Join me on my solo adventure to Rishikesh, where nature and self-discovery unite. From a bus ride to finding solace in an ashram, this story is about connections, growth, and pure bliss. Amid rain and surprises, experience yoga, meditation, and heartwarming friendships. Discover how Rishikesh's magic isn't just a place—it's a feeling that stays forever. Let's explore, make new families outside our homes, and embrace the journey together.
4 Day & Night
Travel around 630 kilometers
Travel including Food cost around 2,700 INR
Accommodation & meals while staying cost me no money.
Let's begin the trip…
11th August 2023
I booked my bus ticket at 5:40 in the morning to travel to the Divine Life Society Ashram in Rishikesh. It marked my first solo trip of 2023, and I had no answer to the question of why I choose to go there and was stepping into the world of ashram life for the very first time. I held a bit of uncertainty but had a confirmed stay for the next four days. Thoughts swirled through my mind: What if it wasn't the right place? What if I didn't adapt to the strictness? Amidst these thoughts, I wrapped up my day at the office in Gurgaon at 3:30 p.m., with my bus departing from Delhi at 9 p.m.
My colleagues suggested I not head directly to the bus stop, as I'd reach well in advance, and waiting there for hours could be tiresome. So, I decided to visit my cousin Lakshay's house. We spent quality time together, and at 7:30 p.m., I set off for Delhi. However, the metro station was bustling due to the weekend, causing a 35-minute delay in getting onto the metro. At that point, I began worrying if I'd miss my bus, regretting not traveling directly to Delhi. Nevertheless, I reminded myself that everything happens for a reason. Even if I missed this bus, there would be another opportunity.
As fate would have it, I reached Kashmiri Gate, Delhi, at 8:55, relieved to still have a chance to catch the bus. I called the bus conductor, requesting a brief stop extension. Surprisingly, he kindly agreed, unknowingly setting the tone for a positive start to my journey.
I settled into seat number 19, a middle seat, with a girl named Meenu bhandari on my right and a middle-aged man Madhav on my left. The initial hours passed in silence, exhaustion creeping in from my metro journey and the dash from metro station to bus stop. A nap offered some respite, but the bus later witnessed a minor altercation. The conductor defused the situation, and as tensions eased, Mr. Madhav initiated a conversation.
This fellow traveler hailed from the Gadwali region, working in Delhi and en route to Kedarnath for a weekend getaway. He confided in me about not informing his parents due to a red alert for heavy rain in Uttarakhand. Engaging in this discussion, we formed a connection. Subsequently, Meenu, hailing from Dehradun, and working in Gurgaon, joined the conversation. Our talk revolved around the conditions in the Kedarnath and Badrinath areas, forging a sense of camaraderie.
During a midway break, Madhav and I had grown familiar, as Haridwar approached, Madhav rejoined his Delhi friends, leaving his seat vacant. Meenu and I continued our conversations as we moved to empty seats on the left side, escaping the occasional AC water droplet on the window seat. As we journeyed on, we bonded over shared experiences and laughter. I offered her churma, a Haryanvi delicacy, initiating a friendly exchange. My usually reserved demeanor melted away, replaced by an eagerness to share and connect.
As we neared Rishikesh, Meenu inquired about my plans to reach the ashram. While I didn’t have a concrete plan yet, she reached out to her cousin who assured us he knew the way and would drop me off. In this brief interaction, a genuine bond formed—a testament to the beauty of solo travel, where chance encounters often lead to priceless connections.
12th August 2023
I was indeed fortunate to have fellow "pahadis" accompany me on this journey. They dropped me off at the ashram around 2:35 am. The watchman was sound asleep, and everything remained locked. Deciding not to disturb him, I opted to wait until 6 am. However, the rain prompted me to seek possible shelter until morning. After an hour of contemplation, I decided to wake him up. He informed me that the reception would open at 6 am, and until then, my options were limited. Although he couldn't do much at that moment, I was allowed to sit there. I thanked him and apologized for disrupting his sleep. I left the ashram to explore the quiet, positively charged streets of the city.
My wanderings led me to the ghats, where I touched the waters of the sacred River Ganga. Around 4 am, I returned to the ashram's reception area. Exhaustion had caught up with me, as I hadn't slept for the past 23 hours. Just then, an elderly saint arrived, struggling with a bag of waste from the ashram's charitable hospital. He couldn't fit it in the dustbin, and I lent a hand. Though he didn't say much, a sense of contentment emanated from him. Roughly twenty minutes later, a young Swami joined me. After offering my respectful greetings, he informed me that the ashram atop the hill was open. He suggested I could freshen up there and wait for the reception to open. Grateful for the advice, I began my ascent via the stairs, discovering a meticulously maintained area that invigorated my spirits. I explored and conducted my morning rituals before returning to the reception area.
In a mere ten minutes, the young Swami reappeared, inviting me to join a meditation class. I ascended the hill once more, absorbing the serene atmosphere created by other Rishis as they chanted and meditated in silence. However, fatigue was overtaking me, yet I managed to stay awake. It was now around 6 am. Recognizing my need to start the day’s formalities, I began my descent, recalling the advice Meenu shared during the bus journey—slow but steady progress on hilly terrain. Repeating positive affirmations I heard during the meditation, I reached the reception area with renewed energy.
Completing the formalities, I obtained two slips—one for accommodation and another for meals. President Swami Ji and General Secretary Swami Ji requested a meeting between 10 and 10:30 am. Collecting my belongings from the meditation hall, I set out to locate my assigned room. With the help of a young boy, I found it, perched atop the hill. Initially overwhelmed by the climb, the breathtaking view of Rishikesh from there revitalized my senses. As fatigue receded, I relished the view and then made my way to my room.
Next door was a Mata Ji, who inquired about me and kindly offered me milk. However, exhaustion got the better of me, and I declined. Entering my room, I fell into a deep sleep almost instantly. I awoke three hours later to meet President Swami Ji and General Secretary Swami Ji. Making my way to their offices, I shared my purpose and intentions for visiting. They offered three days of yoga classes and gifted me five books. President Swami Ji invited me to a gathering at the meditation hall. My legs had adapted to the constant movement by now. I joined him and other devotees as he imparted wisdom to elevate us on a psychological level. Being around him was an immense pleasure.
Following the gathering, I headed to the dining hall for lunch. Engaging with Krishnabhaktananda Swami Ji there, I savored the delicious meal after chanting mantras directed by Swami Ji. He encouraged me to assist with meal-related tasks, an offer I accepted. Returning to my room, I completed one of the five small books before dozing off for an hour. Awakening at 4 pm, I prepared for the 6 pm Lord Vishvanath puja, relishing the warm and flavorful prasad afterward. The evening continued with dinner and a Satsang, where Geeta Ji was read, Shri Ram Ji Jaap was performed, and Hanuman Ji chalisa and bhajans were sung. The atmosphere was so soothing surrounded by devotees united in devotion, uplifting, and strong enough to shake your inner self and then drop you into the most enjoyable peace of mind.
President Swami Ji declared the next day as a "karma yoga" day during the Satsang. Yoga and other activities were postponed in favor of clearing the mud brought by a flood due to a cloud burst. Despite the continuous rain and absence of sunlight, I remained content. I assured my parents of my well-being during a phone call. Their love and concern warmed my heart. President Swami Ji and I walked back to our rooms after the Satsang, our conversation was enlightening and uplifting. The light rain and gentle breeze created an idyllic evening ambiance. He provided insights without judgment, and we parted with goodnight wishes.
Lying in my room, I found sleep elusive. The enlightening talk with Swami Ji churned in my mind, processing the newfound wisdom. Eventually, I drifted off into slumber.
My journey taught me that serving others with joy brings forth positive energy. Good company is required to keep a healthy state of mind. Upholding your decision with unwavering determination fortifies your heart, mind, and body. Patience and stability emerge when you embrace the purpose and understand the process.
13th August 2023
The day dedicated to "karma yoga" had me rousing from my slumber at 4 am, although the allure of my comfortable bed urged me to linger. With some effort, I managed to rise, performing my morning rituals before heading toward the revered River Ganga. The rainy season lent an enchanting charm to the environment. Enveloped in clouds, veiled by fog, and graced by light rain, the river flowed gracefully from the mountains, surrounded by lush trees. The image remains etched in my memory; I remain captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Despite the rising water levels, security personnel endeavored to keep individuals away from the river. Yet, devotees found contentment in cleansing themselves in the holy waters, accompanied by the distant echoes of temple prayers. Flowers were offered, sins were absolved, and souls were rejuvenated. The scene was pure and serene, a testament to the power of faith and devotion.
Returning with photographs capturing the surrounding beauty, I made my way to the dining hall. Greeted by a cheerful Krishnabhaktananda Swami Ji, I offered assistance. He assigned me the task of chopping vegetables and then involved me in distributing breakfast—a delightful South Indian combination of idli, sambar, and coconut chutney. The aroma was tantalizing, and I could hardly wait to savor the flavors. At Swami Ji's prompting, I finally enjoyed the delicious meal. Engaging in service at the dining hall, I mingled with the devotees.
