Shantikunj, Haridwar

Shantikunj is the headquarters of the All World Gayatri Pariwar and one of the best-known spiritual centres in Haridwar. Set on the Rishikesh road, it combines a Gayatri temple, a research institute, a residential university and a large kitchen and guest area. Visitors come for peace, for the yajna and Gayatri mantra practice, and to see how a large spiritual community runs day to day.

Shantikunj at a glance

What is Shantikunj

Shantikunj was set up in 1971 by Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, who founded the Gayatri Pariwar movement. It promotes the Gayatri mantra, yajna, self-study and social service. The campus includes the Gayatri Mata temple, statues of the Sapt Rishis, the Brahmavarchas research centre and Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, a residential university. The ashram also grows many medicinal plants and runs a free Ayurvedic clinic.

What to see

• Gayatri Mata temple and the Sapt Rishi sculptures.
• Akhand Deep, the lamp that devotees say has been burning for decades.
• Brahmavarchas Shodh Sansthan, a research centre linking spirituality and science.
• Medicinal plant garden with a large collection of herbs.
• Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, a university campus that focuses on value-based education.
• Yajna hall, where daily havan is performed.

Rules and etiquette

Shantikunj is a disciplined, simple place. Dress modestly, keep your voice low and follow the signs. Visitors are asked to avoid mobile phones in prayer halls and to leave plastic and wasteful items outside. People who stay overnight are generally expected to follow the daily routine of the ashram, including meditation, meals and service. Check the rules for current stay policies before you plan to sleep there.

How to reach

Take an auto or cab from the railway station along the Rishikesh road. The drive takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. On festival days and during Kanwar season, the road is busy. We can plan your pickup and the return with our Haridwar taxi service.

Best time to visit

October to March is cooler and more comfortable for a walking visit. Early mornings are best because the campus is quiet and the daily havan is on. Gayatri Jayanti, Vasant Panchami and Guru Purnima draw large gatherings, so avoid them if you prefer calm.

Tips

1. Visit in the morning, and avoid the afternoon heat.
2. Carry an ID if you are staying, as ashrams often ask for it.
3. Dress in plain, modest clothes.
4. Do not photograph inside prayer areas unless allowed.
5. Bring a bottle of water, but use the ashram's water points if available.
6. Plan the temple visit and the research centre in one trip, as they are close together.

Nearby places

Bharat Mata Mandir, Pawan Dham and Sapt Rishi Ashram are all within a few kilometres on the same road. You can visit them together in a half-day trip.

Plan your trip with Gokeys India

If you are visiting Haridwar for a spiritual stay, we can arrange hotels, cabs and a local itinerary. Browse Haridwar hotels or choose a Haridwar sightseeing tour. Heading up to the Himalayan shrines next? See our Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Shantikunj? On the Rishikesh road in Haridwar, about 6.5 km from the railway station.

Who founded Shantikunj? Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1971.

Can tourists visit? Yes, visitors are welcome in the public areas during the day, subject to the ashram's rules.

Can I stay there? Short stays are possible in some cases, with rules to follow. Check the current policy and book ahead.

Is there an entry fee? Visiting the public areas is usually free. Confirm at the gate.