ours) don’t fully enforce it.
Why were Yoga and Meditation in a Rishikesh Ashram on My Bucket List?
I used to daydream with a coworker and old friend about heading to India to practice yoga in an ashram. This dream happened before Steve and I started traveling around the world. And it was before I’d even done ANY yoga. So, it was about as far from my suburban reality as possible.
Many years later, I read Elizabeth Gilbert’s book Eat, Pray, Love. Of course, that renewed my desire to visit an ashram. Then, my daydreaming partner actually did it! He and his husband went to the other side of the world for yoga and meditation in a Rishikesh ashram.
That’s when I knew it had to come off my bucket list and into reality for me, too.
My Yoga Niketan Ashram Experience
A week in a Rishikesh ashram seemed like a good starting point. If the ashram were closer to my children and grandchildren, I would stay for a few months. Honestly, I enjoyed the experience that much.
Steve and I stayed at Yoga Niketan. “Niketan” in Sanskrit translates to “abode,” “dwelling,” or “home.” While niketan doesn’t directly mean ashram, their names often use it. For example, Parmarth Niketan (across the Ganges River from where we stayed) translates to “An Abode Dedicated to the Welfare of All.”
And Yoga Niketan roughly means Home of Yoga.
Before we flew to India, I asked everyone I knew who had traveled there for recommendations. I also Googled the heck out of where to stay and even started a (hidden) Pinterest board for all my findings. But I still couldn’t narrow it down.
We’re in India and Nepal for six months, so my budget isn’t the same as someone flying directly to India for yoga and meditation in a Rishikesh ashram. My (our) budget has to stretch to include all the main things we want to see and do over our entire time. So, our ashram stay needed to be affordable. I’ll talk more about that in the budget planning below.
Keep reading: What to Know for India Travel
Arriving at Our Rishikesh Ashram Retreat Experience
Ultimately, we found Yoga Niketan through Zahoor at Grace India Travels. He showed us the website, and it looked like my daydreams. So, he booked it for us as part of our northern India tour.
We took a private car from Dharamshala to Rishikesh. This trip is about 300 miles (483 km), and Google Maps has it coming in at 10 hours and 15 minutes. Of course, nothing is easy in India. So, it actually took about 13 hours!
To give you some perspective, that same trip on US highways and roads would take about 5 hours. Maybe a little longer in our truck camper, Cupcake, but not 13 freakin’ hours! It was a very long day.
Choosing an Ashram
So, you’re ready to dive into the world of ashrams? That’s fantastic! One of the first things you’ll discover is that there are tons of different kinds.
Some are super traditional, sticking close to ancient rituals and practices. Others are more modern, blending different styles of yoga or meditation. And some ashrams specialize in specific things, like intense yoga teacher training or deep dives into Buddhist philosophy.
It’s a bit like choosing a restaurant – you want to find the right fit for your taste! A Rishikesh ashram stay for spiritual seekers might not be the same as one for someone wanting a yoga teacher certification.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing an ashram.
- Budget
- Location
- Daily Schedule
- Your personal goals
Budgeting for Yoga and Meditation in a Rishikesh Ashram
Think about what’s important to you. Budget is a big one – retreating to a Rishikesh ashram can range from simple and affordable to quite luxurious.
Ashram costs can vary significantly. Some ashrams accept donations, while others charge fees for accommodation, meals, and classes. Consider your budget beforehand and research what the price includes.
Don’t be afraid to ask about costs upfront to find an ashram that meets your financial needs. Since not all ashrams list prices online, you may need to fill out a contact form.
Selecting the Right Ashram Location
Where it’s located matters, too. Do you want to be right in the bustling heart of Rishikesh or tucked away in a quiet, secluded spot? Yoga Niketan was a great location atop the hill overlooking the Ganges River.
It was peaceful, but still only a short walk or Tuk-Tuk ride into the city. It sits on about 25 acres and has many lovely gardens and quiet spaces. There were plenty of monkeys to watch. But even though it’s secluded, you can still hear the music from the evening Aarti across the river at Parmouth Niketan.
