Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora - News #Cultural Activity

Almora visit of Srimad Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj (19-21st Nov. 2025)

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:48:00 +0530

Inauguration of Museum, Vivekananda Bhavan & Shivananda Kutir (After Restoration)
and Realease of Books

On 19 November, one new building (Vivekananda Bhavan), one restored old building (Shivananda Kutir), and a museum in the existing hall below the temple at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora were inaugurated by Revered Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj, Vice-President, Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission. presence of a gathering of monks, brahmacharis and devotees.

1. Turiyananda Divyasmriti Museum

The Turiyananda Divyasmriti Museum, showcasing personal articles used by Swami Turiyananda and Swami Subodhananda, along with numerous rare and old photographs of Ramakrishna Kutir, was ceremonially opened.
The conservation and display work was undertaken by the INTACH Delhi Chapter, with most of the expenses supported through INTACH’s CSR contribution, and the remaining by a devotee.

2. Vivekananda Bhavan (Students’ Home)

The newly constructed Vivekananda Bhavan, a residence for students from remote villages and underprivileged backgrounds pursuing studies at Almora College and Soban Singh Jeena University, was inaugurated next.
This three-storey building has 10 rooms with a capacity to accommodate 35 students. The project was funded by RVNL under its CSR scheme.

Structural design and architectural work were executed by Shri Manoj Mehra, Bageshwar.

3. Shivananda Kutir (Restoration)

The 87-year-old Shivananda Kutir, constructed by B.Doraiswamy- a disciple of Swami Shivananda was restored to its original architectural integrity, was then dedicated to the public. The restored Kutir will now serve as a devotional accommodation space for visiting devotees. The restoration was funded by a US-based devotee. Conservation Architect: Dr. Neeta Das; Contractor: NIRMAN, Kolkata.

4. Book Release

(i) Turiyananda Divyasmriti – A booklet detailing the historical and spiritual significance of the objects displayed in the new museum.
(ii) Ramakrishna Kutir: Glimpses from the Past (English)
(iii) Ramakrishna Kutir: Ek Itihaas (Hindi) – Illustrated books on the history of Ramakrishna Kutir, featuring short biographies of the founders and numerous rare archival photographs.
(iv) The Eternal Quest: Life & Teachings of Swami Turiyananda, authored by Shri Mihir Kanti Das, Bengaluru, who has transferred the IPR to Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora. All proceeds from the book will remain with the Ashrama.

Programme Highlights

Felicitation of key contributors involved in the construction and restoration projects at Ramakrishna Kutir.
Distribution of food packets at the conclusion of the meeting.

Total Attendance: Approximately 120 participants.

Photos and Videos

Youth Motivation Lecture, 4th August, 2025

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 15:50:30 +0530

Report on Youth Activity Lecture under Vivekananda Study Circle

A special lecture under the purview of the Vivekananda Study Circle was organized by Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora at Vivekananda Balika Inter College, Jeevandham, Almora on Monday, 4th August 2025 at 10:00 a.m. for the students of Classes IX–XII. More than 250 students participated in the programme.

The lecture on “Swami Vivekananda and the Holistic Development of Students” was delivered by Swami Yogatmananda ji, In-charge, Vedanta Society, Providence, USA, who was also the Chief Guest of the occasion.

The programme began with Saraswati Vandana and patriotic songs presented by the students, followed by lighting of the lamp and floral offerings. All guests were felicitated with badges and mementos.

Other distinguished guests present were:

Swami Mayadhishananda ji & Brahmachari Arpan – Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora
Dr. Ajit Ranade – Eminent Economist & Political Analyst; Former Vice-Chancellor, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Pune
Dr. Sucheta Ghule – Professor, Biochemistry Department, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College & Hospital, Nagpur
Dr. Srikant Srigiriraju – Ph.D. (Mechanics of Solids and Structures), Brown University, USA; Academic Administrator, Chinmaya International Foundation, Kalady, Kerala
Mrs. Sarika Ingole – Former IT Professional, Nagpur

In his address, Swami Yogatmananda ji spoke on:

What is holistic development and how to achieve it
Swami Vivekananda’s idea of true development
The ultimate goal of education

Students interacted enthusiastically, asking questions to which Swamiji responded with clarity and warmth. He explained the importance of meditation, how to discover one’s goal in life, and the practices that help students excel.

The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Principal Smt. Godavari Chaturvedi, who expressed gratitude to Swamiji for his words of wisdom and emphasized the need for more such inspiring lectures for students.

The event was a great success and left a lasting impression on all participants.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Governor's Visit to Kakrighat, 9th June, 2025

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:42:26 +0530

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh, the Honourable Governor of Uttarakhand, paid a visit to Kakrighat on 9th June 2025. He had previously visited the site in June 2024. During this year's visit, he committed a contribution of ₹1.5 lakhs from the Raj Bhavan fund towards the development of the Akhandananda Library at Kakrighat.

He also discussed the idea of writing a book on the significance of the Jñānavṛkṣa, which would explore the confluence of science, environment, and spirituality. He expressed his wish for Ramakrishna Kutir to undertake this project.

The Governor was visibly delighted to revisit this sacred place, known for Swami Vivekananda’s meditative experience. Drawing a parallel with Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi Vriksha, he remarked that he envisions the number of visitors and devotees to this holy site growing a hundredfold in the coming times.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Spiritual Retreat, 8th to 11th May 2025

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:27:08 +0530

A spiritual retreat was held at our Almora Centre from 8th to 11th May 2025, attended by 85 delegates from

various parts of India and countries such as the USA, UK, Bangladesh, and Canada.

The retreat featured the following speakers and sessions:

Swami Raghavendrananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Nagpur – Guided meditation (every morning) and Dharma Prasanga based on the lives and teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother, and Swamiji.
Swami Atmashraddhananda, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Kanpur – Life and Teachings of Swami Turiyananda, based on letters written from Almora.
Swami Sukhananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Bhuj – Recital and Discourse on Ramacharitmanas.
Swami Shuddhidananda, Adhyaksha, Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati – Discourse on Chapter 15 (Purushottama Yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita.

A special discourse on Ramacharitmanas by Swami Sukhananda was also held at Kakrighat,

attended by about 50 people, including schoolchildren and local villagers.

In addition to the speakers, several other monks and brahmacharins from various centres graced the retreat with their presence, including Swami Shaktinathananda – Ramakrishna Mission, Chittagong, Swami Sevamayananda – Haziganj Centre, Swami Shankareshananda – Rajkot Centre, Swami Hariramananda – Porbandar Centre and other distinguished monks.

As part of the retreat, the delegates visited several spiritually significant sites such as Turiyananda Taposthali, Karbala, Vivekananda Dwar, Patal Devi, and Kasar Devi temples, for which transportation was arranged.

A concluding session was held on the evening of 11th May, during which selected delegates shared their retreat experiences with the gathering.

Photos & Videos

Vivekananda Inter School Competition 2025

Tue, 20 May 2025 11:21:44 +0530

VIVEKANANDA INTER-SCHOOL COMPETITION

The annual Vivekananda Inter-School Competition was held for schools in Almora town. This year, around 3500 students from 39 schools participated in a two-round format:

First round: Held at respective schools from 23rd April to 1st May 2025
Second round: Conducted at Government Girls’ Inter College, Almora on 4th May 2025
The prize distribution ceremony was held on 11th May at the banquet hall of Hotel Milam Inn, in the presence of:

Sri Ajay Verma, Mayor of Almora
Swami Atmashraddhananda, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Kanpur
Swami Sukhananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Bhuj
Other monks from various centres in India and Bangladesh
Around 50 retreat guests
200 students, parents and teachers & principals

Vibrant cultural performances were performed by the student winners celebrating local and Indian traditions, and the inspiring ideals of Swami Vivekananda.

112 students were awarded for their outstanding performances. Competitions were held in the following categories:

Classes 1–4: Art Competition
Classes 5–6: Comprehension based on Swami Vivekananda’s life and teachings
Classes 7–8: Gita chanting and explanation
Classes 9–10: Quiz on Swami Vivekananda, Uttarakhand’s heritage, and Indian culture
Classes 11–12: Speech on Swami Vivekananda’s Expectations from the Youth
School Level: Short play based on Swami Vivekananda’s life
School Level: Cultural presentation based on Indian folk traditions and heritage

Food packets were distributed to all attendees, and refreshments were served to the guests.

Photos & Videos

Vivekananda Dwar Samman Samaroh, 30th March, 2025

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:17:58 +0530

The public meeting was held on 30th March 2025 at the Shivananda Hall of Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, to felicitate the key people involved in the construction of Vivekananda Dwar.

The event was graced by:

Shri Ajay Tamta, Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways
Prof. Dr. Satpal Singh Bisht, Vice-Chancellor, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora
Shri Ajay Verma, Mayor of Almora
Shri Prakash Chandra Joshi, Former Chairman of Almora Municipal Council
Shri Anil Shahi, Member, Commission for Prevention of Migration, Govt. of Uttarakhand
Other distinguished guests

Key Contributors Felicitated for the Construction of Vivekananda Dwar:

Architect: Tanisha Tiwari (Almora)
Structural Engineer: Manoj Mehra (Bageshwar)
Contractor: Srigar Infra (Deepak Pokhariya, Almora)
Sculptor: Nirjan De (Sargachhi, Murshidabad)

Chronology of Events:

Vedic Chanting – Swami Vishweshananda & other monks and brahmacharis
Lighting of the Lamp & Offering flowers at the feet of Swami Vivekananda
Cultural Performance – By students
Welcome Speech – Swami Dhruveshananda, President, Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora
Felicitation & Honoring of Distinguished Guests
Honoring Key Contributors to the Construction of Vivekananda Dwar
Speeches by Distinguished Guests:Shri Prakash Chandra Joshi,Shri Ajay Verma, Prof. Dr. Satpal Singh Bisht, Shri Ajay Tamta
Vote of Thanks & Program Coordination – Dr. Chandra Prakash Fuloria, Museum In-Charge & Director, Swami Vivekananda-Mahatma Gandhi Spiritual Tourism Circuit & Study Center, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Inaguration of Vivekananda Dwar, 23rd March, 2025

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:16:23 +0530

Vivekananda Dwar, constructed by Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, on NH 109 at Karbala Junction, Almora, was inaugurated on 22/03/2025 (afternoon) by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand- Sri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji in the presence of Central Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways- Sri Ajay Tamta, Mayor of Almora- Sri Ajay Verma, and other distinguished guests.

The occasion was also graced by Swami Aseematmananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Dehradun; Swami Kalikeshananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Rishikesh; Swami Jnananishthananda, Adhyaksha, Ashrama, Shyamlatal; Swami Suhridananda, Manager, Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati; and other revered monks.

Chronology of Events:

Arrival of dignitaries including CM Pushkar Singh Dhami ji
Presentation of flower bouquet, shawl, memento of Vivekananda Dwar, and a small statue of Swami Vivekananda to the CM by Swami Dhruveshananda
Lighting of the lamp and offering of flowers at Swami ’s feet by dignitaries
Ribbon cutting for the inauguration of
Unveiling of the Information Panel showcasing the elements of by the CM
Unveiling of the inauguration plaque by the CM
Departure of dignitaries

Due to unexpected weather conditions (rain), the program had to be curtailed slightly. However, despite this, the rest of the event went smoothly as planned, with enthusiastic participation from devotees, students, and local government officials. Everyone including all the dignitaries, monks, and attendees expressed their happiness and satisfaction.

Contributors to the Construction of :

Architect: Tanisha Tiwari, Almora
Structural Engineer: Manoj Mehra, Bageshwar
Contractor: Srigar Infra (Deepak Pokhariya), Almora
Sculptor: Nirjan De, Sargachhi, Murshidabad

The Vivekananda Dwar, a majestic entrance gate to the city of Almorafeaturing a statue of Swami Vivekananda on horseback—a first in history—along with other statues facing both sides of the . The total cost of construction was approximately ₹65 lakhs.

This grand structure commemorates Swamiji’s triumphant return to Almora in 1897 after his historic campaign in the West. When he arrived, the people of Almora, overwhelmed with love and admiration, seated him on a majestically decorated white horse and led him in a jubilant procession of thousands. Swamiji himself often spoke of the joyful times he spent in Almora, where he frequently rode horses. Thus, the depiction of Swamiji on horseback at the city’s entrance holds great significance. The memorial is being constructed near Lodhia, the very place where he was received with such honor.

