Shantikunj Ashram Haridwar - Haridwar, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism. It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, where the river emerges from the foothills of the Himalayas.
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Shantikunj Ashram Haridwar

4.6
·15k reviews·Haridwar, India

A world-renowned spiritual center offering free stays, sattvic food, and immersive spiritual practices in a tranquil setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings & Evenings

Experience daily rituals

CrowdMedium
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Shantikunj Ashram Haridwar - Haridwar, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is one of the seven holiest places (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism. It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, where the river emerges from the foothills of the Himalayas.

Shantikunj Ashram Haridwar

Best Time

Mornings & Evenings

Experience daily rituals

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned spiritual center offering free stays, sattvic food, and immersive spiritual practices in a tranquil setting.

4.6
(15k reviews)

"Incredibly peaceful and serene, offering a much-needed break from the hustle of daily life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Accommodation & Food

Stay and eat for free! Just pay for mattress/bedsheet. Canteen food is also pocket-friendly.

⏰ Punctuality is Key

Programs and rituals start on time. Be prompt to participate fully.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gayatri Temple

Gayatri Temple

Main Ashram Complex

The spiritual heart of Shantikunj, dedicated to Goddess Gayatri. Experience divine energy and participate in daily prayers.

Instagram
Sharamdaan (Voluntary Service)

Sharamdaan (Voluntary Service)

Various areas within the ashram

Contribute to the ashram's upkeep through selfless service. A deeply rewarding experience for spiritual seekers.

Reddit
Hawan (Fire Ritual)

Hawan (Fire Ritual)

Designated ritual grounds

Participate in sacred fire ceremonies for purification and blessings. A powerful spiritual practice.

Reddit
Greenery and Tranquil Gardens

Greenery and Tranquil Gardens

Throughout the ashram campus

Find peace amidst lush gardens and well-maintained greenery. Perfect for meditation and relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Stays & Spiritual Immersion

Shantikunj offers free accommodation and meals, making it ideal for budget travelers seeking spiritual growth. Plan for voluntary service (Sharamdaan) and participate in daily rituals for a truly immersive experience. Instagram+1

Punctuality & Discipline

The ashram operates with strict punctuality and discipline, especially for its spiritual camps and daily rituals. Arrive on time for programs and be prepared for a structured environment. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mornings & Evenings
Why
Experience daily rituals
Crowd
Medium
When
During Spiritual Camps
Why
Deep dive into practices
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Shantikunj Gayatri parivar Ashram 🌼🌿 . . #ashramvisit #ashram #ashramlife #shantikunjharidwar #haridwar #haridwardiaries
adiyogaashram
34 likes • 438 views

🎯 Free Accommodation & Food

Stay and eat for free! Just pay for mattress/bedsheet. Canteen food is also pocket-friendly. InstagramReddit

⏰ Punctuality is Key

Programs and rituals start on time. Be prompt to participate fully. Reddit

Free ashram Ashram me humesha ke liye kaise ruke Hamesha ke liye rukne wale ashram Ashram me volunteer kaise bane Ashram life Shanti kunj me kaise ruke Shantikunj me free me kaise rahe #shantikunj #freeashram #bharat #bharat ke ashram Haridwar ashram Rishikesh ashram Uttrakhand ashram Free rukne ke liye ashram
th_guruji
31 likes • 508 views
🕉️Shantikunj🕉️ Shantikunj is a world-renowned ashram and the headquarters of All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP) located in Haridwar. An academy for social and spiritual awakening, this pilgrimage centre has shown the right path and given long-lasting happiness to crores of people. An ideal place that imparts training to the masses based on divine spiritual principles, it aims for the revival of Ris...
uttarakhandnatures_31
16 likes • 143 views

🧘‍♀️ Dress Modestly

Wear simple, traditional Indian attire. Respectful clothing is appreciated. Instagram

📸 Photography Rules

Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Be mindful and respectful. Instagram

Ashram ShantikunjAshram #haridwar #haridwardiaries #haridwar🙏 #haridwartrip #haridwar_vibes #ashram #shantikujashram #nature #deep #akhandjyoti
sulata24_1990
3 likes • 56 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Accommodation & Food

Stay and eat for free! Just pay for mattress/bedsheet. Canteen food is also pocket-friendly. InstagramReddit

⏰ Punctuality is Key

Programs and rituals start on time. Be prompt to participate fully. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Dress Modestly

Wear simple, traditional Indian attire. Respectful clothing is appreciated. Instagram

📸 Photography Rules

Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Be mindful and respectful. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Haridwar can be warm. Carry a water bottle and refill it often. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Shantikunj Ashram for its profound peace, lush greenery, and the incredible generosity of providing free accommodation and meals. The spiritual atmosphere, coupled with opportunities for service and participation in rituals, leaves many feeling refreshed and deeply moved. While the entry process could be modernized, the overall experience is described as soul-refreshing and highly recommended for spiritual and budget-conscious travelers.

"This temple in Haridwar is a very peaceful and beautiful place. There is a lot of greenery all around, which makes it feel calm and fresh. The area is big and perfect for taking nice photos. It's a great place to enjoy nature and feel relaxed.

You can also see the beauty of this place but I think you go for the photography or for the peace."

Vatsal Mavani

"shantikun Retreat Experience 🌿✨
In June, we visited Shantikun with our family and stayed for around 4 days. The environment was incredibly peaceful and serene, offering us a much-needed break from the hustle of daily life. 🌸 The people there were warm, kind, and spoke with such love and respect—it truly felt like a spiritual home.
During our stay, we participated in Sharamdaan (voluntary service), took part in a sacred Hawan (fire ritual) 🔥, and even received Diksha (spiritual initiation), which made the experience deeply meaningful and memorable. 🙏 Overall, it was a soul-refreshing journey filled with positivity and tranquility. 🌞"

Tejveer Singh

"The name itself signifies the energy of this place. Just a half and hour journey from the Haridwar railway station, this place is recommended for any budget friendly, sustainable, and spiritual traveller.

They follow the order of time and practice punctuality. The food served here is completely vegetarian and sathwik."

My Travel Stories 2020

What People Like

Peaceful and serene environment
Free accommodation and food
Spiritual practices and rituals

What People Dislike

Entry process could be modernized

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shantikunj Ashram is conveniently located about 15 minutes by car from Har Ki Paudi and Haridwar Railway Station. You can easily hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the ashram. Instagram

While direct public transport might be limited, local buses and shared auto-rickshaws are available from Haridwar city to areas near Shantikunj. Taxis are the most convenient option. Instagram

From Dehradun Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Haridwar city, and then proceed to Shantikunj Ashram. The journey from Dehradun to Haridwar is approximately 1-2 hours. Instagram

No, entry to Shantikunj Ashram is completely free. It is a place open to all spiritual seekers. Instagram+1

Yes, you can drive your own vehicle to Shantikunj Ashram. There is usually ample parking space available within the premises. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are not required for entry into Shantikunj Ashram as it is free. However, if you plan to attend specific spiritual camps or programs, pre-registration might be necessary. Instagram

Shantikunj Ashram is generally open throughout the day, allowing visitors to experience its peaceful ambiance. Specific timings for rituals and programs are usually announced on-site. Instagram

Participation in daily rituals like Hawan is usually free, but donations are always welcome. For special spiritual camps, there might be nominal charges for materials or accommodation. Reddit

Yes, Shantikunj offers free accommodation and meals for visitors. You typically only pay for the mattress and bedsheet. InstagramReddit

For long-term stays or volunteering, you can inquire at the ashram's reception or administrative office. They often have programs for those wishing to dedicate time to service. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can participate in daily spiritual discourses, meditation sessions, Hawan (fire rituals), Sharamdaan (voluntary service), and attend spiritual camps. The ashram also offers classes on yoga and spiritual philosophy. InstagramReddit

Yes, Shantikunj provides a peaceful and positive environment for families. Children can benefit from the serene atmosphere and learn about Indian culture and spirituality. Reddit

It is recommended to wear modest and traditional Indian attire. Avoid revealing clothing to show respect for the spiritual setting. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in most common areas, but it's advisable to be discreet and respectful. Some specific prayer halls or ritual areas might have restrictions. Instagram

The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful, serene, and positive. Visitors often describe it as a soul-refreshing and tranquil place, filled with greenery and cleanliness. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Shantikunj provides free vegetarian and sattvic meals (lunch and dinner) to all visitors. InstagramReddit

The food served is purely vegetarian and sattvic, prepared with simple ingredients and without onion or garlic. Reddit

Yes, there is a canteen where you can purchase snacks like samosas, idlis, rasgullas, and ice cream at pocket-friendly prices. Reddit

The food is primarily vegetarian and sattvic. While it caters to a broad audience, those with very specific dietary needs might want to inquire or bring their own provisions. Reddit

Meal timings are usually punctual and announced on-site. It's best to check the daily schedule upon arrival to ensure you don't miss meal services. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ashram's lush gardens, the main temple complex, and the serene pathways offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The overall greenery and architecture are very photogenic. Instagram+1

