Desert Ashram, in the foothills west of Tucson, was established in 1976 by their Gurudeva, Swami Amar Jyoti. Spiritual seekers from all traditions have always been welcome at the ashram programs, but few people have heard about them. Now, with a listing on the Volunteers Southern Arizona website and their new Ashram Immersion Retreats, more people are discovering this peaceful desert oasis.

On 26 acres, with trees, a shady orchard, abundant desert vegetation and wildlife, find the Jyoti Mandir (Temple of Light) and attend Thursday and Sunday evening satsangs—Wisdom Teachings of universal, classical spirituality—as well as daily aarati (Sanskrit chanting and worship) both morning and evening. A Women’s Hatha Yoga class is held at 4 p.m., Thursdays (see calendar for more).

The ashram also offers a library, a small bookshop, a meditation trail and a geodesic dome for a quiet cup of tea. Other buildings provide residences for ashramites (monastic disciples) and kitchen, dining and office facilities (Light of Consciousness magazine is published here).

The public is invited to call for information or to arrange a visit. Location: 3403 West Sweetwater Dr., Tucson. Contact: 520-743-0384 or [email protected]. TruthConsciousness.org.