Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
10 Jul 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 1 day
Feedback
44
Email verified
Badges (3)
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Details
Description
We are a non-profit, volunteer-operated spiritual retreat centre, where the retreats are facilitated by the enthusiastic work of people dedicated to providing a holistic experience for every visitor.
We welcome volunteers in a variety of areas and aim to place them in a role that utilises their strengths and stimulates personal growth.
Volunteers help with the general maintenance of the centre such as working in the organic market gardens, helping with the cows, assisting in our vegan/vegetarian kitchen as well as general housekeeping and maintenance.
We provide basic yet clean and comfortable accommodation and supply vegan/vegetarian supplies for your cooking everyday. We encourage volunteers who are able to conduct workshops to apply as we are always committed to developing our volunteer program.
You are welcome to take advantage of exploring the local environment, learn from our spiritual community and participate in certain retreat programs (ie, yoga) as individual leaders allow.
We offer both short and long term stays for enthusiastic volunteers, with a review after the first week.
Please tell us a bit more about yourself and your skills and interests when writing an application so that we may accomodate you and your needs to the best of our ability.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Our principles are based upon the practice of an ‘ahimsa’ (non violent) lifestyle and natural living.
We host travellers from across the globe throughout the year as a part of our karma yoga program. Over the years, our volunteers have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in our natural environment while learning more about organic living and our spiritual lifestyle.
Volunteers have the opportunity to learn and grow from activities including meditation, organic farming, working with the cows, growing Ayurvedic herbs and preparing delicious vegan/vegetarian meals.
We offer an environment which allows for self development in every individual.
Help
We welcome volunteers in a variety of areas and aim to place you in a role that utilises your strengths and stimulates personal growth. Because we operate both a retreat centre and organic garden, volunteer positions are available in every aspect of service, from helping in the kitchen to working in the garden.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Shared
What else ...
Volunteers are able to visit local attractions during their spare time. We are fortunate to be located near the Great Ocean Road, which attracts travellers from around the world. There are plenty of nearby attractions such as beautiful beaches (Lorne), waterfalls and hiking and biking trails in the Great Otways National Park.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
My animals / pets
Host ref number: 254664685819
Feedback (29)
20 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Tom & Theresa) for host
First of all, thank you so much Keshava for having us.
We stayed here for a bit more than 3 weeks and then another 2 days where they very kindly took us back. The time here we spent was such an amazing experience, where we were able to learn quite a bit about Indian food and different ways of life.
It was very nice to have our own Ashram just… read more
We stayed here for a bit more than 3 weeks and then another 2 days where they very kindly took us back. The time here we spent was such an amazing experience, where we were able to learn quite a bit about Indian food and different ways of life.
It was very nice to have our own Ashram just… read more
2 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Alice & Oliver)
Ollie, thank you for your kind words! It was a pleasure having you with us, and we truly appreciate all your hard work—especially on the decking project. Your enthusiasm and skill made a big difference, and it was great to have you as part of the team.
We’re glad you found the accommodation comfortable and that the food arrangement worked well… read more
We’re glad you found the accommodation comfortable and that the food arrangement worked well… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Alice & Oliver) for host
Had a really nice couple of weeks working with Mani (sorry if that spelling is off). The work was good fun building some decking at the Hari Krishna retreat. Food was supplied for us at our request which worked really well and the accomodation which was a separate building for us volunteers was recently built and really nice.
The stay was much… read more
The stay was much… read more
2 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Sori)
Sori, thank you for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure having you here, and we’re so glad you had such a positive experience.
Your help with farm maintenance, deep cleaning, and especially your efforts during the Holi Festival were truly appreciated. You brought great energy to the team, and your willingness to jump into different tasks… read more
Your help with farm maintenance, deep cleaning, and especially your efforts during the Holi Festival were truly appreciated. You brought great energy to the team, and your willingness to jump into different tasks… read more
(Excellent
)
2 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Sori) for host
**My Volunteer Experience at Hari Krishna Valley**
I recently volunteered at Hari Krishna Valley for a week, and I had an awesome time! Here's a breakdown of my experience:
**Transport:**
Getting there was pretty easy. There are three or four trains aday from Southern Cross Station to Winchelsea Station, and I grabbed an Uber to the farm, which… read more
I recently volunteered at Hari Krishna Valley for a week, and I had an awesome time! Here's a breakdown of my experience:
**Transport:**
Getting there was pretty easy. There are three or four trains aday from Southern Cross Station to Winchelsea Station, and I grabbed an Uber to the farm, which… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.8)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(4.9)
20 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Tom & Theresa) for host
First of all, thank you so much Keshava for having us.
