Rikhia Yogashram is a serene spiritual retreat located in the small village of Rikhia in Deoghar, Jharkhand. This tranquil haven is widely known for its association with the revered yogi, Swami Satyananda Saraswati. The Ashram has been a site of pilgrimage for yoga practitioners and spiritual seekers from all over the world. The foundation of the Ashram traces back to the late 20th century when the noted yogi decided to settle and practice his sadhana, or spiritual practice, in this region.
Established in 1989 by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Rikhia Yogashram has been attracting tourists with its emphasis on the spiritual aspect of yoga, as opposed to just the physical. Swami Satyananda was known for his teachings of integral yoga, which focuses on harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit. His establishment of Rikhia Yogashram was in fulfillment of the mandate of his guru, Swami Sivananda Saraswati – “Do something for the people around you.” Since then, the ashram has become a hub for spiritual tourism with people visiting for yoga retreats, workshops, and meditations.
The ashram follows the ancient Vedic tradition of offering and sharing with the community, which has not only boosted the spiritual atmosphere but also the socio-economic condition of the local populace. It conducts various social welfare programs which add an ethical aspect to tourism in the area, extending the visitors' experience beyond just pilgrimage.
In recent years, spiritual tourism has seen a significant upward trend, with people seeking more than just conventional holiday experiences. Visitors to Rikhia Yogashram are typically looking for personal growth, healing, and self-discovery. Workshops such as Yoga Nidra, Tattwa Shuddhi, and Panchagni Sadhana are especially favored practices drawing significant interest. In light of the global wellness movement, Rikhia Yogashram is gaining prominence not only as a spiritual center but as a place offering solace, peace, and physical wellbeing.
Sustainability is another trend impacting tourism, and Rikhia Yogashram contributes by advocating for simple living, ecological mindfulness, and conservation of resources. The ashram's approach to tourism is aligned with global efforts to ensure that travel is environmentally friendly, culturally respectful, and beneficial to local communities.
Annual events such as the Sat Chandi Mahayajna and birthday celebration of Swami Satyananda Saraswati continue to attract visitors, enhancing the ashram's status on the spiritual tourism map. With the rise in digital connectivity and the influence of social media, Rikhia Yogashram has also seen increased interest from younger demographics searching for authentic and transformative experiences.
For these reasons and countless experiences of personal transformation, Rikhia Yogashram remains an important destination for those on a spiritual journey in India.
