Visit sivananda.org/india for complete information on courses and programs at our ashrams and centres throughout India.
Ashram Rules and Guidelines
The spirit behind the discipline and rules are purely to enable you to obtain maximum benefit from your ashram experience and spiritual practice.
To maintain the spiritual purpose of the ashram, all guests are required to follow the entire ashram daily schedule. In the event that you need to be absent from any event or to leave the ashram premises, permission should be obtained from the Ashram Director.
Satsang & Classes
Classes are open to resident guests only. During your stay attendance at all satsangs and classes is required. As a mark of respect for the teacher and as a practice of self discipline, guests are required to be on time and to remain for the duration of each program.
Karma Yoga (selfless service)
Karma yoga is an integral part of the daily schedule and provides an opportunity for guests to participate in the upkeep of the ashram. Guests are required to offer up to one hour of karma yoga per day, this helps in tuning to the energy of Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnudevananda.
Day Off
Guests may leave the ashram on the weekly day off. Guests should return in time for evening satsang. There are no lectures and coaching classes on the day off.
Intoxicants & Prohibited items
Smoking, alcohol, drugs, meat, fish, eggs, garlic or onions are not allowed. Pets are not allowed.
Mobile/cell phones are not allowed and should be handed into reception upon arrival/registration.
Photography, video, audio recording during classes and ceremonies is only permitted with the permission of the ashram director.
Male/Female Relations
To respect the local culture and the monastic tradition, kindly restrain expressions of affection such as hugging or kissing in public. Guests are advised to observe celibacy (brahmacharya) as part of the spiritual discipline.
Male and female dormitories are separate. Men are not allowed in the ladies' dormitory and vice versa.
Couples are not allowed to share rooms during Teachers Training Courses, Advanced Teacher Training Course, and Sadhana Intensive.
Silence (Mouna)
Guests are requested to observe silence during meals and between 10.30pm and 7.30am daily. Lights out after 10.30pm daily.
Dress Code
Guests behaviour and dress code should be respectful of Indian culture and enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the ashram. Observance of the ashram dress code should be maintained at all times including during asana classes or swimming in the nearby lake, pond or river. Nudity is forbidden. Men and women should cover the shoulders, midriff and legs. Tight fitting, transparent and revealing clothing is not permitted in the ashram.
Personal Belongings
The ashram cannot accept responsibility for guest's personal belongings. A safety deposit facility is available.
Administration
Minimum Stay
Please check the minimum stay at the relevant ashram before booking. An initial minimum payment is required upon arrival and registration. This payment is non refundable or transferable in the event of early departure.
Check in/out
All guests and visitors are required to register at reception upon arrival. Check-in time is after 2pm and check-out is before 11am. Upon check out, please return keys, bedding to the reception and settle any outstanding bills.
Payments and Donations
Daily donation rates include accommodation, all classes and two meals per day. Dates and donations are subject to change without notice. For all programs guests are subject to the suggested donation in effect at the time of final payment.
Personal cheques and bank transfers are not accepted for payment. Check individual ashrams for methods of payment.
The Indian concessional rate is not applicable for non-resident Indians (NRI), Indian nationals working or living abroad, foreign nationals working or living in India. You may be asked to provide evidence of your Indian nationality. Misrepresentation of information will result in liability to pay the full fee or dismissal from the course.
Passports & Visas
Foreign students/guests must bring their original passport with a valid visa for India to cover the duration of their stay.
Summary
The spirit behind the discipline and rules are to ensure that the ashram life discipline is maintained, enabling you to obtain maximum benefit from your spiritual practice.
You are advised to become familiar with the cultural information before coming to the ashram.
Guests are reminded that ashram staff are mostly volunteers with varying experience who offer service as part of their spiritual discipline. Your understanding and patience is appreciated.
We are happy to have the opportunity to serve and wish you a peaceful and rewarding stay.
