Madhuban
Himalayan Retreat
Come, Discover Yourself
Himalayan Retreat
Come, Discover Yourself
Madhuban
Discover Madhuban, a serene extension of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Delhi branch, nestled at 5,000 feet in the picturesque Kumaon range of the Himalayas. Originally known for hosting the birth of the Beekeeping Association of India over 60 years ago, Madhuban has evolved into a sanctuary where you can find the sweet essence within yourself.
At Madhuban, you can immerse yourself in nature, reconnect with your inner self, and rediscover your true essence. The Talla Valley in Ramgarh, known as the "fruit bowl," is abundant with plum, pear, peach, and apricot orchards, offering a harmonious environment for a spiritual retreat.
Madhuban beckons you to pause and connect with your inner ecology amidst the rich
flora and fauna, in tune with the seasonal rhythms. As the Mother called it, this valley is
Sri Aurobindo's foothold in the Himalayas, inviting each of us to find peace and harmony.
Come to Madhuban and awaken to a profound sense of self amidst
nature's embrace.
At Madhuban, you can immerse yourself in nature, reconnect with your inner self, and rediscover your true essence. The Talla Valley in Ramgarh, known as the "fruit bowl," is abundant with plum, pear, peach, and apricot orchards, offering a harmonious environment for a spiritual retreat.
Madhuban beckons you to pause and connect with your inner ecology amidst the rich
flora and fauna, in tune with the seasonal rhythms. As the Mother called it, this valley is
Sri Aurobindo's foothold in the Himalayas, inviting each of us to find peace and harmony.
Come to Madhuban and awaken to a profound sense of self amidst
nature's embrace.
Our Inspiration
"This Ashram has been created with another object than that ordinarily common to such institutions, not for the renunciation of the world but as a center and field of practice for the evolution of another kind and form of life which would in the final end be moved by a higher spiritual consciousness and embody a greater life of the spirit."
Sri Aurobindo
"Change yourself if you wish to change the world."
The Mother
Madhuban's vision:
Is one of being worthy of the faith that The Mother invested in the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Delhi branch, when on 12 February 1956, for its opening, she sent a handwritten message:
"Let this place be worthy of its name and manifest the true spirit of Sri Aurobindo's teaching and message to the world. With my blessings".
In sync with the above, Madhuban's vision is to facilitate spiritual retreats for sadhaks and to work for the inhabitants of Talla Ramgarh, in the areas of integral education, health, and livelihood, in a framework that is ecologically viable, spiritually uplifting, and collectively focused on building inner harmony for all those involved in the process.
Madhuban's mission:
To strive to be an ecological community focused on principles of integral yoga; a space where each individual connected to it is able to be conscious of the aim of life for his/her own being and with the needs of the space, needs of the other co-habitants, and the larger vision of the space.
Is one of being worthy of the faith that The Mother invested in the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Delhi branch, when on 12 February 1956, for its opening, she sent a handwritten message:
"Let this place be worthy of its name and manifest the true spirit of Sri Aurobindo's teaching and message to the world. With my blessings".
In sync with the above, Madhuban's vision is to facilitate spiritual retreats for sadhaks and to work for the inhabitants of Talla Ramgarh, in the areas of integral education, health, and livelihood, in a framework that is ecologically viable, spiritually uplifting, and collectively focused on building inner harmony for all those involved in the process.
Madhuban's mission:
To strive to be an ecological community focused on principles of integral yoga; a space where each individual connected to it is able to be conscious of the aim of life for his/her own being and with the needs of the space, needs of the other co-habitants, and the larger vision of the space.
Our activities
Overview and Our Work
We work from 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. towards our individual needs and community needs both.
