Located at a distance of 35 kms from Haridwar and spreading on both sides of sacred Ganga, Rishikesh is the spiritual and Meditation capital of India. With a spectacular view of forest clad hills, confluence of River Ganges and Chandrabhaga, presence of Holy Ganga, and due to holy and peaceful location many yogis, rishis, sages and sannyasis permanently reside here hence Rishikesh is known as an abode of sages. Rishikesh is famous for the yoga worldwide and is also known as a Yoga Capital of the world. Rishikesh is also a gateway to the Holy Char Dham Yatra (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri).
Apart from spirituality Rishikesh is a hub for the adventure activities such as Rafting, Camping, Trekking and Bungee Jumping. There are also big ashrams, centers for Yoga, Meditation, Ayurvedic Massage and astrology. Every year thousands of people visit Rishikesh for spiritual relief, peace, learn yoga, adventure and to take a dip in the holy Ganges for salvation.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Haridwar is the full year destination. However due to Moderate warm and cool Temperature (September to October) and (March to April) are the best months for visiting Haridwar.
SUMMER: March to May (18°C to 40°C)
WINTER: October to February (6°C to 16º C)
RISHIKESH ATTRACTION
1. LAKSHMAN JHOOLA
Located around 5 kms from Rishikesh Lakshman Jhoola is an iron suspended bridge built across Ganga. To the pedestrian crossing the river, the bridge provides a magnificent view of the Ganges and greets with the cool breeze from the river. On the side of this famous bridge is the well known Shri Raghunathji temple dedicated to Lord Ram. The newly built 13 storied shrine of Swarag Niwas and Shri Trayambakeshwar with number of shrines dedicated to various deities of Hindu mythology also lies near Lakshman Jhoola.
2. RAM JHULA
Located around 3 kms from Rishikesh Ram Jhula is an iron suspension bridge. Built in 1986 to provide second option to cross the Ganga River the bridge is a landmark of Rishikesh. With a span of 450 feet and clearance of 59 feet from summer water level, this bridge is bigger than Lakshman Jhula. Many famous Hindu ashrams and religious centers like Gita Bhawan and Swargashram are located near the bridge.
3. NEELKANTH MAHADEV TEMPLE
Scenically situated at a height of 4400 feet above sea level and at a distance of 32 km from Rishikesh. Neelkanth mahadev temple is a sacred and famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As per legend Neelkanth Mahadev temple is the spot where Lord Shiva took the poison originated from Ocean, consumed it and placed in his throat. The poison turned Lord Shiva’s throat blue in color and hence the name Neelkanth. The temple has a very attractive architecture. The scene of mythology story of Samundra Manthan is depicted on the walls of the temple. The sacred Shivlinga situated in the holy shrine is the major place of worship for the devotees. A natural spring is situated in the temple where devotees take a holy bath.
4. RISHIKESH RIVER RAFTING
Rishikesh is also known as adventure capital of India. White River Rafting is the most chosen adventure activity in Rishikesh Tourism by many travellers. Rishikesh Rafting Camping activity attracts thousands of adventure lovers every year. River Ganges from the Gangotri glacier to Ganga Sagar is one of the most holy rivers in India. On her way to Rishikesh, the Ganges River offers fun-filled river rapids. From grade 1 to grade 5 this area has all kind of rapids for perfect adventure. River rafting is an adventure for not only adults but it is also safe for children as well (14 Yrs to 65 Yrs).
Rishikesh Rafting can be enjoyed by people of all age groups. High quality equipments and expert guide and instructors will ensure your complete safety. During the Rafting people can enjoy magnificent views of the Shivalik hills and the Ganges. Brahmpuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive, Byasi, Kaudiyala, Kirti Nagar, Devprayag and Rudraprayag are the places where you can start your rafting in Rishikesh.
Best Time for Rafting:
The best time to visit Rishikesh for River Rafting is from late September – October to mid November, and then the best time to visit Rishikesh is from early March – April to first week of May.
The main course that commences from Kaudiyala to Laxman Jhula is divided into four short stretches.
Kaudiyala to Marine Drive | Marine Drive to Shivpuri | Shivpuri to Brahmpuri | Brahmpuri to Rishikesh
SHOPPING LIST: Rudraksha seeds, Ayurvedic medicines, spiritual books, Crafted items, carved stone idols, beads, copper and brass puja utensils, glass bangles, cane baskets and artificial Jewellery etc.
SHOPPING AREA: Market near Har ki Pauri, Bara Bazaar, Government Handloom & Hnadicraft Emporium, Khadi stores, Moti Bazar and Laxman Jhula market (Rishikesh).
RESTURANTS:
SNO | NAME | LOCATION | CUISINE | SPECIALITY |
1 | HAVELI HARI GANGA | Pilibhit house, Ramghat | Indian | Lunch / Dinner |
2 | HOSHIYAR PURI | Upper road, