A Place of Transforming Peace
Relax. Be still. Reflect and enjoy the calmness and wonder of each moment.
From the nourishing vegetarian meals and the off-the-grid location to the deep silence in the midst of nature, to the temple and nearby meditation cave, the retreat is designed to help you find peace and joy in the only place they truly can be found—within ourselves.
Years of devoted spiritual practice from guests and residents has created a peaceful vibration at this retreat, and the beauty and presence of the Divine is felt tangibly by those who come here.
Sacred Land, Beautiful Gardens
Located on 72 acres in the Sierra foothills of Northern California, the retreat sits on sacred lands—a place of timeless teachings replete with abundant wildlife and myriad varieties of flora, including an ancient, rare manzanita grove.
The lush gardens—displaying a wonderful blending of cultivation and wild, indigenous species—consistently “wow” the visitors that come here. Little ponds and garden benches invite the visitor to relax, take in the beauty, and enjoy the peaceful, meditative ambiance.
Looking to visit? Get directions here.
“Few places, people, and events in our world surpass all expectations: the Ananda Meditation Retreat is a rare jewel in this world: the land is sublime, the gardener Charles and his gardens are magical, all who serve at Ananda have joy and truth in their hearts—oh, and the food is blessed and amazing. Two days here is a rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit that would take months elsewhere.”
Dr. Suzanne Osborne
California
Our Beginnings
The Ananda Meditation Retreat is where Ananda, now a worldwide movement, began. It was founded in 1968 by Swami Kriyananda, a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda.
When Swami Kriyananda first walked this land, he said he deeply felt the blessings of his guru and knew this was where he felt God could start what would become the Ananda Community.
From its earliest days, the twin goals of self-transformation and helping others were deeply woven into its fabric, and still find expression today in its service to people of all backgrounds from around the world.
What you find when you visit here is more than just a beautiful setting. It is another way of being — a feeling of peace, calmness, and expansion.
Uplifting, Quiet, and Comfortable
The variety of accommodations at the retreat caters to your needs. The remote cabins offer serene experiences in nature, while the tent bungalows are a fantastic solution for those wanting a retreat on a budget. Shared housing and individual spaces are both available.
