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About Gita Bhavan
Opening Hours: 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours approximately
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station, 16 km away.
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, 33 km away.
Nearest Bus Stop: Rishikesh bus station, 15 km away.
Gita Bhawan is a revered spiritual ashram nestled on the banks of the holy Ganges in Rishikesh. Established in 1936 by Swami Sivananda, it was created to spread the divine knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita and offer a serene space for meditation, devotion, and learning. As one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh, it attracts spiritual seekers and visitors alike for its peaceful atmosphere, sacred teachings, and cultural heritage.
It is adorned with shlokas from the revered Bhagavad Gita, bringing the essence of Hinduism to life. Every wall reflects glimpses of epic battles, divine deities, and the timeless tales of reincarnation and dharma. The ashram is known for its spiritual environment filled with daily bhajans, kirtans, satsangs, and discourses on Hindu scriptures, especially the Bhagavad Gita.
The Laxmi Narayan Temple at Gita Bhawan, with its serene idols and tranquil aura, enhances the spiritual vibe of the ashram. Nearby, the ancient Banyan tree adorned with prayer threads stands as a symbol of faith, inspiring self-reflection and inner peace. Gita Bhawan’s library is a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom, featuring Gita Press editions of the Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and texts on yoga and wellness. Its rare manuscripts trace the journey from handwritten scriptures to printed classics, preserving 88 years of literary heritage.
Gita Bhavan Highlights
• Immerse into the serenity of Gita Bhawan Ashram, a sacred retreat by the Ganges for seekers of peace and devotion.
• Explore the in-house library filled with sacred scriptures, including various editions of the Bhagavad Gita.
• Unwind in the serenity with comfortable accommodation and sattvic meals thoughtfully curated to enhance your stay.
• Experience the joy of bhajans, kirtans, and soul-stirring spiritual sessions that uplift the religious and cultural spirit.
• Admire vibrant paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, offering spiritual teachings through captivating visuals.
How To Reach Gita Bhavan
By road- The Geeta Bhavan is located around 18 km from the Rishikesh city center and can be reached in approximately 56 minutes via NH 7 Route.
Best Time To Visit Gita Bhavan
Peak Season (March to May):
- Weather insights- Hot and humid, temperatures between 24°C and 36°C
- Things to do- Explore the Gita Bhawan, attend satasangs, yoga and meditations, stay in the ashram.
Moderate Season (October to February):
- Weather insights- Pleasant weather, temperatures between 8°C and 34°C.
- Things to do- Stay at Gita Bhawan, yoga and meditations.
Low Season (June to September):
- Weather insights- Moderate rainfall, potentially humid with temperatures between 24°C and 35°C
- Things to do- Explore the Gita Bhawan, yoga and meditations.
Gita Bhavan Other Essential Information
Know before you go to Gita Bhawan:
- Maintain silence within the premises to preserve the spiritual atmosphere.
- Requested to dress modestly as a sign of respect in this sacred space.
- Avoid bringing or consuming non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or tobacco.
- Carry light luggage, as accommodations are simple.
Opt for the accommodation
Gita Bhawan provides over 1,000 simple yet clean rooms, making it an ideal spiritual retreat for devotees and pilgrims seeking peace on the banks of the Ganges. While the rooms are basic with shared bathrooms, they offer a serene and affordable stay. The ashram also serves wholesome, sattvic vegetarian meals at minimal or no cost, emphasising purity and nourishment. Adding to the unique experience, free boating across the Ganga is available for residents, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquil river views.
Offer prayers at the temple
The Laxmi Narayan Temple at Gita Bhawan enhances the ashram's spiritual essence with its serene and peaceful atmosphere. Home to the divine idols of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Narayan, it offers a quiet space for worship and reflection, drawing devotees into a deeper connection with the divine. Nearby, the age-old Banyan tree, with its sprawling roots and trunk adorned with countless prayer threads, stands as a living symbol of faith and devotion. This sacred tree invites seekers to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their inner selves on the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Experience divine peace
Gita Bhawan offers a serene spiritual retreat with daily bhajans, kirtans, and satsangs that fill the atmosphere with devotion and wisdom. Soulful singing and enlightening discourses, especially on the Bhagavad Gita, inspire inner peace and reflection. Additionally, the on-site Ayurvedic center provides free treatments using natural herbs like amla, aloe vera, and the sacred waters of the Ganga.
Dwell into the wisdom of books
Gita Bhawan, with its walls inscribed with spiritual wisdom, serves as a haven for seekers of knowledge.It houses a rich library of Hindu literature, including adaptations of the Gita, versions of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and revered works published by Gita Press. In addition to books on yoga and spirituality, its 88-year-old collection includes manuscripts showcasing the evolution of texts from handwritten to printed. The Bhawan also provides research opportunities for scholars to study the Gita and Hindu Puranas.
Tourism Board Alliances
Gita Bhavan FAQs
What is Gita Bhawan?
Geeta Bhawan is a renowned ashram and a major attraction in Rishikesh, known for its low cost accommodations and pure vegetarian meals. There is an in-house Gita Press where you can find a wide range of spiritual literatures like Bhagvad Gita and Ramcharitmanas. It also houses Shree Gita Bhawan Mandir within the premises which further enhances its peaceful and devotional atmosphere. Visitors can also actively engage in daily bhajans and kirtans, immersing themselves in the soulful rhythms of devotion.
Can I stay in Geeta Bhawan with minimal charges?
Yes, Geeta Bhawan offers over 1000 well-maintained rooms where devotees can stay generally free of cost. These rooms are simple, typically equipped with just a bed, and common bathrooms are available for use. While accommodation is usually free, there may be a nominal charge for meals.
Who is the founder of Gita Bhawan Rishikesh?
The Gita Bhawan in Rishikesh was founded by the spiritual leader Swami Sivananda in 1936.
It was established with the aim of promoting the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and providing a peaceful haven for spiritual growth. Established as a sanctuary for meditation, satsang, and selfless service, the Bhawan has since become a cherished destination for pilgrims and seekers from across the country.
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