Welcome to the Rajahmundry Retreat of Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS). This peaceful retreat is nestled along the banks of the sacred Godavari River, often revered as the Dakshin Ganga, and is surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, located in close proximity to the Cotton Barrage. The Sadhanalaya was inaugurated and made available to devotees in 2024 on the auspicious day of Janmashtami.
Spread across around 1.3 acres, the retreat grounds feature abundant mango trees and towering, lush greenery, creating a serene and refreshing environment highly conducive for meditation and silent communion with God. Set amidst farming land and nurseries, its tranquil location, away from bustling activity, further enhances the peaceful atmosphere. The retreat’s location also offers a very good opportunity for silent walks along the sacred Godavari River banks.
Retreat Facilities
On the premises are a spacious meditation hall with excellent audio-visual facilities, individual meditation kutirs, and a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Residential facilities for retreatants include a guest accommodation building and three individual kutirs. Other amenities include a kitchen and an administrative block housing the office, book sales, and library.
Overview of Events
Throughout the year, various spiritual programmes, including both in-person and online retreats, are organized for the spiritual benefit of devotees. These programmes provide a wonderful opportunity for individuals to deepen their sadhana and rejuvenate themselves in body, mind, and soul. There is ample scope for rest, study, introspection, and rejuvenation. For more information regarding upcoming programmes and participation, please view the events section below or contact the Sadhanalaya.
A Unique Opportunity for Extended Retreats
While the Sadhanalaya organizes conducted retreats throughout the year and welcomes devotees for short visits spanning a few days, it is unique among other YSS retreat locations in that it also offers the opportunity to stay for extended periods — allowing for weeks or even months of deep, uninterrupted sadhana in the ashram atmosphere in the midst of like-minded devotees.
The retreat’s secluded natural environment is perfect for individuals looking to withdraw from the clamour and commotion of city life for deeper spiritual living and stillness. Being in such an environment in the company of other truth-seekers for several months can be especially beneficial in establishing a more disciplined routine of sadhana, along with fostering spiritual fellowship.
New to YSS?
Learn more about how the YSS Lessons, a home-study course, transforms your life in ways you might never imagine and helps you to live a balanced and successful life.
Those who give and share, whether they have much or little, will attract prosperity. That is the law of God.
— Paramahansa Yogananda
Gurudeva’s retreats are open to all sincere seekers, regardless of their ability to contribute financially. We are deeply grateful to those who are able to offer larger contributions, which help defray the costs of meals, lodging, maintenance, and the upkeep of the retreat facilities — thus enabling us to extend Gurudeva’s hospitality to all.
To ensure the continued upkeep of the Dhyana Mandir, accommodation, kitchen, and dining facilities, regular maintenance and enhancements will be required. Your generous financial support is therefore greatly appreciated to help sustain these facilities and maintain this sacred sanctuary for the benefit of all who come here for meditation, silent contemplation, and spiritual renewal.
Donations can be made online or sent via cheque to YSS Ranchi with the purpose stated as “For Rajahmundry Retreat.”
