Rishikesh: Explore, Meditate and Experience Magic
Peacefully nestled in the soothing foothills of the Himalayas in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh has long been a melting pot of religion, spirituality, yoga, meditation, healing, and self-discovery. This serene town, also known as the 'Place of Sages', is located at the confluence of the rivers Ganga and Chandrabhaga, adding a mystical charm to its surroundings. It is also fondly called the 'Adventure Capital of India' as visitors can enjoy river rafting, trekking, and various outdoor activities. The International Yoga Week, held every February, attracts spiritual seekers from all over the world.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama performed penance in Rishikesh after defeating Ravana, the antagonist of the Ramayana. It is also believed that the original Lakshman Jhula was built by Lord Rama’s younger brother Lakshmana using a jute rope to cross the Ganges. Rishikesh is home to several ancient temples, including Shatrughna Temple, Lakshman Mandir and Bharat Mandir. The town gained global recognition when The Beatles visited the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the late 1960s.
The main attractions of Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat: The term 'Triveni' means ‘three’ and ‘confluence’. It is believed that Triveni Ghat marks the meeting point of the sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Visitors are captivated by the divine atmosphere of the daily Maha Aarti performed at dusk. Legend says that Lord Krishna, after mistakenly being wounded by a hunter named Jara, visited Rishikesh. The Swami Narayan Mission Society operates boat services allowing tourists to enjoy enchanting views from the river.
Trayambakeshwar Temple: Located near the Lakshman Jhula, this towering temple is also known as the Tera Manzil Temple due to its 13 storeys. Founded by Adi Guru Shankaracharya in the 12th century, it houses a magnificent Shivalinga. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva fulfils the wishes of those who offer prayers here.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: This revered shrine of Lord Shiva is situated about 12 km from the main town, near the Nar Narayan mountain ranges. According to mythology, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison 'halahala' that emerged during the churning of the ocean (samudra manthan). Sculptures around the temple beautifully depict this legendary event.
Bharat Mandir: One of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, it is believed that Adi Guru Shankaracharya installed the idol of Lord Vishnu here on the auspicious day of Basant Panchami in 789 AD. This tradition continues to this day—every Basant Panchami, the Shaligram is taken for a holy dip in the Mayakund and then reinstated in the temple.
Laxman Jhula: Located close to the Ram Jhula, this famous suspension bridge is associated with the legend of Lakshmana crossing the Ganga on a jute rope. After repeated damage due to floods, the present 450-foot suspension bridge was rebuilt by the British in 1939.
In recent years, Rishikesh has emerged as a hotspot for adventure sports such as river rafting, kayaking, cliff diving, and bungee jumping. Visitors also enjoy learning classical dance, jewellery making, yoga, and meditation. Popular nearby destinations include Haridwar (20 km), Dehradun (46 km), Mussoorie (73 km), Hemkund Sahib (285 km), and the Valley of Flowers (290 km).
When to Reach: Tourists visit Rishikesh throughout the year. However, the best time is between August and October, and again in February and March.
How to Reach:
Air: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport, located about 35 km from Rishikesh.
Rail: The closest major railway station is in Haridwar, approximately 25 km away.
Road: Rishikesh is well connected by buses from Delhi, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Haridwar, and Mathura, making road travel convenient and accessible.