All those living in Madhuban Himalayan Retreat as well as visitors to it need to be mindful of their own personal routines while being respectful of the community's fixed daily practices of:
1. @ 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 a.m. – Morning yoga /shramdan
2. @ 7.30 a.m. – Breakfast
3. @ 12.00 p.m. – Lunch
4. @ 4.00 p.m .to 4.30 p.m. – Collective reading
5. @ 4.30 p.m. – Tea break
6. @ 5.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. – Sports/physical fitness
7. @ 7.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. – Meditation
8. @ 7.30 p.m. – Dinner
All those living in Madhuban Himalayan Retreat as well as visitors to it need to be mindful of their own personal routines while being respectful of the community's fixed daily practices of:
1. @ 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 a.m. – Morning yoga /shramdan
2. @ 7.30 a.m. – Breakfast
3. @ 12.00 p.m. – Lunch
4. @ 4.00 p.m .to 4.30 p.m. – Collective reading
5. @ 4.30 p.m. – Tea break
6. @ 5.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. – Sports/physical fitness
7. @ 7.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. – Meditation
8. @ 7.30 p.m. – Dinner
Integral Living
A journey towards living consciously
A journey towards living consciously
A fulfilling life and sustained success come from integrating all aspects of your being—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—into a harmonious whole. Our workshop on Integral Living is designed to help you pause, reflect, and realign your life with deeper values and purpose
A Transformative Experience
Join us in the tranquil Kumaon Hills at Madhuban, where the serene natural environment provides the perfect backdrop for a journey of self-discovery. Over the course of a few days, you will:
Join us in the tranquil Kumaon Hills at Madhuban, where the serene natural environment provides the perfect backdrop for a journey of self-discovery. Over the course of a few days, you will:
Disconnect from Technology
Break free from the daily distractions and immerse yourself in a space that fosters clarity and mindfulness.
Engage in Reflective Practices
Learn techniques that encourage self-reflection, helping you to realign your personal and professional goals.
Integrate Mind, Body, & Spirit
Participate in activities that promote holistic wellbeing, including yoga, meditation, hiking, and more
Create a Harmonious Life
Develop the tools to balance your work and life, achieving a state of inner harmony that drives longterm success.
Workshop Outline
To book email us at:
contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
Adventure / Discovery / Learning
Welcome to Madhuban. This unique retreat offers children the chance to unplug from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Join us for an unforgettable experience where learning and adventure go hand in hand.
Welcome to Madhuban. This unique retreat offers children the chance to unplug from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Join us for an unforgettable experience where learning and adventure go hand in hand.
Hiking & Trekking
Connect with nature while promoting physical and mental well-being. Through serene trails, mindful exploration, and team-building experiences, kids can unwind and rejuvenate in a peaceful environment.
Rappelling
Descend with confidence! Rappelling is an exciting activity where students can overcome their fears and build teamwork skills. Our experienced instructors ensure safety while making the experience fun and rewarding.
Rock Climbing
Experience the thrill of reaching new heights! Our rock climbing sessions are tailored to be safe and engaging for children. Students will learn the basics of climbing, build physical strength, & gain a sense of accomplishment.
Stargazing
Explore the night sky! Stargazing sessions offer a peaceful and educational end to the day. Students will learn about constellations and basic astronomy, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity
Reflection Time
Take a moment to reflect. Our guided reflection sessions encourage students to journal their thoughts and experiences, promoting mindfulness and personal growth.
Bonfires
Gather around the bonfire! Evenings are filled with stories, songs, & s’mores, creating a sense of community & fun. Safety is always our priority during these memorable nights.
Suggestive Itinerary
For all on a path of self-discovery and transformation, Madhuban is a space that facilitates a rhythm of quietude.
Accomodation:
Rooms on a double- and triple-sharing basis + Dormitories
Community gathering spaces with provisions for:
1. Audio-video facility
2. Yoga
3. Outdoor gym
4. Badminton court
5. Trekking
2. Yoga
3. Outdoor gym
4. Badminton court
5. Trekking
Quiet sit-outs to watch our flora and fauna
Madhuban has organically grown to become a home that hosts groups of people who follow the spiritual path.
Madhuban today is a calm environment for spiritual retreats, writers and artists residences, vedic chanting, nature treks, and a wholesome experience of living in a community set-up where work is done in the spirit of an offering to the Divine. To apply to host or to participate in a retreat, write to: contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
Madhuban today is a calm environment for spiritual retreats, writers and artists residences, vedic chanting, nature treks, and a wholesome experience of living in a community set-up where work is done in the spirit of an offering to the Divine. To apply to host or to participate in a retreat, write to: contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
Voices about Madhuban:
Our group traveled from U.S.A. and stayed at Madhuban for a retreat with Tara didi.
From the moment I put my feet there, an overpowering calm, peaceful and strong spiritual vibration filled my being. The beauty of Madhuban, the exquisite fragrance of the flowers all around, the majestic mountains, and, above all, the simplicity, love, care and dedicated service from Anju didi and other members of the Madhuban community has made a deep impact on my heart.
I witness the concept of putting spirituality into action for the upliftment of local communities so beautifully in Madhuban.
