Welcome to rishikesh- the yoga capital of the world

Rishikesh is a peaceful town in Uttrakhand. It is located near the Himalaya and on the bank of holy river Ganges. It is also known as the yoga capital of the world, because it famous for yoga, meditation and spirituality. Many people visit rishikesh to find peace, pray at ancient temple and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Rishikesh is also famous for adventure activities. Rishikesh is known for its major pilgrimage sites and it is considered the gateway to the char Dham Yatra.

Attractions of rishikesh

Ram Jhula

Ram jhula is an iconic pedestrian bridge located in rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It’s a major tourist attraction and a secret spot for Hindus. It is situated at the distance of 3 km north from Rishikesh. Ram Jhula was built in 1986 by local government to facilitate pedestrian movement across the Ganges River. Ram Jhula is considered as the secred because it is believed to be the spot where lord Rama’s brother Lakshman, crossed the Ganges River.

Things to do

• Walk across the bridge
• Visit nearby temple
• Take a dip in the Ganges

Best time to visit

During winter months (October–February).

Lakshman jhula

Lakshaman jhula is an iconic pedestrian bridge located in rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It’s a major tourist attraction and a secret spot for Hindus. It is situated at the distance of 5 km north of Rishikesh, Spanning the Ganges River. This bridge is a suspension bridge made of iron, with a length of 137 meters. It was built in 1929 to replace the original jute rope bridge.

Things to do

·       Walk across the bridge

·       Visit nearby temples

·       Take a dip in Ganges

·       Shopping

Best time to visit

During winter months(October- February).

Neelkanth Mahadev

Neelkanth Mahadev temple is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to lord Shiva, located around 32km from rishikesh. The temple is set in a peaceful and beautiful location, surrounded by forest and hills. This temple is believed to be the place where lord Shiva drank the poison that comes out during the churning of the ocean, which turned his throat blue. That’s why he is called “Neelkanth” (meaning “blue-throated”). The temple complex offers peaceful surroundings for yoga and meditation.  

Things to do

• Offer Prayers and Seek Blessings
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty
• Trek to the Temple
• Take a Dip in the Nearby River
• Explore the Surrounding Nature

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is a secred ghat located in rishikesh. It is a confluence of three sacred rivers: the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati that’s why it is named as Triveni. Triveni ghat is famous for its evening Arti ceremony, which is a spectacular sight. It is one of the main Ghats for performing rituals, such as Pind daan (offering prayers for deceased ancestors) and astrological rituals. One of the main attractions of triveni ghat is the Ganga Aarti that takes place every evening, which draws large crowds of devotees and tourists. The Aarti is a beautiful and uplifting ceremony where priests perform prayers with fire, incense, and chanting, offering devotion to the Ganges.

Things to do

• Attend the Ganges Aarti
• Take a dip in the Ganges
• Offers prayers
• Sit by the river
• Enjoy the view
• Explore the nearby temples

Ganga arti

The Ganges Aarti is the sacred ritual performed every evening on the banks of the Ganges River in rishikesh. It a wonderful experience that attract the devotees, tourists, and spiritual seekers from around the world . The Ganges Aarti is a worship ceremony dedicated to the Maa Ganges, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. The ceremony is believed to purify the mind, body, soul, and bring enlightenment to those who attend.

Jumpin Heights

The Bungee jumping platform in rishikesh, operated by jumpin heights, is located in rivia, 25 km from rishikesh.

Jumping height: The bungee jumping platform is at the height of 83 meters (272 feet) above the ground.

Free fall & speed: jumpers experience a thrilling free fall of 2-3 seconds before the bungee cord stretches and recoils. Jumpers can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h during the free fall.

Safety features:

• Jumpers are secured with a safety harness, attached to the bungee cord.
• Experienced instructors guide jumpers through the entire process, ensuring the safe and enjoyable experience.
• Jumping height has an impeccable safety records, with thousasnds of successful jumps.

