Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh ( The Beatles Ashram )
If you’re planning a trip to Rishikesh and love history, art, nature, or music, a visit to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh—popularly known as the Beatles Ashram—should definitely be on your itinerary. Set inside the tranquil Rajaji Tiger Reserve, this abandoned yet fascinating spiritual retreat has become one of the most artistic and photogenic attractions in the Yoga Capital of the World.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh
This guide covers everything you need to know, including Beatles Ashram history, timings, entry fee, how to reach, and why it was abandoned. Let’s dive into the story behind the legendary place where music meets meditation.
🕉️ Beatles Ashram History: Where Music and Meditation Met
The Beatles Ashram history dates back to the 1960s when the internationally renowned band—The Beatles—visited Rishikesh to learn Transcendental Meditation (TM) under the guidance of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. In 1968, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr stayed at this very ashram, composing several songs inspired by the peaceful Himalayan environment.
During their stay, they wrote around 48 songs, many of which ended up on their iconic “White Album.” The ashram became world-famous overnight, placing Rishikesh on the global map as a center for yoga, meditation, and spirituality.
Today, the ashram is an attraction known as The Beatles Ashram Rishikesh, a place where travelers explore the ruins, meditation caves, graffiti art, and tranquil forest surroundings.
🏚️ Why Is the Beatles Ashram Abandoned?
One question many visitors ask is: why is the Beatles ashram abandoned?
Here’s why:
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After the 1970s, the lease between the ashram and the forest department ended.
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The property was left unused, gradually overtaken by nature.
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Over time, it became part of Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
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It remained closed for years until the government restored parts of it for tourism.
Despite being abandoned, the ashram still has an undeniable charm. Nature has merged beautifully with old buildings, giving the site a mystical, artistic feel.
📍 Where Is Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh?
If you’re wondering where is Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh, the location is wonderfully picturesque:
👉 Location: Beatles Ashram, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India
The ashram stands on the eastern side of Rishikesh, close to the Ganga River, surrounded by dense forest and serene natural paths.
You can reach it by walking from Ram Jhula or taking a short ride from Tapovan or Laxman Jhula.
⏰ Beatles Ashram Opening Timings
The Beatles Ashram opening timings are:
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10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
(Visitors are allowed inside until 4 PM; timings may vary slightly by season.)
It’s recommended to visit early to enjoy a quiet atmosphere and escape the afternoon heat.
💸 Beatles Ashram Rishikesh Entry Fee
The Beatles Ashram Rishikesh entry fee is:
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₹200 for Indian tourists
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₹1200 for foreign tourists
This entry fee helps maintain the ashram, its art walls, and the surrounding forest area.
Suggested Read: New Ganga Aarti Timings in Rishikesh, India (2025 Updated)
🚶 Beatles Ashram Swarg Ashram Rishikesh Uttarakhand India – What to Expect
When you enter Beatles Ashram Swarg Ashram Rishikesh Uttarakhand India, you’re stepping into a world where meditation, art, and history come together. Here’s what awaits you:
✓ Meditation Caves
Small, dome-shaped rooms where yogis and visitors practiced Transcendental Meditation.
✓ Beatles Art Gallery
Walls filled with murals, paintings, and graffiti inspired by the Beatles and spiritual symbols.
✓ Nature Trails
Beautiful forest paths ideal for photography and peaceful walks.
✓ Beatles Café Ruins
Old structures used by guests during their stay.
✓ Chaurasi Kutia
Cave-like huts built for serious meditation practitioners.
The blend of ruins and creativity gives the site a magical charm unlike anywhere else in Rishikesh.
🚗 Beatles Ashram Rishikesh to Parmarth Niketan Distance
The Beatles Ashram Rishikesh to Parmarth Niketan distance is very short:
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Approx. 1 km (pleasant 15–20 minute walk)
This makes it easy to visit both attractions on the same day—your spiritual journey and musical exploration go hand in hand.
🎒 Tips for Visiting the Beatles Ashram
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Wear comfortable shoes—the area is large and involves walking.
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Carry water and snacks (limited options inside).
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Visit early for photography and peaceful vibes.
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Respect the artwork and heritage—do not write on walls.
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Avoid staying until dusk due to forest wildlife.
🌄 Why You Should Visit the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh
The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, now famously known as The Beatles Ashram Rishikesh, is much more than an abandoned spiritual retreat. It’s a place filled with stories, creativity, meditation energy, and natural beauty.
Whether you are a Beatles fan, a photographer, a meditation lover, or simply a traveler wanting to explore Rishikesh’s cultural heritage, this ashram promises a unique experience. The blend of silence, forest ambiance, and artistic expression makes it one of the most memorable places to visit in the city.
🧘♂️ Final Thoughts
With rich Beatles Ashram history, artistic ruins, peaceful meditation spots, and its location inside a tiger reserve, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram offers a blend of culture, spirituality, and music nostalgia. This abandoned yet enchanting site is one of Rishikesh’s most iconic attractions and deserves a place on every traveler’s itinerary.
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