11 Famous Ashrams in Haridwar
There are a huge number of Ashrams in Haridwar, amounting to nearly 300 or even more. These Ashrams offer accommodation facilities to the vast number of pilgrims gathering at Haridwar during Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela, or other festive occasions.
Stay at any of the Ashrams of Haridwar is quite budget-friendly, as they charge only nominal fees in exchange for basic lodging facilities. Over 15,000 pilgrims stay in these Ashrams during their visit to Haridwar, especially during overcrowded festivals.
Below is a list of some of the most popular Ashrams in Haridwar:
Maa Anandamayi Ashram
Located in Kankhal, Ma Anandamayi Ashram is where the famous saint Ma Anandamayi’s Samadhi lies. People from different places come to the ashram to attend its popular Satsangs and peaceful evening Aartis.
Jairam Ashram
Jairam Ashram is located on the way between Haridwar and Rishikesh. This ashram not only gives visitors good places to stay but also attracts them with its beautiful statues of Hindu gods. This ashram is known for its unique sculptures, with the Samudra Manthan statue being one of the main highlights. People from all over India come here to see these amazing and beautiful sculptures.
Prem Nagar Ashram
Prem Nagar Ashram was built around 1944 to honor Yogiraj Shri Hans Ji Maharaj. It was set up by his devoted followers. Today, it’s a spot where visitors come to find inner peace, relax their minds, and focus on their spiritual journey.
Kutchilal Rameshwar Ashram
Bhagwan Odhavram started this ashram to give shelter to Kutchi people traveling far from home. It’s located on Sapt Sarovar Marg and gives visitors a warm, homely feeling.
Saptarishi Ashram
This ashram is named after seven famous sages- Vashisht, Vishwamitra, Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadwaja, Jamadagni, and Gautam—who were known for their strong spiritual powers. People believe that seven holy men once meditated where the ashram is now. Goddess Ganga didn’t want to interrupt them so she divided into seven paths, each flowing around a sage. The seven small rivers here are called Sapt Sarovar. Saptarishi Ashram is about 5 km from Haridwar, on the road to Rishikesh. The area is known as Motichur.
Kanva Rishi Ashram
Kanva Rishi Ashram is in Kotdwar, about 42 km from Haridwar. To reach the ashram, you need to walk through a forest path. Since it’s away from the busy city, the place is perfect for those looking for peace and quiet in nature.
Santosh Puri Ashram
Santosh Puri Ashram is a beautiful place near the Ganges, located after Bharat Mata Temple in the Haripur Kalan area. The saint who started the ashram has passed away. Now, it’s run by his wife, a kind German lady lovingly called ‘Mata Ji’ by everyone, including their children. The ashram is known for its great yoga classes, which attract people from faraway places.
Bholagiri Ashram
This ashram was started by Asharam Bapu. It’s close to Birla Ghat and easy to reach from the bus stand or railway station. People talk about the warm welcome they get here, which is why the ashram is well known.
Shankar Ashram
The Shankar Ashram has a very disciplined schedule of everyday activities and offers visitors customized spiritual retreats and personalized instructions. It is located in Khanna town on NH58.
Soham Ashram
Soham Ashram was founded by a well-known spiritual leader named Soham Swami. His real name was Shyamakanta Bandopadhyay. He followed and taught the Advaita Vedanta philosophy. The ashram he built is located in Bhupatwala, Haridwar. Soham Swami also set up another ashram in Nainital.
Shantikunj Ashram
Shantikunj Ashram is located on the Haridwar–Rishikesh highway. The ashram provides facilities for spiritual and yogic practices like mantra chanting, meditation, fire rituals (Yagya), and other spiritual activities. Surrounded by a beautiful garden, the ashram gives peace to both mind and soul. It also holds regular spiritual camps and has its own university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q-1: What are the top 5 ashrams to visit in Haridwar?
Ans: The five most well-known ashrams in Haridwar are Jairam Ashram, Saptarishi Ashram, Soham Ashram, Maa Anandamayi Ashram, and Prem Nagar Ashram.
Q-2: Are there any ashrams near the Ganga River in Haridwar?
Ans: Yes, many ashrams are located near the Ganga Ghats in Haridwar, though some are set a bit away from the river, offering peace and quiet.
Q-3: Do any ashrams in Haridwar offer free stays for visitors?
Ans: Yes, some ashrams allow free stays, especially if you’re there for spiritual purposes. However, each ashram has different rules, and some may request donations or participation in daily activities.
Q-4: Is it safe to stay in an ashram for solo travelers?
Ans: Ashrams are generally peaceful and safe places with a spiritual atmosphere. They are considered safe for solo travelers, especially those seeking meditation and calmness.