Additional requirements

• Age & weight: the minimum age for bungee jumping is 12 years, maximum age is 45 years. The minimum weight is 35kg, maximum weight is 120kg.
• Medical certificate
• Costs: depends on the package and service chosen.

Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple located in the heart of rishikesh. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination. It is built in the 12^th century by Adi Shankaracharya, a renowned Hindu philosopher and theologian. The temple is dedicated to lord Vishnu, one of principal deities of Hinduism.

Rishikesh Kund

It is also known as the Rishikund. Rishikesh Kund is a sacred water body located in rishikesh. It is a popular pilgrimage sites and a significant tourist destination. According to Hindu mythology, lord Rama visited rishikesh Kund during his exile. The Kund is said to be the site of sage Raibhya’s ashram, where lord Rama visited.

Things to do:

• Take a dip
• Visit the temple complex
• Meditate and relax

Tera Manzil temple

Tera manzil temple is also known as Trimbakeshwar temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in the bank of Ganges River in rishikesh. Tera manzil temple is unique, multi-storey dedicated to various Hindu deities.

Raghunath temple

Raghunath temple is a sacred hindu temple located in rishikesh. It is dedicated to lord rama who is the eighth incarnation of lord vishnu. It is believed to have been built in the 9^th century AD. The temple is situated at the bank of the ganges river, which add to its spiritual significance.

Swarg Ashram

Swarg ashram is situated in the holy city of rishikesh, uttarakhand which is the oldest ashram of that area. It was built in 1906. The ashram was built in the memory of swami vishudhanand, the saint better known as kamli wala. There are lots of temples and ashrams inside the ashram. This place is very popular among foreign tourist as well as among locals, because of its ethnic touch. Several religious activities, like chanting, meditation, aarti take place inside the swarg asgram.  

Madhuban Ashram

Madhuban ashram is located near the Kailas ashram in rishikesh. Madhuban ashram is devoted to lord Krishna. There is beautiful temple of lord Krishna and lord ram is also located in the ashram. Madhuban ashram follows iskon traditions, so it is also known as iskon temple. The ashram has guest house and restaurant also. Guest house has 20 rooms to stay. Rooms have A/C with all basic facilities. Restaurant at the ashram is also known as the govind ji prasadam. The restaurant serves only vegetarian food without onion and garlic.

Things to do:

• Evening aarti at temple
• Yoga classes
• Rafting
• Camping
• Bunjee jumping
• Trekking
• Ganga aarti

Things to do in rishikesh

White water rafting

White water rafting is an exhilarating water sport that involves navigating a raft through rough, turbulent water.

Types of rapids:

• Easy, calm waters with minimal obstacles.
• Moderate rapids with some obstacle and waves.
• Difficult rapid with strong currents and larger waves.
• Very difficult rapid with powerful current and larger waves.
• Extremely difficult rapids with violent currents and huge waves.

 Equipments used:

• Raft
• Paddles
• Helmets
• Life jacket
• Wetsuits

Safety:

• Guide
• Safety briefing
• First aid kit
• Rescue plan

Camping

Camping in rishikesh is an exhilarating experience that allows you to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and rejuvenate your spirit.

Types of camping

• River camping: camp along the bank of the ganges river, surrounded by scenic beauty and soothing sounds.
• Jungle camping: immerse yourself in the widerness, camping amidst dense forests and diverse wildlife.
• Beach camping: enjoy camping on the sandy beaches of the ganges river, perfect for relaxation and water activities.

Safety majors

• Weather Conditions
• Wildlife and Insects
• Water Safety

Essentials tips

• Camping Gear
• Food and Water
• First Aid Kit
• Responsible Camping

Bungee jumping

One of the most well-liked adventure activities in India is bungee jumping in Rishikesh, which draws tourists from all over the world. Known for its spiritual significance and closeness to the Ganges River, Rishikesh, in the northern state of Uttarakhand, has recently developed into a popular destination for adventure tourism, which includes bungee jumping. The jump is held in Jumpin Heights, which is close to the tiny community of Mohan Chatti and around 25 kilometres from Rishikesh. With a height of 83 meters (273 feet), this facility has one of India's highest bungee jumps, making it a thrilling experience for thrill-seekers.

