Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is one of the largest abodes of Yoga, located in the Yoga Capital of the World- Rishikesh. It is a truly spiritual haven situated on the bank of the sacred Ganga River. In a quest for spirituality, a large number of people from different parts of the world visit here every year. Parmarth Niketan is one of the biggest ashrams in Rishikesh, offering a serene and peaceful ambience to its pilgrims. Its iconic evening Ganga Aarti is witnessed by many, which creates a majestic atmosphere that connects every single soul to the supreme divine.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram Rishikesh

Situated in Rishikesh near Swargashram, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is located just 3 km from Rishikesh's main market. Pilgrims seeking a spiritual retreat often visit this sacred place. In addition, they can also join the yoga sessions, workshops, and retreats held at the ashram. Rishikesh Parmarth Niketan is equipped with several rooms where pilgrims can stay and connect with nature. The blissful view of the Ganga River, especially during morning and evening hours, is a sight to behold. The magnificent Shiva statue near the Ashram Ghat stands as a symbol and highlights the Ashram.

History and Programs

Rishikesh Parmarth Niketan Ashram was founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj. Since 1986, Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati Maharaj has been serving as the president and spiritual head of the ashram. Along with promoting yoga and spirituality, the Parmarth Ashram also runs a Gurukul for orphaned and disadvantaged group children, particularly boys. Along with academic education, they train these children in yoga and Vedic chanting, and instil in them essential moral values and ethics.
 

Along with this, the ashram is involved in various programs for humanity, such as healthcare services, women empowerment programs (Sister Foundation), education, clean, green and serene programs are some of their divine projects to bring a positive change to society.

Parmarth Niketan Ganga Aarti

Primarily, the Parmarth Niketan Ashram is known for its Ganga Aarti. Many of us visit here to experience the divine ritual. It is nothing less than the most mesmerising lifetime experience in Rishikesh. The Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ghat generally begins at sunset. The rhythmic Vedic chants and melodious hymns create a majestic spiritual atmosphere which is hard to express in words. This 2-hour-long aarti leaves everyone awe-struck and lifts them spiritually.

Sanskaras

Parmarth Niketan Ashram also performs various Hindu Sanskaras, such as Mundan (first haircut), Yagna Pavit, Vivah Sanskara (marriage rituals), and Asthi Visarjan. These ceremonies are performed by the learned priests by following all Vedic rituals.

Event

Every year, Parmarth Ashram celebrates the International Yoga Festival (IYF) with great enthusiasm. The event is generally held in March and is attended by yoga enthusiasts and spiritual seekers from around the world. The festival is open to people of all genders and races. However, prior registration is mandatory for visitors who wish to participate in the event.

Activities at Parmarth Niketan Ashram

• Prarthana (Morning Prayer)
• Morning Asana Class.
• Sacred Yagya Puja
• Meditation
• Afternoon Yoga Class
• Afternoon Meditation Class
• Sacred Ganga Yagya and Aarti

Accommodation

Parmarth Niketan is equipped with thousands of rooms, providing basic as well as modern facilities. Pilgrims can stay in these ashram rooms for a wholesome, spiritually enriching experience. However, one must strictly follow the ashram guidelines. Pilgrims must keep their room clean, and it must be in the same condition as assigned to them.

Food Guide

Rishikesh is visited by guests from around the world, thus it offers a range of food options from Indian, continental, and Chinese. There are several restaurants and cafes providing a sumptuous cuisine with a majestic Ganga view. Alongside, you can also taste local street food that may tempt your taste buds.

Important Tips for Visitors

• Prior registration is required before staying at the ashram.
• Registration is not required to attend Ganga Aarti.
• The ashram offers accommodation and food facilities.
• Pilgrims wishing to stay at the ashram must abide by the guidelines stated in the daily routine.
• Radios, TVs and playing cards are strictly prohibited in the ashram premises.
• Strangers and pets are not allowed inside the ashram.
• Smoking, alcohol consumption, eggs and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited.
• Always maintain silence in the ashram, especially from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
• Parking facility is available near the ashram.
• The road leading to the ashram is quite narrow, and entry of four wheeler is prohibited.
• Satellite phones are not allowed as per the government orders.

Major Nearby Attractions

If you are visiting Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, you must not forget to visit some other places which are located nearby: -

• Janki Setu
• Ram Jhula
• Bajrang Setu
• Beatles Ashram
• Terah Manzil Mandir
• Goa Beach
• Patna Waterfall
• Neer Jharna
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple