The reach of Avahan Akhara extends far beyond its Varanasi headquarters. With branch ashrams located in Haridwar, Ujjain, Nasik, and several other spiritual destinations, Avahan Akhara continues to serve as a spiritual beacon for seekers and sadhus throughout India. These ashrams not only preserve the rich legacy of the Dashanami Shaiva tradition, but also offer sanctuaries for meditation, scriptural study, and spiritual practice.
Haridwar Ashram: Gateway to Divinity
Located on the banks of the sacred Ganga River, the Haridwar branch is one of the most prominent and active centers of Avahan Akhara. It plays a major role during the Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh, serving as a site of congregation, ritual bathing (Shahi Snan), and initiation ceremonies (Diksha). The ashram also runs daily Ganga Aartis, spiritual discourses, and annadan (food donation) programs for the needy and pilgrims.
Haridwar’s serene and natural surroundings provide an ideal atmosphere for spiritual growth, making it a hub for young sadhus undergoing their early training under the guidance of senior Mahamandaleshwars.
Ujjain Ashram: Seat of Mahakal’s Devotees
Ujjain, one of the Sapta Puris (seven sacred cities), is home to another key branch of Avahan Akhara. Situated close to the famous Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, the Ujjain ashram thrives with spiritual activities throughout the year. It hosts scripture reading camps, Shiva Ratri Mahotsavs, and youth programs focused on Dharma and values.
This branch becomes especially vibrant during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, where thousands of saints gather to uphold the ancient traditions of the Akhara. Pilgrims often visit the ashram to receive blessings and listen to discourses on Vedanta, Shiva Tatva, and renunciation.
Nasik Ashram: Serenity Amidst the Ghats
The Nasik branch of Avahan Akhara rests along the banks of the Godavari River, another spiritually powerful site. It has earned a reputation for being a peaceful retreat for tapasya (austerity) and solitude-based spiritual practices. Many senior sadhus and scholars use this ashram as a base for deeper sadhana and study of scriptures like the Upanishads, Mahabharata, and Shaiva Agamas.
During the Nasik Kumbh Mela, this ashram becomes a focal point of Shaiva energy, hosting grand processions, Vedic yajnas, and inter-akhara meets.
Connecting All with the Core
Each of these branch ashrams, while rooted in unique local traditions and geography, is spiritually linked to the central headquarters in Varanasi. The same code of conduct, teachings, and Shankaracharya-established Dashanami principles are followed. The presence of Mahamandaleshwars and trained sadhus ensures spiritual discipline and continuity.
These centers offer facilities for temporary stays, satsangs, spiritual counseling, and seva opportunities. Devotees from around the world—whether Naga aspirants, grihastha seekers, or spiritual tourists—are welcomed with warmth and guidance.
Carrying the Flame Forward
The branch ashrams of Avahan Akhara serve as lighthouses of dharma across India. They play a vital role in making ancient Vedic wisdom accessible while maintaining the sanctity of monastic life. With each arati, mantra chant, and selfless act, these branches uphold the eternal truth: that the path of Shiva and Shakti is not bound by geography but thrives wherever devotion lives.
Whether you seek inner peace, wisdom from saints, or immersion in traditional Hindu spirituality, a visit to any of these ashrams is a step closer to the divine.