Safety measures:

• Internationally certified equipment: The business complies with international safety regulations, and the bungee cords, harnesses, and other equipment utilised are of international standards.
• Staff and instructors with experience: The team makes sure you are informed about the complete procedure prior to the jump, and the leap is overseen by highly qualified personnel.
• Medical facilities: Emergency medical help and first-aid services are available on-site.

Requirements:

Age and weight: Bungee jumping in Rishikesh is only permitted for those aged 12 to 60. Although this can vary based on the operator, the usual weight limit is between 35 and 120 kg.

Flying fox

In Rishikesh, flying foxes is another exhilarating adventure sport that has grown in favour among travellers looking for a kick. By fusing the thrill of fast flight with breathtaking views of the Ganges River, the surrounding hills, and the geography of Rishikesh, it provides a singular approach to take in the grandeur of the area.

Ziplining

Adventure seekers can have an exhilarating experience by ziplining in Rishikesh, which lets you soar above the stunning scenery.  The spiritual atmosphere and adventurous sports of Rishikesh. A typical zipline experience lasts for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of lines or routes chosen.

Yoga meditation

Rishikesh is the place which is famous for yoga globally. It is also known as the "world capital of yoga" . Yoga is not just about work out; it's all about a healthy lifestyle. The practice of yoga allows students to be still in a world consumed with chaos.

Ashrams famous for meditation and yoga in rishikesh

• Paramarth niketan ashram
• Sivanand ashram
• Swami dayanand ashram
• Osho ashram
• Beatle ashram
• Swarg ashram
• Vanaprastha ashram

Ganga aarti

The "yoga Capital of the World" is Rishikesh, which is tucked away in the Himalayan foothills. Rishikesh is a pilgrimage site renowned for its spiritual vitality in addition to its reputation for yoga and meditation. This location's Ganga Aarti is especially well-known for its majesty and the huge volume of devotees that attend. It is a multi-religious visual and aural extravaganza that draws tourists from all walks of life. Go to one of Rishikesh's primary ghats (bathing steps), such as Parmarth Niketan or Triveni Ghat, as dusk draws near. The ghats are lined with a sea of people who are all excited to see the aarti. Priests wearing saffron robes lead the congregation in singing mantras, or sacred chants, to start the event. On big trays, they light a lot of diyas (earthen lamps) that are filled with ghee (clarified butter).

Rock climbing

If you want to experience something exciting and daring and enjoy the breathtaking vistas as you climb over the hills with mountains constantly in your line of sight, you should take part in this rock climbing activity in Rishikesh. The Shivalik ranges contain straight mountains that are good for rock climbing. The goal is to reach the top of the cliff using ropes and natural grips. The Shivalik ranges contain straight mountains that are good for rock climbing. The goal is to reach the top of the cliff using ropes and natural grips. In actuality, rock climbing in Rishikesh is best done at any time of year. It is recommended that you avoid participating in adventure sports in Rishikesh during the monsoon season since they may be impacted by the strong winds or rain. Furthermore, during the rainy season, you won't be able to engage in any other daring activities in Rishikesh.

Basic requirements

• Rope(s)
• Bealy Device
• Helmet
• Chalk
• Walking Boots
• Slings
• Fast Draws
• Bolts and camming tools

Kayaking

In both kayaking and canoeing, a small craft is paddled through water. Your strength, flexibility, and aerobic fitness can all be enhanced by these low-impact exercises. Kayaking and canoeing are enjoyable vacation pastimes, competitive sports, or hobbies. Paddling is possible on lakes, rivers, and the ocean. There are several kayakable sections of the Ganges River in Rishikesh, from tranquil waters for novices to more difficult rapids for more seasoned paddlers. Paddling through the stunning surroundings is an experience that cannot be equalled because to the pristine waterways and breathtaking river views.