We stayed here for a bit more than 3 weeks and then another 2 days where they very kindly took us back. The time here we spent was such an amazing experience, where we were able to learn quite a bit about Indian food and different ways of life.
It was very nice to have our own Ashram just… read more
We stayed here for a bit more than 3 weeks and then another 2 days where they very kindly took us back. The time here we spent was such an amazing experience, where we were able to learn quite a bit about Indian food and different ways of life.
It was very nice to have our own Ashram just… read more
2 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Alice & Oliver)
Ollie, thank you for your kind words! It was a pleasure having you with us, and we truly appreciate all your hard work—especially on the decking project. Your enthusiasm and skill made a big difference, and it was great to have you as part of the team.
We’re glad you found the accommodation comfortable and that the food arrangement worked well… read more
We’re glad you found the accommodation comfortable and that the food arrangement worked well… read more
(Excellent)
2 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Alice & Oliver) for host
Had a really nice couple of weeks working with Mani (sorry if that spelling is off). The work was good fun building some decking at the Hari Krishna retreat. Food was supplied for us at our request which worked really well and the accomodation which was a separate building for us volunteers was recently built and really nice.
The stay was much… read more
The stay was much… read more
2 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Sori)
Sori, thank you for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure having you here, and we’re so glad you had such a positive experience.
Your help with farm maintenance, deep cleaning, and especially your efforts during the Holi Festival were truly appreciated. You brought great energy to the team, and your willingness to jump into different tasks… read more
Your help with farm maintenance, deep cleaning, and especially your efforts during the Holi Festival were truly appreciated. You brought great energy to the team, and your willingness to jump into different tasks… read more
(Excellent)
2 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Sori) for host
**My Volunteer Experience at Hari Krishna Valley**
I recently volunteered at Hari Krishna Valley for a week, and I had an awesome time! Here's a breakdown of my experience:
**Transport:**
Getting there was pretty easy. There are three or four trains aday from Southern Cross Station to Winchelsea Station, and I grabbed an Uber to the farm, which… read more
I recently volunteered at Hari Krishna Valley for a week, and I had an awesome time! Here's a breakdown of my experience:
**Transport:**
Getting there was pretty easy. There are three or four trains aday from Southern Cross Station to Winchelsea Station, and I grabbed an Uber to the farm, which… read more
2 Mar 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Maëlys )
Mae, it was an absolute pleasure having you with us! Your kind words truly mean a lot, and we’re so happy that you found the experience at our retreat to be peaceful, full of growth, and surrounded by great souls.
Your laughter and wonderful communication brought such a positive energy to the space, and your contributions to caring for the land… read more
Your laughter and wonderful communication brought such a positive energy to the space, and your contributions to caring for the land… read more
(Excellent)
2 Mar 2025
Left by Workawayer (Maëlys ) for host
Hi there,
I wanted a good peacefull experience, and I have find a place that was verry sweet and full of growth.
The people that get drown to this place have been pure gems, it must be due to the good souls that take care of that place.
To me the experience has been esencially emphasise around great laughter and communications.
The… read more
I wanted a good peacefull experience, and I have find a place that was verry sweet and full of growth.
The people that get drown to this place have been pure gems, it must be due to the good souls that take care of that place.
To me the experience has been esencially emphasise around great laughter and communications.
The… read more
13 Feb 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Merle)
Merle was an absolute pleasure to have as a Workaway volunteer. From the moment she arrived, she brought a bright and positive energy to our space. She is proactive, hardworking, and always eager to contribute in meaningful ways.
With her background in hospitality she was able to assist in multiple areas, from engaging with guests to helping in… read more
With her background in hospitality she was able to assist in multiple areas, from engaging with guests to helping in… read more
(Excellent)
2 Feb 2025
Left by Workawayer (Merle) for host
My stay at the farm was wonderful! For everyone who is going through a time that requires some peace and quiet, beautiful landscapes, good people and time for yourself this is it! I am so grateful for my time at the farm, I stayed for 10 days and then even went back because I couldn’t get enough from it! Keshava & Mani are very good listeners and… read more
17 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Amanda)
Amanda stayed with us as a Workaway volunteer, and we couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated and inspiring addition to our team. A true yogi at heart, Amanda’s passion for spirituality, meditation, and holistic living was evident in everything she did. She embraced the opportunity to connect with nature, exercise outdoors, and contribute to our… read more
(Excellent)
17 Jan 2025
Left by Workawayer (Amanda) for host
I had the most amazing and nourishing week at the farm! It was so peaceful, serene, and quiet and it felt really good to connect with nature here. We mainly did work on the farm which included weeding the garden, feeding & cleaning up after the cows, and ripping out the deck at one of the houses. I really appreciated Keshava and Mani as they… read more
8 Jan 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Ronak & Behnam)
Roni and Behnam were an absolute pleasure to host. Their deep passion for nature and sustainable living was evident in their enthusiasm and willingness to learn and contribute. They approached every task with dedication and a genuine desire to understand the principles behind living in harmony with the earth.
