Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is a spiritual haven and a renowned yoga capital of the world. Situated on the banks of the holy River Ganges, Rishikesh is known for its tranquil ambiance, ancient temples, and the presence of numerous ashrams and yoga centers. The city attracts spiritual seekers, yoga enthusiasts, and adventure lovers who come to experience its serene natural beauty and immerse themselves in the teachings of yoga and meditation.
Rishikesh experiences a moderate climate throughout the year. Summers, from April to June, are warm with temperatures ranging between 20°C (68°F) and 40°C (104°F). Winter season, from November to February, is cool, with temperatures dropping as low as 8°C (46°F). Monsoon season, from July to September, brings moderate to heavy rainfall, adding to the scenic beauty of the region.
Rishikesh is located in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand, northern India. It is approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) northeast of Delhi. The city is surrounded by lush green forests, with the Ganges flowing through it. Rishikesh serves as the gateway to the Char Dham Yatra (pilgrimage) and is in close proximity to other popular destinations like Haridwar and Dehradun.
Rishikesh has a rich historical and mythological significance. It is believed that Lord Rama, an important deity in Hindu mythology, performed penance at Rishikesh after defeating the demon king Ravana. The city also finds mention in various ancient Hindu scriptures and is regarded as one of the holiest places in India.
Rishikesh gained international recognition when the Beatles visited the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1960s to learn transcendental meditation. This visit put Rishikesh on the global map and sparked a wave of interest in yoga and spirituality, leading to the establishment of several ashrams and yoga centers in the city.
To travel to Rishikesh, you can take a private car and driver from Delhi. Discover India by Car offers custom tour packages for Rishikesh, providing you the opportunity to explore the spiritual and natural treasures of the city. Some of the best tour packages include visits to the famous Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula suspension bridges, attending yoga and meditation sessions in renowned ashrams, and partaking in adventurous activities like river rafting and trekking in the nearby mountains.
Located on the banks of the Ganges, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh. It offers a serene environment for yoga, meditation, and spiritual activities. The evening Ganga Aarti ceremony held here is a mesmerizing sight.
These iconic suspension bridges span across the Ganges and offer breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding mountains. The bridges are dotted with shops, temples, and ashrams, making them popular among tourists and pilgrims.
Situated amidst the lush green forests of the Pauri Garhwal district, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean.
Visit the ashram where the Beatles stayed and immersed themselves in transcendental meditation. The ruins of the ashram now serve as a pilgrimage site for music lovers and spiritual seekers.
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing spot where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers are believed to converge. It is an important place for performing rituals, and the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony here is a soul-stirring experience.
Located atop a hill, this temple offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and the sunrise or sunset. It is a revered site dedicated to Goddess Durga and attracts devotees and nature lovers alike.
Rishikesh’s serene and spiritual ambiance, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a destination where one can find solace, seek spiritual enlightenment, and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.