Connect with the global Ramakrishna Order community
The Ramakrishna Order, founded by Swami Vivekananda in 1897, has grown into a global spiritual movement with centers across six continents. From its headquarters at Belur Math in West Bengal, India, the Order serves humanity through spiritual guidance, educational institutions, medical services, and relief work.
Each Vedanta center offers a welcoming space for spiritual seekers, providing meditation sessions, philosophical discussions, library resources, and community programs. Whether you're traveling, relocating, or simply curious about Vedanta teachings in other parts of the world, these centers maintain the same spirit of universal acceptance and service that Sri Ramakrishna embodied.
Most centers hold weekly Sunday services with meditation, devotional singing, and spiritual talks by monks or experienced teachers.
Regular meditation instruction and practice sessions, often including classes on Raja Yoga based on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
In-depth study of Vedantic texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda.
Access to extensive collections of spiritual books, many centers offer lending libraries with works on philosophy, yoga, and comparative religion.
Special weekend retreats, festivals celebrating the birthdays of spiritual figures, and guest speakers from around the world.
Many centers offer opportunities for one-on-one spiritual guidance with resident monastics or experienced teachers.
The Vedanta Society of America operates centers across the United States, with major centers in New York, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and many other cities. Each center operates independently while maintaining the spiritual traditions established by Swami Vivekananda during his pioneering visits to America in the 1890s.
The Vedanta Society headquarters for the Americas is located in Hollywood, California. Many centers offer residential programs, with some having monasteries where monastics dedicate their lives to spiritual practice and service.
Find complete directory with addresses, phone numbers, and service times
The Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission have their headquarters at Belur Math, near Kolkata, India. This sacred site, established by Swami Vivekananda in 1899, houses the main temple dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna and serves as the spiritual and administrative center for the entire Order.
Across India and Bangladesh, over 200 branch centers carry out the twin ideals of the Order: spiritual awakening and selfless service. These centers operate schools, colleges, hospitals, rural development projects, tribal welfare centers, and disaster relief operations. Notable centers include:
Complete directory maintained by Belur Math headquarters
The Ramakrishna Order has established centers on every inhabited continent, bringing the universal message of Vedanta to diverse cultures and communities. Centers operate in countries including:
United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, Netherlands
Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Fiji, Australia
Argentina, Brazil
South Africa, Mauritius
Each international center adapts to local needs while maintaining the core teachings and spiritual practices. Many offer services in multiple languages and host visiting monastics from India who conduct special programs and retreats.
Global directory with contact information
First-Time Visitors Welcome: All Vedanta centers warmly welcome newcomers regardless of religious background. You don't need any prior knowledge of Vedanta or Hinduism.
Dress Modestly: While there's usually no strict dress code, modest and respectful attire is appreciated. Some centers may request removing shoes before entering meditation halls or shrines.
Arrive Early: Come 10-15 minutes before programs start to find parking, settle in, and familiarize yourself with the space.
Meditation Etiquette: During meditation or worship services, please maintain silence and turn off mobile devices. It's fine to simply sit quietly if you're unfamiliar with the practices.
Ask Questions: After programs, feel free to speak with monastics or volunteers. They're happy to answer questions and help newcomers understand the teachings.
No Fees Required: Vedanta centers operate on voluntary donations. Programs are free and open to all, though centers appreciate contributions to support their work.
Whether you're local or traveling, we welcome you to join us for meditation, study, and fellowship