While common areas are generally fine for photography, it's wise to be discreet. Avoid photographing individuals without their consent and be mindful of restricted zones, especially during prayer times. Instagram

Drone usage is typically prohibited in ashram premises to maintain peace and privacy. Always check with the management before attempting any aerial photography. Instagram

Many visitors focus on capturing the serene ambiance, the spiritual rituals, and the natural beauty of the ashram's gardens. InstagramReddit

It's best to refrain from taking photos during active spiritual camps or classes unless explicitly permitted by the organizers, to avoid disturbing the participants. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shantikunj Ashram offers a safe and enriching environment for families. The ample greenery and peaceful atmosphere are great for children to explore and connect with nature. Instagram Participating in simple rituals like Hawan can be an educational experience for kids, introducing them to Indian traditions in a gentle way. Reddit

With free accommodation and food, it's an excellent option for budget-conscious families. Encourage children to engage in light voluntary service (Sharamdaan) to foster a sense of responsibility and community spirit. The overall positive vibes can be very beneficial for young minds. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, Shantikunj Ashram is a dream come true. Free accommodation and sattvic meals significantly reduce travel expenses, allowing for extended stays. InstagramReddit The nominal cost for a mattress and bedsheet is a small price to pay for a comfortable stay. Reddit

Beyond the free provisions, the ashram's focus on spiritual growth and community service offers immense value. It's an opportunity to experience authentic Indian spirituality and culture without breaking the bank. The canteen also provides affordable snacks for those needing a little extra. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Retreaters

Shantikunj Ashram is a premier destination for those seeking deep spiritual immersion. The ashram's structured programs, including meditation, yoga, and spiritual camps, cater to a wide range of spiritual interests. Instagram+1 The opportunity to participate in daily rituals like Hawan and engage in Sharamdaan offers a profound way to connect with the divine and oneself. Reddit

The free accommodation and sattvic food allow seekers to focus entirely on their spiritual journey without worldly distractions. The disciplined yet welcoming environment fosters introspection and personal transformation, making it an ideal retreat for dedicated spiritual practitioners. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Spiritual Philosophy and Practices

Shantikunj Ashram is the global headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar (AWGP), founded by Pandit Sriram Sharma Acharya in 1971. The ashram's core philosophy revolves around social and spiritual awakening, emphasizing the power of the Gayatri Mantra and the principles of Sattva (purity, goodness, harmony). It aims to uplift humanity through self-discipline, ethical living, and service to society. Instagram+1

Visitors can immerse themselves in various practices such as meditation, yoga, Pranayama (breathing exercises), and Hawan (sacred fire rituals). The ashram also conducts regular spiritual camps and workshops designed to impart practical knowledge and foster personal growth. The emphasis is on self-transformation leading to a better society. Reddit

Participation in Sharamdaan (voluntary service) is a cornerstone of the ashram experience. It instills a sense of community, humility, and dedication. By contributing to the ashram's daily operations, visitors connect with the principles of selfless action and find fulfillment in service. Reddit

Accommodation and Sustenance

One of the most remarkable aspects of Shantikunj Ashram is its provision of free accommodation and meals for all visitors. This makes it an exceptionally budget-friendly destination for spiritual seekers from all walks of life. The accommodation typically involves simple dormitories or rooms where guests are provided with a mattress, bedsheet, and pillow. InstagramReddit

The food served is purely vegetarian and sattvic, prepared without onion or garlic, adhering to the principles of purity and health. This ensures a nourishing and spiritually conducive dining experience. For those who wish for additional variety or snacks, a canteen is available offering affordable options like samosas, idlis, and sweets. Reddit

While the basic stay and food are free, it's important to note that the ashram operates on a donation-based system. Visitors are encouraged to contribute voluntarily according to their capacity, which helps sustain the ashram's charitable activities and infrastructure. The emphasis is on giving back and supporting the mission. Reddit

The Ashram Environment

Shantikunj Ashram is renowned for its serene and tranquil environment, characterized by abundant greenery and well-maintained gardens. This natural beauty provides a peaceful backdrop for spiritual contemplation and relaxation, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. InstagramReddit

The campus is designed to foster a sense of calm and order. Visitors often remark on the cleanliness and discipline maintained throughout the premises. The ashram's layout encourages quiet reflection and mindful movement, making it an ideal place for those seeking inner peace. Reddit

Beyond the physical beauty, the ashram cultivates a positive and spiritual atmosphere. The interactions with residents and fellow visitors are often described as warm and respectful, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. This holistic environment contributes significantly to the soul-refreshing experience that many visitors report. Reddit

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