Their spiritual inclination added a… read more
Their spiritual inclination added a… read more
(Excellent)
29 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Ronak & Behnam) for host
Our stay was incredibly peaceful and relaxing. It's the perfect destination for anyone seeking a spiritual and tranquil place to unwind and reflect. The people there, such as Keshava, Atulya, and Mani, are really kind and truly wonderful and made our visit unforgettable in every possible way. We deeply hope to have the chance to visit them again… read more
11 Jul 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Nichole)
Hosting Nichole through Workaway was an absolute delight. From the very beginning, Nichole's enthusiasm and positive attitude made a significant impact on our project and team. Her dedication, hard work, and cheerful demeanor quickly made her an indispensable part of our community.
Nichole approached every task with remarkable energy and… read more
Nichole approached every task with remarkable energy and… read more
(Excellent)
4 Jul 2024
Left by Workawayer (Nichole) for host
The time I spent here was brief, at only 10 days, but I loved every moment.
Keshava and Atulya are such lovely hosts and they have built an incredible community. The karma yoga programme was a great way to disconnect from life, and reconnect with myself and others, in this natural and spiritual environment.
The volunteering work was very… read more
Keshava and Atulya are such lovely hosts and they have built an incredible community. The karma yoga programme was a great way to disconnect from life, and reconnect with myself and others, in this natural and spiritual environment.
The volunteering work was very… read more
9 Apr 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Alex)
We recently had the pleasure of hosting Alex through Workaway, and I cannot express how grateful we are for the incredible contribution he made to our project. Alex’s enthusiasm, dedication, and positive attitude left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
From the moment Alex arrived, it was evident that he was genuinely passionate about… read more
From the moment Alex arrived, it was evident that he was genuinely passionate about… read more
(Excellent)
8 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Alex) for host
My time here with Keshava, Moni, Atulya and Maggie was a last minute decision when I had a few weeks spare on my trip and ended up being a highlight of my Australian journey. It's a once in a lifetime experience with the opportunity to experience Australian nature, culture and time to reflect on spirituality.
From the first day you are made to… read more
From the first day you are made to… read more
4 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kamal) for host
Where to start!
I spent about a month here. They accepted me last minute when another workaway fell through, and I'm so glad it ended up that way. I absolutely loved my stay here. It's not an understatement when I say I don't have any ill words to say about this place.
The work was very varied. One day you'll be picking plums the next you're… read more
I spent about a month here. They accepted me last minute when another workaway fell through, and I'm so glad it ended up that way. I absolutely loved my stay here. It's not an understatement when I say I don't have any ill words to say about this place.
The work was very varied. One day you'll be picking plums the next you're… read more
27 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Federica) for host
I want to say Thank you to this amazing place for give me peace and self-space.
I really enjoyed living for twenty-one days here.
I spent a lot of time in the big kitchen helping Mani with his fantastic dishes for the guests and that time help me to discover different type of food and preparations, i feed the cows and saw for the first time in my… read more
I really enjoyed living for twenty-one days here.
I spent a lot of time in the big kitchen helping Mani with his fantastic dishes for the guests and that time help me to discover different type of food and preparations, i feed the cows and saw for the first time in my… read more
31 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Clifford & Sophie)
It was a pleasure hosting Cliff and Sarah, as they are both good hearted and genuine people. Cliff has a variety of skills and helped us with construction of our garden shed. Sarah was able to lend a hand with the kitchen and garden and is cheerful while completing her tasks. We wish them all the best with their travels!
(Very good)
31 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Clifford & Sophie) for host
Excellent experience volunteering here, loved feeding the cows in the morning and varied tasks from clearing, sweeping, cooking berry picking and shed making.
Plenty of time to chill, enjoy nature and kangas!
Opportunity to join discussions on yoga philosophy, sing kirtan etc but no pressure or expectation... Very relaxed, enjoy!
Plenty of time to chill, enjoy nature and kangas!
Opportunity to join discussions on yoga philosophy, sing kirtan etc but no pressure or expectation... Very relaxed, enjoy!
