Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh

Rishikesh, India’s “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a popular destination for spiritual seekers, adventurers, and nature lovers. Its ashrams, yoga centers, and spiritual retreats attract global visitors. Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, two iconic suspension bridges, offer panoramic views of the river and surrounding hills. Rishikesh’s serene environment is ideal for meditation, yoga, and self-reflection. The city hosts spiritual leaders and gurus who offer teachings. Adventure activities like white-water rafting, trekking, camping, bungee jumping, and rock climbing attract thrill-seekers worldwide. Rishikesh’s unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty continues to captivate visitors.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand’s “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a popular destination for spiritual seekers, adventurers, and nature lovers. Located along the Ganges River, it boasts ashrams, yoga centers, and serene atmospheres, offering a blend of spirituality and adventure activities.

ATTRACTION

Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Suspension bridges, iconic architectural marvels with scenic views of the Ganges River and surrounding hills, also hold cultural and spiritual significance.

Triveni Ghat

A sacred bathing spot where pilgrims gather for ritual baths and prayers. The evening Ganga Aarti (ceremony) here is a mesmerizing experience.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram

A renowned ashram offering yoga and meditation retreats. It also hosts the International Yoga Festival annually, attracting practitioners from all over the world.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Situated amidst lush greenery, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a spiritual and architectural gem.

Byasi

The village near the Ganga River is a popular rafting and water sports destination, located 30 km from Rishikesh. The smooth road from Rishikesh to Byasi offers breathtaking views of the Ganga and hills.

Gita Bhawan

Gita Bhawan, located near Lakshman Jhula, houses a free Ayurvedic dispensary and a Gita Press branch, featuring beautifully illustrated walls depicting Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.

Swargashram

Swargashram, a cluster of ashrams on the eastern bank of the Ganga, is renowned for offering yoga and spiritual studies courses to tourists.

Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir, an ancient Rishikesh shrine built by sage Adi Shankaracharya, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, whose idol is carved from a single black stone, Saligram. The spring festival, Basant Panchami, is celebrated here.

Beatles Ashram

Known for its association with The Beatles, this abandoned ashram is now a graffiti-filled artistic space and a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

WHAT TO DO

Yoga and Meditation

Take part in yoga and meditation classes offered by various ashrams and centers. Rishikesh is renowned for its yoga teachings and spiritual atmosphere.

Rafting

Experience the ultimate river rafting adventure in Rishikesh, offering certified operators and instructors for all levels, with September to June being the best months for rafting and kayaking.

Attend Ganga Aarti

Experience the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan, where priests perform rituals accompanied by devotional songs and chants.

Camping and Bonfires

Experience camping under the stars along the Ganges or in the nearby forests, complete with bonfires, stargazing, and nature talks.

Bungee jumping

Mohanchatti in Rishikesh offers a thrilling bungee jumping experience, with a maximum height of 83m, and offers other adventures like flying fox, mountain swings, and paragliding.

Nature Walks

Enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills by taking leisurely walks along the Ganges banks or exploring nearby nature trails.

Zipline

Rishikesh offers a unique zipline experience in India, where participants are harnessed to a wire, slide down a 7m high wire, and then ascend at speeds of up to 160 kmph.