When The Beatles chose the Mahesh Yogi ashram in Rishikesh as their retreat way back in 1968, little did they know that the place will end up for global travellers and those seeking meditation, as the 'Beatles Ashram'. While it remained a hotspot for many years, its neglect for the past two decades became a sore in the eyes of many, who blamed the management for its sorry state. However, when the ashram was re-opened on December 8, much to the delight of locals and Beatles' fans alike, it also marked the 35th death anniversary of the band's lead member John Lennon. For starters, it is the same place where the band spent three months, to learn transcendental meditation. Its renovation has made it all the more special for 'The Beatles' fan Mitriya who came from Russia to witness the iconic retreat location being converted into an eco-friendly tourist destination.
This is our state's treasure and its opening is an important landmark for us. We plan to include a yoga learning centre and meditation classes at a later stage. Our aim is to ensure that visitors don't simply come for The Beatles connection, but to learn the magic of nature, meditation and yoga.
This is also the place where the band, sitting on the banks of river Ganga, wrote 48 songs in just seven weeks, many of which made it to their famous White Album. Even though the ashram got a facelift, the artwork on the walls have been left untouched, which is also the biggest draw for tourists.
This temple of spirituality has been renovated and opened for public who see the Chaurasi Kuttiya as an epitome of yoga, spirituality and music.The location now offers nature trails with tickets ranging from Rs 150 for Indians to Rs 600 for foreigners. For those who wish to catch a glimpse of the location where their favourite band was regenerated, refreshed and found peace, all they have to pay is a nominal fee.
More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html
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