29 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Christelle) for host
I stayed for 1 week here and could’ve easily stayed for longer if I had the time. It was specifically a Hare Krishna retreat which I didn’t realise before coming but really enjoyed the opportunity to explore their movement and wisdom. I took the train to Winchelsea and a taxi to get to their land which was easy enough. I was grateful they let me… read more
13 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kimberley) for host
I was only there for a week but i really enjoyed my time there. The tasks were nice as well, we fed the cows, cleaned the stable and cleaned the garden. All the people staying there are lovely as well! Would reccommend :)
12 Jan 2024
Left by Workawayer (Ciara) for host
Stayed for a wonderful week here! After months of travelling, I was afforded a lovely Workaway experience here, which is situatied in a beautiful landscape located not far from Melbourne via train. It is an incredibly peaceful place with a large variety of wildlife. It was an excellent place to rest and recharge while learning about their values… read more
5 Jan 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Ciara)
We recently had the pleasure of hosting Ciara through Workaway, and I cannot express how grateful we are for the incredible contribution she made to our project. Ciara's enthusiasm, dedication, and positive attitude left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
From the moment Ciara arrived, it was evident that she was genuinely passionate… read more
From the moment Ciara arrived, it was evident that she was genuinely passionate… read more
(Excellent)
17 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jose) for host
what a month! words can't describe the niceness of everyone who lives at the farm, and the ways they receive you and help you integrate.
the work was divided between daily needs at the farm, caring for the cows (yes, caring, not exploring them!) and working in the kitchen.
not only that, but you have a daily dose of kangoroos, you can easily see… read more
the work was divided between daily needs at the farm, caring for the cows (yes, caring, not exploring them!) and working in the kitchen.
not only that, but you have a daily dose of kangoroos, you can easily see… read more
15 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Yu-Chi & Chi Yuan) for host
We have stayed for a week with a good experience. The tasks are various. On weekday we fed the cows and cleaned their place in the morning. On weekend we helped the Chief to prepare food for 100 people( if there is a special event). We also cleaned the house or help moving some stuff randomly. Usually you need to prepare your own breakfast, but… read more
12 Mar 2023
Left by Workawayer (Emily) for host
Thank you for welcoming me to your Valley!
I stayed for a week at the Valley, under the wing of Andy, Mani & Kesheva and his family. I was able to assist with the centre in a variety of ways which helped to keep the week varied and interesting.
I started out my stay by helping prepare and set up for the Holi Festival in Torquay, and then got to… read more
I stayed for a week at the Valley, under the wing of Andy, Mani & Kesheva and his family. I was able to assist with the centre in a variety of ways which helped to keep the week varied and interesting.
I started out my stay by helping prepare and set up for the Holi Festival in Torquay, and then got to… read more
4 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Emily)
Emily came to our Retreat Centre for a week and was a great help with all of the activities we had going on at the time.
She is competent and enthusiastic to assist in any way possible.
She is a great asset to any Workaway project and has a friendly and cooperative personality.
She is welcome to stay with us anytime.
She is competent and enthusiastic to assist in any way possible.
She is a great asset to any Workaway project and has a friendly and cooperative personality.
She is welcome to stay with us anytime.
(Excellent)
2 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Rieke & Jonas) for host
Me and my boyfriend stayed here a little bit over one week and we had a very peaceful and quiet time. We were the only volunteers at the time and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. We helped with various tasks including gardening and cooking. The residents are very friendly and welcoming. You get an amazing Indian lunch per day for 4 hours of work… read more
31 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Thorsten) for host
I stayed for 1 week. Unfortunately only 1 week.
It is a peaceful, quiet and spacious place, far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. It is a perfect place to retreat. I spent a lot of time meditating and reading.
It is only a 30-minute drive to the ocean. If you have a car or can get a lift by the residents, it is a perfect cool down on… read more
It is a peaceful, quiet and spacious place, far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. It is a perfect place to retreat. I spent a lot of time meditating and reading.
It is only a 30-minute drive to the ocean. If you have a car or can get a lift by the residents, it is a perfect cool down on… read more
11 Feb 2022
Left by Workawayer (Maggie) for host
This is a place of natural living and higher thinking. After 3 months here I cannot imagine a place which can greater meet my physical, mental and spiritual needs. I have been learning new skills and engaging my body in many different forms of service; gardening, caring for cows, construction, cooking, making oils, tinctures and soaps. Being in… read more
10 Jan 2022
Left by Workawayer (Brunna) for host
I had a great experience at the farm and I am eager to be back soon. Everyone was very receptive and respectful, the tasks were always done together, and the other volunteers were very lovely and keen to fit me in. Beautiful set up, quiet and peaceful, everything one needs to be happy. I miss caring for the cows each morning, and I miss sharing… read more
24 Sep 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Justyna)
Justyna is a really sweet girl and she fitted in with our group very easily. She’s happy to do anything that’s asked of her and always does a great job. We hope she comes back to see us one day!
