PlanetEye

Just about a block from the beach, winding Sunset Boulevard dizzies the most diehard drivers who often catch only a brief and bedazzled vision of this oasis sheltered amid the curves on the south edge of the road. Housing a swan-filled lake with a vintage Mississippi-esque houseboat and immaculate gardens and grounds, Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine beckons peace-seeking locals as well as religious pilgrims from around the globe.

Dedicated in 1950 by Swami Parmahansa Yogananda, author of the classic "Autobiography of a Yogi," the Lake Shrine is an active place of worship for Yogananda devotees who meditate in the intimate windmill-style chapel or attend scheduled services in the expansive hilltop temple. Visitors of all religions (or no religion, for that matter) are welcome to join services or simply meander the surprise-at-every-turn grounds. You'll find plenty of nooks and crannies for contemplation, quiet reading, or for just gazing at the languid lake with its happy-go-lucky swans and floating lotus blossoms. Don't bypass the ancient stone sarcophagus sitting on the wide, green lawn--resting within is a portion of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes. The Lake Shrine's gift shop sells spiritual books and other media, as well as fine crafts and wares from India. Adjoining is a small museum that contains a collection of Yogananda's artifacts and memorabilia. Admission and parking are free.