Rishikesh

About Rishikesh - Rishikesh Tourism - Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is a city. It is located in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the holy Ganges River. Rishikesh is often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and attracts numerous tourists, spiritual seekers, and yoga enthusiasts from around the globe. It is renowned for its spiritual significance and has been a center for yoga and meditation for centuries. Rishikesh is known for its sacred ghats along the banks of the Ganges River. The most famous ones are Triveni Ghat, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers are believed to converge and Parmarth Niketan where evening aarti take place. The city is also known for its iconic suspension bridges that span across the Ganges River. The most notable one is the Laxmanjhula named after Lord Rama’s brother Laxman. Another popular bridge is the Ramjhula, which connects the eastern and western banks of the river. Rishikesh houses several ancient temples that hold great religious significance. The most prominent temples include the Bharat Mandir, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison during the churning of the cosmic ocean. Rishikesh is a hub for adventure sports and outdoor activities. The nearby Shivpuri region is particularly popular for river rafting. The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram also known as Beatles Ashram gained fame when the Beatles visited it in 1968. It is now an abandoned complex that attracts tourists interested in the history of the Beatles’ stay and the practice of transcendental meditation. Rishikesh is not only a popular destination for spiritual seekers but also for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Why Rishikesh is Famous

Rishikesh is widely regarded as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. It is a prominent spiritual destination in India. Many renowned saints, sages, and yogis have visited and meditated in Rishikesh for centuries. Rishikesh is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges. The river is believed to be purifying and taking a dip in its waters is considered a sacred act. Thousands of pilgrims visit Rishikesh every year to take part in religious rituals, ceremonies and to cleanse themselves in the Ganga. Rishikesh is a hub for yoga and meditation retreats. Many famous spiritual leaders including Swami Sivananda, Swami Rama, and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi have established their ashrams in Rishikesh attracting people from all over the world who seek to deepen their yoga and meditation practices. Apart from that, Rishikesh gained international recognition when the Beatles, the legendary British rock band, visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram here in 1968 to learn transcendental meditation. Rishikesh is also known as the “Adventure Capital of India”.

History Of Rishikesh

The history of Rishikesh dates back thousands of years and is intertwined with Hindu mythology and spirituality. Rishikesh finds mention in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Puranas and the Mahabharata. It is believed that Lord Rama, the central figure of the Hindu epic Ramayana, did penance at the exact location where Rishikesh stands today. The sage Raibhya Rishi also conducted his penance here, which led to the city being named after him as “Hrishikesh”, meaning “Lord of the Senses”. During the medieval period, Rishikesh was under the rule of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Palas. In the 8th century CE, the great philosopher and theologian Adi Shankara visited Rishikesh and established several ashrams. One of the most notable events in Rishikesh’s history was the visit of the Beatles in 1968. This visit put Rishikesh on the global map and attracted international attention to the city’s spiritual and yogic traditions. In recent decades, Rishikesh has experienced a significant increase in tourism due to its reputation as the “Yoga Capital of the World”. Today, Rishikesh retains its spiritual essence and serves as a place where people come to seek solace, spiritual enlightenment, and the practice of Yoga and meditation.

History Of Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is one of the most revered and ancient ghats in Rishikesh, located at the confluence of the three holy rivers- the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The history of Triveni Ghat is deeply intertwined with the religious and cultural heritage of the region. Triveni Ghat has been held in high regard for centuries due to its spiritual significance. It is believed that taking a dip at the confluence of these three sacred rivers can cleanse a person of their sins and purify their soul. The renowned philosopher and theologian Adi Shankara, who visited Rishikesh in the 8th century CE, is said to have played a significant role in reviving and renovating Triveni Ghat. He promoted the practice of taking holy dips and performing prayers at the ghat. Over the years, Triveni Ghat has undergone various renovations and improvements to accommodate the increasing number of devotees and visitors. Today, Triveni Ghat remains a significant landmark and a symbol of spiritual devotion in Rishikesh.

History Of Ramjhula

Ramjhula is an iconic suspension bridge located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It holds historical and spiritual significance and its construction is linked t the mythology and development of the area. Rishikesh has deep connections to Hindu mythology. Ramjhula is named after Lord Rama, the central character of the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana crossed the Ganges River at the same spot where Ramjhula stands today while searching for the sage Rishi Medha. Prior to the construction of Ramjhula, there was an older bridge known as Shivananda Bridge in the same location. This bridge was used by pilgrims and locals to cross the Ganges River. Ramjhula was constructed in 1986 to provide a safer and more convenient passage for pedestrians and vehicles. It was built to replace the Shivananda Bridge and accommodate the increasing traffic between the two banks of the Ganges River. Ramjhula serves as an essential transportation link, connecting different parts of Rishikesh.

History Of Laxmanjhula

Laxmanjhula is a famous suspension bridge located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It holds great religious and historical significance, particularly in relation to the mythology and development of the region. Rishikesh is steeped in Hindu mythology and Laxmanjhula derives its name from Lord Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana. Prior to the construction of Laxmanjhula, there was a jute rope bridge at the same location. This bridge was used by pilgrims and locals to cross the Ganges River. Laxmanjhula was constructed in 1929 as a replacement for the jute rope bridge. It was initially a hanging bridge made of jute ropes and iron, offering pedestrians a safe passage across the river. Over time, Laxmanjhula underwent several renovations and upgrades to meet the increasing demands of the growing population and tourist influx. The Laxmanjhula suspension bridge stands at a height of around 70 feet and spans approximately 450 feet across the Ganges River. Over the years, Laxmanjhula has become a prominent landmark in Rishikesh and a symbol of its spiritual and cultural heritage.

Places To Visit in Rishikesh

There are several notable places to visit in Rishikesh, such as Triveni Ghat, Ramjhula and Laxmanjhula, Parmarth Niketan, Swarg Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mandir.

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is one of the most famous and sacred ghats in Rishikesh. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River. The name “Triveni Ghat” signifies the confluence of three rivers. At this ghat, the Ganges River is joined by the Yamuna River and the mythical Saraswati River, which is believed to flow underground. The confluence of these three rivers is considered highly auspicious and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. Many people also come here to perform various religious rituals and ceremonies. Triveni Ghat is also known for its evening aarti ceremony. Every evening, a grand aarti takes place at the ghat. The atmosphere is filled with spirituality and devotion during this time.

Ramjhula and Laxmanjhula

Ramjhula is a famous suspension bridge located in the city of Rishikesh of Uttarakhand. The bridge is situated across the river Ganges and is an important landmark in the area. Ramjhula is named after Lord Rama, the central figure in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. The bridge was constructed in 1986 to facilitate the movement of pedestrians and two-wheeler vehicles. It is larger and more spacious compared to its neighboring bridge, Laxmanjhula. The bridge provides a scenic view of the river Ganges surrounding mountains and the city of Rishikesh. Laxmanjhula is a famous suspension bridge. It is located in the city of Rishikesh of Uttarakhand. It is a significant landmark and a popular tourist attraction in the area. Laxmanjhula is named after Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama from the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to mythology, Laxman crossed the river Ganges at this spot using a jute rope bridge. The present-day bridge was constructed in 1939 and has since become an iconic symbol of Rishikesh. Laxmanjhula is not just a bridge but also a vibrant and bustling area. The bridge is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and stalls selling religious items, clothes, and handicrafts.

Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan is a renowned ashram. It is located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. Parmarth Niketan is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges. It is one of the largest spiritual institutions in Rishikesh. Established in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj, Parmarth Niketan is dedicated to the promotion of spirituality, yoga, and meditation. One of the notable attractions at Parmarth Niketan is the daily Ganga Aarti held in the evening on the banks of the Ganges.

Swarg Ashram

Swarg Ashram is a renowned spiritual and pilgrimage site. It is located in the city of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is situated on the eastern bank of the river Ganges. Swarg Ashram is considered to be one of the oldest and most sacred areas in Rishikesh. It is a popular destination for spiritual seekers. Swarg Ashram is a revered spiritual destination in Rishikesh known for its serene environment, spiritual teachings, and the opportunity for self-transformation.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu temple. It is located near Rishikesh in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is situated at a height of approximately 4,360 feet. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds great significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean. The poison turned his throat blue. The temple is therefore named Neelkanth Mahadev in his honor. One of the prominent festivals celebrated at the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is Maha Shivaratri, which marks the grand night of Lord Shiva.

Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir is a prominent and ancient temple located in the city of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The temple is believed to have been established by Adi Shankaracharya, a renowned Hindu philosopher, and saint, in the 8th century. Bharat Mandir is located near the Triveni Ghat. It holds a special place in the religious and cultural fabric of Rishikesh.

Gita Bhawan

Gita Bhawan is a signification religious institution located in the town of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. It is a center for the study and dissemination of the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scripture. Gita Bhawan was established with the aim of promoting spiritual and moral values as espoused in the Bhagavad Gita. The institution provides a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to study, contemplate and immerse themselves in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. It offers accommodation facilities, a large prayer hall, a library, and a bookshop. One of the key attractions of Gita Bhawan is its unique feature known as the “Gita Press”, where visitors can obtain a free copy of the Bhagavad Gita in various languages. Apart from that, Gita Bhawan also houses of charitable hospital and a cow shelter, where injured and abandoned cows are taken care of. Gita Bhawan serves as a hub for spiritual seekers who come to Rishikesh. It holds immense religious and cultural significance.

Nearest Places to Visit in Rishikesh

There are some famous nearest destinations in Rishikesh, such as Dehradun, Kanatal, Kaudiyala, Byasi, New Tehri, Devprayag, etc.

Dehradun

Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand state. It is situated about 53 km northwest of Haridwar. Dehradun is located in the Doon Valley, surrounded by the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. The city is situated at an elevation of 1,427 feet above sea level. Dehradun is renowned for its educational institutions and is referred to as the “School Capital of India”. Some popular places to visit in Dehradun are- Robber’s Café, Sahastradhara, Tapkeshwar Temple, Maisi Deer Park, and the Mindrolling Monastery.

Kanatal

Kanatal is a picturesque hill station. It is located in the Tehri Garhwal district in the state of Uttarakhand. Kanatal is situated at an elevation of approximately 8,500 feet above sea level. One of the major attractions in Kanatal is the Surkanda Devi Temple, located at a height of 9,995 feet above sea level. It is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. Located near Kanatal, Tehri Dam is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India.

Kaudiyala

Kaudiyala is a small village located in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges. Kaudiyala is located about 40 km upstream from Rishikesh. It is located on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway. Kaudiyala is primarily famous for river rafting. Many people visit 9Kaudiyala to take part in Ganga Aarti and to seek spiritual blessings.

Byasi

Byasi is a small village. It is located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River. Byasi is renowned as a hub for rafting activities. I serve as a starting point for several rafting expeditions down the Ganges River. Byasi is located in the Rajaji National Park buffer zone. It offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and tranquillity.

New Tehri

New Tehri is a town in the Tehri Garhwal district of the state of Uttarakhand. It is located on the banks of the Tehri Lake, which is an artificial reservoir formed by the Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River. The town of New Tehri was established to rehabilitate the people who were displaced due to the construction of the Tehri Dam. New Tehri is known for its pleasant climate and picturesque surroundings. It offers opportunities for boating, angling, and rafting making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Devprayag

Devprayag is a small town located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, which come together to form the holy river Ganges. Devprayag holds immense religious significance for Hindus. It is considered one of the Panch Prayag, the five sacred confluences along the course of the Ganges. The town derives its name from the Sanskrit words “deva” meaning “deity” and “Prayag” meaning “confluence”. Devprayag also serves as a starting point for the Char Dham Yatra.

Best Time to Visit in Rishikesh

The best time to visit Rishikesh depends on your preferences. But the best time to visit Rishikesh is during the Autumn and Winter.

In Autumn

Autumn season from October to November is the best time to visit Rishikesh. This time the weather is pleasant. The skies are generally clear, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, yoga, and meditation retreats.

In Winter

The winter season from December to February is the best time to visit Rishikesh, if you don’t mind the cold.

How to Reach Haridwar

By Road

Rishikesh is well-connected by road. The road distance between Delhi to Rishikesh is approximately 240 km. You can take a car or taxi and reach Rishikesh.

By Train

Rishikesh has its own railway station called Rishikesh Railway Station. It is a small station and only a limited number of trains operate directly to Rishikesh. The better option is to take a train to Haridwar Junction railway station, which is well-connected to Delhi. From Haridwar, Rishikesh is approximately 25 km away. You can hire a car or taxi from outside the Haridwar railway station to reach Rishikesh.

By Air

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun approximately 20 km away. You can reach Jolly Grant railway station from Delhi International Airport by Indigo flight. Then you can hire a car or taxi and reach Rishikesh. The road distance between Dehradun to Rishikesh is approximately 44 km and takes around 1 to 2 hrs.

RISHIKESH TOUR(FAQS)

1. How many days are required to tour Rishikesh?

Ans: 2 days are required to tour Rishikesh.

2. What is Rishikesh best known for?

Ans: Rishikesh is commonly referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World”.

3. What is the nickname of Rishikesh City?

Ans: Rishikesh is also known as the “Place of Sages”.

4. Which fruit is famous in Rishikesh?

Ans: Ramphal is famous in Rishikesh.

5. What is the old name of Rishikesh?

Ans: Kubjamrak is the old name of Rishikesh.

6. Which God is famous in Rishikesh?

Ans: Lord Shiva is famous in Rishikesh.

7. Which is the oldest place in Rishikesh?

Ans: Bharat Mandir is the oldest place in Rishikesh.

8. Which month is best for Rishikesh?

Ans: October to February is best for Rishikesh.

9. What is the forest called in Rishikesh?

Ans: Lachiwala Forest Range.

10. What is the mountain name in Rishikesh?

Ans: Salempur is the mountain in Rishikesh.

11. Which two rivers meet in Rishikesh?

Ans: Alaknanda and Bhagirathi are meeting in Rishikesh.

12. Which is the biggest Ghat in Rishikesh?

Ans: Triveni Ghat is the biggest Ghat in Rishikesh.

13. Which is the nearest railway station in Rishikesh?

Ans: Haridwar Junction railway station is the nearest railway station in Rishikesh.

14. Which is the nearest airport in Rishikesh?

Ans: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport in Rishikesh.

15. What are the three main rivers in Rishikesh?

Ans: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati are the three main rivers in Rishikesh.

16. What are the three bridges in Rishikesh?

Ans: Ramjhula, Laxmanjhula, and Jankki Setu are the three bridges in Rishikesh.

17. Which is the longest rafting in Rishikesh?

Ans: Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (36 km) is the longest rafting in Rishikesh.

18. Which is a famous temple in Rishikesh?

Ans: Neelkanth Temple, Tera Manzil Temple, and Bhoothnath Temple are famous in Rishikesh.

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