Swargashram
About
Rishikesh, a small city in the state of Uttarakhand, is widely known for its spiritual practices. Declared the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh attracts a lakh of pilgrims every year. Most of them come in search of spiritual growth and to learn Yoga.
Yoga flows through the soul of Rishikesh, and its heart is the premier spiritual institutions, prominently known as " Ashrams". Although Rishikesh is home to various ashrams, Swarg Ashram is one of the most prominent. The Ashram is known for its many activities, which are maintained and managed by a trust known as the "Kali Kamliwala Kshetra Trust".
Swargashram - Soul of Rishikesh
Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, Swargashram Rishikesh lies close to Parmarth Niketan, another well-known ashram in the area. Built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanand, popularly known as Kali Kamli Wala, Swargashram is widely popular among foreign tourists. Due to its traditional and ethnic touch, the ashram witnesses several tourists from around the world.
Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Swargashram is known for its distinctive surroundings. The abundant greenery envelops the ashram, creating a peaceful and positive environment.
Activities in Swargashram
The ashram hosts various religious activities such as chanting, meditation, and aarti. However, it is primarily known for its yogic activities. In addition, the ashram also runs a charitable Ayurvedic hospital and provides allopathic medicines free of cost to the needy.
Swarg Ashram also runs two charitable schools, namely a Sanskrit Vidyalaya and Bal Vidya Niketan. At the Sanskrit Vidyalaya, the ashram provides free boarding, lodging, and meals to the students.
Furthermore, the ashram also offers free meals twice to the sadhus, saints and the poor. Such meals are mostly prepared from the donations and meals sponsored by the donors.
Accommodation
The Swargashram premises include three Dharmshalas where pilgrims can stay during their visit. These Dharmshalas offer basic facilities, which may not be suitable for many. Pilgrims can book these stays as per their needs and requirements. During the stay, pilgrims must adhere to the Ashram guidelines strictly.
The ashram trust manages 119 dwelling units, spread over 8 buildings, such as:
- Shiv Ganga
- Akash Ganga
- Ganga Niwas
- Ganga Line Flats
- Main Gaddi
- Ganga Niketan
- Samadhi Flats, and
- Lakshmi Narayan Temple.
Food Guide
Ashram offers food facilities to pilgrims residing in the Dharmshalas. The meals served here are purely vegetarian. However, pilgrims visited the ashram for a day tour can find various eateries located near the ashram.
Important Tips for Visitors
- Visiting by two-wheelers or auto is ideal, as the four-wheeler route is typically longer.
- Autos are not allowed to cross Janki Setu; visitors must cover the remaining 1 km distance on foot.
- Paid parking facilities are available near the ashram.
- Booking is recommended for staying in Dharmshala.
- Pilgrims must follow the ashram guidelines during their stay.
- Wear modest Indian attire that covers your entire body appropriately.
- Dharamshala rooms are equipped with basic facilities only.
Major Nearby Attractions
Pilgrims can also explore other popular places in Rishikesh, which are located near Swargashram.
How to Reach
By Road: Swarg Ashram is located around 2.4 km from Rishikesh Bus Stand and can be easily accessed using two-wheelers. It can also be reached by using an auto and an e-rickshaw, which operate up to the Janki Setu bridge. From there, pilgrims must walk the remaining distance. Those travelling in four-wheelers need to take a longer route of about 15 km via Virbhadra Road.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Swarg Ashram is Yog Nagri Rishikesh Railway Junction, located around 4.4 km away. From the station, you can reach the temple by road using available public transport services.
By Air: The closest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 19 km away. From the airport, pilgrims can book a taxi to reach the site, where they need to cover a longer distance of about 31 km.
Best Time to Visit
Pilgrims can access the Swarg Ashram throughout the year; the best time to experience its true nature is from September to May.
Height from Sea Level
Swargashram is situated at an elevation of 340 metres (1,220 feet) above sea level.