Rishikesh, known as the “Place of Gods”, is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the sacred streams of Ganga Maiya. This city is a paradise for those who want to experience spiritual peace, exciting adventure and rich Indian culture.
What you can do here:
Have you heard about yoga? (You have heard about Yoga): There are dozens of Yoga Ashrams in Rishikesh, the capital of Yoga. You can learn yoga, meditation and pranayam by choosing the ashram of your choice.
The enchanting view of Ganga Aarti (Ganga Aarti ka Manmohan Najara): The experience of Aarti taking place on the banks of river Ganga in the evening is unforgettable. The twinkling of lamps and the devotional atmosphere will mesmerize you.
Walking along the river bank (Nadi mein Kinare Kinare Chalna): A walk along the river bank while dipping your feet in the holy waters of Ganga will make you feel immense peace. You will also see Saint Mahatma and temples on the way.
Thrill of rafting in rising water (Badhte Pani mein Rafting ka Romanch): If you like adventure, then definitely do rafting in the Ganga. You will remember the experience of passing through the swollen river for the rest of your life.
Pahardon ki Sair: There are many beautiful hills around Rishikesh. You can enjoy the beauty of nature by trekking.
Rishikesh is not just a place to visit, but also a center of spiritual experience. So what are you waiting for, let’s go to Rishikesh! (Rishikesh is not just a place to visit, but is also a center of spiritual experience. So what are you talking about, let’s go to Rishikesh!)
Table of Contents
Introduction to Rishikesh
Rishikesh: Where Ganga Rani hugs the mountains and the soul finds peace (Rishikesh: Where Ganga Rani hugs the mountains and the soul finds peace)
Friends, have you ever felt like going to a quiet place, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, where the silence of the mountains can be heard and the sacred streams of Mother Ganga touch your feet? If yes, then your search for a better place than Rishikesh will end.
This beautiful city is located in Uttarakhand, where the Ganga River originates from the foothills of the Himalayas and flows towards the plains. As if Queen Ganga is hugging the mountains for the last time before saying goodbye to them. Rishikesh is also called the “Place of Gods”. It is said that Lord Vishnu did penance here. Since then this place became famous for spiritual practice.
If you also want to learn to do yoga, meditate or find your inner peace, then definitely go to Rishikesh. There is a different positive energy in the atmosphere here which will refresh you.
Adventure Activities in Rishikesh
The thrill of adventure in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a paradise not only for spirituality and peace but also for adventure lovers. Here you can indulge in adventure activities in such a way that you will remember them for the rest of your life. So, let’s see what is waiting for you in Rishikesh:
The thrill of river rafting in the Ganga: Have you ever enjoyed wading through a raging river? If not, then definitely do Ganga River Rafting in Rishikesh. This rafting takes place in a distance of 9 to 35 kilometers. You will remember the experience of passing through strong currents for the rest of your life.
Touch the sky by bungee jumping (Bungee Jumping karke Aasmaan ko Chhuye): Yes, you read it right! India’s highest bungee jumping facility is available in Rishikesh. This thrill of jumping from a height of 83 meters is only for the courageous people. So are you ready to take up this challenge?
Fun of trekking and camping in the lap of mountains (Pahardon ki God mein Trekking aur Camping ka Maza): If you want to enjoy adventure in a peaceful environment, then go trekking in the beautiful hills around Rishikesh. After trekking, spending the night camping on the top of the mountains, gazing at the twinkling stars in the sky, is an experience that will make you forget the glamor of the cities.
Temples and Ashrams
Rishikesh: Confluence of Temples and Ashrams (Rishikesh: Mandir aur Ashram ka Sangam)
Rishikesh is famous all over the world not only for adventure and beautiful views, but also for its spirituality. Here you will get to see many ancient temples and ashrams, which will make you experience spiritual peace. So, let us set out on a journey to some of the famous temples and ashrams of Rishikesh:
Parmarth Niketan: This is the most famous ashram of Rishikesh. Yoga, meditation and pranayam are taught here. Apart from this, many services are also conducted for the poor and needy in the Ashram.
Trayambakeshwar Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built in the 13th century. Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva is installed in the temple. It is believed that by visiting here one gets the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: This temple is also dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is said that when Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out of the churning of the ocean, his throat turned blue. Therefore, Lord Shiva is known as Neelkanth in this temple.
Apart from these, there are many temples and ashrams in Rishikesh, where you can go and experience spiritual peace. There is a different positive energy in the atmosphere here which will refresh you.
