Beatles Ashram Rishikesh India: Story, History & Facts (2026 Guide)
If you are searching for Beatles Ashram Rishikesh India, also known as Chaurasi Kutiya, this complete 2026 travel guide covers its history, facts, entry fee, timings, distance from Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula, and why The Beatles came to Rishikesh.
Located inside the forest area of Rajaji Tiger Reserve, on the banks of the holy Ganga River, this ashram transformed Rishikesh into a global yoga and meditation destination.
What is Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya)?
The Beatles Ashram, originally called Chaurasi Kutiya (84 Meditation Huts), was built in 1961–62 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to teach Transcendental Meditation (TM).
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Spread over 18 acres
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84 dome-shaped meditation cells
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Main meditation hall
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Maharishi’s private bungalow
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Residential quarters & Vedic school
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Located near Laxman Jhula
The Uttar Pradesh government leased the forest land to Maharishi for 20 years. After the lease ended in 1981, the ashram gradually became abandoned and was later included in the protected forest zone.
It was officially reopened for tourists in 2015.
The Beatles In India
In February 1968, the legendary band The Beatles —
John Lennon,
Paul McCartney,
George Harrison, and
Ringo Starr —
came to Rishikesh to learn Transcendental Meditation.
Reasons Behind Their Visit:
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Extreme global fame & mental pressure
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Controversy after Lennon’s 1966 “more popular than Jesus” statement
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Search for peace & spiritual clarity
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Interest in Indian philosophy and meditation
They stayed for nearly 3 months and composed around 40–48 songs. Many were later included in the famous album:
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The Beatles (White Album)
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Songs associated with the period of Yellow Submarine
Their stay made Rishikesh internationally famous as the “Yoga Capital of the World.”
Interesting Facts About Beatles Ashram
1️⃣ 84 Dome Meditation Cells
The ashram has unique egg-shaped stone domes designed for deep meditation and isolation.
2️⃣ 120+ Structures
Apart from the 84 kutiyas, there are additional meditation caves and residential blocks.
3️⃣ Entry Was Restricted for Years
After 1981, it became part of forest land. Public entry was prohibited until 2015.
4️⃣ Inside Rajaji Tiger Reserve
The ashram lies inside Rajaji forest area, rich in biodiversity.
5️⃣ Songwriting Hub
The Beatles wrote a large number of songs here, making it one of the most creative periods of their career.
6️⃣ Graffiti Art Legacy
Today, the ruins are covered with vibrant murals, spiritual graffiti, and Beatles-inspired artwork — making it a top photography spot in Rishikesh.
Beatles Ashram Entry Fee & Timings (2026 Updated)
🎟 Entry Fee:
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₹200 – Indian Visitors
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₹1200 – Foreign Visitors
(Managed by Forest Department)
⏰ Timings:
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Open Daily: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Distance from Major Landmarks
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From Laxman Jhula: 1.5 km
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From Ram Jhula: 1 km
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From Rishikesh Bus Stand: Approx. 5 km
What to Expect During Your Visit
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Walk through 84 meditation huts
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Explore Maharishi’s meditation hall
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Visit his private residence
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See abandoned Vedic school & kitchen area
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Enjoy peaceful forest surroundings
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Capture Instagram-worthy murals
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Experience silence near the Ganga riverbank
Ideal visit duration: 2–3 hours
Suggested Read: Beatles Meeting Tata Wale Baba in Rishikesh inside his cave
Controversy & Departure
Though the Beatles initially embraced meditation, rumors and misunderstandings later led to their sudden departure from Rishikesh.
By 1970, The Beatles officially broke up.
John Lennon was tragically shot on 8 December 1980.
Despite controversies, the songs written in Rishikesh remain timeless masterpieces.
Spiritual Significance of Rishikesh
According to mythology, Rishikesh derives its name from Hrishikesh, a name of Lord Vishnu.
Ancient sages like Raibhya Rishi performed penance here. The sacred Bharat Temple is believed to date back centuries.
Rishikesh has been a meditation hub since Satya Yuga — long before the Beatles made it globally famous.
FAQ – Beatles Ashram Rishikesh
Q1. How far is Beatles Ashram from Laxman Jhula?
1.5 km walking distance.
Q2. Is Beatles Ashram inside Rajaji Tiger Reserve?
Yes, it is part of the Rajaji forest area.
Q3. What is the ticket price?
₹200 (Indians) | ₹1200 (Foreigners)
Q4. Why is it called Chaurasi Kutiya?
Because of the 84 meditation huts built for students.
Q5. Is it worth visiting?
Absolutely — for music lovers, photographers, spiritual seekers, and history enthusiasts.
Final Thought
Beatles Ashram is not just a ruin — it is a symbol of the fusion of Eastern spirituality and Western music history.
Whether you come seeking peace, inspiration, photography, or history — this place offers something unique to every visitor.
If you are planning a Rishikesh trip, do not miss this iconic spiritual landmark.
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