Great Texts
These are the sacred texts and modern classics that map the inner journey of Kriya Yoga. Read them slowly, return to them often, and let them deepen your practice.
Essential books
The Holy Science — Swami Sri Yukteswar
Written in 1894 at the request of Mahavatar Babaji, this short, luminous book reveals the underlying unity of the Bible and the Sanatana Dharma, and lays out Sri Yukteswar’s re-reading of the great time-cycle (the yugas). Why read it: it is the philosophical foundation of the lineage and a map of humanity’s spiritual evolution.
Autobiography of a Yogi — Paramahansa Yogananda
One of the most influential spiritual books of the twentieth century, and the work that introduced millions in the West to Kriya Yoga, Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya and Sri Yukteswar. Why read it: it is the warmest, most inspiring doorway into this whole path.
The Bhagavad Gita
The 700-verse “Song of the Lord,” in which Sri Krishna teaches the warrior Arjuna the paths of action, devotion, wisdom and meditation. Why read it: it is the practical manual of yoga, revered by every Kriya master. Read our full overview »
A Biography of Lahiri Mahasaya
The life of the householder yogi who proved that the highest realisation is possible without leaving family or work. Why read it: to know the human source of the Kriya we practise today. Read about Lahiri Mahasaya »
Explore the scriptures on this site
- The Bhagavad Gita
- The Mahabharata
- The Ramayana
- The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
- The Three Gunas
- The Deities of India
Downloadable copies of the books are being added to the site — check back soon, or contact us to request a reading list.
Autobiography of a Yogi (free PDF)
Paramahansa Yogananda’s spiritual classic, which carried Kriya Yoga to the West. Read or download the public-domain first edition (1946): Download the PDF → · Read Chapter 26: The Science of Kriya Yoga.