Rishikesh, often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World," is a popular destination for tourists seeking spiritual enrichment, adventure, and natural beauty. Some of the most visitable locations in Rishikesh include:
Triveni Ghat: A revered bathing ghat on the banks of the Ganges River where visitors can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening.
Parmarth Niketan: One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, offering yoga and meditation classes, spiritual discourses, and serene surroundings for contemplation.
Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: Iconic suspension bridges across the Ganges River, offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains.
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): The ashram where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s, now adorned with graffiti and murals, providing a glimpse into its hippie-era history.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated amidst lush forests and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Both bridges are pedestrian-only and serve as vital transportation links between the eastern and western banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. They are not only functional but also hold immense religious and cultural significance in the region, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience their beauty and spirituality
For adventure enthusiasts, Rishikesh offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities, including:
White-water Rafting: Experience the thrill of navigating through rapids on the Ganges River, with various difficulty levels suitable for beginners to experienced rafters.
Bungee Jumping: Plunge from a height of over 80 meters above the Ganges River, offering a heart-pounding adrenaline rush and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Trekking: Explore the scenic trails of the Himalayas surrounding Rishikesh, with options ranging from short day hikes to multi-day treks to nearby peaks and villages.
Camping: Spend a night under the stars amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, with riverside camping options available along the banks of the Ganges.
Reaching Rishikesh from Delhi is convenient and can be done via various modes of transportation:
By Road: Rishikesh is approximately 240 kilometers from Delhi, and the journey by road takes around 6-7 hours. Regular bus services operate between Delhi and Rishikesh, with both government and private operators offering comfortable AC and non-AC buses.
By Train: Rishikesh has its railway station, connected to Delhi and other major cities in India. Several trains, including the daily Shatabdi Express, run between Delhi and Rishikesh, with a travel time of around 6-7 hours.
By Air: The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 20 kilometers away. Daily flights operate between Delhi and Dehradun, with a flight duration of around 1 hour. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rishikesh.