The Lakshman Jhula
One of the well-known hanging bridges over the revered Ganga can be found here. The jhula connects two significant settlements in Rishikesh. It links the communities of Jonk in Pauri Garhwal and Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal. The over 450-foot-long iron bridge is suspended nearly 70 feet above the river, and it is composed of iron. Since its creation, Lakshman Jhula has been a major tourist destination thanks to its incredible ties to Hindu mythology. According to the Ramayan, a well-known Hindu mythology, it is thought that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman crossed the Ganga river at the same location where the bridge was built. In 1929, the bridge was made accessible to the public.
In recent years, numerous new constructions have been made near the well-known Lakshman Jhula in an effort to increase tourist traffic. Nowadays, tourists enjoy spending a lot of time in these locations throughout their Rishikesh trip. and an automobile might be shared to get here. Rishikesh railway station (4 km) and Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, are the closest stations to Lakshman Jhula (22 kms).
Bharat Mandir Rishikesh
A revered temple in the city’s centre, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rishikesh. It is thought to be one of the nation’s oldest religious sites and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Rishikesh is like a two-sided coin; on one side, it offers activities like camping in the foothills of the Himalayas, thrilling river rafting in the Ganges, and trekking. According to popular tradition, Rishikesh and Bharat Mandir have both existed for a very long time.
According to legend, Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya restored the current deity of this temple in 789 AD on the auspicious day of Basant Panchnami. Even today, visitors to this temple throng here on the same day of the Hindu calendar to take part in a magnificent parade in which the idol of Lord Hrishikesh is removed from the temple, immersed in holy water, and then returned. The primary deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, whose idol was fashioned from a single piece of black stone. It is thought that the temple was called after “Bharat,” the brother of Lord Ram.
According to legend, the Pandava brothers sought refuge and offered prayers to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan in this temple after the battle of Kurukshetra while en route to paradise.
The Divine Mother is said to be the one who bestows life in the form of water on the river Ganga, according to Hindu beliefs and culture. The Ganga is worshipped at the Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh. Both in the morning and in the evening, thousands of visitors assemble to witness the aarti, during which priests chant the Ganga mantras while holding three-tiered diyas and fire bowls in their hands. At the same moment, the bells of the temples at the ghat begin to sound, creating a magical ambiance.
To express their respect, they float diyas down the river. Even though the dawn-inspired early morning aartis are also lovely, the evening aartis, with its colourful lighting from candles and diyas, attracts more attention.
Parmarth Niketan’s Ganga Aarti
An enjoyable way to worship the Ganga is through the Ganga aarti. Everyday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., a large number of people attend the Ganga aarti (Daily). Seeing so many diyas floating in the Ganges is amazing. In Rishikesh, you may find a lot of priests doing Ganges Aarti in the evening, but Parmarth Niketan Ashram is the most well-known location. Both visitors and devotees love it for its Ganga Aarti at sunset.
It is planned and carried out by Vedic priests, especially the young students of the Vedas. The beginning of an aarti consists of the recitation of a few mantras, the singing of bhajans, prayers, and a sacred rite in which Agni, the god of fire, is honoured. The positive energy from the fire spreads across the area. You can either join them in singing Bhajans while you sit quietly and with your hands folded. Numerous pilgrims attend the Ganga aarti every day.
Triveni Ghat’s Ganga Aarti
Another well-known location in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat, where the “Maha Aarti” is performed. This aarti begins with bhajan chanting, drumming, bells, and the offering of diyas to the Ganga. The bells at the temples at the Ghat begin to ring, the priests hold enormous fire bowls in their palms, and mantra chanting fills the air. Every night during Maha Arti, the Ghat is illuminated.The worshippers float down the river with diyas and flowers they have collected from the Ghat. At Triveni Ghat, additional rituals like mundan and Pindha Shraddha are performed for the ancestors.
The most respected holy bathing location in Rishikesh, it is frequented by pilgrims on special occasions such Ganga Dussehra, Ekadashi, and Purnima.People who take a bath at Triveni Ghat are said to cleanse their souls of all sin and find salvation once they pass away. At Triveni Ghat, daily morning and evening aartis are performed in front of several spectators. Sitting by the Ganga River and taking in the refreshing breeze is relaxing.
Ram Jhula in Rishikesh
It is a suspension bridge with a length of around 450 feet that is made entirely of iron. It was built by the PWD in the year 1986. Sivananda Nagar in Muni Ki Reti, in the district of Tehri Garhwal, in the west, and Swargashram in the district of Pauri Garhwal, in the east, are connected by the bridge, which spans the holy Ganga river. This bridge is located in the state of Uttarakhand, around 3 kilometres from Rishikesh’s centre. It is conveniently close to Rishikesh, and if you enjoy taking lengthy strolls through breathtaking countryside, you may even walk the entire length of the bridge. The bridge can be crossed by bicycles or on foot.
The side of the bridge is lined by a number of revered ashrams, Hindu temples, and other religious buildings. These ashrams, with their serenity, friendliness, and religiosity, embody the true spirit of Rishikesh.Viewing the holy city of Rishikesh from the bridge itself while it is surrounded by the river and towering mountains is one of the most unforgettable experiences you may have at the Ram Jhula.
The Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh
Also known as the Guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a former ashram in the backstreets of Rishikesh where the Fab Four participated in a transcendental meditation session. During their time in this location in 1968, the English rock band wrote over 50 songs. Ringo Starr spent 10 days in Rishikesh, Paul McCartney spent 5 weeks, and John Lennon and George Harrison spent 8 weeks learning meditation in the spiritually enlightening surroundings of the celestial city after being enchanted by the magnificent aura of the holy township. Music aficionados from all over the world are drawn to the Chaurasi Kutia, commonly known as “The Beatles Ashram,” by the murals of John Lennon and other band members that dominate its façade and walls.
In the Mahesh Yogi Ashram, one can view the destroyed buildings, graffiti art, and various flowery designs that people have illegitimately painted. The location was ultimately made accessible to the general public and designated as a tourist hub in December 2015. To commemorate the passing of fifty years since the Beatles band first arrived in Rishikesh, an exhibition was staged at the Beatles Ashram in February 2018.
Jadh Ganga Trek
The area and the trail have been able to preserve their untainted beauty for a long time, along with the virginity and peace of the setting. The roaring streams, pure glaciers, and magnificent environment only enhance this location’s appeal. Heinrich Harrer and his friends used the Jadh Ganga Trek route in May 1944 to escape the jail in Dehradun, and it is regarded as one of the hardest and most taxing treks in north Uttarakhand. They travelled across the Aglar valley, crossed the Nag Tibba ridge, and eventually arrived in Nelang, Jadh Ganga.
They continued on from there in the direction of Naga, Sonam, Dosindhu, Tirpani, and ultimately Pulamsunda. They then began to climb upward along the Mendi, the first Jadh tributary, until they reached Tsangchok La, which they overcame seven miles after leaving Dehradun. If you decide to go on towards Mana Pass and Saraswati Tal before ending your walk at Badrinath Temple, you’ll experience a different kind of adventure. The trek is a life-changing event that is both exhausting and exhilarating.
Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh
The confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is known as Triveni Ghat. It is one of Rishikesh’s largest and most well-known ghats as well as one of the most venerated places for holy bathing. Every evening, the well-known Ganga Aarti is performed at Triveni Ghat. It is a common misconception that bathing in Triveni Ghat cleanses your soul and removes all of your sins. It is one of Rishikesh’s most well-known ghats and a lovely location to view the nightly Ganga Aarti.
According to folklore, the Ghat is where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet, giving it special significance. According to Hindu legend, a bath in the holy Ganga water close to the ghat will wash away all of your sins. The ghat is revered. After all, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, two of our great epics, both reference this ghat. The area typically draws pilgrims, adventurers, and devotees of God.
Sivananda Ashram
Sivananda Ashram Tourists frequently visit the ashram since it is a renowned centre for yoga and meditation and the ideal place to attend Satsang. Yoga enthusiasts and people looking for spiritual guidance frequently visit this tourist destination. Near Ram Jhula, 3 kilometres from Rishikesh and on the route to Badrinath, is where you’ll find the Sivananda Ashram. Swami Sivananda established it in 1936. This ashram is a part of the Divine Life Society’s premier yoga facility in India. If you enjoy reading and are interested in Vedic philosophy, you must visit the ashram’s excellent book store. They provide a variety of services, including Karma yoga for spiritual development.
