Hidden Valley Ashram - Escondido, California

Nihar Bendre

My time at the Self-Realization Fellowship Hidden Valley Ashram has been nothing short of transformational. Nestled in the serene embrace of nature, this ashram offers a perfect blend of tranquility and spiritual vibrancy.

From the moment I set foot on the grounds, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of peace and profound spiritual energy. The ashram’s well-structured program provided a balanced mix of meditation, service (seva), and study, allowing for both personal reflection and community engagement.

The accommodations and facilities are thoughtfully designed, fostering simplicity and mindfulness. The meals, mostly vegetarian, are nutritious and lovingly prepared, contributing to the overall sense of well-being.

What truly sets Hidden Valley apart, however, is its community. The monks, staff, and fellow seekers are genuinely compassionate and dedicated to the path of Self-Realization as taught by Paramahansa Yogananda. The guidance and teachings offered here are deeply rooted in Yogananda’s teachings, providing both practical and profound insights for spiritual living.

For anyone seeking a retreat to deepen their spiritual practice, find inner peace, or simply to recharge in a sacred environment, Hidden Valley Ashram is a treasure waiting to be discovered. This sacred space has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I look forward to returning.

Jai Guru!

Marvin Camacho

I just spent a week at SRF Hiddn Valley Ashram. My expectations were blown away. I was unprepared for the blessings I received. I was challenged in ways I did not see coming. I have grown Souriually and Soulfully. Thank you to HVA, Monastics, Staff and Volunteers for your service to God and Gurudeva. I will return. Jai Guru :Z. ?❤️✨️

Jorge Moreno

This retreat is a farm where devotees come to volunteer and earn the stay around the monks in charge and their every day activities.

Saiyad Mohammed

Absolutely incredible experience. Such welcoming, beautiful souls. Made so many friends in a short period of time. I plan to be back!!

Walter Tomio

Ci ho vissuto per quasi un mese nell'estate 1992. Un'esperienza fondamentale nella mia vita. Là, nel silenzio accogliente dell'ashram, ho visto la mia vita da lontano, da un'altra prospettiva. Esperienza dura ed entusiasmante al tempo stesso per la forza del silenzio che mi ha costretto ad imparare a convivere con me ed anche a ridere di me....
Anche a distanza di oltre 20 anni da quell'esperienza posso ancora ritrovare dentro me, quando lo cerco, quel silenzio.

Ed O.

This place feels like a little bubble where individuals can come and join a community full of brotherhood, love and calmness, where people understand and pass no judgement. Where God is first, and getting to know Him, attune our minds with Him, and communing with Him is the goal. May God continue to bless this little piece of heaven on Earth for as long as there are persons with a desire to know Him.

Frank Valdez

I participated in a 3-day themed program, Nd it was an incredibly enlightening experience. Brother Ishtananda and the rest of the SRF monastics make themselves available to answer questions and really be there for you to help you disseminate masters teachings. You can also tell they put a lot of work into preparing for the program and presenting their content in a comprehensive manner.The grounds them selves are amazingly beautiful, you feel like you are way out there in nature in the gorgeous California rolling hills and red rocks. Fresh air and quietness allows you to meditate as much as you desire. The food served is not only delicious but healthy as well. I highly recommend you attend if you are looking to deepen your practice of meditation and or Kriya.

Kai Hedgestone

Good place - fresh local food, meditation and yoga, beautiful nature and small but comfortable cabins. This place is only for men, presumably to reduce distraction and keep focus on the Divine :). In any case, great place to catch a breath and to focus on your perspective.