11 Famous Ashrams in Haridwar

There are a huge number of Ashrams in Haridwar, amounting to nearly 300 or even more and these Ashrams offer accommodation facilities to the huge sea of pilgrims gathering at Haridwar during Kumbh Mela, Ardh Kumbh Mela or other such festive occasions. Stay at any of the Ashrams of Haridwar is quite budget-friendly as they charge only nominal fees in exchange of the basic lodging facilities. Over 15000 pilgrims put up in these Ashrams during their visit to Haridwar at the time overcrowded festive occasions. Given is a list some of the most popular Haridwar Ashrams.

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.

Shanti Kunj 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 Question

Q-1: What are the top 5 ashrams to visit in Haridwar?
Ans: These are five well-known ashrams in Haridwar- Jairam, Saptarishi, Soham, Maa Anandamayi, and Prem Nagar.

Q-2: Are there any ashrams near the Ganga River in Haridwar?
Ans: Many ashrams in Haridwar are near the Ganga Ghats. However, a few are built outside the city, a little away from the river.

Q-3: Do any ashrams in Haridwar offer free stays for visitors?
Ans: Yes, a few ashrams in Haridwar let you stay for free, mainly if you’re there for spiritual reasons. But each ashram has its own rules and some may ask you to join daily routines or give small donation.

Q-4: Is it safe to stay in an ashram for solo travelers?
Ans: Ashrams are usually quiet, safe spots with a peaceful and spiritual vibe.