Standing tall at 48 feet high and 60 feet wide, Vivekananda Dwar is a unique landmark in Uttarakhand. It also features depictions of various local deities from the Almora region. Constructed in traditional Kumaoni architecture, it embodies the spirit of Sarva Dharma Samanvaya, featuring statues from different religions alongside Swamiji’s. This remarkable landmark stands as a symbol of the deep love and reverence of the people of Almora for Swamiji, whom they considered their very own.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Special Youth Programme, 4th March, 2025

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:14:18 +0530

A special youth program was conducted on 4th march 2025 from 10 AM to 11 AM.

The schedule was as following:

Sl.	Item	Performer	Duration
1	Swami Vivekananda Pranam Mantra	SVSC	5 mins	mins
2	Saraswati Vandana	SVKBPK	5 mins	mins
3	Gita Paath	GICL	5 mins	mins
4	Welcome Speech	SSJ	5 mins	mins
5	Uttarākhaṇḍ Devabhūmi Mātribhūmi (Song)	SSJ	5 mins	mins
6	Short Speech - 1	GICL	5 mins	mins
7	India's contribution to the world	SVSC	7 mins	mins
8	Short Play	SVKBPK	7 mins	mins
9	Short Speech - 2	GICL	5 mins	mins
10	Prerak Prasang (Lessons from Swami Vivekananda's Life)	SVSC	6 mins	mins
11	Sarve Sukhinah Bhavantu	SVSC	5 mins	mins
		TOTAL =	60 mins	mins

SVSC = Swami Vivekananda Study Circle

GICL = Govt. Inter College, Lodhiya

SSJ = SSJ University, Almora Campus

SVKBPK = SV Kakrighat Bal Paramarsh Kendra

The Program shall be followed by an interaction with the students from 11.00 AM to 11.30 AM

Refreshments shall be served after the program

Special Guests who were present on the occasion:

(i) Mr. Shubham Trivedi - Manager, Centre for Responsible Business, Delhi

(ii) Ms. Toyiba - Consultant, Centre for Responsible Business, Delhi

Besides the teachers & professors of local schools & colleges were also present

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

Spiritual Retreat - 28th to 31st May 2026

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:14:18 +0530

Dear Devotees,

We are delighted to announce that a 4-day Spiritual Retreat will be held from 28 - 31 May 2026 at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora.

Here's a summary of the Retreat:

	SPEAKER	TOPIC
1	Swami Raghavendrananda Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Nagpur	Guided Meditation & Dhrama Prasanga based on lives of Sri Sri Ramakrishna, Ma Sarada Devi & Swami Vivekananda
2	Swami Sukhananda Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Bhuj	Recital & Discourse on Ramcharitmanas and teachings of Thakur, Ma & Swamiji

Both residential and non-residential participation options are available for devotees for the Spiritual Retreat (more details are given below). However, both residential as well as non-residential participants would be provided all the meals (breakfast, lunch, tea & dinner) at the Ashrama only.
Accommodation within the Ashrama will follow dormitory rules with separate arrangements for male and female participants.
However, there will be a provision to stay in nearby hotels or homestays as well.
Participants must adhere strictly to the day-wise program without deviation.
Silence is Golden. Participants are encouraged to minimize unnecessary talking & usage of mobile phones during the retreat.
Participation is strictly by advance registration only, following a first-come-first-serve policy due to limited accommodations and seats.

Fill up the Registration Form here

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES

1. Dates & Arrival Information

Retreat Dates: 28th May to 31st May 2026 (4 days)
Arrival: 27th May 2026,
Departure: 1st June 2026 (morning after breakfast)
(If anyone wants to stay beyond the retreat, they must mention the dates on the registration form. We shall confirm based on availability.)
Participants must arrive at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, by 4 pm on 27th May.

2. Location & Travel Arrangements

Participants have to make their travel arrangements for Almora.

Buses/ Taxis/ Shared Taxis are available from railway stations/ bus stations/ airport.

Nearest Access Points:

By Road: Haldwani (100 km), Bareilly (200 km), Dehradun (400 km), Delhi (400 km)
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Kathgodam (80 km), Haldwani (100 km), and Lal Kuan (105 km)
By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (121 km), followed by Bareilly (193 km)

3. Accommodation & Registration

Accommodation will be provided within the Ashrama strictly on a first-come-first-serve basis.
You can indicate your choice on the registration form.
Those staying outside may choose from nearby hotels and guest houses, a list of which is given here.
***

Registration must be completed in advance by filling out the reg istration form along with payment confirmation.
Registration Fee:

₹6,000 for non-residential participants (contacts of some nearby hotels are provided below)
₹8,000 for residential participants

Meals shall be provided for both residential as well as non-residential participants within the above cost only.
Participants opting to stay outside the Ashrama will need to cover their hotel costs separately.
After registration, participants will be added to a WhatsApp group for coordination.

5. Daily Routine & Participation

All participants must attend morning meditation, chanting, and evening arati in the temple or Shivananda Hall, as applicable
Discourses are mandatory and will be conducted as per the schedule in morning and evening sessions.

6. Climate & Clothing Recommendations

Almora can be moderately cold in May. Participants should bring suitable warm clothing.
It is advisable to carry an umbrella or rain protection, as weather conditions may vary.

7. Cancellation & Adjustments

Registration fees are non-refundable.
Registration fees will be accepted as donations and receipts will be issued accordingly.
Participants must inform the Ashrama before the registration deadline if they are unable to attend. But we won't be able to refund the registration fees.

8. Contact:

For any further queries drop us an email at almora@rkmm.org
Or, you may contact Sri Aman Kumar (+91 70601 73528), Sri Debotosh Purkayastha (+91-9706088110) or Br. Raju (+91 8445008469)

Please note that telephonic discussions or WhatsApp messages will not be considered valid communication for the retreat. Only those who shall send the filled-up forms will be considered.

Fill up the Registration Form here

Here are the name and contact number of nearby hotels and guest houses which may be of help to you.

1. Hotel Himadri - 99179 55424 – 0.5 Km from the Ashrama

2. Prabhu Guest House – 8006388522 – 0.5 Km from the Ashrama

3. Nivedita Cottage - 97605 46898 – 0.7 Km from the Ashrama
4. Heritage Hotel – 70789 01577 –1 Km from the Ashrama
5. Hotel Milam Inn - 94120 42245 – 2Km from the Ashrama

6. Shikar Hotel - 94120 39696 – 2Km from the Ashrama

DAILY TIMETABLE FOR SPIRITUAL RETREAT
28th to 30th May, 2026

Time Event
5:30 AM — Temple Opening

6:00 AM — Mangal Arati, Vedic Chanting- Bhajan & Meditation

7:00 AM — Breakfast

8:00 AM — Registration followed by Vedic Chanting & Opening Song

8:30 AM — by Swami Raghavendranandaji
(Gudided Meditation & Discorse)

10:00 AM — Tea Break

10:15 AM to 11:30 AM — Discorse by Swami Sukhanandaji

12:00 Noon — Lunch

3:00 PM to 4:30 PM — Afternoon Session by Raghavendranandaji

4:30 - 5:00 PM — Tea & Snacks

05:00 PM to 06:30 PM — by Sukhanandaji

07:00 PM - Evening Aarati and Bhajans

9:00 PM — Dinner

31st May, 2026
08:00 am - Short visit to Turiyananda Taposthali and Vivekananda Smarak at Karbala

2:00 PM - Prize Distribution Ceremony of Vivekananda Inter School Competetion 2026 at
Hotel Milam Inn

Spiritual Retreat - May 2025

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 17:13:35 +0530

Dear Devotees,

We are delighted to announce that a 4-day Spiritual Retreat will be held from 8-11 May 2025 at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora.

Here's a summary of the Retreat:

	Speaker	Topic
1	Swami Shuddhidananda, Adhyaksha, Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati	Chapter 15 of Bhagawad Gita (Purushottam Yoga)
2	Swami Raghavendrananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Nagpur	Guided Meditation & Dhrama Prasanga based on lives of Sri Sri Ramakrishna, Ma Sarada Devi & Swami Vivekananda
3	Swami Sukhananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math, Bhuj	Recital & Discourse on Ramcharitmanas
4	Swami Atmashraddhananda, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Kanpur	Life & teachings of Swami Turiyananda (based on his letters written from Almora)

Both residential and non-residential participation options are available for devotees for the Spiritual Retreat (more details are given below). However, both residential as well as non-residential participants would be provided all the meals (breakfast, lunch, tea & dinner) at the Ashrama only.
Accommodation within the Ashrama will follow dormitory rules (with separate arrangements for male and female participants), if required.
However, there will be a provision to stay in nearby hotels or homestays as well.
Participants must adhere strictly to the day-wise program without deviation.
Silence is Golden. Participants are encouraged to minimize unnecessary talking & usage of mobile phones during the retreat.
Participation is strictly by advance registration only, following a first-come-first-serve policy due to limited accommodations and seats.

