Welcome to ‘Yogoda Satsanga Sarovar Sadhanalaya’, the Pune Retreat of Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS). Embraced by the picturesque Sahyadri hills, beside the serene backwaters of the Khadkwasla Dam Lake, this retreat centre lies on the outskirts of the city of Pune – a thriving hub of culture, education, technology, and spirituality in western India.
Far from the commotion and demands of everyday life, the retreat offers a sacred refuge for devotees to withdraw from worldly preoccupations, rejuvenate themselves, and deepen their communion with the Divine. On the auspicious occasion of the Sadhanalaya’s inauguration in December 2003, Sri Daya Mata, the late third president and sanghamata of YSS/SRF, conveyed her joy and blessings for devotees through a special message, a section from which has been shared below:
In today’s busy world, it is very beneficial to get away for a few days occasionally, and use that time to intensify one’s sadhana. This beautiful retreat, which has been made possible by God’s grace and your efforts, gives you that blessed opportunity. I urge you all to make the best use of it and fill this “hive” with the “honey” of divine joy that can only be found in the silent depths of meditation and spiritual living.
— Sri Sri Daya Mata
Serene and Scenic Environment
Cradled by sweeping hillscapes and tranquil waters, the Sadhanalaya rests in a secluded setting where one can feel the calming presence of God. Thoughtfully laid out to preserve the site’s natural verdure, the grounds abound in diverse flowers, fruit trees (including a litchi tree grown from a sapling of the sacred litchi tree at the Ranchi Ashram), and medicinal plants, forming graceful pathways and shaded spaces for meditation.
The retreat’s peaceful ambience is further enriched by the fauna – with sparrows, kingfishers, and peacocks adding life and colour to the serene surroundings. Devotees can enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sunset along with the changing hues of the sky against the backdrop of the surrounding hills and backwaters. At night, the star-filled skies evoke a sense of wonder and invite moments of stillness and introspection.
Retreat Facilities
The Sadhanalaya houses a dedicated meditation hall featuring glass doors, windows, and overhead panels that allow natural ventilation and help retreatants feel an uninterrupted connection with the great outdoors. The adjoining guest house has 9 accommodation rooms, each with comfortable bedding, attached bathrooms with hot water facilities, and balconies offering varied views of the surrounding landscape. The retreat’s kitchen and adjacent covered dining area serve nutritious, sattvic meals to retreatants in a simple and harmonious setting.
Additional facilities include a reception office, a mobile deposit area, and a library with YSS publications. Spacious lawns with benches provide an ideal space for devotees to practise the Energization Exercises, engage in quiet reflection, sit in spiritual study and meditation, or simply enjoy the fresh air. Parking space for 20-30 vehicles is also available within and around the premises.
Overview of Events
The Sadhanalaya hosts a theme-based retreat on the last weekend of each month, offering devotees a structured opportunity to deepen their sadhana. The programme typically includes group meditations, discourses, readings from YSS publications, video shows, bhajans, and periods of fellowship — allowing participants to withdraw from daily routines and immerse themselves more fully in spiritual practice.
In addition to these conducted retreats, the centre remains open throughout the year for individual (personal) retreats with prior registration. As available, selected programmes — such as live-streamed satsangas and special events from other YSS ashrams — are also hosted at the Sadhanalaya. While the retreat does not maintain a schedule of regular weekly events, occasional special observances and monastic visits take place, adding to the sanctity and inspiration of the centre.
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The Sadhanalaya is open for day visitors from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on all days. YSS/SRF Lessons students are welcome to stay in the Sadhanalaya to take a personal retreat or join us for one of the conducted retreats.
