Rishikesh, a small city in Uttarakhand, is renowned as the Yoga Capital of the World. It is one of the popular getaways in Uttarakhand, draws lakhs of visitors every year. Beyond its religious significance, the city is renowned for its adventurous activities, including India's highest bungee jumping. Every day, a large number of tourists gather at Triveni Ghat to witness the World famous Ganga Arti. Besides Yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is also regarded as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas", giving it a prominent place in both spiritual
...
Read More
Rishikesh, a small city in Uttarakhand, is renowned as the Yoga Capital of the World. It is one of the popular getaways in Uttarakhand, draws lakhs of visitors every year. Beyond its religious significance, the city is renowned for its adventurous activities, including India's highest bungee jumping. Every day, a large number of tourists gather at Triveni Ghat to witness the World famous Ganga Arti. Besides Yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is also regarded as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas", giving it a prominent place in both spiritual and geographical terms.
Since ages, Rishikesh has been the ideal place for sage and yoga practitioners who want to become practitioners in it. If we say that Rishikesh is a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty, where one can find themselves, we are not exaggerating.
Yoga Capital
Known as the Yoga capital of the World, Rishikesh is just an hour drive from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Situated around 49 km from Dehradun ISBT, the city Spreaded across the two districts. Its northern part lies in Dehradun District, while its southern part falls under Pauri Garhwal District. Set amidst the backdrop of the Himalaya and on the banks of holy Ganges river, Rishikesh is the major hubs for both tourism and pilgrimage.
Being an epicenter for Yoga and spirituality, people from around the world visit Rishikesh to learn Yoga and meditation. Across the city, various saints and sages can often be seen meditating in search of higher knowledge.
To commemorate International Yoga Day, the Uttarakhand Tourism board organizes a yoga festival every year on June 21. Many Yoga enthusiasts and its practitioners visit here to be a part of this event.
History
Earlier, Rishikesh was called as Hrishikesha, which means "Lord of the Senses". As per the Vishnu Sahasranama, it is the 47th name of Lord Vishnu. Legend says that, once Raibhya Rishi performed a deep penance near the Ganges to please Lord Vishnu. Impressed by his utmost devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of Hrishikesha. Thereafter the place became known as "Hrishikesha" which later evolved into Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is among a few cities that has an ink link with the Treta Yuga. According to the legend, after defeating Ravana, Lord Rama along with his brothers, came to Rishikesh to perform penance. It is believed that Laxman crossed the Ganga river with two jute ropes, where the present Laxman Jhula bridge stands today. As per the Skanda Purana, there was Indra Kund underneath the bridge, where Indra took a holy dip to get rid from a curse. However, this kund is cannot be sighted in the modern century.
Triveni Ghat Ganga Arti
In Rishikesh, Ganga Arti is conducted daily at most of its ghats. However, the Ganga Arti at Triveni Ghat is special, which is attended by a number of devotees every evening. As the sun sets, producing a wonderful glow over the Ganges, the Ganga Arti begins. The rhythmic hymn sound during the arti creates a simply divine atmosphere. After the arti, devotees light Diya placed on leaf bowls and release them into the river as mark of respect and to seek blessing of Mother Ganga.
The Beatles Ashram
In 1968, one of the popular English rock band, "The Beatles" visited Rishikesh to learn meditation. For this they visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, which is now renowned as the Beatles Ashram or Chaurasi Kutiya. It is said that, during their stay, they composed various songs for their popular album called the "White Album". Since then, many western people have arrived in this city to learn meditation and Yoga. Today, the site is a popular destination, frequented by the Beatles fans and others.
Popular places
Rishikesh is surrounded by many popular places that attract its visitors from far and wide. If you are planning your trip to Rishikesh, then do not forget to add these places in your itinerary : -
- Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.
- The Beatles Ashram.
- Neer Waterfall.
- Patna waterfall.
- Triveni Ghat.
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
- Trayambakeshwar Temple (13 Manjil Temple).
- Shivpuri.
- Muni ki Reti.
- Nim Beach.
- Goa Beach.
- Raghunath Mandir.
- Gita Bhawan.
- Swargashram
Accommodation Facility
Rishikesh offers good accommodation facilities to visitors, ensuring their comfortable stay. Travelers can choose from hotels, resorts, guesthouses, homestays, and Dharamshala based on their requirements and budgets.
Things To Do
Visitors can immerse in a variety of activities in Rishikesh, including spiritual, religious, and thrilling adventures.
