Much More than a Pleasant Surprise

(Friday) We ventured to and through Swarg Ashram (Rishikesh) today out the Southern end of town. Walking along the banks of the Ganges, we turned away from the river towards a locked gate with 3 beautiful river-rock towers. A Sadhu (Holy Man) was there as gatekeeper and wanted 20 Rupee (50 cents) for entry. Not a steep charge, but not being a dyed-in-the-wool Beatles fan, I wasn't sure I wanted to spend the money to see the infamous Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Ashram where the Beatles had come back in the 60's for some Transcendental Meditation. Darin IS a big fan, so in we went. I was only mildly interested in the decrepit building that stood before us, and waited patiently as Darin explored every room. It was another HOT afternoon, so I was a little dismayed when he then wanted to walk up the curving driveway to see what else was there, but I followed along without protest. Immediately we came to the first of what we came to call "The Beehives". It was a unique, hive-shaped structure - The first floor comprised of a small room (probably for a desk + chair) and separate bathroom, The second floor was accessed by cantilevered concrete stairs that spiraled up to a dome-roofed meditation room with low, arched door. The resonance of an "Om" in there was fantastic! These structures lined the road heading up and were all in a state of abandon. What hadn't been vandalized, the forest was now taking over. NOW, I was intrigued!

As we continued up, we passed through a second gate where more "Hives" were clustered off to the right amidst some trees. As we roamed around them we realized they just kept GOING. We climbed up onto a platform that fronted about four of them and were rewarded with great views across the Ganges to two bathing/ washing Ghats. A woman's singing floating across was the perfect accompaniment to the moment. To the left, an entire FOREST of "Hives", appearing to stack one on top of the other (See Photo). To the right, forested mountains rose up. It was totally surreal! (I know I say this alot, but it's amazing how many wild experiences you have when you're traveling) As we continued up the hill, new architectural treats would present themselves. All beautiful. All Falling to ruin. The jungle reclaiming them. We spent almost 3 hours exploring, until overheated + dehydrated, we returned to town to rejuvenate.

Here's a "link" to more photos