Rishikesh is well-known among Hindus as one of the holiest places in India. This sleepy town nestled in the Shivalik Hills is rich in religious sites, temples, ghats, ashrams, and other attractions. Swarg Ashram, located in the heart of Rishikesh, is one of those must-see destinations for every traveller. The following is a detailed guide to visiting Swarg Ashram in Rishikesh.

It is well-known for the Ganges River, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditation Center. The entrance fee is INR 600/-, and the hours of operation are from 6 AM to 8 PM. A couple of hours is sufficient for sightseeing for tourists. For a more holistic experience, you can even stay in the ashram for a few days.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some stunning shots of the Ganga in its most beautiful form. Because the Ashram was built for a higher purpose, you must respect and adhere to local customs and traditions. It is strongly advised to maintain peace and silence once inside Ashram’s premises.

You can stay in the ashram on your own for a few days and experience the life of a rishi (saint). Breathe in some of the fresh mountain air brought by the Ganges from the Himalayas, as the Ashram is located near the river’s Ghats. Get up early in the morning and do a rejuvenating yoga session followed by an all-fruit breakfast to purify and cleanse your body and mind.

Put on some athletic wear and go for a revitalising walk through Swarg Ashram’s vast garden. The majority of ashrams have their own ghat where you can take a holy dip in the Ganges. Go for a run along the marine drive, which is a 12-kilometre stretch. It is not advisable to visit the river’s sand beaches at night because they are frequented by hooligans and peddlers. When swimming in the Ghats, be wary of the raging currents of the Ganges.

You don’t need a guide to visit the Swarg Ashram in Rishikesh; simply follow the directions of locals. During these times, even the GPS can be useful. The best time to visit Rishikesh for sightseeing of major tourist attractions is from early March to mid-May. If you want to participate in adventure sports, late September to mid-November is the best time.

The Ashram is approximately 6 kilometres from the Rishikesh Bus Stand. The railway station is 14 kilometres away from the Ashram and is located further back. The Jolly Grant Airport is 33 kilometres away from National Highway 7.