Yoga | Known as the "World Yoga Capital", Rishikesh provides an opportunity to participate in yoga sessions. Every year on 21 June, the International Yoga Festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. |
|---|
Pilgrimage | Rishikesh is not only popular for its adventurous activities but also for its religious significance. Visitors can visit prominent temples like Neelkanth Temple, Bharat Mandir, Kunjapuri Temple, 13 Manjil Temple, and more. |
|---|
Ganga Arti | Rishikesh trip is incomplete without attending the Ganga Aarti, especially at Parmarth Niketan Ghat. The hymns and tolling bells create a divine atmosphere that leaves a lasting impact. |
|---|
Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula | These two iconic landmarks of Rishikesh, provides a stunning view of Ganga river and the city. A walk across the, is a must for everyone. |
|---|
Boat Ride | Enjoy a small boat ride near Ram Jhula Ghat to cross the Ganges, a traditional way to travel other side of the city. |
|---|
Activities | Rishikesh is known for its various adventurous activities, luring various thrill seekers from all over. The city offers river rafting, bungee jumping, camping, trekking, kayaking, and more. |
|---|
Food Guide
Apart from its other significance, Rishikesh is also known for its delectable cuisines. Being an international yoga and adventure sport hub, the city provides a wide range of menu to cater all. However, being the most important city of Garhwal division, the city also offers authentic local cuisine that can be tasted at various hotels and cafes.
Though there are many outlets offering this local Garhwali cuisine, Jal and Jalebi and VARR are the two restaurants that serve the real authentic taste of Garhwal. Plenty of cafes are also popular among tourists with their unique theme and menu. Being a religious place and alcohol consumption is prohibited.
Adventure Activities
Every year, a multitude of adventure enthusiasts often visit Rishikesh, to participate in various adventurous activities. It not only boasts India's highest bungee jumping of 272 ft but also features Asia's highest zip line with a length of 1 km which can be covered in a record speed of 140 km per hour. City offers several adventurous activities to its visitors that attracts visitors from afar. Here are some major activities that shouldn't be miss during the trip : -
| River Rafting | River rafting is the most preferable adventure activity in Rishikesh, with different routes like 12 km, 16 km, 26 and 32 km. Its price generally starts from Rs 1,000/- and goes up to Rs 3,000/- (excluding GoPro charges). The charges may vary depending upon the service provider and the season. Major river rafting starts from Shivpuri, Marine Drive, and Kaudiyala ending at at Nim beach. |
|---|
| Bungee Jumping | Rishikesh offers one of the highest and safest bungee jumps in India. Its latest 117 meters jump, offered by Himalayan bungee, is the highest in the country and challenges the adventurous enthusiasts. The major operator provided these services are Thrill Factory, Himalayan Bungee, and Jumpin Heights. Activity is open for people with Age 12 and above, with fares ranging from Rs 3,000/- to Rs. 4,000/-. |
|---|
| Reverse Bunjee | Experience the reverse bungee jumping in Rishikesh, where you will be launched 180 feet high into the air. Participants must be 12 years and older weighing between 40 to 120 kg. This activity is available at the thrill factory located in Shivpuri, costs Rs 2,000/-. |
|---|
| Zip Lining | This 800 to 1000 meters long ride, allowing you to soar above the city and witness the beauty of Rishikesh. |
|---|
| Kayaking | It is one of the most thrilling adventure activities, where participant have to move across the Ganges with the help of a small boat (Kayak) by using a double bladed oar. |
|---|
| Camping | Instead of staying in hotel, camping near the Ganges with bonfire is the ideal way to connect with nature. |
|---|
| Giant Swing | This activity is similar to bungee jumping but it involves a swing instead of freefall. This ride will be launched from a height of 55 meters, which cost Rs 1,500/- for single person, Rs 2,500/- for double ride and Rs 3,000/- for triple ride. |
|---|
Important Tips for Travellers
- City and its popular places are overcrowded during peak season, so plan accordingly.
- Book your accommodation in advance during peak season and confirm the availability of parking, because parking is the huge concern.
- Confirm the prices and hidden charges before availing any services especially river rafting.
- Avoid wearing jewellery while participating in adventure activity or bathing in the river.
- Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, as most part of the city is to be explored on foot.
- Bathing is not allowed near the beaches.
- Avoid visiting Neer waterfall, Patna waterfall and beaches during the monsoon season.
- For a blissful view of the Ganga Arti, especially at Parmarth Niketan Ghat, arrive early to occupy the front row space.
- Free shoe rack services are available near the Parmarth Niketan Ghat for Ganga Arti.
- Renting a two wheeler is the convenient way to explore the city hassle free.
- Before renting a two wheeler, record a video from all sides to document its condition.
- Book adventure services through authorized operator.
- Avoid eating before participating in adventurous sports like river rafting, bungee jump, and others.
- During rafting, personal camera and Go-Pro will not be allowed.
Nearby Attraction
Rishikesh is surrounded by several beautiful locations that are worth exploring : -