(Excellent)
22 Sep 2020
Left by Workawayer (Justyna) for host
Warning: do not start read when you short in time (once I start writing I can't stop)
I stayed when black clouds of covid virus hanging above and bringing rain with thunders. And that was rather blessing for me to being 'stock' here where the valley was always covered with reflections of sun in this dark time in the 'outside' world.
As you enter… read more
I stayed when black clouds of covid virus hanging above and bringing rain with thunders. And that was rather blessing for me to being 'stock' here where the valley was always covered with reflections of sun in this dark time in the 'outside' world.
As you enter… read more
24 Jun 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (RiahLynn)
Mariah is a really sweet girl and she fitted in with our group very easily. She’s happy to do anything that’s asked of her and always does a great job. We hope she comes back to see us one day!
(Excellent)
24 Jun 2020
Left by Workawayer (RiahLynn) for host
I came to the farm stressed out from Covid. The month I stayed was amazing, the other volunteers were great, and all the residents were warm and welcoming. When you are on the farm helping with gardens and the cows time both flys by and slows down. I am thankful for the time I had and to learn about and experience a whole new culture. Thank you… read more
18 Apr 2020
Left by Workawayer (Juliane) for host
I had such a great time at the valley, while I learned a lot about gardening, cooking and your Philosophy. It was a pleasure to life and work with you. Never met so many kind, happy, patient and lovely people at one time! Thank you for teaching and your open heart and mind! I already miss you all! Yes - dear Workawayers: It's worth it to go there!
14 Apr 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliane)
Juliane became part of our family and stayed with us during the lock down. She was eager to learn about our philosophy and lifestyle, and everyone here loved having her around. She always worked hard and is talented in many areas. We hope she comes back to stay one day!
(Excellent)
14 Apr 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Tariq)
Tariq became part of our family and stayed with us for a few months. He was eager to learn about our philosophy and lifestyle, and everyone here loved having him around. He always worked hard and is talented in many areas. We hope he comes back to stay one day!
(Excellent)
5 Nov 2018
Left by Workawayer (Anna & Lucy) for host
This is a truly incredible place. It is simple living with a real feeling of community and kindness.
We spent 2 weeks here initially but have been back since, as it feels like a home away from home. Don't even get me started about the food! Never had anything quite like it :) family dinners on Thursdays, cooking, light farm work, helping with… read more
We spent 2 weeks here initially but have been back since, as it feels like a home away from home. Don't even get me started about the food! Never had anything quite like it :) family dinners on Thursdays, cooking, light farm work, helping with… read more
29 Jul 2017
Left by Workawayer (Anna-Marie) for host
I spent nearly two weeks here and by the end wanted to stay longer!
Tasks were varied and included mucking out the beautiful Indian cows, helping with the construction of the biogas tank and milking area of the dairy, weeding and planting in the garden, preparing delicious vegan/vegetarian lunches and dinners and helping to run a stall at the… read more
Tasks were varied and included mucking out the beautiful Indian cows, helping with the construction of the biogas tank and milking area of the dairy, weeding and planting in the garden, preparing delicious vegan/vegetarian lunches and dinners and helping to run a stall at the… read more
11 Apr 2017
Left by Workawayer (Carolyn) for host
Thanks to all the team for a very happy 3 weeks. The work was varied: building and rendering brick troughs in the cow shed, gardening, cooking - and washing up! - and running stalls at festivals. The farm is peaceful, with lots of wildlife and beautiful skies. I appreciated learning about your philosophy and participating in events, and might come… read more
20 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Christin) for host
Dear devotees of the retreat,
I would like to thank you for your open arms and warm attitude towards everyone. You introduced me into the farmlife with beautiful indian cows and blackberries galore;) talking about the food - which is absolutely outstanding - I got the opportunity to learn more about indian cuisine and ingredients. We had a lot of… read more
I would like to thank you for your open arms and warm attitude towards everyone. You introduced me into the farmlife with beautiful indian cows and blackberries galore;) talking about the food - which is absolutely outstanding - I got the opportunity to learn more about indian cuisine and ingredients. We had a lot of… read more