Ghats and Riverfront
Rishikesh: Ghats and river banks situated at the feet of Mother Ganga (Rishikesh: Ghats and river banks situated at the feet of Mother Ganga)
There are many beautiful ghats on the banks of river Ganga in Rishikesh, where you can enjoy morning and evening walks. Sitting on these ghats, looking at the calm waters of Mother Ganga and seeing the beauty of the mountains is a wonderful experience.
Triveni Ghat: This is the most famous ghat of Rishikesh. There is a confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. It is believed that taking bath here washes away all sins. Ganga Aarti is organized here in the morning and evening, which is worth seeing.
Ram Jhula: This is the second most famous ghat of Rishikesh. There is a hanging bridge on the river Ganga, which is called Ram Jhula. It is said that Lord Rama crossed the river Ganga from this bridge. A wonderful view of the river Ganga can be seen from this bridge.
Laxman Jhula: This is the third most famous ghat of Rishikesh. Here also there is a hanging bridge on the river Ganga, which is called Lakshman Jhula. It is said that Lord Lakshmana crossed the river Ganga from this bridge. A beautiful view of river Ganga can also be seen from this bridge.
Apart from these, there are many ghats in Rishikesh, where you can go and have darshan of Mother Ganga. Sitting on the banks of river Ganga and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere will refresh you.
Yoga and Meditation Centers
Rishikesh: Dham of Yoga and Meditation for Spiritual Awakening (Rishikesh: Dham of Yoga and Meditation for Spiritual Awakening)
A big reason why Rishikesh is called the “Capital of Yoga” is the dozens of yoga ashrams here. These ashrams not only teach you Yogasana, but also pave the way for spiritual peace. Whether you are a yoga beginner or an experienced yoga practitioner, you will definitely find the perfect ashram for you in Rishikesh. So, let us have a look at some of the famous yoga and meditation centers of Rishikesh:
Rishikesh Yog Peeth: This ashram was established by Swami Satyendranath Saraswati. Traditional Hatha Yoga and Vedic philosophy are taught here. If you want to learn yoga through hard work, then this ashram is perfect for you.
Sivananda Ashram: This is a world famous yoga ashram. Here, along with traditional yoga, attention is also given to Ayurveda, Vedanta and service work. This ashram is known for its peaceful environment and experienced gurus.
Omkarananda Ganga Sadan: This ashram is situated on the banks of river Ganga. Here you can enjoy Ganga Aarti and Satsang along with yoga and meditation. This ashram is good for those who want to live in a peaceful and spiritual environment.
These are just some examples. There are dozens of yoga ashrams in Rishikesh. You can choose any ashram according to your budget and need. So what are you waiting for, come to Rishikesh and awaken the yogi within you!
Natural Attractions
Rishikesh: Treasure of Nature’s Beauty (Rishikesh: Treasure of Nature’s Beauty)
Rishikesh is famous not only for temples and ashrams but also for natural beauty. The beautiful valleys and natural views here will mesmerize you. So let’s go on a tour of some special natural attractions of Rishikesh:
Rajaji National Park: This national park is located a short distance from Rishikesh. Here you can see wild animals like elephant, tiger, chital, gaur etc. If you are fond of wildlife, then definitely visit Rajaji National Park.
Neer Garh Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is located about 6 kilometers away from Rishikesh. This waterfall falling from the mountains seems as if it is hurrying to touch the earth. Bathing under this waterfall will be a memorable experience. You may have to do a little trekking to reach this waterfall, but believe me, this hard work will not go in vain.
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): This ashram was actually the palace of Maharaja Manorath Singh. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr of the Beatles group, who made the world crazy with their songs in the 1960s, lived here for some time. The serene environment around the ashram helped him meditate and compose his music. Although today this ashram is in ruins, but this history related to The Beatles gives it a different attraction.
These are just some examples. There are many beautiful hills, rivers and lakes around Rishikesh, where you can visit. Spending some time in the lap of nature will give you a break from the hustle and bustle of cities and refresh your soul.
Local Markets and Street Food
Rishikesh: The fun of eating and shopping (Rishikesh: The fun of eating and shopping)
You have known the spirituality and adventure of Rishikesh, but the food items and markets here also have their own unique fun. So, let’s take a tour of the food, drink and shopping glory of Rishikesh:
Rishikesh Main Market: This is the largest and bustling market of the city. Here you will find everything from clothes to puja items, handicrafts to Ayurvedic medicines. Don’t forget to bargain in this market, because most of the goods available here are also available at wholesale prices.
