In the spiritual tapestry of Varanasi, Baba Keenaram Ashram Varanasi holds a uniquely esoteric and luminous place. Revered as both a spiritual retreat and the headquarters of the Aghori tradition, the ashram was founded by Baba Keenaram (also known as Kinaram), who is believed by devotees to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva himself.
Tucked away in the tranquil lanes of Ravindrapuri (Bhelupur), near the Ganga ghats, the ashram vibrates with devotional energy, ritual fires, spiritual discourse, and social outreach, offering a rare glimpse into one of India’s most misunderstood yet profound spiritual lineages.
Born in 1601 CE in Ramgarh (now Chandauli), Baba Keenaram displayed extraordinary spiritual powers from a young age. After receiving Aghori initiation from Guru Baba Kaluram, he arrived in Varanasi to establish the seat of the Aghor tradition, later known as Baba Keenaram Sthal or Krim Kund Asthal.
Keenaram authored seminal spiritual texts, Viveksar, Ramgita, Ramrasal, and Unmuniram, with Viveksar standing out as a definitive treatise on non-dual Aghor philosophy. He is said to have lived for approximately 170 years, finally entering samadhi around 1771–72 CE; his body was interred alongside the yantra of the Goddess Hinglaj within the shrine.
The heart of Aghor lies in non-duality, the belief that the divine permeates everything, and dualities such as life/death, or purity/impurity, are worldly illusions. Baba Keenaram taught that touching taboos and confronting fears head‑on dissolve ego and attachment, leading to spiritual liberation (moksha).
Unlike sensational portrayals, Aghori practices at the ashram emphasize compassion, humility, and selfless service. Sham taboo-breaking is not the goal; spiritual transformation and social upliftment are.
At the centre of baba keenaram ashram varanasi is the samadhi shrine of Baba Keenaram, housed under a dome and surrounded by the successive samadhis of Aghor Mahants, each crowned with a Shivling. Nearby lies the Krim Kund, a pond believed to hold healing energies; ritual dips here are thought to cure ailments and cleanse karmic burdens.
The ever-burning sacred fire (akhand dhuni) is kept alive by dedicated caretakers. The ashes from this fire are distributed as prasád, symbolising purification and renewal.
Open courtyards, meditation halls, and simple shrines surround the central sanctum, spaces for silent reflection, discourse, and communal gatherings that embody calm and spiritual depth.
The baba keenaram ashram varanasi maintains a daily rhythm of sādhana (practice), including morning recitations at the samadhi shrine, meditation by the Kund, incense offerings, and chanting near the dhuni. Visitors may participate respectfully in these rituals or observe quietly.
Free food, clothing, and medical aid are offered to all, reflecting the Aghori ideal of unconditional service to humanity irrespective of caste or creed.
Celebrated annually with akhand sankirtan, havans (fire rituals), bhajans, and devotional processions, this day draws thousands to commemorate the birth of Baba Keenaram. Devotees perform continuous chanting and surround the samadhi with devotional energy.
The ashram also marks Maha Shivaratri and Guru Purnima, underscoring its profound connection with Shiva and the guru-disciple tradition that is integral to Aghor wisdom.
The architectural aesthetic of baba keenaram ashram varanasi is both symbolic and straightforward: the central dome, plain walls, minimal ornamentation, and sacred geometry surrounding the worship spaces all serve to create a meditative mood. The presence of krim kund, dhuni, and samadhi shrines creates a sensory environment charged with spiritual intensity.
Visitors often remark on the ashram's serene atmosphere, characterised by soft chants, aromatic incense, and cool courtyard breezes, all of which foster deep contemplation and peace.
Under the guidance of current Mahant Baba Siddharth Gautam Ram, believed to be the 11th incarnation of Keenaram, the ashram has expanded into education, healthcare, and social reform through the trust ABKASESS (Aghoracharya Baba Keenaram Aghor Shodh Evam Seva Sansthan).
These initiatives combat social evils like dowry, promote Ayurvedic medicine, and train youth in nation-building ideals, keeping Keenaram’s vision alive in modern society.
Stories of miracles surround Keenaram’s memory: rising river waters at his approach, healing the sick, and pacifying aggressors through meditation alone. His disciples recount incidents where even bandits retreated in awe or fear of his presence.
These tales are not mere folklore but testaments to his reputed power of compassionate transcendence, a sign that ego and violence dissolve in his presence.
Address: Pandit Manmohan Malviya Road, Bhelupur (Ravindrapuri), Varanasi – approx. 2 km from Varanasi Junction or Manduadih Railway Station.
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Many visitors arrive in the early morning or evening to witness rituals and enjoy quieter hours.
Modest attire is advised. Photography is restricted around the samadhi and meditation areas. Visitors are expected to maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the ashram.
For those planning an extended stay in Varanasi, StayBanaras offers comfortable and convenient lodging options near the ashram and major spiritual sites. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or easy access to the city’s sacred landmarks, their accommodations cater to pilgrims and travellers alike.
On-site lodging at the ashram may be available for devotees, but availability is limited. Nearby guesthouses in Bhelupur also provide budget-friendly alternatives.
Winter (October–March) offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploration. However, festivals like Baba Keenaram Jayanti or Maha Shivaratri showcase the ashram’s vibrant spiritual energy—just be prepared for larger crowds.
1. Spiritual Depth: Unlike conventional temples, this ashram offers access to mystical Aghor teachings, where the taboo is reclaimed into spiritual liberation.
2. Philosophy in Action: The integration of sadhana (practice) and seva (service) exemplifies a spiritually grounded but socially conscious path.
3. Peace Amid Chaos: Nestled within a bustling city, the ashram’s ambience, peaceful dhuni, silent chants, and a sacred pond provide a rare calm.
4. Living Legacy: Through active discourse and outreach programs, it fosters meaningful engagement beyond mere observation.
5. Cultural Insight: For curious travellers, the ashram demystifies Aghor culture, emphasising compassion and unity over sensationalism.
Baba Keenaram Ashram Varanasi (Krim Kund Sthal) is not just a shrine—it’s a living philosophy rooted in the non-dual wisdom of the Aghor tradition. Whether you seek truth, peace, or deeper spiritual understanding, this ashram offers an experience beyond sightseeing—a journey inward to the heart of Varanasi and Baba Keenaram’s divine teachings.
For a seamless pilgrimage experience, explore curated stays at StayBanaras, ensuring comfort and proximity to Varanasi’s sacred wonders.
