The Self Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens in Encinitas draws visitors from all walks of life from all over the world. Established in 1937 as part of the private retreat of Paramahansa Yogananda, who brought India’s ancient science of meditation to the West, these serene meditation gardens are now free and open to the public Tuesday-Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The meditation gardens offer flowering plants and trees, a series of ponds connected by miniature waterfalls, home to colorful and exotic fish; flower-lined garden pathways; and a view of the magnificent expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Benches are provided for those who wish to meditate or just sit for a time absorbing the peace of this quiet refuge.
Don’t miss the very old Monterey pine known as “The Ming Tree” or “The Little Emperor,” which is shaped and cultivated as a large bonsai. Perched on a bluff above the ocean, the Ming Tree is sheltered from strong winds by a large wooden screen. Also to be found in the garden are an ancient Aleppo pine, African coral trees, a large fichus from India, fan palms, Hollywood juniper, a flame thrower palm, and bull horn acacia.
***In September and October, don’t miss the amazingly oversized giant pumpkins growing across Coast Highway and railroad tracks on Vulcan Street. The organic vegetable gardens are planted and tended by members of the Self Realization Fellowship.
The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Hermitage in Encinitas is located at 215 K Street, Encinitas, CA 92024; telephone: (760) 753-1811.
San Diego Treasures Staff:
Videographer: Michael Gerdes
Sound: Roland Lizarondo
Editor: Ron Stein
Music Consultant: Byron La Due
Production Manager: Ena Newell
Field Producer: Maura Daly Phinney
Producer /Host:
Kathi Diamant
Music:
Musical Chants
by Paramahansa Yogananda
Watch San Diego Treasures with Kathi Diamant on KPBS-TV. San Diego Treasures offers KPBS viewers a chance to discover one of San Diego’s natural or man-made spaces and places that make our county a special place to live.
