Beatles Ashram

The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is a historic spiritual retreat located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. Built in 1963 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi as his International Academy of Meditation, it gained worldwide fame when The Beatles stayed there from February to April 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation. The abandoned ashram features 84 dome-shaped meditation huts, now covered in colorful graffiti and street art, set within the buffer zone of Rajaji National Park.

Visitors can explore the abandoned ruins of the ashram including 84 meditation huts, a former temple, library, kitchen, dining hall, and living quarters. The site features vibrant graffiti and murals covering the walls of the derelict buildings. The grounds are surrounded by forest and offer nature walks with views of the Ganges River. Visitors can walk through the meditation cells, climb narrow spiral staircases to upper floors, and photograph the unique architecture and artwork throughout the 14-acre property.

Founded in 1961 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the ashram was built in 1963 as the International Academy of Meditation. It gained international prominence when The Beatles visited from February to April 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation. During their stay, the band composed approximately 48 songs that later appeared on The Beatles album, commonly known as the White Album. The ashram was abandoned in the 1990s and reverted to the local forestry department in 2003. It was officially reopened to the public in December 2015.

The ashram represents a significant moment in 20th century cultural history when Western popular music intersected with Eastern spirituality. It symbolizes the global spread of Transcendental Meditation and the Beatles' exploration of Indian philosophy and music. The site has become a pilgrimage destination for music enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural exchange between East and West during the 1960s.