Rishikesh is a city, municipal council and a tehsil located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, India. Specifically situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in the northern part of the country, it is known as the Yoga Capital of the World and the Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. It is also a popular destination for pilgrims, actually regarded as one of the holiest places to Hindus that was frequented by Hindu saints and sages in ancient times to meditate and search for higher knowledge.
In September 2015, Rishikesh and Haridwar were announced to be the first in the country to be given the title of “Twin National Heritage Cities”.
Sightseeing destinations in Rishikesh
The city is divided into 2 main areas, namely the crowded downtown area where you will find the popular and auspicious Triveni Ghat and the riverside communities where most of the ashrams, restaurants and travelers are seen. The Swarg Ashram, which is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges, is the spiritual center of Rishikesh, while the High Bank, which is west of Lakshman Jhula, is a small enclave that is popular among backpackers.
Top tour activities in Rishikesh
Here are some of the best things to do while in this marvelous city:
- Practice yoga - Rishikesh is not nicknamed the Yoga Capital of the World for nothing. It is home to a great number of yoga centers that attract tourists all year round. Many people believe that meditating in this city will bring you closer to attaining moksha, similar to dipping in the holy river that flows through it.
- Engage in white water rafting - Today, the city has become a popular spot for white water rafting, attracting enthusiasts from India and other countries to the medium to rough rapids in the Ganges.
- Try cliff jumping - Cliff jumping in this city will let you jump into the freezing waters, which sounds quite crazy, but an experience that you can brag about when you return home. Aside from this, Rishikesh is also a center for backpacking, bungee jumping, kataking, hiking, mountain biking, rappelling, rock climbing and zip lining.
Top tour attractions in Rishikesh
Among the many attractions that you will find in Rishikesh, here are those that you should prioritize on your trip:
- Triveni Ghat - This is a bathing ghat, where you can see thousands of people dipping in the water during mornings and evenings, as well as enjoying the Maha Aarti being performed. It can be very soothing to sit on the riverbanks and enjoy the cool breeze.
- Gita Bhavan - This is a place of Guru Shri Ram Sukh Daasji that is popular among the Hindu Brahmin Community. People gather at this ashram twice a year to read the Ramayana together.
- Swarg Ashram - Literally meaning the Heavenly Abode, this beautiful place is situated in picturesque surroundings at the foot of Himalayas, particularly on the left bank of the River Ganges between Laxmanjhula and Rishikesh. Basically, it is regarded as the spiritual ground zero of the city, filled with temples and ashrams.
Rishikesh sightseeing tours and activities
There are plenty more to see in this city, so you might want to check out all Rishikesh sightseeing tours and activities here at La Vacanza Travel.