Rishikesh Uttarakhand

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Rishikesh, Place for Pilgrim and Adventure

Famously known as the Yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is a quiet haven for those who seek tranquility from a fast-paced life. Located in Uttarakhand, about twenty-five kilometers from Haridwar, Rishikesh is a small town that encapsulates faith and Hinduism like no other town in India.

Situated on the banks of the holy river the Ganges and the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Rishikesh attracts flocks of tourists throughout the year. The town is one of the famous pilgrimage sites in the country. Rishikesh is also a premium holiday destination because of the stretch of the River Ganges that allows adventurers for river rafting and kayaking. Other locations near the town let them opt for other adventure sports such as mountaineering, cliff jumping, hiking, trekking, bungee jumping, etc.

The best way to experience this beautiful town and understand its actual relevance is to visit it.

History - Pilgrim City Rishikesh

Rishikesh’s roots trace back to the legendary Kedarkhand (Garhwal region). Legend has it that Rama performed penance here for killing Ravana. Impressed by Ram, Lord Vishnu appeared to him here in his avatar of “Hrishikesh.” Rishikesh derives its name from that. The Skanda Purana’s Kedar Khand also speaks of Indrakund, which existed in Rishikesh.

Lakshman Jhula’s place believes that Lakshman crossed the Ganges River using a jute rope. The jute bridge was replaced by an iron one in 1889. It was followed by the floods of 1924 when the bridge washed away. It had again rebuilt by the present-day bridge, which is much stronger.

It is a cultural, mythical, and religious heritage like this that draws thousands of tourists to Rishikesh every year. Home to hundreds of prominent and smaller temples, this town on the banks of the holy River Ganges has a sacred resting place for many saints and sages since time immemorial.

Rishikesh Visiting Places

Laxman Jhula

One of the main attractions of Rishikesh, the Laxman Jhula, is located at a distance of five kilometers from the city. Till 1889, there was a jute rope in the modern-day Laxman Jhula, which steel ropes had replaced in 1939. The bridge exists between Rishikesh and Tapovan. You will also find a temple dedicated to Laxman close to the Laxman Jhula.

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is the meeting point of the three rivers of Saraswati, Kapil, and Hiran. This place is where the aarti of Goddess Ganga performs every evening, which is the main attraction of Rishikesh city.

Trayambakeshwar Temple

This ancient temple locates in Rishikesh city. There are thirteen deities in the temple that reside on different levels, making it a popular destination for pilgrims.

Swarg Ashram

Located just one kilometer from the Trayambakeshwar Temple, this ashram is a township in itself. There are parks, Ayurveda centers, temples, restaurants, libraries in the township.

Gita Bhawan

Gita Bhawan is a trendy tourist destination in Rishikesh town. This large complex locates on the banks of the Ganga. It houses a temple, retail shops, accommodations for devotees, and a banyan tree.

Kunjpuri

The Kunjapuri Devi Temple is at a distance of 25 kilometers from Rishikesh. This temple considers amongst the 52 Shakti Peeths in Uttarakhand. It is locating at the edge of the mountain, an ideal trekking destination from Rishikesh. Travelers trek towards the temple to watch the beautiful sunrise view from there.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 32 kilometers from Rishikesh and is a popular tourist destination. Every year thousands of devotees visit this temple to worship Lord Shiva.

Rishikund And Raghunath Temple

The Raghunath temple resides on the Triveni Ghat, and Rishikund locates very near to the Raghunath temple. The Rishikund believes to be blessed by Goddess Yamuna, and it is her waters that fill the pool.

When To Visit Rishikesh?

Rishikesh boasts of a continental climate throughout the year. But the most pleasant weather to visit Rishikesh is from February-March and August-October. The best time to visit Rishikesh for river rafting is from the third week of September to the second week of November when the weather is mild.

How to Reach Rishikesh?

By Air

Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport to the town of Rishikesh. It is located 20 km away from Rishikesh. You can book a taxi to get to the town from here.

By Train

Rishikesh is well connected to major cities of the country through trains. You can catch a train to Rishikesh from Delhi, Mumbai, Dehradun etc.

By Road

Rishikesh is well connected via road as well. There are regular bus services from New Delhi, Haridwar, Shimla, Chandigarh, Nainital etc., which you can avail. You may also drive to Rishikesh in a hired car or bring your own car. Make sure you have an elaborate map with you that mists the major highways etc.