Rishikesh Inside!: The Beatles Ashram

Hello Everyone!

Sitting on the bank of river Ganga early in the morning, looking at the sun rising right before your eyes, surrounded by nothing but the lush green forests, breathing in the fresh air, surely is the ideal way to start your day. Undoubtedly, Rishikesh can be termed as the Yoga Capital of the World. And when we talk about Yoga, the contribution of one man cannot be left unnoticed, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

Born on 12^th January, 1918, Maharishi was best known for developing Transcendental Meditation techniques (commonly known as TM) which were religiously followed by millions from all over the world. Even today, more than 1000 TM training centers are functional all over the globe.

Starting off with his spiritual mission in the late 1950s, the Maharishi trained 40000 TM teachers and has taught this technique to more than five million people. His journey around the globe began from Myanmar followed by Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong and Hawaii. His footsteps covered almost the entire Europe, North America and Asia. His Ashrams and training centers around the world still cater to the dreams of the Maharishi to spread peace and harmony for every single soul on this planet.

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram in Rishikesh is one of the most famous landmarks in Uttarakhand. Spread over 14 acres of land near Ram Jhula, this Ashram was abandoned in 1977 and is in control of the Forest Department since then.

We welcome you to the MAHARISHI MAHESH YOGI ASHRAM.

A place once a hub for thousands of devotees is now the residence of several wild animals. We at Rishikesh Inside would recommend avoiding this place during the night due to safety reasons.

Even though the Ashram does not exist anymore, it is still one place you wouldn’t want to miss. Located on the bank of river Ganga, away from the human population is surely a treat to the eyes. Surrender yourself to the beauty of this place, sit around, close your eyes, inhale the fresh air, and we guarantee the serene look on your face.

Post 1977, the Ashram was accessible to the general public by paying a minimum entry fee, however, recently, the Ashram was declared to be a restricted area by the forest department. You can only spot a few Forest Officers inside the ashram guarding the widespread, dense forest. Although a part of the Ashram is visible from the main entrance, it is indeed disappointing to know that you cannot visit the entire vicinity where the Maharishi himself disseminated spirituality.

A few kiosks are the only source of food outside the ashram selling packaged food. Don’t expect a proper meal around this area. The nearest restaurants are located in Ram Jhula which is approximately a 10 minute walk from the Ashram.

Transport facility is not an issue. The ashram is well connected to the main city. Local buses and taxis are easily available. A taxi stand and a bus stand are located close to the ashram. Taxis are available for tourists who have to travel further to Neelkanth, Phool Chatti, Garud Chatti and other villages.

What were the Beatles doing in Rishikesh?

What was their relationship the Maharishi?

To find out more, wait for our next blog.

Cheers from Rishikesh Inside!