All those who are seeking spiritual growth, wellness, and a deeper connection with themselves must plan a getaway to Rishikesh. Also known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is the only city in India that has earned a reputation as a hub for yoga, meditation, and alternative healing practices, making it a popular destination for people looking for inner peace and rejuvenation. Book Rishikesh Tour packages with Rishikesh Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA and experience a unique holiday away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the key aspects of Rishikesh tourism is its numerous ashrams. These institutions offer a range of yoga and meditation programs, spiritual retreats, and wellness workshops. Visitors can enroll in yoga classes led by experienced teachers to learn and practice various yoga postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. The serene environment of Rishikesh provides an ideal setting for self-reflection and self-improvement.
Adventure is another facet of Rishikesh's allure. The city is a gateway to the majestic Himalayas and offers thrilling activities like river rafting, trekking, camping, rock climbing, and bungee jumping. Adventure enthusiasts flock to Rishikesh to embark on these adrenaline-pumping experiences amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Rishikesh is also a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions. The city hosts various cultural festivals, music concerts, and spiritual gatherings throughout the year. Travelers have the opportunity to witness and participate in cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of the region. These events often include classical music and dance performances, spiritual discourses, and art exhibitions.
Furthermore, Rishikesh is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly destination, offering a wide range of healthy and organic dining options. Many cafes and restaurants serve delicious vegetarian cuisine, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can savor nourishing meals and explore the concept of conscious eating.
You can do all this and a lot more that this tourist attraction boasts to keep its visitors' interest glued all the time with our Rishikesh tour packages. Below we have mentioned the top 5 sightseeing places in Rishikesh that you should cover, whether you’re here for a day or two.
1. Laxman Jhula
One of the famous landmarks in the holy city of Rishikesh is the Laxman Jhula. It is a suspension bridge that spans across the Ganges River, connecting two villages, Tapovan and Jonk, which are situated on opposite sides of the river.
The bridge is named after Lord Rama's brother, Laxman, from the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to legend, Laxman crossed the river at the same spot where the bridge stands today, using a jute rope. The current suspension bridge was constructed in 1929, replacing the original jute rope bridge and it is made of iron and steel.
The bridge offers panoramic views of the Ganges River, the surrounding hills, and the lush greenery of Rishikesh. Many devotees and tourists visit Laxman Jhula to soak in its spiritual aura and enjoy the serene ambiance.
It is believed that taking a walk across the bridge washes away one's sins and purifies the soul. Numerous ashrams, temples, and yoga centers are located in the vicinity of the bridge, attracting spiritual seekers from all over the world.
Apart from its religious significance, Laxman Jhula is also a vibrant and bustling area. The bridge is flanked by shops, stalls, and small cafes that sell religious artifacts, handicrafts, books, clothing, and local snacks. Visitors can indulge in some retail therapy or savor delicious vegetarian cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking views.
2. Triveni Ghat
Counted among the busiest ghats in Rishikesh, Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing spot that holds immense spiritual significance among the locals as well as tourists. It is a place where people gather to perform religious rituals, take a dip in the holy waters, and witness the grand evening aarti, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should experience.
The name "Triveni" is derived from the confluence of three rivers—Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is believed that Lord Krishna visited this spot during his time on Earth, and hence, Triveni Ghat holds a special place in the hearts of devotees.
Pilgrims flock to Triveni Ghat to take part in the ancient ritual of the Ganga Aarti. This daily ceremony takes place during the evening, just after sunset, and is a magnificent spectacle to behold. Not only the ghat comes alive with the sound of bells and the chanting of mantras but it also looks charismatic with the mesmerizing sight of oil lamps being waved rhythmically. The aarti is accompanied by devotional songs and hymns that create an enchanting and divine ambiance.
3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The next attraction that draws a huge influx of visitors every year is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Situated amidst the lush greenery of the Garhwal Himalayas, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu temple that drives its name from Lord Shiva who, according to Hindu mythology, consumed poison, which turned his throat blue and this is how it was named Neelkanth.