Combine these with modern amenities and comfortable rooms, sattvik food at the Dining Hall, the time I spent at Madhuban has created a deep positive impact in me and I can't wait to come back and spend more time at Madhuban.
From the moment I put my feet there, an overpowering calm, peaceful and strong spiritual vibration filled my being. The beauty of Madhuban, the exquisite fragrance of the flowers all around, the majestic mountains, and, above all, the simplicity, love, care and dedicated service from Anju didi and other members of the Madhuban community has made a deep impact on my heart.
I witness the concept of putting spirituality into action for the upliftment of local communities so beautifully in Madhuban.
Combine these with modern amenities and comfortable rooms, sattvik food at the Dining Hall, the time I spent at Madhuban has created a deep positive impact in me and I can't wait to come back and spend more time at Madhuban.
Amit Thakkar
USA
For me, each visit and each encounter with the beautiful and enchanting environs of Madhuban and of the Himalayas, are a joy and deepening of sense of sacred beauty and of oneness.
I feel truly blessed to have "discovered" this quite extra-ordinary place. As well, to be received here by everyone – in the kitchen, in the gardens, everywhere – with deep attention and abiding welcome, is the most hearting healing.
Thank you everyone indeed for making Madhuban my "home".
I feel truly blessed to have "discovered" this quite extra-ordinary place. As well, to be received here by everyone – in the kitchen, in the gardens, everywhere – with deep attention and abiding welcome, is the most hearting healing.
Thank you everyone indeed for making Madhuban my "home".
Sehdev Kumar
India
In Education:
We have adopted schools in the nearby villages and work closely with the state board and NCERT curriculum guidelines and books, with our background in integral education we weave in a framework of processes that aim to empower each stake holder around the child to be mindful of our three guiding principles of education and true teaching:
1. Nothing can be taught. The teacher is not an instructor or task-master; he is a helper and a guide. His business is to suggest and not to impose. He does not actually train the pupil's mind, but only shows him how to perfect his instruments of knowledge... He shows him how to acquire knowledge for himself.
2. The mind has to be consulted in its own growth. The idea of hammering the child into the shape desired by the parent or teacher is a barbarous and ignorant superstition. It is he himself who must be induced to expand in accordance with his own nature.
3. Work from the near to the far. Work from that which is, to that which shall be. The basis of man's nature is almost always in addition to his soul's past, his heredity, surroundings, nationality, country, the soil from which he draws sustenance, the air he breathes, and the sights, sounds, and habits to which he is accustomed.
In accordance with the above, Madhuban tries to celebrate the human spirit through the following:
Camps for village education
Computer literacy for village youth
Music and art classes for village women
Knitting and stitching workshops for village women
Garbology classes for village schools
We have adopted schools in the nearby villages and work closely with the state board and NCERT curriculum guidelines and books, with our background in integral education we weave in a framework of processes that aim to empower each stake holder around the child to be mindful of our three guiding principles of education and true teaching:
1. Nothing can be taught. The teacher is not an instructor or task-master; he is a helper and a guide. His business is to suggest and not to impose. He does not actually train the pupil's mind, but only shows him how to perfect his instruments of knowledge... He shows him how to acquire knowledge for himself.
2. The mind has to be consulted in its own growth. The idea of hammering the child into the shape desired by the parent or teacher is a barbarous and ignorant superstition. It is he himself who must be induced to expand in accordance with his own nature.
3. Work from the near to the far. Work from that which is, to that which shall be. The basis of man's nature is almost always in addition to his soul's past, his heredity, surroundings, nationality, country, the soil from which he draws sustenance, the air he breathes, and the sights, sounds, and habits to which he is accustomed.
In accordance with the above, Madhuban tries to celebrate the human spirit through the following:
Camps for village education
Computer literacy for village youth
Music and art classes for village women
Knitting and stitching workshops for village women
Garbology classes for village schools
A school we work with.
Livelihood:
1. Stitching unit:
Stitching classes are regularly held for village girls. Courses are of three to six month duration. Post-training employment is given in our own stitching unit to those who qualify as seamstresses; for those who want to become entrepreneurs, support is given to set up their own small-scale business.
2. Knitting unit:
A group of village women, comprising mostly mothers of our school children, meet every Tuesday and hone their skills for knitting woollens. They now make and sell their finely knitted mufflers, shawls, socks, capes, and baby suits through Madhuban Himalayan Retreat. The money they make is collected and accounted by them. Madhuban Himalayan Retreat has supported this enterprise by building their skills, giving them a room with a view, and providing opportunities for travel to see more organised skill work in places such as Auroville and Delhi.
