Question 1

How can I book a room at Sant Niwas?

Accepted Answer

You can book a room by contacting our manager via phone or through the Contact Us page on our website.

Question 2

Is there any charge for staying at the Ashram?

Accepted Answer

The stay is offered at a very nominal maintenance charge to cover basic amenities. We do not operate for profit.

Question 3

Are meals provided during the stay?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pure vegetarian sattvic meals (Prasad) are served twice a day in our dining hall at fixed timings, provided you inform the management in advance.

Question 4

What are the check-in and check-out timings?

Accepted Answer

Kindly contact us for check-in and check-out timings.

Question 5

Are air-conditioned rooms available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have both AC and Non-AC rooms available for pilgrims.

Question 6

Can I bring my pet to the ashram?

Accepted Answer

We love animals, and we serve cows in our Gaushala, but pets are not allowed inside the guest rooms.

Question 7

Is there parking available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is ample free parking space available within the ashram premises for our guests.

Question 8

Do the rooms have attached bathrooms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all our guest rooms come with clean, attached western/indian bathrooms with hot water facility.

Question 9

Is Wi-Fi available at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and selected areas, though we encourage unplugging during your spiritual retreat.

Question 10

Are there any strict rules for staying?

Accepted Answer

Guests are expected to maintain silence, attend aarti if possible, avoid outside food (non-veg/alcohol strictly prohibited), and dress modestly.

Question 11

Can I extend my stay?

Accepted Answer

Extensions are subject to room availability. Please inform the manager at least 24 hours in advance.

Question 12

How long is the Govardhan Parikrama?

Accepted Answer

The complete Parikrama (Badi and Chhoti) is approximately 21 kilometers long.

Question 13

How much time does it take to complete the Parikrama on foot?

Accepted Answer

It typically takes 5 to 7 hours to complete the entire 21 km route on foot at a normal walking pace.

Question 14

What is the best time to start the Parikrama?

Accepted Answer

The best time to start is early morning (around 4:00 AM - 5:00 AM) or late evening to avoid the harsh afternoon sun.

Question 15

Can the Parikrama be done by vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are available for those who cannot walk the entire distance.

Question 16

Are there water facilities along the route?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are numerous Pyaus (water stations) and shops along the entire Parikrama Marg.

Question 17

Is it safe to do the Parikrama at night?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Parikrama Marg is well-lit and usually filled with devotees even at night, especially during festivals.

Question 18

What is Dandvati Parikrama?

Accepted Answer

Dandvati Parikrama is a rigorous form of parikrama where the devotee lays flat on the ground (prostration) for every step of the 21 km journey.

Question 19

Are shoes allowed during Parikrama?

Accepted Answer

We strictly recommend performing the Parikrama completely barefoot as a sign of respect and deep reverence for the sacred land of Braj Bhoomi.

Question 20

Where does the Parikrama start?

Accepted Answer

The Parikrama usually starts from the Dan Ghati temple or Manasi Ganga in Govardhan.

Question 21

What should I carry during Parikrama?

Accepted Answer

Carry comfortable clothing, a small water bottle, basic first aid, and chanting beads (Mala) if you chant.

Question 22

How can I donate to the Ashram?

Accepted Answer

You can donate via Bank Transfer, UPI, or directly at our office. Visit our Seva page for details.

Question 23

Are donations tax-exempt?

Accepted Answer

We are a registered charitable trust, but we currently do not offer 80G tax exemptions.

Question 24

Can I sponsor a specific Seva?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can sponsor Gau Seva (Cow feeding), Bhandara (Food distribution), or Temple maintenance.

Question 25

Is there a minimum amount for donation?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no minimum amount. Every contribution, big or small, made with devotion is accepted gracefully.

Question 26

Do you accept donations in kind?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept grains, cow fodder (chara), and blankets. Please contact the management before sending.

Question 27

How is the donation money utilized?

Accepted Answer

100% of donations go directly to maintaining the ashram, feeding the poor, caring for cows, and supporting pilgrims.

Question 28

Can I volunteer my time instead of money?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Shram Daan (physical service) is highly valued. You can help in the kitchen, gaushala, or cleaning.

Question 29

Do you provide a receipt for the donation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an official receipt is provided for all monetary donations.

Question 30

Can NRIs donate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have an FCRA account for accepting foreign contributions. Please contact us for SWIFT details.

Question 31

Can I donate anonymously?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can choose to remain anonymous. We respect the privacy and humble devotion of our donors.

Question 32

Who was Sant Shri KP Ramanujdas?

Accepted Answer

He was the founding light of Sant Niwas, a revered saint of the Ramanuja Sampradaya dedicated to selfless service in Braj.

Question 33

What are the core teachings of the Ashram?

Accepted Answer

The core teachings revolve around pure devotion (Bhakti) to Radha-Krishna, selfless service to humanity, and non-violence.

Question 34

Is there a daily Satsang?

Accepted Answer

Satsang and Kirtan are organized on special occasions, festivals, and auspicious days at Sant Niwas. Daily Aarti (Mangala and Shayan) is conducted every day in the main temple premises. Please contact us in advance to know the upcoming Satsang schedule.

Question 35

Can anyone participate in the Aarti?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all devotees and guests are welcome and encouraged to participate in the daily Aarti.

Question 36

Do you offer initiation (Diksha)?

Accepted Answer

Diksha is a sacred process and is given by the Acharyas to sincere seekers after observing their dedication.

Question 37

What is Ramanuja Sampradaya?

Accepted Answer

It is a Vaishnava tradition founded by Sri Ramanujacharya, focusing on devotion to Lord Vishnu/Krishna and the philosophy of Vishishtadvaita.

Question 38

How many temples are inside Sant Niwas?

Accepted Answer

There are multiple temples inside Sant Niwas, including the Mata Brajeshwari Devi Temple and the Brajeshwar Mahadev Temple.

Question 39

Can I read spiritual books at the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are allowed to read books.

Question 40

What is the significance of Govardhan Puja?

Accepted Answer

Govardhan Puja commemorates Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan from Lord Indra wrath.

Question 41

How can I listen to past Satsangs?

Accepted Answer

You can listen to recorded audio Satsangs on our Teachings page.

Question 42

Where is Sant Niwas located?

Accepted Answer

Sant Niwas is located right on the sacred Parikrama Marg in Govardhan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.

Question 43

How can I reach Govardhan?

Accepted Answer

Govardhan is easily accessible by road from Mathura (22 km) and Vrindavan. The nearest railway station is Mathura Junction.

Question 44

What is the nearest airport?

Accepted Answer

The nearest airport is Agra Airport, located about 75 km away. The nearest major international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, about 150 km away.

Question 45

Is medical help available nearby?

Accepted Answer

Yes, basic first aid is available at the ashram, and local hospitals/clinics are within a 2-3 km radius.

Question 46

Are there any ATMs near the ashram?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several ATMs from major banks are located in the main Govardhan market area.

Question 47

What is the weather like in Govardhan?

Accepted Answer

Summers (April-June) are very hot, Monsoons (July-Sept) are pleasant, and Winters (Nov-Feb) are quite cold.

Question 48

Is photography allowed inside the Ashram?

Accepted Answer

Photography of the premises is allowed, but taking selfies is strictly prohibited. Capturing the deities inside the main temple garbhagriha (sanctum) is also not allowed.

Question 49

Who manages Sant Niwas?

Accepted Answer

Sant Niwas is managed by the K. P. Ramanuj Das Charitable Trust, a registered non-profit organization dedicated to the ideals of Sant KP Ramanujdas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Categories

Ashram Stay & Facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Categories

Ashram Stay & Facilities