Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh

Paramarth Niketan Ashram is a spiritual and cultural center located in Rishikesh, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges and is considered to be one of the largest ashrams in the area.

The ashram was established in 1942 by Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj, and it has since become a popular destination for spiritual seekers from all over the world. The ashram offers a variety of spiritual programs, including yoga and meditation classes, satsangs, and lectures on various aspects of Hinduism.

One of the main attractions of the ashram is the daily Ganga Aarti, a ritual that takes place in the evening on the banks of the Ganges. During this ceremony, devotees light lamps and offer prayers to the river, which is considered to be a manifestation of the goddess Ganga.

Paramarth Niketan also has a charitable wing, which provides free medical care and education to the underprivileged in the surrounding area. The ashram is also involved in various environmental initiatives, including reforestation and the cleanup of the Ganges.

Accommodation at the ashram is available in the form of simple, clean rooms, and meals are provided as part of the stay. The ashram also has a bookstore, where visitors can purchase books on spirituality and Hinduism, as well as souvenirs and other items.

Paramarth Niketan Ashram is a vibrant center of spirituality, culture, and service, offering visitors a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of Hinduism and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is a spiritual haven situated in Rishikesh, India, and is one of the largest and most renowned yoga centers in the country. The ashram is located on the banks of the sacred Ganges river and is surrounded by lush greenery and the serene Himalayan mountains. Some of the points of interest of Parmarth Niketan Ashram are:

1. Yoga and Meditation: The ashram offers various yoga and meditation programs for beginners as well as advanced practitioners. The yoga programs include Hatha, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa Yoga, while the meditation programs include guided and silent meditation sessions.

2. Ganga Aarti: Parmarth Niketan Ashram is well-known for its daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is held in the evening on the banks of the Ganges river. This beautiful ritual involves offering prayers to the river goddess Ganga, and is attended by hundreds of visitors every day.

3. Spiritual and Cultural Programs: The ashram also conducts various spiritual and cultural programs, including talks and discourses on Indian philosophy and spirituality, Vedic chanting, and devotional singing.

4. Ayurvedic Healing: Parmarth Niketan Ashram has an Ayurvedic clinic that offers various healing treatments, including massage, detoxification, and rejuvenation therapies.

5. Ashram Stay: Visitors can also stay at the ashram and experience the spiritual and peaceful lifestyle of the ashram. The accommodation includes simple rooms and dormitories, and guests can participate in the daily activities of the ashram.

6. Environmental Conservation: The ashram is actively involved in various environmental conservation projects, including tree planting, waste management, and clean-up drives, to help protect the environment and preserve the natural beauty of the area.

7. Humanitarian Services: Parmarth Niketan Ashram also runs various humanitarian services, including free medical camps, education and vocational training for the underprivileged, and disaster relief efforts.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in spirituality, yoga, and culture, while also contributing to the betterment of society and the environment.

If you want to experience pleasant weather and avoid extreme heat or cold, the best time to visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram is between the months of September and November, and again from February to April. During these months, the temperatures are moderate, and the climate is generally pleasant for outdoor activities.

If you are interested in experiencing traditional Hindu festivals, then plan your visit during festivals like Diwali (usually in October or November), Holi (usually in February or March), or Mahashivratri (usually in February). These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Rishikesh, and you can witness the colorful and vibrant celebrations at Parmarth Niketan Ashram and other nearby areas. For Yoga and Meditation you can go any time of the year.

Do note that Rishikesh can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it's advisable to book your accommodation in advance if you plan to visit during these times.