While passing through the colorful streets of Pondicherry, seeing the beauty of the French Quarter, if you suddenly hear the tune of peace, then understand that you have come close to Sri Aurobindo Ashram. This ashram is not located in the forest of some distant country, but in the middle of the entire city.
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Aurobindo Ashram: History
A trip to Pondicherry is incomplete if you have not visited Sri Aurobindo Ashram. This ashram is not just a building but a journey of spiritual awakening, which started in 1910. Let us tell you the story of this journey today:
Sri Aurobindo transformed from revolutionary to yogi
The story of Sri Aurobindo Ashram starts with Sri Aurobindo Ghosh. Yes, the same Shri Aurobindo Ghosh who was a famous revolutionary of India. He fought against the British, but later he felt that true freedom lies in the mind. In 1910, he came to Puducherry and here he adopted the path of spiritual practice.
Mother and establishment of ashram
After coming to Pondicherry, another important turning point came in Sri Aurobindo’s life – the entry of Mira Alfassa. Everyone used to call her “Mother”. Mother and Sri Aurobindo met in 1914 and this was the beginning of their spiritual partnership. Sri Aurobindo established the ashram in 1926. At that time there were only 20-25 seekers in the ashram.
a different kind of ashram
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is quite different from other ashrams. No particular religion is followed here, rather emphasis is given on spiritual development. Everyone can try to find God in his own way. People living in the ashram live their lives in a simple manner and try to reach spiritual heights through meditation, yoga etc.
The journey continues even today
Sri Aurobindo died in 1950. But mother pushed his dreams forward. He left his body in 1973, but the journey of the ashram continues even today. People from all over the world come to this ashram in search of spiritual peace.
When will your journey start?
Sri Aurobindo Ashram may be a journey of spiritual awakening, but this journey can be yours too. Perhaps this is the reason why even after so many years this ashram attracts people towards itself. So if you ever go to Pondicherry, then definitely visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Who knows, maybe this journey will change the direction of your life!
Aurobindo Ashram: Things to do
Have come to visit Pondicherry and wondering what to do at Sri Aurobindo Ashram? So let us tell you that this ashram is not just a place to visit, but along with the search for spiritual peace, it can also give you the experience of doing many other things. Let us know what are the special things that you can do in the Ashram:
- Learning meditation and yoga
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a center of spiritual development. If you also want to learn to meditate or want to know more about yoga, then you can join the yoga and meditation sessions held in the ashram. Here the guidance of experienced gurus will definitely help you in attaining inner peace.
- Walk in the peaceful atmosphere of the ashram
The special thing about Sri Aurobindo Ashram is its calm and positive environment. You can roam around the ashram gardens in the morning, sit under the trees and read a book, or go to the temple and offer prayers. The environment here will take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city and give you peace of mind.
- Darshan at the Samadhi of Mother and Sri Aurobindo
The mausoleum of Sri Aurobindo and his mother remains in the ashram. Both of them are the source of inspiration for the ashram. You can pay tribute to him by visiting the mausoleum, and know the stories related to his life.
- Participate in ashram activities
Many types of activities are organized throughout the year at Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Some of these activities, like bhajan-kirtan, poetry recitation, or musical evening, are open to all. By participating in these activities you can understand the atmosphere of the ashram more closely.
- Visit to the Ashram Library and Museum
Sri Aurobindo Ashram has a huge library, where thousands of books related to spirituality, philosophy and yoga are present. If you have a deep interest in the field of spirituality, you can spend hours here. Besides, there is also a small museum in the Ashram, where things related to the life of Sri Aurobindo and Mother are displayed.
some special things
Before going to the ashram, be sure to know the rules there. Take care of your attire and help in maintaining a calm environment.
Some things like photography, use of mobile phone, etc. are prohibited in the ashram. Therefore, keep these things in mind before going.
There is also arrangement for living in the ashram. If you want to spend more time in the spiritual environment, you can contact the ashram administration for permission to stay.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram may not give you a life changing experience, but it will definitely give you inner peace and positive energy.
Aurobindo Ashram: How to reach
- Support of rickshaw or auto rickshaw
The real fun of visiting Pondicherry can be had by sitting in a rickshaw or auto rickshaw. Wherever you are roaming, any rickshaw puller will take you to Sri Aurobindo Ashram as soon as you ask. Rickshaw fare will not be much, and on the way you will also get a chance to visit the locations of Pondicherry.
- Traveling on a two-wheeler
If you like a little adventure, you can also go to Sri Aurobindo Ashram by renting a scooty or motorcycle. This is a very good option to visit Pondicherry. Car parking facility is also available around the ashram.
- Spiritual bliss by walking
If you are staying not far from the hotel and feel like walking a little, then you can also walk to Sri Aurobindo Ashram. On the way, you will get to see the beautiful buildings of the French Colony and the beauty of Pondicherry. Walking will also give you a chance to experience the atmosphere of the city, which you will not be able to get by sitting in a rickshaw or car.
some special things
Sri Aurobindo Ashram is open from 8 am to 12 noon and 2 pm to 6 pm.
Before going to the ashram, wear decent clothes.
Do not use mobile phones inside the ashram and maintain silence.
Even though it is easy to reach Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the spiritual peace and positive energy that you will get by coming here, you will not get anywhere else. So what are you waiting for, set out on the journey to Sri Aurobindo Ashram!
Attractions near Aurobindo Ashram
Pondicherry Museum (500 m)
Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges (1 km)
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (2 km)
Pondicherry Lighthouse (3 km)
Serenity Beach (5 km)
Paradise Beach (13 km)
Auroville (14 km)
Aurobindo Ashram Information
| Location | Marine Street, White Town, Pondicherry |
| Nearest Railway Station | Puducherry Railway Station (2 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Puducherry Airport (6 km) |
| Year of Establishment | 1926 |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March |
| Restrictions | Cameras not allowed, no entry for children under 3 years of age |
| Facilities | Meditation sessions, tours, exhibitions, library |