Yoga instruction at this ashram is renowned across the world. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is one of a lengthy list of well-known people who have visited Ashram. Rishikesh is 3 miles away, the Rishikesh Railway Station is 6 km away, and Jolly Grant Airport is 10 km away. Check-in and check-out are both possible anytime after 12:00. There are classes for meditation and yoga every day. The Ashram hosts nightly and early morning Satsang. God’s worship is something we do every day. The evening yoga lessons are designed specifically with women in mind.
Neer Garh Waterfall
To get to the waterfall, you must hike through a forest and down a cliff for about a kilometre. A thrilling activity to perform before dipping into the water for a refreshing, relaxing soak in one of the pool’s is hiking the trail. Neer Garh Waterfall, which plunges from a height of 25 feet, offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the captivating surroundings. You will need to climb up to the waterfall to see its true beauty because no car can drop you off there. 1.5 kilometres separate the drop-off location from the waterfall. You would have to navigate the inclining paths that wind through the coniferous forest’s dense undergrowth. If you are an experienced hiker, you might complete this distance in as little as 45 minutes to an hour.
The path leading to the paradise of flowing water is lined with a variety of plants and fauna. To capture some of the amazing shots to brag about to your friends, you must have your camera with you. On your way, you would cross two shabby bridges and some white-gushing creeks. Additionally, you’ll be mesmerised by the striking panoramas of the far snow-capped mountains and the deep valley.
Rishikund
Is a sacred body of water next to the Raghunath temple in Rishikesh. The Goddess Yamuna is said to have blessed this old pond by filling it with her holy water after Kubz Saint constructed it. is a naturally occurring hot spring pond that the town reveres as a sacred pool of water. According to legend, the pond first got wet when a sage received the River Yamuna’s blessing. Locals also think that Lord Rama took a bath in the kund while he was in exile and that the Ganges and Yamuna rivers converge here. Whatever the truth of the narrative, it is impossible to ignore the pond’s peaceful atmosphere when you are here.
This holy pond’s constant reflection of Raghunath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ram and Sita, is another intriguing feature. Rishikund has about ten steps on each of its four sides, and the huge trees close by cast a decent amount of shade over its pond. Visitors used to unwind at Rishikund because it is a tranquil setting. The most widely accepted legend surrounding this sacred pond, which is situated adjacent to the Triveni Ghat, claims that it was formerly a havan kund. Because the holy Ganges was not flowing close in ancient times, it caused chaos among the populace.
A small group of devout believers performed a yagna here to appease Mother Ganges, and as a result, Goddess Yamuna emerged and remained here permanently.
Another thrilling activity in Rishikesh is cliff jumping. The majority of the exercise is completed while swimming, rafting, or simply having a bath in the river. It really merely involves jumping into the river from a great height, i.e., a steep cliff. This is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh and is regarded as one of the most exhilarating water sports. In addition to being a haven for adventurers, Rishikesh serves as the centre for bungee jumping, one of the riskiest yet most thrilling of these pursuits. The participant for the activity jumps off of a very tall structure, flying around freely before being restrained and brought back down. A lengthy elastic cord that is fastened to the building or other fixed structure ties the participant up.
This sport can occasionally be done from a hot air balloon or a helicopter if you want to be even more daring. Basically anything that is able to float in the air over the earth. The excitement of free falling and recoil is the activity’s USP. The cord initially unwinds to allow the individual to fall freely, then it recoils to lift them back up. Then it oscillates, stops, and lowers the person into the water softly. Jumpin Heights is the ideal location to try this adventure activity.
This adventure sports facility also offers a large swing and a flying fox in addition to bungee jumping. You can find everything here, from knowledgeable instructors to the bungee jumping equipment. Additionally, you can capture your response on camera. Everyone who is an adventure seeker and is in the area should go bungee jumping. This is India’s highest bungee jumping platform, standing 83 metres high. As your heart begins to pound loudly, stand on a platform created on a steep cliff, take in the magnificent panorama of lush green trees and River Hall, summon up the confidence, and leap.
Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh
This should be high on your list of must-see attractions in Rishikesh if breathing in the spiritual atmosphere is one of your travel motivations. On the outskirts of Rishikesh, along the banks of the River Ganga, is a Hindu sacred site. The precise translation of Muni Ki Reti is “Sands of Sages,” and it is thought that King Bharat underwent penance here. It is a significant religious pilgrimage site close to Rishikesh and is regarded as the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage. Therefore, it has a number of ashrams that offer pilgrims basic amenities to aid them in their spiritual journey. Numerous Hindu temples, yoga studios, and ashrams can be found nearby.
