Pilot Baba Ashram | Bhaktapur

Pilot Baba Ashram (Somnath Giri Ashram) is a spiritual retreat and pilgrimage site located on a hilltop in the Suryabinayak hills, south of Bhaktapur.

Visual Characteristics

The ashram is centered around the Somnath Temple, a white two-storied Shikhara-style structure dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features a large, stone-paved courtyard and a sizeable meditation hall. The site offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley and the surrounding Himalayan peaks on clear days.

Location & Access Logistics

Located at Ghyampe Danda, Suryabinayak-5, Bhaktapur.

Distance: Approximately 6 km south of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Transit: Accessible by private vehicle (taxi, car, or motorbike) via a paved road. Public buses from Kathmandu (Ratna Park) stop at the Suryabinayak bus stand.

Hiking: A popular 2–3 hour uphill trek starts from the Suryabinayak Temple, passing through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and sal trees.

Admission: A small entrance fee (approx. 25–100 NPR) is charged for maintenance.

Hours: Generally 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.

Historical Origin

The ashram was established by Mahayogi Pilot Baba (born Kapil Singh, 1938–2024), a former Wing Commander and decorated fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force. After a near-death experience during a mission where he felt guided by a spiritual guru, he retired from military service in the 1970s to pursue a life of asceticism. He established multiple ashrams across India and Nepal to promote yoga, meditation, and self-realization.

Key Highlights & Activities

Meditation Hall: A quiet facility for visitors to practice self-reflection and yogic disciplines.

Somnath Temple: The primary focal point for religious worship within the complex.

Viewpoint: One of the best locations near Bhaktapur for observing the sunset over the valley.

Sanskrit School: The ashram hosts a school dedicated to preserving Vedic Hinduism and ancient teachings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The premises include a basic canteen and a small library. Nearby local vendors sell snacks and locally grown produce. Due to its hilltop position, the environment is significantly cooler and quieter than the city center. 5G/4G signals are generally stable.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November): For clear skies and unobstructed mountain views.

Weekdays: To avoid the local weekend crowds that use the area for picnics and short escapes.

Facts & Legends

The founder, Pilot Baba, was known for his public demonstrations of Samadhi (prolonged meditative states), including being buried underground or submerged in water for several days. While highly revered, his legacy also faced scrutiny regarding the authenticity of some of these feats. Local legend suggests the ashram site was chosen for its specific energetic alignment with other sacred peaks in the valley.

Nearby Landmarks

Suryabinayak Temple – 2.5km North (via trail)

Ghyampe Danda – 2.0km West (ridge walk)

Ranikot – 1.8km East

Doleshwor Mahadev – 1.6km North