Ananda is dedicated to the belief, born of experience, that everyone can live in joy.
Ananda Village, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in California, is a cooperative spiritual community dedicated to the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. Founded in 1969 by Yogananda’s direct disciple Swami Kriyananda, it is known today as one of the world’s most successful intentional communities.
About 250 residents live on over 750 acres of land. In addition to the Crystal Hermitage with its spectacular gardens, the community also includes Living Wisdom School, Master’s Market, Yogoata goat dairy, an organic farm, permaculture gardens, and two retreats: Ananda Meditation Retreat and The Expanding Light Retreat.
Places to Visit at Ananda Village
Public Temples & Shrines
Temple of Light: Ananda’s iconic temple dedicated to all religions.
Lahiri Mandir: A small temple near Lotus Lake. Dedicated to Lahiri Mahasaya, who was responsible for making Kriya Yoga available to everyone.
Pavilion of Gratitude: An outdoor meditation and memorial pavilion overlooking Lotus Lake.
Crystal Hermitage Chapel: Inspired by the Porziuncola of St. Francis of Assisi.
Moksha Mandir: Swami Kriyananda’s resting place at Crystal Hermitage overlooking the Yuba River valley.
Shrine of the Masters: Relics from the lives of the Masters, Swami Kriyananda, and others at the Crystal Hermitage.
Scenery
Crystal Hermitage: Beautiful terraced gardens with expansive vistas. Spectacular tulip gardens in April.
Master Vista (Yogananda Statue): 8.5-foot statue of Paramhansa Yogananda overlooking the ridge.
Lotus Lake: A trail looping around the lake with tiny meditation shrines along the way.
Food
The Expanding Light Retreat: Vegetarian meals are served daily; lunch is served at 12:30 pm. Reservations required.
Master’s Market: A vegetarian grocery, bakery, and deli.
Shopping
The Expanding Light Boutique: Books, clothing, and gifts on the retreat grounds.
Northern Lights: Gemstones, crystals, and jewelry near the Village reception center.
Shrine of the Masters Gift Shop: Statues and gifts at the museum located at the Crystal Hermitage.
Our Retreats for Yoga and Meditation
The Expanding Light Retreat
The Expanding Light Retreat in many ways is the front door to Ananda Village for those new to our path. It is a much-loved spiritual retreat for meditation, yoga, community, and for sharing the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda.
Ananda Meditation Retreat
Nestled in 72 acres of forest on Ananda’s original land, the Ananda Meditation Retreat provides the perfect environment for guests and visitors who wish to experience deep inner stillness. Its forest garden creates an atmosphere of deep peace.
Children and Education
Ananda Living Wisdom School
The school was founded in 1972 on the belief that we have entered a new age of energy and spiritual consciousness that can be expressed in how we educate our children.
Contact
Website: https://www.anandavillage.org
Email: info@anandavillage.org
Phone: (530) 478-7500
Ananda Village Reception Center
Ananda Village Office
14618 Tyler Foote Road
Nevada City, CA 95959, USA
You are welcome to visit us without prior arrangements during normal business hours. Our reception staff will be happy to answer your questions and give you a map of the community for your own exploration. If you’d like to call ahead, we may be able to arrange a guided tour. Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