This is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Rishikesh for culture vultures hoping to capture the essence of Hinduism. As a widely revered pilgrimage, throngs of devotees as well as visitors can be seen partaking in rituals and bathing in the River Ganga’s sacred waters. In Uttarakhand, Muni ki Reti is the traditional entrance to the Char Dham pilgrimages. It is also thought to be the same spot where the venerable Indian King Bharat performed penance.
There were only a few Ashrams in Rishikesh here at first, including Kailash Ashram, Swargashram, and Shivananda Ashram, but later more Ashrams were built there. Following the erection of Ram Jhula, it is now easily accessible and draws practitioners of yoga and meditation.
Tera Manzil Temple in Rishikesh
The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and the expansive view of the surrounding area it provides from its top floor. Visit all thirteen of Tera Manzil Temple’s floors while there to see the fervour that permeates the entire structure! This temple in Rishikesh features several deities, which gives you the incredible opportunity to worship them all at once, in contrast to other Rishikesh temples that are devoted to a single deity.
It is one of the most revered temples in the area due to its symmetrical architecture, attractive setting, and the sanctity that permeates the atmosphere. From the summit of the temple, sometimes referred to as the Trayambakeshwar or Trimbakeshwar Temple, visitors may take in expansive views of the surroundings. You can reach this revered temple in Rishikesh by walking just a short distance from other major highlights like Lakshman Jhula.
The best rafting in India, and specifically in Rishikesh, is without a doubt. The location has the best to offer, both in terms of the exceptional natural surroundings and the top-notch professional support. There are specialised camping and rafting packages available in Rishikesh, as well as a few recognised operators with excellent safety precautions. If you want a stress-free outing, operators will take care of your food, water, and rafting arrangements.
Rishikesh gets quite congested during the busy season, so take that in mind while making your plans. Three distinct river segments, with lengths ranging from 9 km to 26 km, are available for rafting. Rafting in Rishikesh is perfect for everyone, whether you’re looking for extreme adventure or are just getting started. These stretches have grade 3, grade 4, and grade 5 rapids. The rafting adventure also provides opportunities for cliff jumping and body surfing to increase your adrenaline rush.
Rajaji National Park
Although close to the metropolis, it offers a thrilling wild serenity. That is part of the Rajaji National Park’s appeal, which is most known for its abundance of elephants. The park is renowned for its picturesque beauty and great bio-diversity and is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas close to Haridwar and Rishikesh. It is also home to a large variety of birds as well as elephants, tigers, leopards, deers, and ghorals.
In 1983, three sanctuaries in Uttarakhand – Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla, were combined into one sizable protected area and given the name in honour of Late C. Rajagopalachari, well known as “Rajaji,” a freedom fighter and the nation’s first governor general. Asian elephants are restricted to this region to the northwest. Rajaji, which spans an area of 820.42 sq km and is located in the Shivalik hills at the beginning of the huge Indo-Gangetic plains, is a wonderful environment that represents the vegetation of various diverse zones and forest types.
Numerous unusual animal and plant species can be found there. Himalayan Yellow-Throated Marten, Indian Porcupine, Nilgai, Hanuman Langur, Common Krait, Indian Cobra, Crested Kingfisher, Great Hornbill, and Lineated Barbet are just a few of the fascinating creatures that may be spotted in the park.
Swarg Ashram in Rishikesh
On the eastern banks of the Ganga River, Swarg Ashram is decked. One such ashram is one of Rishikesh’s oldest and most well-known ashrams. As a result of the abundance of temples and ashrams, Rishikesh is a bustling pilgrimage destination. Swarg Ashram, located in the holy city of Rishikesh, is a haven for yogis and people in search of spirituality. The ashram is well-liked by Western tourists because it perfectly captures Indian spirituality. Numerous foreign nationals travel to this location for “Yoga Tours” and “Ayurvedic Medicine” studies.
This Ashram was established by Swami Atma Prakash. It is a facility whose mission is to achieve harmony between the body, mind, and soul. The ashram is home to the Akash Ganga and Dani Kothi structures. The hostel Akash Ganga features a large yoga room and a canteen.Dani Kothi, however, is a structure used for administration.
