Rishikesh, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a serene and spiritual destination that attracts travelers from around the world. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the Ganges River, Rishikesh is renowned for its natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure activities. Here are some of the must-visit places in Rishikesh that offer a diverse and enriching experience:
Triveni Ghat: Triveni Ghat is a sacred spot where three holy rivers—Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati—converge. Pilgrims and visitors gather here for the evening aarti (prayer ceremony), which is a mesmerizing experience. The rhythmic chanting, the glow of oil lamps, and the spiritual ambiance make it a must-attend event for those seeking tranquility.
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: These iconic suspension bridges are not only engineering marvels but also hold mythological significance. Laxman Jhula is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama's brother, Laxman, crossed the Ganges on a jute rope. Similarly, Ram Jhula is named after Lord Rama and connects the Swarg Ashram area with Sivananda Ashram. The bridges offer panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): In 1968, The Beatles visited Rishikesh to attend a transcendental meditation session at the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The abandoned ashram is now a popular tourist attraction, known for its graffiti-covered walls and the serene meditation huts where The Beatles once stayed. It's a place where history, music, and spirituality converge.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Located amidst dense forests and hills, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is associated with the mythological story of Lord Shiva consuming the poison during the churning of the ocean, turning his throat blue (neelkanth). The architecture and spirituality of the temple attract devotees and nature enthusiasts alike.
Rajaji National Park: For wildlife enthusiasts, Rajaji National Park is a short drive from Rishikesh and offers a chance to witness diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of deer. Jeep safaris and nature walks provide an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Himalayan foothills.
Parmarth Niketan: Parmarth Niketan is one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, situated on the banks of the Ganges. It offers yoga and meditation programs, along with daily Ganga Aarti that attracts a large number of visitors. The serene environment and spiritual teachings make it a haven for those seeking inner peace and holistic well-being.
Shivpuri: For adventure seekers, Shivpuri is the gateway to thrilling activities like white-water rafting and camping. The stretch of the Ganges near Shivpuri is renowned for its rapids, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the picturesque surroundings.
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a state located in the northern part of India. It was formed on 9 November 2000 as the 27th state of India. The state is known for its scenic beauty and is often referred to as the "Land of the Gods" due to the presence of numerous Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers. The state has a total area of 53,483 square kilometers and is bordered by Tibet in the north, Nepal in the east, and the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the south and Himachal Pradesh to the west. Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand.
Rishikesh
If you want to see nature closely and also have fun, then you can visit Rishikesh located in Uttarakhand. The distance from Rishikesh to Delhi is about 244 kilometers. Here you will get to see the high views of the high mountains, the river Ganges and the nature. Here you can enjoy rafting, waterfall, trekking, bungee jumping and climbing.
Rajaji National Park
As the first wildlife conservation centre in the state, Motichur Wildlife Sanctuary was established in Dehradun District in 1935, which joined Rajaji National Park in 1983. The area spans 820.42 sq. The park is composed of Motichur Sanctuary, Cheela Sanctuary and Rajaji Sanctuary. The Rajaji National Park, counted among the major wildlife parks in the country, is home to 315 species of birds and 23 species of mammal. The flocks of Gajraj increase its glory.