Rishikesh, a holy city in the foothills of the Himalayas, is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It is a popular destination for tourists seeking spiritual enlightenment, physical well-being, and natural beauty.
Here is a list of the top tourist places to visit in Rishikesh:
Triveni Ghat: Triveni Ghat is the largest and most sacred ghat (bathing steps) in Rishikesh. It is believed that the three holy rivers of India, the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati, converge at Triveni Ghat. Every evening, a grand aarti ceremony is performed at Triveni Ghat, which is a must-see for any visitor to Rishikesh.
Laxman Jhula: Laxman Jhula is a suspension bridge that spans the Ganges River. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rishikesh, and it offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills. Laxman Jhula is also a popular spot for yoga and meditation.
Ram Jhula: Ram Jhula is another suspension bridge that spans the Ganges River. It is located a short distance downstream from Laxman Jhula. Ram Jhula is less crowded than Laxman Jhula, and it offers a more peaceful setting for yoga and meditation.
Parmarth Niketan: Parmarth Niketan is one of the largest and most popular ashrams in Rishikesh. It offers a variety of yoga and meditation classes, as well as spiritual discourses and lectures. Parmarth Niketan also hosts the annual International Yoga Festival, which attracts thousands of participants from all over the world.
Beatles Ashram: The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is a former ashram where the Beatles stayed in 1968. The ashram is now in ruins, but it is still a popular tourist destination.
Vashishtha Gufa: Vashishtha Gufa is a cave temple located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is believed that the sage Vashishtha meditated in this cave for many years. Vashishtha Gufa is a popular spot for yoga and meditation, and it also offers stunning views of the Ganges River.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on a hilltop overlooking Rishikesh. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, and it also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills.
Triveni Ghat Aarti: The Triveni Ghat Aarti is a grand ceremony that is performed every evening at Triveni Ghat. The aarti involves the chanting of mantras and the waving of lamps. It is a beautiful and spiritual experience that should not be missed.
Ganga Kinare: Ganga Kinare is a popular spot for watching the sunrise and sunset over the Ganges River. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Rishikesh.
Himalayan Yog Ashram: Himalayan Yog Ashram is another popular ashram in Rishikesh. It offers a variety of yoga and meditation classes, as well as spiritual discourses and lectures. Himalayan Yog Ashram also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as yoga retreats and workshops.
Swarg Ashram: Swarg Ashram is a peaceful neighborhood located on the western bank of the Ganges River. It is home to a number of ashrams, yoga studios, and cafes. Swarg Ashram is a great place to relax and experience the spiritual atmosphere of Rishikesh.
These are just a few of the many top tourist places to visit in Rishikesh. With its rich spiritual heritage, stunning natural beauty, and variety of activities, Rishikesh has something to offer everyone.