Bring these items: sheets or sleeping bag and towels, (not required if you are flying), ceremonial clothes (women are asked to wear long dress slacks, skirts, sari or punjabis to aarati and men should wear long dress pants or lunghis), work clothes for karma yoga, sneakers or hiking shoes, some type of sandals or slip-on shoes, flashlight, sunscreen and insect repellent (for summer) and toiletries. Also, it is recommended that you bring an international calling card if you need to make international phone calls as cell phone reception is not reliable here (Verizon is ok). The phone here is for ashram business use first, but personal domestic phone calls can be made anywhere for free. So please respect this and ask to use the phone during off-business hours. For more details on any of the above please contact us.

Karma Yoga: A requirement of being at the Ashram is that everyone here WORKS everyday! Karma yoga is selfless action devoted to the Divine while repeating the name of God. Not being attached to the results of the work is also key. This is one of the strongest teachings of Babaji and our main spiritual practice. This simple practice can lead to tremendous insights and realizations within ourselves. Karma yoga is a minimum of six hours per day, although sometimes during celebration periods this changes. We have a "karma yoga meeting" each day to plan the activities and work that needs to be done that day. Babaji said, “Work is worship.”

Havan: Havan (or fire ceremony) is an ancient Vedic form of worship where the fire is seen as the mouth of the Divine. Offerings of dried grains, fruit,and flowers are offered during the havan while mantras are repeated in thanksgiving for the many ways that the Divine sustains us. Large havans are performed on the new and full moon and other festivals. Small havans are performed everyday. Gifts of apples, bananas, coconuts, incense or flowers are appropriate to bring, if you wish. Fasting from grains and other heavy foods before participating in a havan is part of the discipline as well as wearing ceremonial clothes.

For Women: A woman's moon time (menses) is a time for extra meditation and rest. During the first three days we ask that you do not participate in temple activities, havan or community food preparation. However, other karma yoga service will be expected during these days.

We embrace the ideal of a close relationship between Mother and child. To this end, we are fine with mothers nursing their babies at the Ashram. Out of respect for the many cultures visiting here, we do ask that this is done in a modest fashion with a shawl or some covering.

The Ashram is a place for focused spiritual practice where you may surrender yourself to divine energy. An attitude of respect and reverence for the culture connected with these spiritual practices makes a big difference in your personal experience. An attitude of "Here I am... what can I do to help?" will bring the most benefits to those who wish to learn and experience as much as possible of Babaji's teachings and Grace. Please feel free to ask us if you have any questions or need assistance with anything.