Omkara Nanda Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

The Omakarananda Ashram is a spiritual retreat center situated in the holy city of Rishikesh. Founded by Swami Omkarananda Saraswati in 1967, the ashram serves as a hub for spiritual seekers, yoga enthusiasts, and devotees of Hinduism.

The ashram is located amid the majestic Himalayas, overlooking the river Ganges, which is considered holy by Hindus. The tranquil surroundings of the ashram provide the ideal setting for meditation, contemplation, and self-reflection.

The ashram offers a range of spiritual and cultural activities, including yoga classes, meditation sessions, pujas, and spiritual discourses. The ashram also has a library, that contains a vast collection of books on Hindu philosophy, yoga, and spirituality.

The ashram has a strong focus on education and social welfare. The Omakarananda Education Society, which is based at the ashram, runs several schools and colleges in the region, providing education to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The ashram is also involved in various charitable activities, such as providing food and shelter to the homeless, supporting orphanages and old-age homes, and providing medical care to the sick and needy.

The Omakarananda Ashram is a popular destination for spiritual seekers from all over the world, who come to experience the rich cultural heritage of India and immerse themselves in the teachings of Hinduism. The ashram is renowned for its warm hospitality, its serene surroundings, and its commitment to spiritual growth and social welfare

Omakarananda Ashram is a spiritual and cultural center located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. It was founded by Swami Omkarananda Saraswati in 1967 and has become a popular destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike. Here are some points of interest at the Omakarananda Ashram:

1. Shri Yantra Temple: The temple is dedicated to the worship of Shri Yantra, a sacred symbol in Hinduism that represents the divine mother. The temple has beautiful murals and sculptures that depict the various aspects of Hindu mythology.

2. Omkarananda Ganga Sadan: It is a guest house located on the banks of the river Ganges. It provides a serene environment for spiritual seekers and tourists to meditate and relax.

3. Omkarananda Ashram Gaushala: It is a cow shelter where cows are kept and taken care of. The ashram believes in the protection and preservation of cows, which are considered sacred in Hinduism.

4. Omkarananda Institute of Management and Technology: It is an educational institution that offers courses in business management and computer applications. The institute is affiliated with Uttarakhand Technical University and is approved by the All India Council for Technical Education.

5. Omkarananda Preksha Meditation Center: It is a meditation center that provides training in paksha meditation, a technique that involves introspection and self-awareness. The center also offers yoga classes and workshops on spiritual development.

6. Omkarananda Saraswati Nilayam: It is a school that provides education to underprivileged children in the surrounding villages. The school is committed to providing quality education to children who would otherwise not have access to it.

7. Omkarananda Ashram Cultural Center: The center organizes various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. These events promote the rich cultural heritage of India and attract visitors from all over the world.

The  Ashram offers a unique blend of spirituality, education, and culture. It is a place where people from different backgrounds come together to learn, meditate, and celebrate the beauty of life.

The best time to visit Rishikesh is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is cool and pleasant. This time is also ideal for activities such as yoga, meditation, and trekking in the nearby hills.

If you wish to participate in the Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is performed every evening at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, then the best time to visit would be during the summer months (March to June) when the days are longer and the weather is warmer. This ceremony involves offering prayers to the River Ganges, and it is considered to be a very spiritual experience.
It is always advisable to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly to ensure you have the best experience possible.