Rishikesh: Discover the Charm of Yoga Capital

Rishikesh, a sacred city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and adventure. Located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, it is a popular destination for those seeking a perfect getaway from the chaos of city life. In this article, you will get to know guide the best ways to reach the spiritual centre, where to stay, and what to do in this enchanting city.

How to reach Rishikesh:

The city is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it easily accessible from major cities in India.

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. Taxi and bus services are available from the airport to Rishikesh.
• By Train: Rishikesh has a railway station with regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities.
• By Road: It is connected by bus from nearby cities like Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi. Private taxis and cabs are also available.

Best Places to Stay at Rishikesh:

Rishikesh offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly ashrams and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

• Parmarth Niketan: A renowned ashram with comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.
• The Beatles Ashram: A historic ashram with meditation and yoga facilities.
• Hotel Ganga Kinare: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Ganges.

Must-visit places in Rishikesh:

• Triveni Ghat: One of the most famous ghats, this place is known for the evening Ganga Aarti. According to Hindu mythology, a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga can wash away all sins.
• Ram Jhula: A suspension bridge with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Ganga River. The bridge connects two popular ashrams: Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Ashram.
• River Rafting: Located in Shivpuri, river rafting is a must-try adventure sport in the city. There are different rafting routes for different difficulty levels and age groups.
• Laxman Jhula: A 450-foot long suspension bridge, it is believed that Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River on a jute rope at this location. There are many cafes and temples nearby.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is built at the site where Lord Shiva drank the venom extracted from the ocean.
• The Beatles Ashram: This ashram is famous for its association with the Beatles. The band visited the ashram to practice meditation, and it is said that this was one of their most productive periods.
• Tera Manzil Mandir: Also known as the Trimbakeshwar Temple, this temple has 13 storeys and beautiful architecture. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganga.
• Shri Bharat Mandir: One of the oldest and most revered temples in Rishikesh, it is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. There are many mythological stories associated with this temple.
• Bungee Jumping (Jumpin Heights): It is a paradise for adventure lovers, and Jumpin Heights is the best place for bungee jumping. They also offer other adventure sports like flying fox and giant swings.
• Parmarth Niketan: This is a popular yoga ashram that offers yoga classes, meditation, and other spiritual activities. It is situated in a peaceful area and is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh.

Offbeat places to visit in Rishikesh:

• Neer Garh Waterfall (Neer Gaddu Waterfall): A beautiful waterfall hidden among dense foliage, perfect for trekking.
• Garud Chatti Waterfall: A waterfall surrounded by peace and calmness, ideal for those who want to spend time with nature.
• Rishikund Hot Water Springs: A holy water spring believed to cure all illnesses.
• Vashishtha Cave: A cave believed to be the meditation spot of Sage Vashishta, surrounded by lush greenery.
• Kunjapuri Devi Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, situated on top of a hill.
• Phool Chatti Ashram: An ashram that focuses on yoga, meditation and Satsang.
• Rajaji National Park: A national park home to diverse flora and fauna species, perfect for trekking and hiking.

Why Rishikesh is Famous?

• Religious Significance: it is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, which is considered sacred by Hindus. Many people visit the city every year to see sacred sites and take a dip in the Ganges.
• Yoga and Ayurveda: it is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and is home to many yoga ashrams and centers. It hosts the annual International Yoga Festival.
• Adventure Tourism: it offers many adventure activities such as river rafting and bungee jumping.
• Natural Beauty: it is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it a scenic tourist destination.
• The Beatles: it is famous for its association with the Beatles, who visited the city in the 1960s to study meditation at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram.

Unique Facts about Rishikesh:

• It is also known as Hrishikesh, Yoganagari and Yognagari.
• It lies on the right bank of the River Ganges.
• It is a pilgrimage town for Hindus.
• It is known as the “Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas” and “Yoga Capital of the World”.
• It hosts the annual International Yoga Festival.
• It is a vegetarian and alcohol-free city.
• It is the starting point for traveling to the four Chota Char Dham pilgrimage places.
• Rishikesh and Haridwar are India’s first “twin national heritage cities”.

Things to Do in Rishikesh:

Rishikesh is a treasure trove of spiritual and adventurous activities.

• Yoga and Meditation: Join classes or workshops at various ashrams and studios.
• Rafting and Kayaking: Enjoy white-water rafting and kayaking on the Ganges.
• Trekking: Explore nearby hills and forests with guided treks.
• Visit Temples and Ghats: Explore the city’s sacred temples and ghats, like Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.
• Ganga Aarti: Attend the evening prayer ceremony at Parmarth Niketan.

Rishikesh is a perfect getaway for those seeking a blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, it is a destination that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to this enchanting city.

Read more: Yoga: An Amazing Way of Living Life