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Gandhi's ashram opens to overnight guests

Sunday, 3 November 20133 min read

Looking for a peaceful and spiritual destination that’s inexpensive to boot?

Mahatma Gandhi’s most famous ashram in India is now accepting guests.

For 1,000 rupees ($16), tourists can live Gandhi’s ascetic life for a night.

While some hotels offer bathrobes, the ashram’s guests get clothing made of khadi, or woven cloth; activities include spinning , praying and meditation.

House rules mandate adherence to Gandhi’s 11 vows, including non-violence, chastity and diet control.

Guests are encouraged to wake at 5 am and do chores to earn their daily food.

The ashram opened for visitors October 2, to coincide with the 144th anniversary of Gandhi’s birth.

It is managed by Gujarat Vidyapith, a university founded by Gandhi to "liberate the Indian youths from the shackles of British colonial rule."

The "Live with Gandhi" program aims to help visitors understand the values and principles of a sustainable life.

By Cheryl Rosen