Keep reading: Where to Go for Evening Aarti in Rishikesh
Check the Daily Life in a Rishikesh Ashram
The daily schedule is another key factor. Some ashrams have jam-packed days with classes and activities, while others offer a more relaxed pace.
Daily life in an ashram often follows a structured routine to cultivate spiritual growth and well-being. Mornings typically begin early, with yoga, meditation, or chanting before sunrise.
Meals are usually simple and vegetarian, often shared communally. Before each meal, we grabbed a tray and silverware. Then, we headed into the dining room. A couple of men stood behind a table to serve individual dishes. It was simple food without onions and garlic (for Jain cuisine.) But I found it very tasty. After the meal, we washed our own trays.
The day might include yoga, meditation, philosophy, or Sanskrit classes. Free time allows for personal reflection, exploring the surrounding area, or simply relaxing. We had daily afternoon tea at 4:00 pm, a practice we’ve continued throughout our India travels.
Evenings feature Satsang (spiritual discourse), kirtan (devotional singing), or more meditation. The daily schedule can vary between ashrams, so it’s a good idea to research what to expect beforehand.
Here’s a typical day at the ashram.
| Daily Schedule | |
| 05:00 | Morning Bell |
| 05:15 – 06:15 | Morning Meditation |
| 06:30 – 08:00 | Morning Yoga |
| 08:15 – 08:45 | Breakfast (Silence Observed) |
| 10:00 – 11:45 | Library Hours |
| 10:30 – 11:30 | Vedanta Darshan (Spiritual Class) |
| 12:00 – 12:45 | Lunch (Silence Observed) |
| 12:45 – 13:15 | Digestive Breathing |
| 13:20 – 15:00 | Library Hours (With Wi-Fi) |
| 15:15 – 16:00 | Lecture, Q&A About Yoga, Meditation & Philosophy |
| 16:00 – 16:25 | Evening Tea |
| 16:30 – 17:45 | Evening Yoga |
| 18:00 – 19:00 | Evening Meditation |
| 20:00 – 21:00 | Bhajan (Holy Hymns) or Trataka (Candle Meditation) |
What are Your Personal Goals for Visiting an Ashram?
And, of course, another thing to consider when searching for yoga and meditation in a Rishikesh ashram is your personal goals.
Are you looking to deepen your meditation practice, learn a specific style of yoga, or simply find some peace and quiet? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect ashram for your adventure.
We’ve got two more upcoming ashram stays in India. So, I’ll let you know how they go. But we’re scheduled for a Wellness and Rejuvenation week at Preksha Yoga in Goa. This stay differs from our Rishikesh ashram stay in that you get a daily Ayurvedic massage in addition to yoga and meditation classes.
Next, we’ll also experience a Meditation Retreat at Kathmandu Meditation School & Retreat in Nepal. We want to learn more about the proper ways to meditate. So, this six-day retreat seems like the perfect fit.
So, as you can see, ashrams come in different styles with different goals. And choosing one depends on your personal needs, goals, and budget.
Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh Ashrams
Are you dreaming of becoming a yoga teacher? Well, Rishikesh is a fantastic place to make that dream a reality.
Comprehensive yoga teacher training in Rishikesh ashrams is common here. These programs are generally quite intensive, so be prepared to deepen your practice significantly. Not only that, but you’ll also gain the necessary skills to confidently guide others on their yoga journeys.
Now, when it comes to yoga styles, Rishikesh offers a wide variety. From Hatha and Vinyasa to Ashtanga and more, the options are plentiful.
Therefore, you’ll need to research the program that resonates with you. Think about the teaching style you prefer. Also, consider the program’s underlying philosophy. And finally, don’t forget to check reviews from past students to get a better sense of what to expect.
Becoming a yoga teacher is a significant commitment, no doubt. However, training in the spiritual heart of Rishikesh? That’s an experience that will stay with you forever.
My Rishikesh Ashram Retreat Experience
I definitely recommend a Rishikesh ashram stay for spiritual seekers or casual beginners, too. I’d likely put myself somewhere in the middle since I’ve practiced yoga off and on for years. What I learned, though, is that while I looked at yoga as an exercise practice, it’s much more than that.
