Mahesh Yogi's Ashram / Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 6 km from Rishikesh Railway Station and 1 km from Swarg Ashram, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, also known as Beatles Ashram, is situated on the periphery of the Rajaji Tiger Reserve in Rishikesh. This Ashram was setup by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the inventor of Transcendental Meditation.

The ashram gained prominence in 1968, after the world-famous musical band Beatles stayed here. The Beatles first met Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in London (1967). Later they also attended seminar of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at Wales. The Beatles were attracted to his meditation and teachings. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi invited them to his ashram in Rishikesh in 1968 for advance learning. Sessions were conducted by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi himself at his ashram. Later Beatles accepted Maharishi Mahesh Yogi as their Guru and became their disciples.

The Ashram was abandoned back in 1997; it has now been taken under the control of the forest department. The interesting part of the ashram was the vibrant Beatles Cathedral Gallery. Located in an abandoned hall, the Beatles Cathedral Gallery is a colorful open space full of images of love and peace. On one side, a series of spiritual leaders crossed the wall horizontally, painted in shades of black, white and red, including images of the Dalai Lama, Sri Prem Baba, Ananda Mayi Ma, Yogananda and Swami Sivananda, with an image of the Beatles dominating in the center.

Recently it is reopened for the visitors. The location now offers nature.

Entry Fee: Rs.150 for Indians and Rs.650 for Foreigners.

Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM