I had a very wonderful experience at this ashram. I am your typical overstressed New Yorker who is used to the busy city lifestyle. Although visiting an ashram was something I always knew I wanted to do, I came with no expectations and less research than I should have done. Rather I thought I would check this off my bucket... More

I came here not really having high expectations and just looking for some peace of mind and quiet. Getting here was fairly easy as I drove from Long Island. The yoga class I took was really great! it was two hours (first half hour was mostly breathing practice) and really relaxing. The instructor made sure that he would modify any... More

I recently stayed here for a weekend retreat as a surprise birthday gift from my friends. As it was a surprise, I didn't have much of an idea as to what to expect (I was only given directions and a packing list). Upon arrival, the volunteers enthusiastically greeted me and showed me to my very simple but comfortable single room.... More

Stressed out NYer here. Needed a few days away to chill out in a beautiful setting, do some yoga and delve for the first time into meditation -- and I didn't want to travel too far from the city. I spent four lovely days at Sivananda and left relaxed and happy. I admittedly came at an unusual time (right before... More

This Ashram has evolved so much in the past few years and is only getting better and better. My last visit was summer 2012 and the current staff seemed to be very committed, devotional and grateful for being there. The ashram recently added a new big Yoga hall and has been working on Permaculture projects that have really added a... More

Looking for some introspection and to jumpstart my lapsed yoga practice, I recently went to the Sivananda ashram in upstate NY after reading an archived NY Times article. The staff were friendly, helpful & informative (very different experience than the reviews in Jan-2011). The setting was serene & natural. The healthy vegetarian food was delicious and plentiful (did not lose... More

This is not a place for everybody, let's get that out of the way. It's bare-bones accommodations and a pretty big dose of the spiritual side of yoga. That said, I thought it was awesome. Even though the "wake-up" bell rings every day at 5:30 AM, I came back to the city feeling refreshed and revitalized. I really enjoyed Satsang... More

I went knowing that this experience would be basic amenities (no frills) simple healthy vegatarian food, that I would be asked to help each day (how much was up to me), and that there would be a focus on the Yoga lifestyle - which includes early rising, yoga classes, meditation, chanting and a non-denominational religious/spiritual service. The Sivananda tradition are... More

I stayed in dorm bldg. Their amenities are: - Paper thin mattress, - 3 female showers for 50people - No lockers, - 2 vegetarian meals (not even enough to serve for everybody) but there is no dining area beside outside. Since it was raining, we had to eat inside hallway. No tables no chairs. You have to place food on... More