Nestled amidst the lush forests and serene surroundings of Rishikesh, is a place of historical significance for music enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike—the Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia. It's a spiritual retreat established by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, an Indian spiritual teacher who introduced the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique to the world.
If the name has you wondering, yes, the famed rock band, The Beatles visited this ashram in the 1960s. The band sought solace in this idyllic location amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and the meandering Ganges River, finding inspiration and relief from the pressures of their musical careers through a three-month transcendental meditation course. During their stay, they penned nearly 40 songs, including some of their most renowned tunes like 'Dear Prudence', 'Back in the USSR', and 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps'. Immersed in this tranquil environment, away from the music industry's hustle, their creativity blossomed.
The place was abandoned after the departure of the band, but in recent times (around late 2015), the Beatles Ashram was revived as a tourist destination. Opened to the public by the Uttarakhand Forest Department, visitors can now explore the various meditation cells, the famous 'Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Kutir,' and the meditation hall where The Beatles and other artists once meditated and composed music. It consists of various meditation huts, classrooms, and communal spaces, where students can learn and practice TM.
The Beatles Ashram isn't just about its musical history; it's also a centre for spiritual exploration. Today, the ashram hosts various meditation and yoga retreats, drawing people from all walks of life seeking peace and self-discovery. The walls continue to resonate with art, showcasing vibrant graffiti and murals from contemporary artists who pay homage to The Beatles and the spirit of Rishikesh.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM daily.
Entry Fee: INR 150 for Indian citizens and INR 600 for foreigners (approx.)