Fill up the Registration Form here

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES

1. Dates & Arrival Information

Retreat Dates: 8th May to 11th May 2025 (4 days)
Arrival: 7th May 2025, Departure: 12th May 2025 (morning after breakfast)
(If anyone wants to stay beyond the retreat, they must mention the dates on the registration form. We shall confirm based on availability.)
Participants must arrive at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, by the 4 pm on 7th May.

2. Location & Travel Arrangements
Participants have to make their travel arrangements upto and from Kathgodam. Cars (on sharing basis) will be arranged by the Ashrama from and to Kathgodam.

Nearest Access Points:

By Road: Haldwani (100 km), Bareilly (200 km), Dehradun (400 km), Delhi (400 km)
By Train: Nearest railway stations – Kathgodam (80 km), Haldwani (90 km), and Lal Kuan (105 km)
By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar (121 km), followed by Bareilly (193 km)

3. Accommodation & Registration

Accommodation will be provided within the Ashrama or outside in nearby hotels.
You can indicate your choice on the registration form. Based on availability, you will be informed over email. On payment of the additional ₹2000 per person, you shall be sent a confirmation.

Registration must be completed in advance by filling out the registration form along with payment confirmation.
Registration Fee:

₹6,000 for non-residential participants (contacts of some nearby hotels are provided below)
₹8,000 for residential participants

Meals shall be provided for both residential as well as non-residential participants within the above cost only.
Participants opting to stay outside the Ashrama will need to cover their hotel costs separately.
After registration, participants will be added to a WhatsApp group for coordination.

5. Daily Routine & Participation

All participants must attend morning meditation, chanting, and evening arati in the temple or Shivananda Hall, as applicable
Discourses are mandatory and will be conducted as per the schedule in morning and evening sessions.
As part of the retreat, morning sessions on 11th May will be conducted in Turiyananda Taposthali and Vivekananda Rest Memorial at Karbala.
A detailed schedule will be provided upon arrival.

6. Climate & Clothing Recommendations

Almora can be moderately cold in May. Participants should bring suitable warm clothing.
It is advisable to carry an umbrella or rain protection, as weather conditions may vary.

7. Cancellation & Adjustments

Registration fees are non-refundable. However, if a participant is unable to attend, the fee can be adjusted toward any future retreat at Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora, within one year.
Participants must inform the Ashrama before the registration deadline if they are unable to attend.

8. Contact:

For any further queries drop us an email at almora@rkmm.org
Or, you may contact Sri Aman Kumar (+91 70601 73528), Br. Arpan (+91 8793924939) or Br. Raju (+91 8445008469)

Please note that telephonic discussions or WhatsApp messages will not be considered valid communication for the retreat. Only those who shall send the filled-up forms will be considered.

Fill up the Registration Form here

Here are the name and contact number of nearby hotels and guest houses which may be of help to you.

1. Hotel Himadri - 99179 55424 – 0.5 Km from the Ashrama

2. Prabhu Guest House – 8006388522 – 0.5 Km from the Ashrama

3. Nivedita Cottage - 97605 46898 – 0.7 Km from the Ashrama
4. Heritage Hotel – 70789 01577 –1 Km from the Ashrama
5. Hotel Milam Inn - 94120 42245 – 2Km from the Ashrama

