If you own a strong religious nerve, then don't miss a trip to one
of the most revered pilgrimage spots of India - Rishikesh. This holy land is
located in the Indian state of Uttaranchal. The sacred Ganges flows through
this place and is considered to be the getaway to the Himalayas. A large
number of temples dot the length and breadth of Rishikesh. Thousands of
pilgrims from worldwide visit Rishikesh every year. Rishikesh is also
nicknamed as ' The World Capital of Yoga' because of many Yoga centres here.
The holy city of Rishikesh lies at about 24 km from Haridwar. It is the hub
of sadhus and ashrams. When in Rishikesh you can enjoy many aspects of
Hinduism.
Attractions
Triveni
Ghat - The Triveni Ghat is the most popular bathing ghat of Rishikesh.
One can find modern images of the Hindu deities here. A walk on the white
sand near the riverside is also a great experience. The ghat looks stunning
specially during the Aarati ceremony that is held in the late evening. In
the morning the pilgrims come here to offer their prayers and to feed the
fishes in water with milk.
The Bharat Mandir near the Triveni Ghat is said to be the oldest temple of
Rishikesh. The black stone Vishnu is the presiding deity of the temple. Here
Basant Panchmi is celebrated with great fervour.
Swarg Ashram - There are numerous ashrams at this
place. At the same time one can relish oneself with many food stalls and
shops that are found here.
Lakshman Jhoola - The Lakshman Jhoola is located at
about 5 kms from Rishikesh. It is a suspension bridge across Ganga. It is a
major tourist spot. It is said that Lord Rama's brother Lakshman crossed the
river from here on a jute rope. There is also a Lakshman Temple near this
old footbridge.
Ram Jhoola - This is a newly created suspension
bridge. Construction wise it is very much similar to Lakshman Jhoola. It
provides an alternative to a boat ride from one bank of Ganga to another .
Shivanand Jhoola - This is an another suspension
bridge along the ancient route to Kedarnath and Badrinath.
The city of Rishikesh also offers immense scope for adventure buffs who
think, eat and drink adventure. Adventure sports like white water rafting,
rock climbing, trekking and canoing are very popular here.
Shopaholics
The pilgrimage spot of Rishikesh satisfies the shopper friendly nature of
every woman. Here you can shop for handicraft items made of shells, beads
and perals. Good quality of sarees and kurta can also be purchased from
here. One can buy carved decorated chests, chairs, cradles and low tables
and stools from here. The tie-and-die fabric are also very popular items for
shopping in Rishikesh.
How To Reach
By Air - Since Rishikesh is a hilly region, there is
no airport here. However there is an airport in Dehradun, the capital of
Uttaranchal that lies 35 kms away from Rishikesh.
By Train - Haridwar is the nearest railhead from
Rishikesh. It is the major railway station.
By Road - An extensive network of roads link
Rishikesh to other cities of Uttaranchal and India.
