Serenity at the Self-Realization Center is an understatment. Many of the world’s most influential people loved this place; Elvis Presley made it a point to visit often, Beatle George Harrison had his memorial services here and it’s one of the few places in the world where you can actually visit the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi.

The secret to the Center is how it creates a spiritual and physical utopia for its visitors. The gardens and natural spring lake are home to many different plants and animals, including swans, ducks, koi and lotus flowers. With a beautiful rose garden surrounded by small monuments to the major religions- Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism- it’s a haven for free thinkers and the spiritual alike.  A visit to the temple, a walk through the peaceful garden, and maybe a chance for some contemplative meditation, is a wonderful way to get out of the city without ever leaving