Lake Shrine

Sometimes it pays to be broke in LA! A few months ago I googled "free things to do in Los Angeles" and found a couple great lists. One item that reappeared a few times was the Lake Shrine at the Self-Realization Fellowship in Pacific Palisades. I decided to check it out one day while I was on my way to Malibu and I was blown away. It's beautiful! You really can't see it from Sunset Blvd. except for the top of one of the buildings, so it's like a hidden sanctuary in the middle of Los Angeles. There's a path that goes around a beautiful lake, complete with HUGE koi fish, turtles, ducks, 2 swans, a heron, and a couple waterfalls. There are a few docks with buckets of food to feed the wildlife. A portion of Gandhi's ashes are located at the site in a shrine. There is also a church-like sanctuary for meditating (when not in use for services) and a gift shop. The site is landscaped beautifully and best of all...it's SO quiet! Visitors are generally respectful of the peaceful atmosphere. I don't know much about the Self-Realization Fellowship, but it's clear that it honors all religions as there are quotes from Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism throughout the site (there may be more). Parking and entry are free so if you're in Los Angeles there's no excuse to miss out on this place. It's great!











17190 West Sunset Boulevard
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272