Art of Living International Ashram Bengaluru

Key Details:

• Location: Kanakapura Road, Udayapura, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. (Approx. 21 km south of Bengaluru city).
• Founder: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
• Significance: The international headquarters of the Art of Living Foundation, a global non-profit organization offering programs for stress-elimination, self-development, yoga, and meditation. Known for the Sudarshan Kriya™ breathing technique.
• Highlights: Vishalakshi Mantap (meditation hall), Guru Paduka Vanam, Radha Kunj Garden, Panchakarma Center, various residential and introductory programs.
• Visitor Entry: General campus visits are often permitted during specific hours (usually free). Programs and residential stays are fee-based and require pre-registration.
• Timings 🕰️:
  • Campus Visit (General): Typically 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM / 8:00 PM. (It’s best to confirm general visitor timings, especially on days with special events or courses).
  • Course/Program Timings: As per specific course schedules.
  • Satsang (Evening Kirtan & Meditation): Usually held daily in the evenings (e.g., 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM), open to all. (Always verify current timings and access policies on the official Art of Living Bangalore Ashram website before planning a visit.)

Bengaluru’s Oasis of Peace & Transformation: The Art of Living International Center 🌟

Nestled amidst serene greenery on Kanakapura Road, The Art of Living International Center (often referred to as the Bangalore Ashram) is a globally recognized hub for spiritual rejuvenation, personal development, and humanitarian service. Founded by the world-renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, this sprawling 65-acre campus offers a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle. It is here that thousands from around the world come to learn powerful breathing techniques like the Sudarshan Kriya™, practice yoga and meditation, participate in transformative programs, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere of peace, joy, and service. The ashram is not just a place, but an experience that aims to foster inner peace and well-being.

Essential Visitor & Ashram Information ℹ️

• Address: The Art of Living International Center, 21st KM, Kanakapura Road, Udayapura, Bengaluru – 560082, Karnataka, India.
• How to Reach:
  • From Bengaluru City 🚗: Located approximately 21-25 km south of Bengaluru city center. Easily accessible by taxi or app-based ride services. Some state transport buses also ply on Kanakapura Road.
  • Nearest Railway Station 🚂: KSR Bengaluru City Railway Station (SBC) (approx. 25-30 km).
  • Nearest Airport ✈️: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR) (approx. 60-65 km).
• Contact Information (The Art of Living International Center, Bangalore):
  • Phone 📞:
    • General Inquiries/Reception: +91 80 67262626, +91 80 67262627, +91 80 67262802, +91 80 67262803 (These are widely listed numbers for the ashram).
    • WhatsApp: +91 9071112261 (Often listed for inquiries).
  • Email 📧: [email protected] (Vyakti Vikas Kendra India – The Art of Living)
  • Official Website: artofliving.org (This is the primary source for all official information, course schedules, accommodation booking, visitor guidelines, and detailed contact information for various departments). (For specific program registrations, accommodation, or detailed visitor guidelines, consulting their official website or calling the reception is essential.)

The Guiding Light: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar & The Art of Living Philosophy 💡❤️

• Founder: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a global humanitarian, spiritual leader, and peace ambassador, founded The Art of Living Foundation in 1981.
• Philosophy: Focuses on creating a stress-free, violence-free society through fostering individual well-being, human values, and a sense of global belonging.
• Core Techniques: The cornerstone of their programs is the Sudarshan Kriya™, a powerful rhythmic breathing technique, along with yoga, meditation, and practical wisdom for daily living.

A Sanctuary of Serenity: The Ashram Campus & Its Sacred Spaces 🌺🕉️

The Bangalore Ashram is renowned for its beautiful and spiritually charged environment:

• Vishalakshi Mantap: The magnificent central meditation hall, shaped like a blooming lotus with five tiers of petals. It can accommodate thousands of people for meditation and Satsang. Known for its serene ambiance and intricate design.
• Guru Paduka Vanam: A serene, tree-lined pathway and garden area, considered sacred.
• Radha Kunj Garden: Beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains, water bodies, and lush greenery, offering peaceful spots for walks and contemplation.
• Panchakarma Center: An Ayurvedic wellness center offering traditional detoxification and rejuvenation treatments.
• Sri Sri Gurukulam: A school offering value-based education, blending modern academics with ancient Indian wisdom.
• Gaushala (Cow Shelter): Promoting the care and protection of cows.
• Madhurya Dining Hall: Serves wholesome and delicious Sattvic (pure vegetarian) food to ashram residents and visitors.
• Sumeru Mantap: Another significant structure used for gatherings and events.

