Kurisumala Ashram
Vagamon, India
- Attend prayer services with the monks.
- Explore the dairy farm and learn about farming.
- Hike to the Kurisumala peak for panoramic views.
- Interact with the monks to learn about their lifestyle.
- Meditate in the serene surroundings.
- Visit the St.Thomas Mount.
Known for:
Description:
Kurisumala Ashram is a unique spiritual retreat nestled amidst the serene hills of Vagamon. It's a Catholic monastery where monks lead a life of prayer, contemplation, and self-sufficient farming. The ashram offers visitors a tranquil environment to reflect and connect with nature. The simple lifestyle of the monks, their dairy farm, and the scenic surroundings provide a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can participate in prayers, explore the farm, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a place for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a glimpse into a life of simplicity and devotion.
History:
Kurisumala Ashram was founded in 1958 by Francis Acharya, a Belgian Cistercian monk who sought to integrate Christian monasticism with Indian spiritual traditions. Inspired by the concept of 'Sanyasa,' he envisioned a community that embraced simplicity, self-sufficiency, and inter-religious dialogue. The ashram began as a small community focused on dairy farming and prayer. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving center for spiritual seekers from all backgrounds. The monks follow a Benedictine rule adapted to the Indian context, emphasizing prayer, work, and hospitality. The ashram's history reflects a commitment to fostering understanding and harmony between different faiths.