Is the stay at Sri Ramanasramam really free? How do I apply?

Yes. Accommodation and meals are free, and donations are welcome. Demand is high: the ashram says it can accept only about 25% of requests. Apply online at stay.gururamana.org; phone, walk-in and short-notice requests aren't accepted. Allow 2–3 days for a reply and bring the approval QR code and your ID. Three days is the recommended stay; the maximum is 5 days for Indians and 14 for foreigners, and one-night stays aren't considered. Cancel at least 15 days ahead, because no-shows can't apply again for 12 months.