Beatles Ashram walking tour in Rishikesh: Meditation heritage

The Beatles Ashram, Swargashram and the Ganga's meditation centers in one morning

A guided walking tour of the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya) in Rishikesh, set within the Rajaji Tiger Reserve buffer zone, where you explore the 1968 retreat where the Beatles wrote much of the White Album while studying Transcendental Meditation. A professional English-speaking guide leads the walk. Ashram entry is included. The tour runs 2–3 hours and departs from a pickup location in the morning for optimal light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Beatles Ashram and Rishikesh sites

• Walk from pick-up to Beatles Ashram
• Visit Beatles Ashram and learn history
• Explore Swargashram yoga and meditation centers
• Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram by Ganga river
• Walk across Ram Jhula suspension bridge
• See Geeta Bhawan ashram on riverbank

The experience

In February 1968, the Beatles followed Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to his ashram in Rishikesh to study meditation. Over three months, they wrote dozens of songs there, including much of the White Album. The ashram (now called the Beatles Ashram or Chaurasi Kutiya) sits within the forested buffer zone of Rajaji Tiger Reserve, and a guide walks you through the grounds, explaining the history and the spiritual practice that drew them. The walk covers no transport beyond your feet. You depart from a pickup location and walk to the ashram itself.

The tour also takes in Swargashram, the epicenter of yoga and meditation in Rishikesh, and stops at the ashrams along the Ganga's banks: Parmarth Niketan, with its view of the lush Himalayas, and Geeta Bhawan, a vast complex on the river. You'll pass Ram Jhula, the famous 450-foot iron suspension bridge over the Ganga. A professional guide in English narrates the significance of each site and the meditation traditions they represent. The morning timing (recommended for the best light and atmosphere) means you're back by late morning, leaving the rest of your day open.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. The dress code reflects the spiritual nature of the sites. The walk suits music enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, history buffs and anyone curious about the intersection of Western pop culture and Indian meditation practice.

What’s included

• Professional English-speaking guide.
• Beatles Ashram entrance fee.
• visits to Swargashram, Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Geeta Bhawan on the Ganga's banks.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 14:00

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Under 15: can't be included in the booking

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Rishikesh Day Tour 1

Is this one for you?Book this morning walk if you want to explore the Beatles Ashram and meditation centers on foot while keeping your afternoons free for other Rishikesh activities.

Traveler reviews

4.52★★★★★★★★★★

21 verified traveler reviews

5 ★15

4 ★3

3 ★2

2 ★1

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What did the Beatles actually do at the ashram in Rishikesh?

In 1968, the Beatles stayed at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram for three months to study Transcendental Meditation. They wrote dozens of songs during their time there, including much of the White Album, making it a pivotal moment in both rock history and their personal spiritual exploration.

How long does the walk take and what's included in the price?

The tour runs 2–3 hours and includes a professional English-speaking guide and entry to the Beatles Ashram. You walk from the pickup location to the ashram and visit other meditation centers along the way. No separate transport is provided.

Is Ram Jhula part of this tour?

Yes, Ram Jhula (the 450-foot iron suspension bridge over the Ganga) is one of the stops on the walk. It's a famous landmark in Rishikesh and part of the route through the meditation centers.

What should I wear for this tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. The dress code respects the spiritual nature of the ashrams and the sites you'll visit.

When is the best time to book this tour?

The morning is ideal for optimal light and ambiance. Booking an early departure gives you the best atmosphere for exploring the ashram and leaves your afternoon free.