Swami Dayananda Ashram, Sri Gangadhareswar Trust — Local services in Rishikesh

Swami Dayananda Ashram, Rishikesh, was established during the 1960s by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, who is a globally renowned teacher of Vedanta and foremost scholar of Sanskrit. The Ashram is situated on the banks of the Holy Ganga, in an exclusive location, but not far from the airport and rail stations. Dehradun Airport is situated 21 Kms away from the ashram while Rail Station is 3 Kms away. It is a unique centre for the study of Vedanta and Sanskrit in English yet in keeping with the ancient tradition of teaching (Sampradaya). It is known as Arsha Vidya Pitham which means a centre of learning based on the teaching of the ancient rishis. The select texts on Vedanta and ancillary texts are taught here along with Sanskrit grammar in the Paninian style and Vedic chantings taught during courses. In addition, throughout the year, regular retreats take place on Vedanta, Yoga and other subjects by Arsha Vidya Teachers who bring their students for specified periods and...

It's hard to describe how wonderful the experience had by my wife and I during our ten days staying at the late Swami Dayananda's Ashram. Our room was excellent with a hot shower, fan and washing line on the balcony to make things nice and easy. There were numerous free classes available throughout the day and we were made to feel welcome at all we attended. The library is excellently stocked and books are available to buy at very fair prices.

The Ashram leads onto the Ganges and is just far along enough to give a direct view of the mountains across the river. The food was brilliant and varied with three meals a day, chai and coffee included in the stay. All the staff were very friendly and made us feel welcome. Bhaskar, a student there, even gave us extra classes to help us get to grips with the material.

No pressure was given for expensive donations at the end, although how could we not pay our way for such a great time.

A true model of the spiritual-communal...

Great place to stay at, just on the banks of Ganga. Lovely views around, especially during Mansoons. Comfortable stay, to be applied online at Ashram's website. They replies immediately as per availability. Annadanam been done in the ashram premises itself, 7.30 breakfast, 12.30 lunch and 7.30 pm dinner sharp along with Tea at different intervels. For all these nothing is charged, except voluntary donations at will. Behind the Ashram there is a Yoga Ghat and the bund made on the River Ganga is a visual treat and can have a good evening walk till the newly constructed Sita (Janaki) Jhula.

Lord Siva temple encarved in side the premises is wonderful, very positive wibes in and around. Peace of mind...