Rishikesh

Set against the backdrop of the Himalayas and with the pristine Ganges flowing through it, the ancient town of Rishikesh is one of the major tourist and pilgrimage hubs in northern India, where people from across the world arrive in search of peace. Rishikesh is commonly referred to as the ‘yoga capital of the world’ and rightly so. Every year Rishikesh Tourism guides thousands of students to learn and experience Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchkarma in Rishikesh. Rishikesh has numerous ashrams, some of which are internationally recognized as centers of philosophical studies, yoga, and other ancient Indian traditions of wellness. The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board organizes the annual International Yog Festival (IYF) here, which attracts thousands of yoga enthusiasts. 

There are several legends associated with Rishikesh. It is said Rishikesh finds a mention in the ancient text Skanda Purana and the epic Ramayana. It is said Lord Rama, along with his brothers, came to Rishikesh to do penance after killing Ravana, and Lakshmana, his younger brother, crossed the river Ganges, at a point, where the present 'Lakshman Jhula' bridge stands today, using a jute rope bridge.

Rishikesh is also known for its connection with The Beatles. In February 1968, members of the legendary English rock band visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram (now popularly known as the Beatles Ashram) to learn transcendental meditation. The band composed nearly 48 songs during their time at the Maharishi's ashram, many of which appear on the White Album (and a few from Abbey Road). John Lennon recorded a song titled, 'The Happy Rishikesh Song' after his visit. Several other international artists, including Mike Love of the Beach Boys, Paul Horn, Donovon, and Gyp Mills, visited the site to contemplate and meditate.

The historical records mention that some pilgrims used to stay at Rishikesh, either seeking the site itself or using it as a resting place before moving onwards to the Himalayas. That is why Rishikesh has become the starting point for traveling to the four Chota Char Dham pilgrimage places: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. It is also a starting point for Himalayan tourist destinations such as Harshil, Chopta, and Auli, as well as summer and winter trekking destinations like Dodital, Dayara Bugyal, Kedarkantha, and Har ki Dun.

The Ganges, one of the most sacred rivers to Hindus, flows through Rishikesh in its course from the Shivalik Hills of the Himalayas to the plains of northern India with temples built along the banks of Shatrughna Mandir, Bharat Mandir, and Lakshman Mandir are the ancient temples established by Adi Shankaracharya. Shatrughna Temple is near the Ram Jhula suspension bridge, while Lakshman Mandir is situated near the Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge. The Ganga Aarti (also known as Maha Aarthi) is performed at dusk at the Triveni Ghat. This popular Hindu religious ritual involves singing prayers and providing religious offerings to the fire. 

Rishikesh is also a town which is mostly packed with tourists. Interestingly, in the last couple of years, Rishikesh has become very popular for its vibrant Holi celebrations, mostly organized by private hotels and resorts. In the transition to a modern tourist town, local markets have evolved from commercializing goods such as local and religious handicrafts to a service-oriented tourist industry with provision stores, quaint cafes, hotels, sites for rafting, and centers for yoga and meditation.

Rishikesh offers a variety of items that reflect its culture, spirituality, and natural beauty.