Pathways to Inner Peace: Courses, Meditation & Yoga 🧘‍♂️🕊️

The ashram is a vibrant center for learning and personal growth:

• The Art of Living Happiness Program: The flagship workshop teaching Sudarshan Kriya™, yoga, meditation, and practical wisdom to manage stress and enhance well-being.
• SKY Breath Meditation & Sahaj Samadhi Meditation: Powerful techniques for deep relaxation and mental clarity.
• Yoga & Meditation Retreats: Various specialized retreats focusing on different aspects of yoga, meditation, and silence.
• Advanced Courses: For those who wish to deepen their practice and understanding.
• Volunteer Programs (Seva): Opportunities for selfless service, which is an integral part of the Art of Living philosophy.
• Ayurvedic Wellness Programs: At the Panchakarma Center.

The Ashram Experience: Satsang, Seva & Sattvic Living 🎶🤝🥗

• Satsang: Joyful evening gatherings filled with devotional singing (bhajans/kirtans), guided meditation, and wisdom talks by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (when he is in residence) or other senior teachers. Open to all.
• Seva (Volunteer Service): The ashram functions with the help of numerous volunteers, and visitors can often participate in various service activities.
• Sattvic Lifestyle: The ashram promotes a healthy, vegetarian (Sattvic) diet and a lifestyle conducive to peace and well-being.

Insider Tips for Your Visit or Stay at The Art of Living Ashram 💡

• Pre-Register for Courses & Accommodation ⭐: If you plan to attend a residential program or stay at the ashram, booking well in advance through their official website is essential.
• Adhere to the Dress Code 🙏: Modest and comfortable attire is required (covering shoulders, chest, and knees).
• Follow Ashram Discipline 🤫: Maintain silence in designated areas, respect timings, and follow the general code of conduct of the ashram.
• Electronics Policy 🚫📱: Use of mobile phones and cameras is often restricted in meditation halls, course sessions, and certain sacred areas.
• Participate Actively: Engage in Satsangs, Seva (if possible), and the daily rhythm of the ashram for a fuller experience.
• Explore the Campus: Take time to walk around the beautiful gardens, visit Vishalakshi Mantap, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
• Try the Sattvic Food 🍲: The food served at Madhurya (dining hall) is simple, wholesome, and vegetarian.

Why The Art of Living International Center is a Beacon for Seekers ✨🌍

• Global Spiritual Organization: Headquarters of a worldwide movement dedicated to creating a stress-free society.
• Powerful Stress-Relief Techniques: Offers proven tools like Sudarshan Kriya™ and SKY Breath Meditation for mental and physical well-being.
• Peaceful & Serene Environment: The ashram campus is designed to be a sanctuary for healing and rejuvenation.
• Diverse Programs & Courses: Caters to a wide range of individuals seeking spiritual growth, stress management, or personal development.
• Focus on Human Values & Service: Promotes universal human values and engages in extensive humanitarian projects globally.

A Global Hub for Inner Harmony on Kanakapura Road 💖

The Art of Living International Center in Bengaluru is more than just an ashram; it’s a vibrant global community and a center for learning, service, and celebration. It offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with one’s inner self.

Planning Your Journey to Spiritual Rejuvenation 🗺️

• Best For: Individuals seeking stress relief, meditation techniques, yoga, spiritual growth, personal development, or a peaceful retreat.
• What to Expect: A large, well-organized, and spiritually charged ashram environment with a focus on specific programs and a disciplined lifestyle. It is a strictly vegetarian campus. Alcohol, smoking, and non-vegetarian food are prohibited.
• Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available for course participants, from dormitories to private rooms (book well in advance).
• Security: The ashram has security protocols in place. Be prepared for checks.