Shanti Kunj Haridwar
About
Shanti kunj is among the most prominent landmarks of Haridwar. Nestled in the serene surroundings of the holy city, it serves as the headquarters of All World Gayatri Parivar (AWGP). Founded by Pandit Sharma Acharya in 1971, the ashram is a global centre of spiritual awakening, social transformation, and moral upliftment. As a result, thousands of devotees from various parts of the country and overseas visit this spiritual site every year. Shanti Kunj has a vast network of around 4,000 Shakti Peeths (Pragya Peeths), 25,000 Pragya Sansthans, and 30,000 Swadhyay Mandals worldwide.
Shanti Kunj Haridwar
Haridwar is popular among people due to its some prominent places, and Shanti Kunj is one of them. Located just 6 km away from Har Ki Pauri, the Shanti Kunj, the spiritual centre of Gayatri Parivar, has millions of followers worldwide. Its popularity and significance can be gauged from the fact that, apart from common people, it has also been visited by several renowned figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Dalai Lama, religious leader Murari Bapu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and social activist Anna Hazare. Over the years, the Shanti Kunj has emerged as a global movement under the Yug Nirman Yojana. Due to its spiritual resonance, many people also visit here for marriage.
Salient feature of Shantikunj, Haridwar
Haridwar Shanti Kunj is known for several unique features, such as:
- Devatma Himalaya Temple: This is a kind of temple that allows visitors to experience the Char Dham of Uttarakhand (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath), along with Panch Prayag, and the sacred streams of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
- Healthcare facilities: It also has hospitals and dispensaries where qualified doctors provide free medical services and medicines to patients. Along with this, it also houses a Brahmvarchas Research Institute, which is dedicated to both modern and ancient sciences.
- Akhand Deep: The ashram also houses an eternal flame (Akhand Jyoti), lit by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1926 on the occasion of Basant Panchmi.
Accommodation in Shanti Kunj
People visiting Shanti Kunj can stay here free of charge for up to two days. During their stays, guests must follow the daily routines and spiritual practices of the ashram. Along with this, free meals are provided twice a day to all visitors and residents.
Major Nearby Attractions
Haridwar is prominent for its several religious and tourist attractions. During the visit to Haidwar, pilgrims must also visit other popular places, such as:
How to Reach
By Road: Shanti Kunj is located approximately 11 km from Haridwar Bus Stand. Pilgrims can reach the site using local transport from the bus stand and other major parts of the city.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station, approximately 10 km away. From there, visitors can hire an auto or an e-rickshaw to reach the site.
By Air: The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, which is located around 32 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or a cab to reach the site.
Best Time to Visit
Visiting Haridwar and its popular religious places can be enjoyed most from September to April. These months are pleasant compared to others.
Height from Sea Level
Shanti Kunj is situated at an elevation of 314 metres, around 1,030 feet above sea level.