Devotees flock to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple throughout the year, but it holds special significance during the holy month of Shravan (July-August) and on Maha Shivaratri, the great night of Lord Shiva. On these occasions, the temple premises come alive with fervor and devotion. Pilgrims offer prayers, light oil lamps, and perform rituals to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
In addition to its religious significance, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the temple premises, one can behold the picturesque valleys, majestic mountains, and the flowing Ganges River, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual serenity.
4. Neer Garh Waterfall
Visit Neer Garh Waterfall to soak in its pristine beauty. It is a breathtaking natural wonder that adds another layer of charm to this already mesmerizing tourist destination in India that is frequented by domestic as well as international travelers from all over the world.
The most striking feature of Neer Garh Waterfall is its accessibility. Unlike some other waterfalls that require strenuous hikes, this waterfall can be reached with a relatively easy trek through a scenic forest trail.
The journey takes you through thick vegetation, crossing small streams and picturesque bridges, adding to the adventure and anticipation. Nature lovers will appreciate the rich biodiversity along the way as the trail is dotted with diverse flora and fauna.
Once you reach the waterfall, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view. The water plunges from a considerable height creating a veil of mist and a cool breeze provides respite from the heat, especially during the summer months.
The large rock formations around the waterfall offer seating and picnic spots, allowing visitors to relax and admire the beauty of the surroundings. The pools formed by the cascading water provide a tempting opportunity for a refreshing dip, but caution is advised due to the strong currents.
5. Beatles Ashram
Enjoy a unique blend of musical history, spirituality, and natural beauty at the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh. Nestled amidst the tranquil forests of the Rajaji National Park, the Beatles Ashram allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere that once captivated the legendary British band, The Beatles, and experience a slice of their extraordinary journey.
It serves as a bridge between the worlds of music and spirituality, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who venture to this magical place.
Walking through the ashram, visitors can observe colorful murals and graffiti adorning the walls, depicting the influence of the Beatles' visit. The decaying structures, overgrown with moss and surrounded by nature's embrace, create an atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
The tranquil surroundings and the echoes of the band's music in the air evoke a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the past.
Please note that the Beatles Ashram is not just a pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts; it also serves as a reminder of the significance of Rishikesh as a spiritual hub. The ashram stands as a symbol of the transformative power of meditation and the profound impact it had on the lives and artistry of the Beatles.
In summary, Rishikesh offers an experience that goes beyond its sightseeing places. To explore the best of it, you can book an all-inclusive Rishikesh tour package with us. We at Rishikesh Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA, present a variety of travel packages to address the varied needs of our diverse clientele.
Our key to success is personalization and we don’t mind going the extra mile to add inclusions to the shortlisted Rishikesh tour package. In case you need any alternation with the itinerary, we’d be happy to do that for you. Please fill out the Contact Us form to learn more about our services.
How to Reach Rishikesh?
Rishikesh is well-connected and easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are the ways to reach Rishikesh:
By Air: The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, which is approximately 15 km away. It has regular flights connecting major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Rishikesh.
By Train: Rishikesh has its own railway station called Rishikesh Railway Station, situated in the heart of the city. However, it is a small station with limited connectivity. The major railway junction close to Rishikesh is Haridwar Junction, which is well-connected to the metro railheads of the country. From Haridwar, you can easily find buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws to reach Rishikesh, which is around 20 km away.
By Road: Rishikesh is well-connected by a network of roads and highways. It is located on National Highway 58, which connects it to Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. You can reach Rishikesh by bus, car, or taxi from nearby cities. State-owned buses as well as private buses ply regularly between Rishikesh and other major tourist destinations in North India. The road journey to Rishikesh offers scenic views of the Himalayan foothills.
Once you reach Rishikesh, choose from the local transportation options such as auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis from the list of top car rental companies in Rishikesh to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your ease. It is advisable to check the latest travel information and schedules before planning your trip to Rishikesh, as transportation options and routes may vary depending on the season and current circumstances.