Laxman Jhula Market: This market is located near Laxman Jhula. Here you will find Himachali shawls, Rudraksha beads, idols and various types of souvenirs. This market is very famous especially among foreign tourists.
Chotiwala Restaurant: This is one of the oldest restaurants in Rishikesh. Here you will get the delicious taste of North Indian food, especially Chole-Bhatura and Lassi. If you want delicious food for less than Rs 100, then definitely go to Chhotiwala.
These are just some examples. In Rishikesh you will find many small and big restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy North Indian, South Indian, Italian and Continental food. Apart from this, pakodas, chaat and parathas available on the roadside are also quite famous here. So definitely try these things while travelling.
Cultural and Spiritual Events
Rishikesh: Where culture and spirituality meet (Rishikesh: Where Sanskriti and spirituality meet)
The beauty of Rishikesh is not limited only to the mountains and rivers, but the cultural and spiritual programs held here throughout the year also make it special. Let us know about some of these special programs:
Ganga Aarti: Watching the Aarti performed on the banks of river Ganga in the evening is an unforgettable experience in itself. The twinkling of lamps, the echo of bhajan-kirtan and the atmosphere of reverence of the devotees will mesmerise you. If you are in Rishikesh, do watch Ganga Aarti.
International Yoga Festival: Every year in the month of March, International Yoga Festival is organized in Rishikesh. Yoga gurus and yoga instructors from all over the world come to this festival. Programs ranging from learning yoga asanas to meditation and pranayam also take place in this festival. If you are fond of yoga, then this festival will be no less than a dream for you.
Neelkanth Mahadev Mela: Every year in the month of Shravan, a fair is organized at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Thousands of Shiva devotees come to this fair for darshan. Cultural programs, bhajan-kirtan and bhandara are also organized in the fair. This fair gives a unique experience of devotion to Shiva.
These are just some examples. Many small and big cultural and spiritual programs take place in Rishikesh throughout the year. By participating in these programs you can understand the culture of Rishikesh closely. So along with travelling, definitely participate in these programs also.
Nearby Attractions
Around Rishikesh: Double the fun of traveling
If you have come to visit Rishikesh, then you will definitely see these beautiful places nearby. These places are not far from Rishikesh and you will get a different experience by visiting here.
Haridwar: Haridwar, located about 20 kilometers from Rishikesh, is one of the seven holy places of Hinduism. Every year lakhs of devotees come here to take bath in the Ganga. Watching the Ganga Aarti held every evening at Har Ki Pauri has its own unique pleasure. Apart from this, there are many ancient temples in Haridwar, visiting which is considered to have its own virtue.
Devprayag: This is the place where Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet and together form the Ganga river. Devprayag is surrounded by mountains on three sides and the environment here is very calm and relaxing. Here you can take a bath at the Sangam, visit temples or enjoy the surrounding beauty. Devprayag is located about 80 kilometers from Rishikesh.
Shivpuri: Located about 16 kilometers from Rishikesh, Shivpuri is a paradise for adventure sports lovers. Here you can enjoy river rafting, cliff jumping, camping and many other adventure activities. Apart from this, Shivpuri also has many ashrams and temples. If you want to experience peace as well as adventure, then definitely visit Shivpuri.
Tips for Travelers
Rishikesh ki Yatra: Some important things
If you have planned to visit Rishikesh, then know some important things, so that your trip becomes pleasant and memorable.
Best time to visit (Kab Aayein Sabse Accha): October to March is considered the best month to visit Rishikesh. The weather remains pleasant during this period. It is extremely hot in summer and during monsoon the water flow in the river increases, making it difficult to do adventure activities.
Accommodation: You will find accommodation according to every budget in Rishikesh. From luxury resorts to budget hostels, you can choose as per your choice and budget. If you want a peaceful environment then you can arrange to stay on the banks of river Ganga. Whereas, if you want to stay close to the market, then you can find hotels around Rishikesh Main Market.
Take care of safety (Suraksha ka Dhyan Rakhein): It is quite safe to visit Rishikesh, but still a little caution is necessary. If you are going alone, then avoid going to isolated areas. Take care of your belongings and it is best to avoid walking alone at night. If you are doing adventure activities, always take the help of an experienced guide.
If you keep these little things in mind before coming to Rishikesh, your trip will be fun and hassle-free. So come on, prepare to visit Rishikesh!