Aurobindo Ashram; The Spiritual Haven of Puducherry
India is the land of gurus and sages, the pool of spirituality, and the hub of yogic practices. People from far and wide, visit India to gain invaluable insights into life and embark on a journey of self-realization. There are many offbeat destinations in India, that are a must-visit.
Numerous ashrams and institutions help people in their quest for the true self. One of the most acclaimed spiritual institutions, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, is situated in the southern parts of India, in the capital city of the union territory Puducherry.
Puducherry, formerly known as Pondicherry, is a popular tourist destination, that takes you back to the French era. This magical little town won’t fail to give you a taste of culture, craftsmanship, and peace. There are several things to do in Pondicherry, which you just cannot miss out on.
Puducherry shares its border with Tamil Nadu, another prime southern state of India. There are many places to visit in Tamil Nadu, which can be explored along with Pondicherry.
The Glorious History of Aurobindo Ashram
Let’s begin by learning about the founder Shri Aurobindo Ghose. Born in Kolkata, Aurobindo Ghose was a political leader, who gave up his career and became a spiritual reformer.
He lived in Pondicherry for forty years and conceptualized a new method of spiritual practice; Integral Yoga. In 1926, in collaboration with another spiritual partner, The Mother, he set up Shri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry.
10 Best Things To Do in Aurobindo Ashram
1. Relax and de-clutter your mind:
Aurobindo Ashram was set up to provide much-needed relaxation and self-realization to people. When visiting Aurobindo Ashram, leave all the stress, anxiety, and worries behind, and embrace true spiritual bliss.
2. Explore the Ashram:
The Ashram is spread across 60 meters in length from east to west and spans 45 meters in width from north to south. Walking through the calm surroundings of the building is a truly soulful experience.
3. Visit the Library:
Immerse yourself in knowledge, and spend some time at the ashram library.
Home to more than 80,000 books in 25 languages, the library was established by Mother in 1954, and ever since it has been a powerhouse of knowledge and information.
Apart from books, you can also find various Indian and Western music tapes in the library.
4. Pay homage to the founders:
Sitting quietly under the shade of the huge service tree, are the samadhis/shrines of Shri Aurobindo Ghose and Mother, the two main pillars of the Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry.
The samadhis are built with milky white marble and beautifully decorated with fresh flower petals. While visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, this site holds paramount importance.
5. Don’t miss out on the visitor’s center:
If you want to get a glimpse of the entire history of Aurobindo Ashram, then you can’t miss the short movie that plays at the visitor’s center. The short film takes you through the whole process of the founding of the Aurobindo Ashram.
6. Some mindful meditation:
Most of the tourists who visit the Ashram, make sure to spend some time in silence at the Meditation House. Meditating in the calm and serene surroundings of the ashram is a heavenly experience. This is undoubtedly the best thing to do in Aurobindo Ashram.
7. Indulge in the beauty of the out-worldly beaches:
Pondicherry is known to have some of the world’s most exotic and crystal clear beaches. When visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, taking a dip in the salty therapeutic waters is an ecstatic experience.
Ariyaman, Mypadu, Serenity, Breezy, and Marina are some of the beaches near the ashram. Beaches are among the most interesting places to visit in Pondicherry.
8. Fill up your senses at Senteurs-Fleurs en Flacon:
Established by The Mother in 1959, at Senteurs-Fleurs en Flacon you can get a plethora of fragrances, that are developed for healing various parts of the body. You can also pick souvenirs from here in the form of Sarees, handkerchiefs, ayurvedic products, essential oils, bags, jewelry, and much more.
9. Visit the Manakula Vinayagar Temple:
Cocooned in the heart of the city, the Manakula Ganpati Temple is an iconic historic marvel of Pondicherry. Situated next to the Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, the Manakula Vinayagar Temple has been a part of the city even before the French set foot in India. This ancient temple will cleanse your soul and aura.
10. Attend Cultural Programs:
Various cultural programs and events like dances, art, poetry, and music are organized by the ashram committee for the benefit and enjoyment of the visitors. Most of these events are free or cost, however, some special events require passes.
When is the best time to visit the Aurobindo Ashram?
As Pondicherry is located on the seaside, the temperature remains similar throughout the year. But summers can be extremely humid in coastal areas like Pondicherry, therefore, visiting Aurobindo Ashram during the summer months from March to June is not advisable.
If you want to enjoy your stay at the Aurobindo Ashram to the fullest, then the winter months from October to February are the best time to visit the Aurobindo Ashram. The moderate temperature and the cool climate, add to the comfort and serenity of the place.
There are no entry charges to visit the ashram. The best time to visit the Aurobindo Ashram in the morning is from 8 AM to 12 PM and from 2 PM to 6 PM, every day. If you want to visit the ashram at ease then keep at least 2 to 3 hours in hand.
How to reach the Aurobindo Ashram?
There are various modes of transportation to reach Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry.
- By Air: The most convenient and efficient way to reach the ashram is via air. You can catch a flight from any metro city and reach the Pondicherry airport, although you won’t get a direct flight, except from Hyderabad and Bangalore.
After landing at the Pondicherry Airport, you can easily get a cab to reach the Aurobindo Ashram.
- By Train: To reach the ashram by railway, you need to get off at the Villupuram Junction Railway Station first and then change a train to reach the Pondicherry Railway Station.
Finally reach the ashram within five minutes, as this is the nearest station to the ashram. A train journey to the ashram can give you glimpses of the local beauty of Pondicherry.
- By Road: For adventurous travelers, a road trip to the Aurobindo Asharam in Puducherry is the best bet. You can either opt for local transport like Bus or even hire a car and drive to the ashram.
For an even better experience, you can check out a decent accommodation near Aurobindo Ashram, spend a night over there, and then reach your destination. Going to the ashram by road is the most time-consuming, therefore, plan your trip accordingly.
What is the significance of Aurobindo Ashram?
Aurobindo Ashram is a remarkable center of spirituality set up by Shri Aurobindo Ghose and The Mother, this place holds great value in the lives of people who wish to explore their inner selves.
What can visitors do or see at Aurobindo Ashram?
Along with Meditation, several activities can be undertaken at the ashram.One can spend time in the ashram library, explore the premises, learn of the ashram’s history at the visitor’s center, buy books and handmade goods from the ashram bookstore, and purchase organic fragrances made inhouse at the Senteurs-Fleurs en Flacon.The visitors can also visit the nearby attractions like ancient temples and beaches of Pondicherry.
Are there any specific guidelines or etiquette visitors should follow at Aurobindo Ashram?
There are not many rules that need to be followed at the ashram. However, certain things need to be kept in mind, like maintaining silence and decorum, while on the premises and keeping your mobile phones on silent mode, at all times. Photography is prohibited on campus, therefore it is advisable to take prior permission from the authorities, in case you want to click pictures. One important thing to keep in mind is that children under 3 years of age are not allowed inside the ashram.
How can someone visit Aurobindo Ashram, and is there an entry fee?
No, there is no entry fee to visit the ashram. There are fixed times to visit the ashram, and it is open to everyone.