1. Stitching unit:
Stitching classes are regularly held for village girls. Courses are of three to six month duration. Post-training employment is given in our own stitching unit to those who qualify as seamstresses; for those who want to become entrepreneurs, support is given to set up their own small-scale business.
2. Knitting unit:
A group of village women, comprising mostly mothers of our school children, meet every Tuesday and hone their skills for knitting woollens. They now make and sell their finely knitted mufflers, shawls, socks, capes, and baby suits through Madhuban Himalayan Retreat. The money they make is collected and accounted by them. Madhuban Himalayan Retreat has supported this enterprise by building their skills, giving them a room with a view, and providing opportunities for travel to see more organised skill work in places such as Auroville and Delhi.
Ours is a young community initiative and we look for volunteers who are themselves looking at personal growth opportunities by working around the needs of our vision and mission in the areas of:
1. Education:
For primary village schools that we have adopted
2. Skill building for youth in areas of:
Computers
English
Carpentry
Electrical
Gardening
Food preservation
Knitting
Stitching
Art and craft
3. Sustainable ecology initiatives, maintenance and optimisation for efficiency of:
Solar panels
Garbage
Water-harvesting and drip irrigation
Mulching and vermi-composting pits
Flower gardens and nursery
Fruit and vegetable orchards
Poly house
Cow-keeping
Please know that:
Volunteers need to commit for a minimum of 1 working month.
Please fill the form attached and mail it to: outreach@aurobindoonline.in, contact@aurobindoonline.in
On being accepted, you will be given an orientation and attached to a department for a minimum of 6 hours' work daily.
Boarding and lodging will be provided on a sharing basis for those applying for one month; for those staying longer, a single room facility will be given.
1. Education:
For primary village schools that we have adopted
2. Skill building for youth in areas of:
Computers
English
Carpentry
Electrical
Gardening
Food preservation
Knitting
Stitching
Art and craft
3. Sustainable ecology initiatives, maintenance and optimisation for efficiency of:
Solar panels
Garbage
Water-harvesting and drip irrigation
Mulching and vermi-composting pits
Flower gardens and nursery
Fruit and vegetable orchards
Poly house
Cow-keeping
Please know that:
Volunteers need to commit for a minimum of 1 working month.
Please fill the form attached and mail it to: outreach@aurobindoonline.in, contact@aurobindoonline.in
On being accepted, you will be given an orientation and attached to a department for a minimum of 6 hours' work daily.
Boarding and lodging will be provided on a sharing basis for those applying for one month; for those staying longer, a single room facility will be given.
See what our volunteers say about Madhuban:
Madhuban, what is it about for me? Beauty: the ocean of flowers spilling thin amrita in the air. Love: we offer our work there at the Divine's feet and the Mother gives us Her support and Grace. Presence: the eternal breath of the Himalayas and the embrace of the Lord...
Like the silent mountains one wants to be quiet there and when I think of Madhuban, I feel I can't speak much, because it is necessary for you to be there to experience it's silence. But in order to be there, you need to hear the quiet ringing of the bell in your heart, which gently calls you...
Madhuban, I am waiting for our new meeting.
Like the silent mountains one wants to be quiet there and when I think of Madhuban, I feel I can't speak much, because it is necessary for you to be there to experience it's silence. But in order to be there, you need to hear the quiet ringing of the bell in your heart, which gently calls you...
Madhuban, I am waiting for our new meeting.
Julia
Russia
I stayed in Madhuban for a month, doing volunteering for a full time week.
Madhuban Himalayan Retreat is very beautiful itself due to nice location and lots of flowers flourishing in the gardens, atmosphere is calm and peaceful as this is the very nature of the Himalayas hills. This is a good place to stay and pause, to be with yourself and deepen into Sadhana. As a volunteer I had an amazing opportunity to participate actively in the life of the community. What I found is that people there are very open, welcoming and collaborative, I was blessed to find some new friends there.
If you have this opportunity to come to Madhuban and stay there as a volunteer: I believe this is a good investment of your time and efforts since it gives back much more than you give to it.
Madhuban Himalayan Retreat is very beautiful itself due to nice location and lots of flowers flourishing in the gardens, atmosphere is calm and peaceful as this is the very nature of the Himalayas hills. This is a good place to stay and pause, to be with yourself and deepen into Sadhana. As a volunteer I had an amazing opportunity to participate actively in the life of the community. What I found is that people there are very open, welcoming and collaborative, I was blessed to find some new friends there.
If you have this opportunity to come to Madhuban and stay there as a volunteer: I believe this is a good investment of your time and efforts since it gives back much more than you give to it.
Nadya
Russia
What can I say? Madhuban is my home!
Purvi
India
Nature Around Us
A valley in the foothills of the Himalayas that is seasonally changing to herald new beginnings and emerging of new plant, bird and crawly creepy animal life that sings, chirps, buzzes in a rhythm that is uniquely in symphony with cycles of natural life.
If you are coming to stay indoors, than you can from your room look at spectacular views of the trickling river in the summer, clouds dancing in the mountain dales during monsoons, trees laden with fruit between summer and monsoon, orange to yellow hues of our trees and vines in autumn, flowers of myriad hues in spring, and winter bare nature in all its rugged beauty.
If you are coming to stay indoors, than you can from your room look at spectacular views of the trickling river in the summer, clouds dancing in the mountain dales during monsoons, trees laden with fruit between summer and monsoon, orange to yellow hues of our trees and vines in autumn, flowers of myriad hues in spring, and winter bare nature in all its rugged beauty.
Special Days of Spiritual Significance and Activities
- 21 FebruaryDarshan Day and the Mother's birth anniversary; all-day program
- 29 FebruaryDay of the Supramental Manifestation
- 24 AprilDarshan Day: the Mother's final arrival in Pondicherry; all-day program
- 7 JuneRelics Enshrinement Day at Madhuban; all-day program
- 13 AugustBirth anniversary of Shri Surendra Nath Jauhar 'Faquir'
- 15 AugustDarshan Day: Sri Aurobindo's birth anniversary; all-day program
- 17 NovemberThe Mother's Mahasamadhi Day; collective silent meditation
- 24 NovemberDarshan Day and Siddhi Day; march-past and satsang
- 5 DecemberSri Aurobindo's Mahasamadhi Day; collective silent meditation
- 31 DecemberMid-night meditation
Important Guidelines
-
Prohibited Substances: Smoking and the consumption of gutka or any tobacco products are strictly prohibited on Madhuban Himalayan Retreat campus. Additionally, the use of alcoholic beverages and drugs is forbidden throughout the entire duration of the camp.
- Expected Conduct: We encourage all participants to bring a cheerful attitude, a spirit of positivity, and an openness to the experiences ahead. Respect for the natural environment, fellow participants, and Madhuban Himalayan Retreat's values is paramount.
- Discipline: Maintaining discipline and adhering to these guidelines is crucial for fostering a harmonious atmosphere. Your cooperation is expected and appreciated.
- Medical: People with high blood pressure and other diseases, who have problems with high altitude and/or living at the first and second floors, and also those needing special facilities, food or care, should not apply.
We have trained personnel who can administer first aid. Participants are responsible for their own medical expenses. The organizers are unable to cover any costs related to accidents or illnesses that may occur during the camp.
- Luggage Advisory: Please ensure that you bring luggage that you can manage and carry on your own, as there are no porter services available.
-
Conscious Living: Please Bring Your Own Towel and Toiletries.
At Madhuban, we embrace mindful living in harmony with the Himalayas. To conserve water and protect the delicate ecosystem, we kindly ask guests to bring their own towels and toiletries. We also encourage you to carry back any waste, helping us keep the mountains pristine and clean. Your mindful choices make a difference in preserving this beautiful environment and reflects our commitment to conscious, sustainable living. Thank you for joining us in caring for this precious environment.
Contact Us
We welcome and are happy to structure customized corporate workshops, spiritual retreats for Sadhaks, learning and experiential camps for school children, teachers, and parent groups.
To book, please email us.
contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
Phone number.
+91 76688 70757
To book, please email us.
contactus.madhuban@gmail.com
Phone number.
+91 76688 70757
Madhuban Himalayan Retreat, Talla Ramgarh Road, Ramgarh, Uttarakhand 263137, India
Reach Us
By Flight: From New Delhi to Pant Nagar then take a cab to Talla Ramgarh, look for Madhuban after the Talla market
By Train: From new Delhi to Kathgodam or Haldwani or Rudrapur and then take a cab to Ramgarh, look for Madhuban after the Talla market
By Road: Book a bus or cab from New Delhi to Talla Ramgarh, look for Madhuban after the Talla market
Our Acknowledgments
We would like to acknowledge the following organisations for being our support system in terms of being connected to our vision and mission for Madhuban:
