“The temple of God is within your soul. Enter into this quietness and sit there in meditation with the light of intuition burning on the altar. There is no restlessness, no searching or striving there. Come into the silence of solitude.”Paramhansa Yogananda
Located on 72 acres in the Sierra foothills of Northern California, the retreat sits on sacred lands, replete with abundant wildlife (deer, coyote, bear and foxes) and myriad varieties of flora, including an ancient, rare manzanita grove.
The lush gardens—displaying a wonderful blending of cultivation and wild, indigenous species—have “wow’ed” the multitudes of visitors that come here. Little ponds and garden benches invite the visitor to relax, take in the beauty, and enjoy the peaceful, meditative ambiance. See pictures of what is now in bloom at the retreat or take a virtual tour of the gardens.
As a guest you may enjoy some of the hiking trails: Maps are available for finding and following the trails. It is about a 1/2 hour drive to the Yuba River and is ideal for cooling off in the summer, or for sitting on the banks meditating on the warming sands or rocks.
Our Cabins are spread out over our site—our farthest cabin is very secluded, with a spectacular view of the distant Sierra mountain peaks and nearby, surrounding pine forests. It is possible to seclude in this cabin and never see another person—only the animals that inhabit the surrounding landscape.
For those wanting to be closer to conveniences, especially those staying in our tent-bungalows, it is only a two-minute walk through the garden to reach the main building containing the dining hall, a warm, cozy lounge with a wood stove, a library of books you may borrow, and bathrooms. The shower house—containing several bathrooms and showers—is also nearby. See accomodation options available here.
Our grounds also include a beautiful, domed temple, open for all who wish to meditate, practice yoga or other spiritual practices (except when reserved by groups). There is a regularly scheduled noon meditation there, Monday-Saturday, open to every retreat visitor. There are also periodic evening “kirtans” (devotional chants) in the temple, and other scheduled events.
Ananda Meditation Retreat is an ideal place to escape from the noise and chaos of daily urban living to recharge body and soul, gain energy and find the joy in living again. The grounds are magical — I have never felt such stillness or peace. I will be back again and again to be reminded that such a world exists. F.P. San Francisco, CA
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. Suzann Osborne, Novato, CA
