YogAnga Retreat France, at St Izaire

Ananda Mataji Hermitage — St Izaire

Set in the quiet countryside of Southern France, Ananda Mataji Hermitage carries the spirit of Santosh Puri Ashram from the banks of the Ganga to the banks of the Dourdou de Camarès.

For those who feel drawn to the ashram way of life but are unable to travel to India, this space offers an opportunity to experience sadhana in a simpler, more accessible setting — while remaining rooted in the same tradition.

Surrounded by nature, the hermitage invites a return to a more essential rhythm of living, where daily life becomes practice.

A Simple Life of Practice

Stays at the hermitage are centered around sadhana, seva, and shared living.
Guests are invited to participate in the daily rhythm of the space, which may include:

  • Morning dhuni puja & chanting

  • Asana practice

  • Meditation (guided or self-practice)

  • Satsang & teachings

  • Evening aarti

  • Karma Yoga (seva)

Seva & Karma Yoga

Karma Yoga is an essential part of the experience.

The hermitage is an evolving space, and guests have the opportunity to contribute through hands-on seva — from simple daily tasks to ongoing projects such as:

  • gardening & land care

  • cooking & shared meals

  • cleaning & maintaining the space

  • renovation, construction or practical skills (if relevant)

This spirit of participation supports both the space and one’s own practice.

Practical Information

Life at the hermitage is simple and close to nature. Guests usually stay on the land, camping and living in a shared environment, and are invited to bring what they need for a comfortable stay — such as a tent or simple shelter, bedding, clothes suited to the season, and anything personal that supports their daily life or practice.

There is no fixed price for staying. Instead, guests are invited to offer a contribution according to their means, supporting the ongoing care of the space — including food, materials, and basic living needs. In the same spirit, participation in daily life and respect for the shared rhythm of the hermitage are an essential part of this exchange.

The hermitage is located in St Izaire, in the Aveyron region of Southern France, along the banks of the Dourdou de Camarès river, in a quiet and natural setting.

About Ananda Mataji

Ananda Mataji is the elder sister of Narvada Puri Mataji, and the aunt of Ganga, Mandakini, and Alaknanda Puri.

After years of spiritual seeking, she travelled to India and eventually took sannyas, dedicating her life to practice. Following decades between India and Europe, she has now settled in the South of France, where the hermitage continues to grow around her presence.

If you feel drawn to this place, you are welcome to reach out.

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