Without getting too preachy, here are my biggest takeaways from yoga and meditation in a Rishikesh ashram. I’m speaking them to myself as I write.
- Divinity comes from human effort, so surrender to the divine. Challenge your heart. And use your God-given talents. Cultivate them, then surrender.
- Religion, yoga, Krishna, Christ, and Mohammed are all bridges to God. The path isn’t as important as reaching divinity.
Also this.
I am Divine
When I open my eyes, I make the universe present to me.
I am the Soul
I am the Star
I am the Bright Light
Finding inner peace in a Rishikesh ashram is a goal for many practitioners. I think it’s realistic and attainable. You can also visit an ashram for many other reasons. And all of them are valid.
Tips for First-Time Rishikesh Ashram Visitors
Visiting an ashram in Rishikesh for the first time? Exciting! Here are some tips to help you prepare and make the most of your authentic Indian ashram experience.
- Pack light, but pack right: Rishikesh weather can vary. Layers are your friend. Think comfortable, modest clothing suitable for yoga and meditation. I liked having a scarf for the meditation hall since it sometimes got chilly.
- Respect the ashram’s rules: Each ashram has its own guidelines. Be mindful of the dress code, quiet hours, and specific requests. Following these rules shows respect for the community and its practices. Some ashrams want practitioners to wear all white. While that wasn’t our experience, check to be sure. Also, no one enforced our silent meal times or Thursday silent day, although I kind of wish they had, just for the experience.
- Embrace the experience: Be open to new things. Try the food, participate in the activities, and connect with the people around you. A stay at a Rishikesh ashram is a chance to step outside your comfort zone and learn. We met amazing people who made our stay a richer experience.
- Be prepared for simplicity. Ashram life is often simple. Focus on the spiritual journey rather than material comforts. We brought our own toilet paper, hand soap, and shampoo. Check ahead to see if these are available.
- Stay hydrated: Most ashrams have filtered water, so you won’t have to worry about getting sick.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask if you’re unsure about anything. We found the teachers incredibly approachable and genuinely seemed to care about students.
Yoga and Meditation in a Rishikesh Ashram Wrap-Up
My ashram experience in Rishikesh was fantastic and reflective. It was a small journey of self-discovery, a chance to connect more deeply with my inner self and the world around me.
It’d been years since I’d done yoga, so the experience wasn’t always easy, but it was undoubtedly worthwhile. The yoga teacher, especially, encouraged me and applauded my efforts. I think he recognized the runner’s body and determination buried inside this chubby, older skin.
He encouraged me, but it came with a challenge to be more mindful in creating a daily practice. I can’t say that I’ve stuck to an everyday yoga routine. But since our stay at a Rishikesh ashram, I’ve found an instructor I really like on YouTube. So, I’m practicing regularly, if not daily.
A spiritual journey to Rishikesh can be a vital part of traveling to India. If you seek peace, connection, or a deeper understanding of yourself, consider staying at an ashram in Rishikesh. It’s an adventure for the soul that you won’t soon forget.
Tour Guide Contact Info
Here’s the contact information for Zahoor, who helped us navigate northern India and the Golden Triangle. He’s based in New Delhi, but he kept in touch with us regularly.
We found him very knowledgeable, with a large base of local hotels for any budget. He’s booked us low-cost hotels and luxury ones, depending on the area and our requests.
Zahoor’s team coordinated our transportation and drivers, so we didn’t need to worry about getting where we wanted to be. He took care of every detail. We don’t make any money as an affiliate for him, so this is just our suggestion for one of many tour operators.
107, Scindia House, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Zahoor +91 98912 64450, WhatsApp
India’s Best Driver
Along the same lines, here’s the contact info for our favorite driver in Delhi and the Golden Triangle, Rakesh. He’s part of Zahoor’s team, too.
Rakesh even took us to the doctor in Delhi when we were both so sick after our arrival. Of course, he teased us for the next couple of months about not getting us spicy food.
Reach Rakesh on WhatsApp at +91 99589 62179. He’ll take great care of you!
0 Comments