"Stepping into the Amritapuri ashram is like crossing an invisible threshold into a different world—a world where the noise of daily life melts away, replaced by a profound and gentle calm. The moment you arrive, the very air feels imbued with a sense of peace that is as palpable as the warm, salty breeze from the Arabian Sea. It’s a place that doesn't just offer an escape; it provides a sanctuary where your very soul can exhale.

The atmosphere here is truly unique. There is a quiet, powerful energy that emanates from the collective spirit of thousands of seekers, volunteers, and residents. It’s not a sterile, silent stillness, but a vibrant tapestry of devotion woven with the hum of shared work, the gentle murmur of conversations, and the serene beauty of the surroundings. The rhythm of the day is a natural flow of meditation, service, and reflection, each activity a quiet invitation to detach from the endless stream of worries and to-do lists that dominate our minds.

What strikes you most is the feeling of being held. The ashram's simple yet profound embrace allows you to shed your burdens without judgment. The ocean waves provide a constant, soothing soundtrack, their gentle roar a reminder of a peace far greater than any personal turmoil. In this space, the concept of "letting go" becomes not just an idea, but an actual, physical experience. You find yourself walking with a lighter step, smiling at strangers with genuine warmth, and feeling a deep-seated connection to everything around you.

At the heart of this divine atmosphere is Amma herself. To be in her presence is to understand the source of the ashram's incredible energy. Her simple, loving gaze and comforting embrace transcend language and thought, reaching directly into the heart. In these moments, you feel a profound connection—a silent, yet powerful transmission of unconditional love that washes away every fear and fills you with a deep sense of peace. It's a feeling of coming home, a truly sacred experience that grounds you entirely in the present moment and reminds you that divine love is real and accessible.

The experience is profoundly touching because it reminds you of what is truly essential. Amidst the selfless service and the quiet devotion, you are given the most precious gift: the opportunity to be. It is a place where you can rediscover the tranquility within yourself, a tranquility that was always there, just waiting for the right atmosphere to emerge. Leaving is difficult, but you carry that sense of peace with you, a light that continues to shine long after you have departed."

Sudeep Dharan

"A wonderful place to get to know the truth of the soul deeper. A place where you will meet nice people and make new friends. Beautiful, picturesquely repeated Ashram, I wanted to stay 3 days at first and I stayed because I extended my stay for 8 days. This place is easily accessible by train to the station, and then you can get there by tuk tuk for a price of about 250-300 rupees. For accommodation in the Ashram with Indian food I paid 600 Rs. There is also European cuisine, very tasty. It is not included in the price of accommodation. The price is ok. The Ashram also has a hospital where panchakarma is carried out for a fee. You can also use the consultation of an Ayurvedic doctor for a small fee. There are also various courses carried out."

Shiva Bina

"I am disappointed and sad by the people staying and working in this ashram. Even with the best intentions I found very rude behaviours while staying here, which I think had to do with the extreme fanatism towards Amma. I think this place called aaram needs some big behavioural changes and human beings should treat each other with love and basic respect, but here people seems to only love Amma and they don't care about anything or anyone else. Not to talk about profesionalism, going for breakfast is one of the most stressful things I have ever done, people steps on you to get their food/drink and they tell you to move if you are on their way. The occidental cashier takes the payment of three different people at the same time, and does not wait for you to look for your money if you don't do it fast, you'll have to wait for her. Several times I found her charging incorrect amounts to my friends (less than what was owed) probably due to her rush.
I do not thing this issue has anything to do with bringing different cultures together... The culture of this place itself is ridiculously rude. Thankfully I can say I found a couple of friends but otherwise I felt the need to run away from the very beginning.
Reception hours are limited and receptionists are also pretty rude. On my first day I was told by the gardener "I am too tired to be nice". On my second day, when I asked for prices at the occidental counter, he said "you have enough money anyway" by just looking at my hand.
The indian receptionist asked me to move quickly since he had to open the reception by just moving their hand while I was talking to my family on my phone. It took me one minute and he was already taking my chair.
Just analysing everything I realised there is a huge lack of awareness and people is just blind by fanatism. I thought ashrams were made for people to wake up but honestly, this is the very opposite isn't it?
You have to pay if you want decent food (fruits, veggies) on top of your accommodation. Frankly, I have a conviction of that are what we eat and I do not think people living here for the last 30 years eat enough fruits and veggies so there we go, that's the result.
Lastly, regarding workshops and activities, be aware nothing is happening if Amma is away so please make sure that she is not travelling if you wanna do any kind of activity on his ashram.
On her absence this place is also completely dead and everyone seems to become miserable (and they say it, "it's because Amma is not here". I would wish everyone would hug and respect each other and not just Amma, this is far from spirituality."

Marta Lerchundi