Activities in Haridwar
-
A
Shanti Kunj Ashram
A large ashram set in beautiful gardens on the road to Rishikesh, this is an inspirational community (founded in 1971) that offers simple accommodation. It suits serious students of sadhana (spiritual achievement), as meditation and mantras start at 5am, followed by yagyar (fire ceremony) and meditation in a hall dominated by a model of the Himalaya. Contact the foreigners office (the ‘Abroad Cell’) for further information. The ashram has established its own university and runs ‘spiritual camps’ (in Hindi and English) running from nine days to one month.
reviewed
-
Ashrams
While most travellers make a beeline for Rishikesh to partake in yoga, spirituality and stay in an ashram, Haridwar has several excellent ashrams where you'll be surrounded by serious ashramites and fewer foreigners. You can join in with ashram activities as long as you obey the strict rules. Everything - lodging, meals, religious practice - is usually free, but a donation is expected.
Most ashrams try to be self-sufficient mini-utopias - some grow their own herbs which are made into Ayurvedic medicines, publish books and literature or run schools.
reviewed
-
B
Mohan’s Adventure Tours
From his office next to Chitra Talkies cinema, Sanjeev Mehta of Mohan’s Adventure Tours can organise any kind of tour, including trekking, fishing, birdwatching, cycling, motorcycling and rafting. An accomplished wildlife photographer, he specialises in five-hour safaris (Rs1750 per person) around Rajaji National Park. Sanjeev also runs three-day trips to Corbett Tiger Reserve – these tours operate year-round.
reviewed
-
C
Mohyal Ashram
More a yoga retreat than an ashram, Mohyal has peacefullawns, marble floors and a meditation and yoga hall with wonderful acoustics. The spotless midrange accommodation includes meals and classes. This is not a usual strict ashram (although smoking, alcohol and meat are prohibited), and casual guests are welcome.
reviewed
-
D
