Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh
The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is located in Rishikesh, India, on the eastern bank of the Ganges river. Established by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in 1963, it became famous when The Beatles, along with other celebrities, visited in 1968 to study meditation. During their stay, they wrote many songs, contributing to albums like "The White Album" and "Abbey Road." Abandoned in the 1990s, the ashram was officially reopened in 2015 and now welcomes visitors, showcasing the significant influence it had on The Beatles' music. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the ashram is undergoing renovation, but visitors can explore the original buildings, including the meditation huts.
Why Chaurasi Kutia (84 cottages) called?
Chaurasi Kutia, meaning "84 cottages," reflects an ancient Hindu belief. The number 84, traditionally associated with the base numeral of the Earth's believed 8.4 million species, signifies completeness and universality. This concept is woven into the ashram's design, offering 84 individual spaces for spiritual meditation seekers to find their own path.
Why Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram called?
The Beatles Ashram is called Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram because it was initially established by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in 1963 as a center for teaching Transcendental Meditation in Rishikesh. Before the Beatles arrived, the ashram served as the spiritual meditation center of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a well-known guru in the Transcendental Meditation movement. In the 1960s and 70s, it grow as the International Academy of Meditation in Rishikesh, attracting students worldwide seeking enlightenment through Transcendental Meditation training. Even though the Beatles made the ashram famous during their stay, it was always Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's place for meditation instruction.
Why Beatles Ashram called?
The Ashram is called Beatles Ashram because in February 1968, the famous English rock band, the Beatles, visited Rishikesh, India. They went to an ashram to learn Transcendental Meditation (TM). During their time there, they created music and practiced meditation. Because of the Beatles' association with the place, people started calling it "Beatles Ashram Rishikesh."
In Rishikesh Beatles Ashram Facilities
Aspect |
Details |
Beatles Ashram Location |
Swargashram Trust |
Beatles Ashram Address |
Chaurasi kutiya, Swarg Ashram Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137 |
Area |
14 acres |
Buildings |
84 beehive-shaped meditation huts, former temple, kitchen, library, bungalows, residence buildings, Maharishi's home |
Surroundings |
Rajaji National Park, Holy Ganga River, Laxmanjhula Bridge, Parmarth Niketan, Neelkanth Temple, Chilla Power Channel, Swargashram, and other natural sites |
Features |
Lush gardens, colorful graffiti, meditation huts, central hall, spiritual ambiance |
Activities |
Ground exploration, meditation training, learning about the Beatles' time, regular events (Rishikesh yoga classes, yoga meditation, meditation workshops, concerts) |
Beatles Ashram Rishikesh Entry Fee |
- For Students (up to 18 years): Rs. 40 - For Senior citizens: Rs. 75 - For Students (above 18 years): Rs. 75 - For Indian citizens: Rs. 150 - and for Foreign tourists: Rs. 600 (7.21 USD) |
Beatles Ashram Timings |
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily |
Beatles Ashram contact number |
+91 99176 06031 |
Booking |
Day visit booking available at the ticket counter near Geeta Press Bhawan on the Ganga riverbank after crossing Laxmanjhula Bridge and Ganga River on Neelkanth-Rishikesh motor road |
Where Music Met Meditation:
The Beatles' visit in 1968 marked a turning point for the ashram. The band's immersion in TM meditation training and the serene atmosphere sparked a creative surge, leading to the composition of several iconic songs, including "Dear Prudence" and "Sexy Sadie." This association solidified the ashram's connection to music and earned it the enduring title, the "Beatles Ashram Rishikesh."
A Legacy of Peace and Creativity:
Today, the Beatles Ashram Rishikesh stands as a testament to the transformative power of spirituality and creativity. Visitors can explore the graffiti-adorned cottages, meditate by the holy Ganges, and soak in the atmosphere that once inspired musical legends. Whether you're a Beatles fan, a spiritual meditation seeker, or simply curious about this unique place, the Beatles Ashram Rishikesh offers a glimpse into a chapter of history where music and meditation intertwined, leaving behind a legacy of peace and inspiration.