Let’s be honest—modern vacations aren’t always relaxing. You fly across countries, try to cram in every tourist attraction, and end up coming home more exhausted than when you left.
What if your next trip was less about ticking off sights and more about finding peace?
That’s exactly what happened to me when I decided—on a bit of a whim—to stay in an ashram in Rishikesh. And honestly? It changed everything.
So… What Even Is Ashram Life?
If you’re picturing long days of chanting and strict silence, take a deep breath—it’s not as intense as it sounds.
At its core, ashram life is about simplicity. It’s about living intentionally and disconnecting from the usual chaos to reconnect with yourself. No emails. No endless scrolling. Just time, space, and a rhythm that reminds you what being alive actually feels like.
When I arrived at a peaceful retreat near the Seven Sages Saptrishi Ashram, I didn’t really know what to expect. But within hours, the quiet, the calm, and the community started to work their magic.
A Day in the Ashram: Gentle, Grounding, and Surprisingly Joyful
Every ashram is a bit different, but here’s how a typical day looked for me:
1. Wake Up with the Sun
Around 5 AM, the sound of temple bells or distant chanting starts your day. I won’t lie—I’m not a morning person. But waking up this way? It felt… sacred. There’s something incredibly powerful about rising with the natural world.
2. Morning Meditation & Yoga
The first hour is spent in silent meditation or breathing practice, followed by yoga. Not the high-energy, Instagram-worthy type. This was slow, breath-based movement that left me feeling connected, calm, and very aware of my body.
3. Simple, Nourishing Meals
Breakfast is usually light—porridge, fruits, maybe herbal tea. Everything is vegetarian, often Ayurvedic, and prepared with love. And you eat in silence, which sounds strange but feels so peaceful.
4. Seva (Selfless Service)
This part surprised me the most. You help out around the ashram—maybe sweeping the courtyard, helping in the kitchen, or tending to the garden. It’s voluntary and completely humbling. Giving without expecting anything in return? It really grounds you.
5. Study, Rest, Repeat
Afternoons are quiet. Sometimes you attend a spiritual talk (called satsang), other times you’re free to read, nap, or journal. I’d sit under trees by the river, writing in my notebook, just… processing.
What You Learn When You Slow Down
After a few days, I noticed something. My anxiety? Fading. My sleep? Deeper. My mind? Quieter.
The constant urge to check my phone or “stay productive” melted away. I was doing less, but feeling more. More clarity, more connection, more contentment.
And honestly, that’s the biggest gift ashram life offers—it strips away the noise so you can actually hear yourself again.
Who’s Ashram Life For? (Spoiler: Not Just Yogis)
You don’t need to be spiritual, vegan, or even particularly flexible to stay in an ashram. All you really need is a willingness to unplug.
This kind of experience can be ideal if:
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You’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in life
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You’re seeking something deeper than a typical vacation
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You want to explore mindfulness or meditation in an authentic way
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You’re open to being a beginner again
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Go
If you’re considering adding an ashram stay to your trip, here are a few practical tips:
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Do your research: Not all ashrams are alike. Some are more traditional, while others cater to international visitors.
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Check the schedule: Most ashrams have a daily routine—find one that fits your vibe.
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Respect the space: Dress modestly, follow guidelines, and approach the experience with humility.
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Go with an open heart: You’re not signing up for luxury—you’re signing up for transformation.
You’ll Leave with More Than Memories
I went in expecting a few peaceful days. I left with a lighter heart, a slower pace, and a fresh lens on life.
It wasn’t the food or the yoga or the chants that changed me—it was the pause. The quiet. The return to simplicity. And that’s something you carry home with you, long after the trip ends.
Now, whenever life starts to feel too fast, I close my eyes and go back to that riverside bench. I remember the sounds of birds, the scent of incense, and the feeling of being completely present.
Ready to Try It?
If your soul is craving something more than selfies and souvenirs, consider carving out a few days at an ashram on your next adventure. Whether it’s in Rishikesh, Kerala, or the Himalayas—you’ll find places that welcome beginners with open arms and open hearts.
And if you do head to Rishikesh, take a walk through the overgrown paths of the Chaurasi Kutia Beatles Ashram. Once a retreat for world-famous musicians, it’s now a quiet spot for reflection and creativity. A reminder that even icons went looking for peace in places like this.
