Rishikesh
is one the holy cities of India, the hatha yoga capital of the world, a
totally vegetarian town. It's about a 6 hours ride from Delhi, and
Rishikesh is also a major gateway to the Himalayas. About 26 Kms from
Haridwar. Located in the laps of lower Himalayas, and is surrounded by
scenic beauty of the hills on three sides with Holy Ganga flowing
through it.The pace in Rishikesh is much more melllow than Delhi, and
you will enjoy walking about town undisturbed by touts and hawkers The
whole place is considered to be sacred as it is believed that meditation
at this place leads to attainment of salvation.
There are many
temples-some ancient, some new along the river Ganges. Rishikesh is
important not only as pilgrimage centre closely associated with the
Ramayana, but also as home for many important centres of Hindu religious
thought and spirituality, and Great Yoga Centres. There are a great many
ashrams and Yoga institutes here.
Rishikesh is also the gateway
and the start-off point for journeys to important religious places like
Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Rishikesh is also
acquiring greater significance as a centre for white water rafting,
other riverine sports, a base for treks and hikes in the beautiful
Garhwal Himalayas.
Attractions
- Lakshman Jhula
The bridge has been a major attraction
among the tourists to Rishikesh. The suspension iron bridge Lakshman
Jhula was build in 1929. This is where Rama's brother Lakshaman is
said to have crossed the river on a jute rope. One can enjoy the
spectacular surroundings and the cool breeze from the river while
standing on the bridge.
- Ram Jhula
Another suspended bridge close to Lakshman
Juhla is the Ram Jhula- This suspended bridge was recently build
between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is similar to the
Lakshman Jhula. Ram Juhla is also known as Shivanand Jhula.
- Gita Bhavan
This newly constructed building is famous
for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology.
Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.
- Bharat Mandir
It is the oldest temple in Rishikesh.
The image installed here has a distinctly Himalayan cast of
features. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu, it
holds a number of image normally associated with the worship of Lord
Shiva.
Ashrams in RishikeshThere are many important ashrams
in Rishkesh. Most ashrams are centres for spiritual studies which also
calls for Physical disciplines. Some ashrams, however, are monasteries.
Among the better known ashrams are :- Paremarth Niketan, Sivanand
Ashram, Yoga Niketan, Omkaranand Ashram, Vanprastha Ashram, Ved Niketan,
Dayanand Vedanta Ashram, Vanmali Gita Yogashram, Shankaracharya Nagar
Transcendental Meditatation Centre, Vithal Ashram and Yoga Study Centre.
Adventure
Sports in RishikeshYou love challenging the rushing waters in
the roaring rivers? Then come to Rishikesh and try some river rafting
here. You can enjoy almost all the levels of river rafting in this Mecca
of Yoga and Meditation. White Water Rafting : Rafting is truly a
challenge in this part of the world. The violent rivers, fed by
countless streams are challenging and tortuous with cutting devouring
gorges are perfect for the lovers of extreme adventurous sports.
How
to reach
- Air
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant.
This small airport is situated at a distance of about 24 km from the
main Rishikesh town. However, air is not the preferred mode of
transport for getting into the town. Reach Delhi International
airport in India and take a train or bus route to Rishikesh.
- Rail
Rishikesh is well connected with all the major
towns and cities of India though some of the links can only be
accessed from Haridwar.
- Road
Rishikesh is 6 hours (250 kms) by bus from
Delhi. Buses depart regularly throughout the day from ISBT.
Rishikesh is very well connected by a network of roads to all major
towns of Uttaranchal and surrounding areas.