6. Shikar Hotel - 94120 39696 – 2Km from the Ashrama

DAILY TIMETABLE FOR SPIRITUAL RETREAT
Time Event
5:30 AM — Temple Opening

6:00 AM — Mangal Arati, Vedic Chanting- Bhajan & Meditation

7:00 AM — Breakfast

8:45 AM — Registration followed by Vedic Chanting & Opening Song

9:00 AM — Guided Meditation & Opening Session by Swami Raghavendrananda

10:15 AM — Tea Break

10:30 AM — Morning Session by Swami Sarvapriyananda

11:30 AM — Q & A Session

12:00 Noon — Lunch

2:30 PM — Showcase of documentary followed by Bhajan

3:30 PM — Afternoon Session by Swami Sarvapriyananda

5:00 PM — Q & A Session

5:30 PM — Tea & Snacks

6:30 PM — Evening Arati & Bhajans

8:00 PM — Bhajan Sandhya

9:00 PM — Dinner

Schedule of Programs

Date	Day	Programme	Location	Invited Guests (Tentative)
1st to 15th May	-	School level competition	Respective schools	-
17th May 2024	Friday	Arrival of Guests	Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora	-
18th May 2024	Saturday	Spiritual Retreat	Shivananda Hall	Swami Sarvapriyananda, Swami Raghavendrananda
19th May 2024	Sunday	Spiritual Retreat	Shivananda Hall	Swami Sarvapriyananda, Swami Raghavendrananda
20th May 2024	Monday	Spiritual Retreat	Shivananda Hall	Swami Sarvapriyananda, Swami Raghavendrananda
21st May 2024	Tuesday	Seminar- Day 1 (Opening)	Sri Soban Singh Jena University	Morning: Swami Sarvapriyananda Evening: Dr. Radhakrishnan Pillay
21st May 2024	Tuesday	Parikrama of Swami Vivekananda Spiritual Circuit- Day 1	Kakrighat, Kasar Devi, Patal Devi	Dr. Prof. Satpal Singh Bisht, VC, Soban Singh Jeena University, Almora Swami Dhruveshananda Swami Shankareshananda
22nd May 2024	Wednesday	Seminar- Day 2 (Closing)	Sri Soban Singh Jena University	Swami Dayadhipananda, Dr. Lakshmi Kant (Director, VPKAS) Swami Vedanishthananda Swami Dayadhipananda
22nd May 2024	Wednesday	Parikrama of Swami Vivekananda Spiritual Circuit- Day 2	Karbala, GIC, Thompson House, Nivedita Cottage,Lala Badri Shah's House	Akhtar Ali, grandson of Zulfikar Ali who fed cucumber to Swamiji Swami Vedanishthananda Swami Raghavendrananda
22nd May 2024	Wednesday	Half-day Seminar	Kuamon University	Swami Sarvapriyananda Dr. Radhakrishnan Pillay
23rd May 2024	Thursday	Parikrama of Swami Vivekananda Spiritual Circuit- Day 3	Syahi Devi, Turiyananda Taposthali, Ramakrishna Kutir	Swami Vedanisthananda Swami Dayadhipananda
23rd May 2024	Thursday	Half-day Seminar	G B Pant University	Swami Sarvapriyananda Dr. Radhakrishnan Pillay
24th May 2024	Sunday	Prize Distribution Ceremony	GIC/ GGIC	Swami Dayadhipananda Swami Vedanisthananda Sri Vineet Singh Tomar, IAS, DM, Almora
25th May 2024	Friday	Seminar	Cantt Board	Swami Dayadhipananda Swami Vedanisthananda
26th May 2024	Saturday	Seminar	Govt Nursing College	Swami Dayadhipananda Swami Vedanisthananda
26th May 2024	Saturday	Seminar	Govt Medical College	Swami Dayadhipananda Swami Vedanisthananda

Ramakrishna Kutir, Almora - News #Cultural Activity

Almora visit of Srimad Swami Divyanandaji Maharaj (19-21st Nov. 2025)

Inauguration of Museum, Vivekananda Bhavan & Shivananda Kutir (After Restoration)​and Realease of Books

1. Turiyananda Divyasmriti Museum

2. Vivekananda Bhavan (Students’ Home)

3. Shivananda Kutir (Restoration)

4. Book Release

Programme Highlights

Youth Motivation Lecture, 4th August, 2025

Governor's Visit to Kakrighat, 9th June, 2025

Spiritual Retreat, 8th to 11th May 2025

Vivekananda Inter School Competition 2025

Vivekananda Dwar Samman Samaroh, 30th March, 2025

Key Contributors Felicitated for the Construction of Vivekananda Dwar:

Chronology of Events:

Inaguration of Vivekananda Dwar, 23rd March, 2025

Chronology of Events:

Contributors to the Construction of :

Special Youth Programme, 4th March, 2025

Spiritual Retreat - 28th to 31st May 2026

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES​

DAILY TIMETABLE FOR SPIRITUAL RETREAT

28th to 30th May, 2026

Spiritual Retreat - May 2025

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES​

Inauguration of Museum, Vivekananda Bhavan & Shivananda Kutir (After Restoration)
and Realease of Books

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES

DETAILED RULES & GUIDELINES