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Rishikesh is the ultimate destination to learn yoga! Experience the spiritual practice of yoga and meditation in Rishikesh, where the glorious journey originates.
Ashrams in Rishikesh, located on the holy Ganges River and surrounded by breathtaking mountains, are unique havens for transformative yoga journeys. Rise with the sun and start your day with a soothing yoga session on the banks of Ganga, its gentle flow echoing the rhythm of your breath. The tranquil, natural environment encourages profound soul-searching and personal growth.
Rishikesh’s ashrams are in high demand due to their comprehensive approach to overall well-being. Different types of yoga, including Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and Kundalini Yoga, help improve physical fitness and mental health. In this article, we present you 7 best ashrams in Rishikesh, known for their genuine teachings and comprehensive wellness practices.
What makes the Ashrams in Rishikesh stand out?
Rishikesh is the Yoga Capital of the World, boasting a rich spiritual legacy and a tranquil ambiance embraced by the majestic Ganga and the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Yoga 0ffered by Rishikesh Ashrams includes:
1. Hatha Yoga – This practice focuses on physical positions and breathing exercises. Its focus is on alignment and promoting relaxation. Asana practice benefits the body by healing it in various ways.
2. Ashtanga Yoga – Also known as Power Yoga, it is a dynamic and active practice that synchronizes breath and movement.
3. Vinyasa Yoga – Also known as Flow Yoga, Vinyasa is a part of Ashtanga yoga. The yoga involves a string of yoga poses, enabling a seamless move from one pose to another. It is a more recent, trendy way of practicing yoga.
4. Kundalini Yoga – This practice focuses on awakening spiritual energy.
5. Iyengar Yoga – This yoga form emphasizes alignment and the use of props.
7. Meditation – Meditation is an immensely popular practice that trains the mind just as exercise trains the body.
8. Pranayama (Breathing exercises): These practices balance the flow of prana throughout the body, promoting healing and inner peace.
Ashrams in Rishikesh
1. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
The primary goal of the ashram is to help people find inner serenity and achieve their spiritual goals. Ashram pilgrims also get a chance to meet renowned saints, musicians, and spiritual seekers.
The ashram offers a one-of-a-kind yoga experience by combining traditional and modern practices to meet a wide range of individual needs. Their yoga sessions provide a life-changing experience, with knowledgeable instructors and a comprehensive approach to wellness. The highlight of the ashram’s offerings is its evening Ganga Arti. With its beautiful surroundings and serene ambiance, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is an ideal place to deepen your practice and connect with your inner self.
What to do at the ashram: Yoga and meditation sessions, nature cure and ayurveda, satsang, kirtans, Ganga arti at sunset, universal prayers, spiritual/ cultural programs, and lectures
2. Sivananda Ashram
The ashram teaches the four paths of yoga: Karma Yoga (selfless service), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Raja Yoga (meditation), and Jnana Yoga (knowledge). The teachings emphasize self-discipline, self-control, and self-realization.
The course offered by the ashram is the best fit for both, beginners and seasoned yoga practitioners. The center also offers a four-week, certified Teacher Training Program, which goes beyond the hatha yoga, and includes yoga anatomy and physiology, yoga nutrition, kriyas, yogas for different age groups, meditation, karma and reincarnation, and kundalini yoga.
What to do at the ashram: Yoga vacation, yoga teacher’s training, meditation, satsangs, cultural and spiritual conferences, ayurveda workshops, discourses, karma yoga opportunities, retreats
3. Yoga Niketan Ashram
The 25 acre campus overlooking the mountain, Yoga Niketan Ashram is one of the oldest ashrams in Rishikesh. Yoga Niketan Ashram upholds the belief that yoga has the potential to transform an individual’s life by instilling harmony, balance, and inner peace. The ashram offers a tranquil sanctuary for self-discovery and personal growth.
The ashram offers a variety of yoga classes, including Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Iyengar, Kundalini, and Pranayama. Additionally, it provides meditation classes and workshops on yoga-related topics. With an emphasis on meditation, pranayama, and self-reflection, the ashram offers a serene and transformative environment. The holistic approach to yoga and the supportive community make the ashram an enriching and uplifting experience.
What to do at the ashram: 200-hour yoga teacher training, 7 days yoga retreat, satsang, excursions, read books at the library, chanting, kirtans (sacred singing), candle meditation, yoga sessions, soul-enriching meditation practices, insightful philosophy
4. Phool Chatti Ashram
Phool Chatti ashram’s unique yoga forms blend traditional practices with a focus on meditation, pranayama, and self-awareness. Rishikesh Ashram offers a transformative and rejuvenating yoga experience.
Phool Chatti’s yoga and meditation program is unique for two reasons.
First, they teach the full spectrum of the yogic path and ashram life, not just asanas. The yoga practices offered at the ashram include Hatha yoga, Ashtanga yoga, Kundalini yoga, and Karma yoga. The ashram also offers meditation practices such as Vipassana meditation, Osho meditation, and guided meditation sessions. Their aim is to provide a comprehensive experience, including yoga, chanting, pranayama, lecture, meditation, neti pot cleansing, etc.
Second, the ashram is situated in a remote location on the banks of the Ganges River in the majestic foothills of the Himalayas. With a tranquil environment, meditation comes naturally.
What to do at the ashram: 7 Days Yoga and Meditation retreat, breathing (pranayama), chanting, Mauna (silence), Pooja (worship), kirtan (sacred singing), Guided nature walks, yogic cleansing, laughter yoga, grounding dance
5. Rishikesh Yogpeeth
Rishikesh Yogpeeth provides a unique yoga experience surrounded by the beauty of nature. The main campus of Abhayaranya is located on a hill near Patna waterfall. Rishikesh Yogpeeth dedicates itself to providing internationally certified yoga teacher training programs.
Rishikesh Yogpeeth’s uniqueness lies in its authentic approach to yoga, rooted in traditional teachings and practices. With experienced instructors and a diverse range of yoga forms, including Hatha, Ashtanga, and Kundalini, it offers a transformative and enriching experience. Rishikesh Yogpeeth offers Ayurvedic yoga retreats for 3, 7, 14, and 21 days at Abhayaranya Yoga Ashram. Yoga retreats offer a perfect opportunity to help you relax, de-stress, and focus on your mind and body. Set amidst the serene beauty of Rishikesh, it’s a perfect haven for yoga enthusiasts seeking rejuvenation and self-discovery.
What to do at the ashram: 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses, Yoga and Ayurveda retreats, Yoga Philosophy Sessions, Pranayama, Mantra Sessions, meditation, rafting, trekking, local sightseeing, Ayurvedic massage
6. Patanjali International Yoga Foundation (PIYF)
PIYF is a yoga health and training school established in 2001. It conducts activities and research on ancient yoga practices, Ayurveda, and Indian cultural scriptures. Unlike other ashrams in Rishikesh, it focuses on achieving physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
The Foundation is dedicated to traditional yoga principles. PIYF believes that the ancient art of yoga is the authentic way to understand and connect with your soul. With experienced instructors and a diverse range of yoga forms, it offers an authentic yoga experience. The tranquil environment of the Foundation nurtures spiritual development and overall well-being.
What to do at the ashram: International Yoga Accredited Yoga Alliance, 100, 200, 300, and 500 hours Yoga Teacher Training, Yoga Meditation Retreat, Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda, meditation, workshops, and seminars
7. Himalayan Yog Ashram
The Himalayan Yog Ashram in Rishikesh aims to elevate individuals by providing practical tools that facilitate deep transformation. A healthy society’s foundation lies in harmonious individuals who exude happiness.
The ashram offers a range of courses, from short meditation and yoga courses to 100 and 200 hours of certified yoga teacher training courses. Apart from English, the ashram also offers a course in Italian, once a year! If you are looking for a personalized program, you are at the right place. The ashram is a haven for seekers and yoga enthusiasts alike. Do not miss this opportunity to explore the unique blend of traditional and contemporary yoga practices, fostering inner peace, self-exploration, and overall well-being.
What to do at the ashram: 200 hour yoga teacher training, Ayurvedic detox and Yoga Healing Retreat, pranayama, meditation/ yoga nidra, Yoga and Ayurveda Philosophy Retreat, Anatomy and Physiology Retreat, satsang
Conclusion
Rishikesh, with its abundance of ashrams, offers a multitude of spiritual experiences for yoga and meditation enthusiasts. Inclusive spaces bring people from all walks of life together on a shared journey toward self-improvement and enlightenment. The unique locations, combined with various yoga styles, provide essential tools for achieving holistic well-being. Come and experience the magic of Rishikesh – the ultimate heaven for yoga enthusiasts.
