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SRF Lake Shrine: A Sanctuary of Peace

Find serenity at the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary with gardens, a lake, and memorials to world peace.

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The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades is a ten-acre spiritual oasis founded in 1950 by Paramahansa Yogananda. Featuring a spring-fed lake, diverse gardens, and memorials to world religions, it offers a tranquil escape from the city.

A brief summary to SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation required)

  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Reservations are required to visit the Lake Shrine. Make reservations online, opening every Saturday morning for the following week.
  • Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
  • Adhere to visitor guidelines, including wearing modest attire and respecting the smoke-free environment.
  • Explore the museum to learn about Paramahansa Yogananda's life and teachings.
  • Take your time strolling around the lake to fully appreciate the gardens, wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Downtown Los Angeles, take the Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) west, which turns into Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). Continue for approximately 4 miles and turn right onto Sunset Boulevard. The Lake Shrine is about 0.25 miles on the right. Free parking is available on-site, though it can be limited. Consider arriving early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot.

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown Los Angeles, take the Metro E Line (tram) to Downtown Santa Monica Station. Then, transfer to the Big Blue Bus Line 9 and ride to the Sunset WB & Marquez Pl NS stop. From there, it is a short walk to the Lake Shrine. The total cost for the tram and bus is approximately $3. Single ride fare on Big Blue Bus is $1.10.

Unlock the Best of SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation required)

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Discover more about SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation required)

Nestled in the heart of Pacific Palisades, the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) Lake Shrine offers a serene escape from the bustling city of Los Angeles. Founded in 1950 by Paramahansa Yogananda, the Lake Shrine is a ten-acre sanctuary dedicated to inner peace and spiritual understanding. The centerpiece is a natural spring-fed lake surrounded by lush gardens, diverse flora and fauna, and memorials honoring the world's major religions. Visitors can explore the Court of Religions, featuring symbols of Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism, walk the lakeside paths, and visit the Windmill Chapel, a replica of a 16th-century Dutch windmill. A highlight is the Mahatma Gandhi World Peace Memorial, which enshrines a portion of Gandhi's ashes in a 1,000-year-old Chinese stone sarcophagus. The on-site museum offers insights into the life and teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, while the gift shop provides SRF publications and Indian arts and crafts. Thousands visit each year to experience the Lake Shrine's beauty and tranquility. The gardens provide a habitat for swans, ducks, koi fish, and turtles, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The Lake Shrine has faced challenges, including a recent wildfire, but continues to offer solace and inspiration to all.

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