Rishikesh is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and on the banks of the Ganges River.
It is considered a holy city by Hindus and is renowned as a center of yoga and meditation.
The history of Rishikesh dates back to ancient times, and the city is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures and mythology. It is believed that Lord Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, did penance here for killing Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.
According to legend, a sage named Raibhya Rishi performed severe penance here and was rewarded with the appearance of Lord Vishnu, one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The name “Rishikesh” is derived from the combination of two words: “rishika,” which means sage, and “hesh,” which means Lord.
Here are some of the best tourist places to visit in Rishikesh:
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a popular tourist spot in Rishikesh, located on the banks of the holy river Ganges. It is believed that taking a dip in the river at Triveni Ghat will wash away your sins. The ghat is also famous for its evening aarti, where devotees gather to witness the magnificent spectacle of lamps, incense sticks, and flowers being offered to the river goddess. The aarti is accompanied by devotional songs and chants, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
Laxman Jhula
Suspension bridge built over the river Ganges in Rishikesh. It is after Lord Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, who is said to have crossed the river here with the help of jute ropes. The bridge is 450 feet long and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. It offers a breathtaking view of the river and the surrounding hills. You can also visit the Laxman Jhula market, located on the other side of the bridge, which offers a variety of items..
Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in Rishikesh, surrounded by lush green forests and hills. It is situated about 2 kilometers from Laxman Jhula and is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists. You can take a dip in the cold water of the waterfall and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. The waterfall is also a great place for trekking and camping.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Parmarth Niketan Ashram is a renowned ashram in Rishikesh, known for its spiritual significance and yoga programs. It is located on the banks of the river Ganges and offers a peaceful environment for meditation and self-reflection. The ashram also hosts various cultural and spiritual events throughout the year, such as the International Yoga Festival and the Ganga Aarti.
Beatles Ashram
Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a popular tourist spot in Rishikesh. It is the place where the legendary band, The Beatles, visited in the late 1960s to learn transcendental meditation from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The ashram is now abandoned and has become a graffiti park, with walls covered in colorful murals and paintings. It is a great place for photography and to experience the hippie culture of the 1960s.
Rajaji National Park
Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a popular tourist spot in Rishikesh. It is the place where the legendary band, The Beatles, visited in the late 1960s to learn transcendental meditation from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The ashram is now abandoned and has become a graffiti park, with walls covered in colorful murals and paintings. It is a great place for photography and to experience the hippie culture of the 1960s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rishikesh is a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual significance, natural beauty, and adventure sports. Triveni Ghat offers a mesmerizing view of the holy river Ganges and the evening aarti is a spectacle not to be missed. Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the river Ganges, is a popular attraction that offers a breathtaking view of the river and the surrounding hills. Neer Garh Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the midst of lush green forests and hills, and a great place for trekking and camping. Parmarth Niketan Ashram offers a peaceful environment for meditation and self-reflection, and hosts various cultural and spiritual events throughout the year. Beatles Ashram, the abandoned graffiti park, is a popular tourist spot that provides a glimpse into the hippie culture of the 1960s. And finally, Rajaji National Park, located in close proximity to Rishikesh, is a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse offerings, Rishikesh is indeed a destination that caters to the varied interests of all kinds of travelers.