Rishikesh

North Indian City Guide - Rishikesh

As it is known, ‘Yoganagri’ or the ‘Yoga capital’ Rishikesh is a perfect blend of art, culture, beauty, and serenity all in one destination. This city situated in Uttrakhand is blessed with the River Ganges that flows across it and the magnificient “Garhwal Himalayas,” to which it becomes the gateway. The place is renowned as one of the holiest cities for Hindus.

Rishikesh - City Guide

The city was a spot for sages and saints who came to meditate here. This culture of meditation still prevails and is widely popular among tourists. Surrounded by several ashrams and many old and new temples, the city never runs out of its culture and trademark. It also has one of the oldest ashram of India namely ‘Swarg Ashram’.

One of the famous ashrams here is the ‘Maharshi Mahesh Yogi Ashram’ which is popularly known as the ‘Beatles Ashram’ after the popular music band visited Maharshi Mahesh Yogi for a meditation program in 1968.

The ashram which got abandoned in 1997, still continues to attract visitors with its popular history and old buildings and stone - huts. We also have the popular ‘Lakshman Jhula’, a 450 feet long iron suspension bridge. It gets its name from the belief that Lord Lakshmana had crossed the River Ganges via a jute bridge which has been renovated today to suit the use.

Among the different places to visit in Rishikesh, the pious Triveni Ghat stands out as a must visit. It is believed to be the most devoted part of the city, where the confluence of the three sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswathy takes place. It is also mentioned in the Hindu mythologies like Ramayana and Mahabharata on several occasions. One must not miss the evening Maha Aarti (religious ritual of worship with lights and incense) that takes place every evening between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Take a boat ride to explore the beauty of the Ghats which gets enhanced by the devotees who worship in their own ways.

Owing to its location and natural beauty, Rishikesh goes ahead by being the hotspot for adventure lovers. It is famous for white water rafting, which takes place in Kudiyala and is known to be the toughest of its kind. Bungee jumping is another attraction that lures people who want to try something different. That’s how Rishikesh becomes a perfect getaway for people of all ages and interests.

Climatic Condition

Situated on the foothills of Himalays, Rishikesh remains pleasant throughout the year. The summer months of March to June experience temperatures between 20° C and 35°C. Monsoons face heavy rainfall while the winters turn very cold. Nights are colder here with temperatures around 8° C during winter that ranges from October to February.

Major Attractions

Beatles Ashram, Swarg Ashram, Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Kudiyala, Vashishta Gufa, Rishi Kund – natural hot water spring, Neer Garh Waterfall

Best Time to Visit

October to March