The main reason for visiting Puttaparthi was to spend some time at the Sathya Sai Baba Prasanthi Nilayam ashram.

It was very relaxing time with many interesting experiences. We met new amazing people, explored surrounding area,

temples, museums, hills, river, lakes, parks,

cafes, tea shops, restaurants and enjoyed all that for a few pennies.

Very inexpensive place. Keep it in mind if you need to put your finances in order.

Ice cream – unbelievable price ($1 = Rs.60)

The only issue we had during our stay was an unexpected local visitor.  Let me explain. We had a tradition – every morning we and our friend gathered in our room for a glass of fresh juice or coconut water.  I kept the door open, expecting the friend.  Suddenly, a big monkey came in (instead), walked to the middle of the room, grabbed the papaya in the plastic bag, turned around and left.  I was speechless.  When I realized what happened, it was too late. I wish I could take a picture…  The monkeys tried to get to the room through the windows also, but we were prepared!

Actually, they are everywhere – on the loans,

constantly checking if our laundry is done correctly, etc.

The main purpose of Puttaparthi is to provide services to Sai Baba’s devotees. I would say that over 80% of western devotees are from Russia former Russian republics.  Almost every sign in Puttaparthi is in Russian, even local people speak Russian. So weird!

Above – the sign says “Russian Cafe is open”.  And below – “Borzh (soup), Chebureki with vegetables, Crapes, Tea with lemon”

Needless to say that the ashram and all surrounding area have very calming and relaxing vibrations, so we are glad that we spent some time there.