Situated in the holy city of Haridwar, Uttarakhand, Shanti Kunj Ashram has long been a beacon of spiritual solace and learning. This renowned spiritual institution was founded by the revered saint Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya in 1971. The ashram has since played an instrumental role in propagating the values of the ancient Indian culture and helping individuals to lead a disciplined and spiritual life.
Since its inception, Shanti Kunj Ashram has attracted spiritual seekers from across the globe. Its emphasis on a serene way of life, together with the power of meditation, yoga, and holistic healing practices, has led it to become a significant destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
The ashram is recognized for its contributions to the moral and spiritual regeneration in the global arena. It has offered guidance in practical spirituality free of cost to millions, hence fortifying the cultural tourism in Haridwar. Historical accounts indicate that primarily Indian tourists frequented the ashram, but through the years, an increasing number of international tourists have been making their way to Shanti Kunj to immerse themselves in spirituality.
Shanti Kunj Ashram offers a range of facilities and activities aimed at the enrichment of visitor's spiritual journey. There are well-maintained gardens, a Yagyashala for regular Yagya performances, and a Ganges ghat for holy dips. Moreover, visitors can participate in spiritual discourses, meditation sessions, and Yoga. Personalized spiritual guidance is also available for devotees seeking deeper spiritual insights.
In line with the latest tourism trends in India, there has been a pronounced shift towards wellness and spiritual tourism, a category under which Shanti Kunj Ashram fits perfectly.
More recently, the trend of eco-friendly tourism has gained traction, which resonates with Shanti Kunj Ashram's practices that emphasize harmony with nature. In adapting to the digital revolution post the pandemic, the ashram has started to offer virtual tours and online spiritual sessions to cater to individuals who cannot visit in person.
There's also an uptick in experiential tourism–visitors are seeking not just to see the place, but to be actively involved in the lifestyle and learn from the experiences on offer here. Thus, programs like stress management workshops, holistic living practices, and youth camps are increasingly popular among tourists.
Shanti Kunj Ashram remains open to visitors throughout the year and does not charge any entrance fee. It has facilities to accommodate visitors who wish to stay and experience the ashram life for a few days. It’s important for visitors to remember to pay respect to the local culture and customs, dress modestly, and maintain the sanctity of the ashram.
As a place ripe with cultural heritage and spiritual ethos, Shanti Kunj Ashram holds a distinctive place in the world of religious tourism in India. Its continuous evolution in serving the spiritual needs of the society while adapting to contemporary tourism trends has established it not only as a pillar of historical significance but also a modern-day sanctuary for peace seekers.