During my explorations, I encountered an individual from Odisha named Shiva and his uncle, Shiva is a software engineer, with whom I struck up a conversation, leading to an instant friendship. Subsequently, we crossed a bridge within the temple premises, only to find it caked in mud. A recent cloud burst had brought the hill's mud onto the bridge. A Maa from the ashram crossed our path, inquiring about us. She urged us to file a complaint about the muddy state of the bridge. This bridge comprised around 40 steps and was crucial for accessibility. I promised to raise the issue if necessary, noting that this day of "karma yoga" had its own way of guiding our actions. Our encounter inspired us to address the problem promptly.
Heading back to the temple premises, we approached the other Swami Ji involved in cleaning activities. Upon our request, they provided us with tools for clearing the bridge. Full of enthusiasm, we commenced the task, initially anticipating it would take no more than an hour. However, as time passed, our energy dwindled. Just then, providence offered assistance. Another Swami Ji arrived with a pipe to wash away the mud with a steady stream of water. Although it was a slower process, its effectiveness was undeniable. We combined hard work with clever strategies, employing patience and perseverance. After approximately four hours of dedicated effort, the bridge was finally clean. This experience of "karma yoga" taught me that true strength resides in both physical exertion and the right mindset. Patience emerged as a significant lesson, and the sight of the appreciative Maa filled our hearts with joy.
Drenched from continuous rain, I hastened to the dining hall. With only two minutes remaining until noon, the cut-off time for lunch, I quickly squeezed my wet clothes, washed my hands, and managed a meal just in time. Following lunch and further service, I retreated to my room for a brief rest. I awoke an hour later and managed to complete one book, "How God Came Into My Life" by Swami Sivananda. Subsequently, I delved into "Be Your Own Saviour," a book brimming with wisdom by Swami Chidananda Ji. In preparation for my return journey, I secured a seat on the Yoga Express Train for the 15th of August. My leisure time was devoted to relishing the pictures and videos I had captured. Yet, they paled in comparison to the actual experience. The senses perceive and the body feels so much more than technology can capture; the true essence of nature thrives when attuned to its rhythm.
Evening approached, and a slight chill accompanied the persistent rain. Lacking an umbrella, I resorted to draping a cloth over my head and ventured to the dining hall for service and sustenance. The meals here were consistently delicious and nutritious. In the midst of my stay, I forged new friendships. The boys present were seeking spiritual solace, engaging in yoga, and studying scriptures. Some resided at the ashram while pursuing higher education at nearby colleges. Aman Rayal is doing Bachelor's in Arts and lives in the ashram. He taught me how to chop vegetables fast and safely as he has previous experience in hotel management studies too. We became good friends and shared contacts. Originating from various regions, boys hailed from Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttarakhand. Their dedicated efforts in all pursuits were genuinely commendable.
I gained insight into the ashram's workings. Entirely reliant on devotee donations, it facilitated free yoga and Vedanta courses.
Notably, it didn’t charge for food and shelter if one’s intentions were pure. During my four-day stay, not a single penny was asked of me. The ashram’s focus lay in serving with boundless love and compassion. They even supported students by providing accommodation and covering their ashram service duties financially. Returning to the tale, I attended the Satsang, partook in prasad, and fortuitously encountered President Swami Ji once more. Sharing my day’s experiences, we engaged in a discussion that spanned my career, health, and yoga...
In service to others, we find nourishment for our souls and hearts, a source of satisfaction and joy.
14th August 2023
Jai Bholenath. Today marks the auspicious Monday of the Savan month—a day devoted to Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati. This day holds immense significance, as we pray for well-being and growth. As I awoke around 4 am for the yoga class, I was greeted by a different scene outside. The relentless rain had transformed the surroundings. The designated yoga hall by the banks of the Ganga River was inaccessible due to the heavy downpour. Consequently, I performed my yoga routine within the confines of my room. Over time, the river's water level surged. On this particular day, Rishikesh experienced its highest recorded rainfall, and a cloud burst in an area connected to the Ganga River led to a flood situation.
As the water advanced, it reached the shoulders of Lord Shiva's statue in between the river Ganga and even covered some of the Ram Jhula bridge's cables.