The awe-inspiring city’s stupor and allure narrate the most illustrious and historic episodes in Hindu mythology. The temple is a revered pilgrimage site and is 32 miles away from Rishikesh. The Shiva dwelling is located 1330 metres above sea level between the Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot valleys. The Neelkanth temple, which is located at the confluence of the Pankaja and Madhumati rivers, is surrounded by thick woods and strong mountain ranges of Nar-Narayan. Huge crowds of devotees visit this location during the months of Shrawan and Shivratri to show their support for the powerful Shiva. To correct doshas (faults) in the stars, one can make prayers or hire respected Hindu priests to perform a big Pooja.
You will be astounded by the temple’s magnificent architecture because every last detail was carefully executed without the aid of modern technology. There are various booths around the temple that sell souvenirs and Pooja supplies. Many visitors prefer to hike their way up the temple because the path leading there is also exciting. There is a natural spring inside the temple where worshippers frequently bathe. Coconuts, milk, honey, flowers, and fruits can all be offered to the Lord. This old Shiva temple is not only worth visiting for the mystic story that surrounds it, but also for the beautiful views of the mountains and valleys it displays while you’re here.
Shivpuri
There is no better place in India to go river rafting than this “Abode of Lord Shiva,” which is so pristine, tranquil, and full of adventure. Shivpuri, a peaceful town on the banks of the River Ganga 20 kilometres from Rishikesh, is brimming with life, laughter, adventure, and nature’s many delights. Shivpuri is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rishikesh because river rafting is not only exciting but also incredibly gorgeous, with the white rapids below, lush, dense forest on each side, and a view of the magnificent mountains in the distance.
You can experience the well-known river rapids like Return to Sender, Roller Coaster, Double Trouble, and Hilton while river rafting down the Ganges straight up to Ramjhula Rishikesh for approximately 16 km of twisting and turning and skipped heartbeats. If you need more adventure while you’re here, you may also give other adrenaline-pumping activities like body surfing, cliff jumping, and rock climbing a shot. Other activities that you can partake in include camping in rishikesh, jungle walks, beach camping, mountaineering, and jungle trekking.
Shivpuri is the destination for everyone looking for calm and renewal, among other things. You will get the chance to learn yoga and meditation practises while you are visiting Shivpuri. Yoga Camps and even the revered Shiva Temples provide early morning yoga and relaxation programmes.
The Osho Gangadham
If you are experiencing tension and worry, Osho Gangadham, a well-known ashram established by the spiritual teacher Osho, is the place to find serenity. Make Osho Gangadham your home for a few days to find tranquilly in Rishikesh’s enlivening environment. The ashram offers a distinctive range of therapies and sessions that have been scientifically proven to help people relax to the fullest extent possible.
The Osho Gagadham ashram in Rishikesh, which is situated on the banks of the River Ganga, includes lovely accommodations with all the necessities, roomy meditation halls, and natural settings that improve the aura. Spending a few days here, eating well, adhering to a holistic routine, and inhaling the pure air will undoubtedly infuse your life with an unwavering positivity.
Gita Bhawan in Rishikesh
Is situated on the Ganga River’s banks and is embellished with the mesmerising beauty of the Himalayas. It is a vast facility that acts as an institute where a devotee can learn a lot about Hinduism and take part in numerous religious and cultural activities. The institution provides free meals, lodging, and instruction to the pilgrims. Everyone who resides in the bhawan engages in daily sadhana, meditation, and other required practises.
Visitors to Gita Bhawan can partake in all the events and pay a little fee to use other amenities, eat just vegetarian meals, and engage in all the activities. Additionally, it provides free boat trips and has a dispensary with free ayurveda treatments and medications created with sacred Ganges water and according to religious texts. It provides a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for participating in Ganga dipping and other religious activities thanks to the abundance of meditation spots and bathing ghats.
Rishikesh Yog Peeth
In order to convey the enduring message of yoga in a way that is modern and accessible to everyone, a group of young, persuaded Rishikesh residents founded the non-profit organisation known as Rishikesh Yog Peeth in 2006. At Rishikesh Yog Peeth, the emphasis is on building a solid foundation of yogic knowledge in the minds and hearts of visitors using archaic cunning. In Rishikesh, they offer the best yoga teacher training. The presentation style is straightforward and sincere, with a decent balance of traditional knowledge and modern methods.
This is one of the best places in Rishikesh to study yoga. It is registered in accordance with the Indian Government’s General Public Act of 1860. It provides a beautiful setting to study yoga and meditate in the heart of an ashram environment. It is located in Rishikesh, a residential neighbourhood nestled in the lap of the Himalayas.