Trekking

Trekking in Rishikesh, India, is a fantastic chance to take in the Himalayas' natural splendour, meet locals, and learn about their way of life.

• Scenery views: Trekkers can witness mountain ranges, waterfalls, and verdant valleys.
• Diverse fauna and flora: A wide range of plants and animals can be found in the area. There are trails that go to ancient temples and ashrams.
• Local culture: Talking to residents can reveal details about their customs and way of life.
  Well-known locations for trekking
  Trek to Kunjapuri Temple.

This walk involves a visit to the Kunjapuri Temple and provides expansive views of the Himalayas.

Best time to visit in Rishikesh

Winter (October to March)

Spring (March to May)

Monsoon (June to August)

Summer (April to June)

How to reach Rishikesh

By Train

Rishikesh Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Lucknow.

By Road:

If you’re traveling by car or taxi, you can take the National Highway 58 (NH58) from Delhi to Rishikesh, which takes about 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic.

History

Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and the "Gateway to the Himalayas," Rishikesh has a long history that blends natural beauty with spiritual importance.

Ancient Times

For thousands of years, Rishikesh has been an important destination for those seeking spirituality. The translation of its name, which combines the terms "Rishi" (meaning wise) and "Ish" (meaning Lord), is "The Lord of the Sages."

In the past, rishis, or spiritual men, would gather on the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh to engage in yoga and meditation. Many spiritual seekers from all over the world still visit, carrying on this tradition.

The Mahabharata and the Ramayana are two ancient books that make reference to Rishikesh. It is stated that during their exile, the Pandavas (from the Mahabharata) came to Rishikesh.

Medieval Period:

In the Middle Ages, Rishikesh was still a popular pilgrimage site. The village still drew pilgrims, scholars, and saints.
The area's religious significance was further enhanced at this period by the construction of numerous temples nearby.

Modern Rishikesh:

In the 20th century, Rishikesh became famous worldwide, especially in the 1960s, when The Beatles visited the town. Their stay at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram brought global attention to Rishikesh as a center for meditation and spirituality.

Today, Rishikesh is known for its thriving yoga community and as a hub for adventure activities like rafting, trekking, and ziplining.

Special cuisines

• Aloo Ke Gutke
• Chole Bhature
• Rishikesh Special Chutney
• Mango Lassi
• Kadhi Pakora

FAQs of Rishikesh

What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?

The winter months of October through March are the ideal times to visit Rishikesh because of the beautiful weather, which is ideal for sightseeing, yoga, and outdoor activities.

What are the popular things to do in Rishikesh?

• Yoga & Meditation: With numerous ashrams providing classes and retreats, Rishikesh is a major international centre for yoga and spiritual activities.
• Adventure Sports: Popular pursuits include zip-lining, kayaking, trekking, rafting, and camping.
• See the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, and other sacred locations.
• Shopping: Look for organic goods, handicrafts, and spiritual items at your neighbourhood markets.

Can I do river rafting in Rishikesh?

yes, white-water rafting on the Ganges River is a well-known activity in Rishikesh. Different sections such as Shivpuri, Marine Drive, and Kaudiyala offer varying degrees of rapids, making the rafting experience mild to exhilarating.The months of October through June are ideal for rafting because of the lovely weather and safe river conditions.

Is there any nightlife in Rishikesh?

recognised for its calm and spiritual atmosphere, Rishikesh is not recognised for its thriving nightlife. Particularly in the Lakshman Jhula region, there are cafes and restaurants that remain open late and provide live music and a laid-back vibe.

What are some nearby attractions to visit from Rishikesh?

  Haridwar: About 20 km away, Haridwar is a sacred city and another important pilgrimage destination on the banks of the Ganges.

  Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A popular temple located about 12 km from Rishikesh, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  Rajaji National Park: A wildlife sanctuary located near Rishikesh, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.