Chaos ensued, with the police working to manage the situation. The Maa Ganga Aarti, typically held by the ghats, had to be moved to the temple. Nearby residents were attempting to leave the area. I, along with Shiva and a few ashram boys, observed these events from the higher ground of the ashram. Amidst the commotion, a devotee arrived with a small telescope, hoping to catch a glimpse of a baba who resided close to Ganga's banks. Astonishingly, we spotted him—a flood surrounded his small room, yet he persevered in his Sadhna, perched on a pillar. The sight was awe-inspiring, a testament to his unwavering faith and devotion.
Despite the unique circumstances, life within the ashram followed its usual rhythm—joyful service, blissful meditation and prayers, delectable food, engrossing book reading, and companionship with new friends and saintly figures within the ashram premises.
Immersed in this serene environment, I found myself distanced from my roles as a derivative trader and a finance professional. For the longest period, I remained untouched by thoughts of money or the market. This beautiful place, brimming with selfless and contented souls, shielded me from such concerns.
Upon sharing my decision to leave the next day, the reactions from friends and saints mirrored one another. "Kyu, kya hua, q jare ho…?" they inquired. In response, I conveyed that I had initially arrived for a vacation, but my heart had grown so deeply connected to this place that departing had become a challenge. Their advice echoed with warmth: "fir ana ap ache se leave leke" After the night's Satsang, I embarked on another uphill run to meet President Swami Ji. Announcing my impending departure, he offered valuable guidance. He encouraged me to continue my yoga and breathing practices and implored me not to overthink things. He suggested I mentally attach a silk thread—a symbolic connection—from my heart to Guru Swami Sivananda Ji, ensuring that the ashram's essence remained ever-present in my thoughts.
15th August 2023
Ah, the treasured memories of days gone by. They are the essence of what we truly live for...
This morning, I stirred from slumber at 5 am, a touch later than usual as I had a plan in mind—to take a refreshing dip in the holy waters of the River Ganga. My excitement was tempered by the river's swelling waters. Nevertheless, I freshened up and made my way to the yoga hall. Today, my instructor was an elderly gentleman, a former police officer from Maharashtra who had left behind everything including his family to embrace a new peaceful life, pursuing higher states of consciousness. Our yoga session lasted around an hour, and as the clock neared 7 am, the call for breakfast echoed. However, I chose a different path—I set off for a sacred dip in the river.
Navigating through the market and crossing the bridge, I found it teeming with crowds due to ongoing movie shooting activities. Eventually, the commotion settled, allowing me to reach the other side. The rising water levels obscured the chains usually present to provide support while bathing, especially for those like me who couldn't swim. This presented a unique challenge. A few young boys were bathing, and I watched as they balanced themselves using the mud brought by the floodwaters. Following their lead, I gingerly maneuvered myself into a stable position, using the mud beneath my feet as an anchor. With determination, I slowly settled in the water, letting it reach my neck. The chilling embrace of the river water was invigorating. I spent some time immersed in its essence before dressing and making my way back to the ashram. A second bath was necessary to rid my hair of the persistent mud. Despite a fleeting concern about catching a cold, all went well in the end.
Packing my belongings, I collected a handful of flowers and proceeded to the Bhagwan Vishvanath temple within the ashram. There, I offered my heartfelt prayers.
The remaining flowers found their place at Guru Ji's Samadhi, where I waited until 11 am to meet President Swami Ji. Amidst serene meditation and prayers, Swami Ji arrived. I sought his blessings and obtained permission to depart. Then I went to the dining hall, the scent of food wafting through the air. But prior to lunch, I felt compelled to engage in service. I joined Aman in chopping potatoes and carrots. After partaking in a nourishing meal, I sought Krishnabhaktananda Swami Ji's blessings. The Mata Ji's and Swami Ji's extended their heartfelt wishes, and my friends extracted a promise from me—I would return soon. Within this ashram, I found a family united by pure love and unwavering care—a family that embraced me without reason or reservation.
And so, I departed from Rishikesh, but the essence of Rishikesh resides within me—a cherished part of my being, eternally alive.
As I look back at those special days in Rishikesh, I'm reminded that life's most amazing moments often come when we step out of our comfort zones. This journey taught me the importance of discovering oneself, forming meaningful connections, and embracing a simple, caring way of life. I encourage all of you to embark on your own adventures, to explore new places, and to make friends that feel like family. By venturing into the unknown, we not only find ourselves, but we also find a second home outside of our own. Let's keep exploring, learning, and let the magic of the world leave a lasting mark on our hearts.
Good Luck with everything 🤞
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare
Disclaimer- Some names in the story are not correct because I haven’t taken permission from them and now I can’t reach them…
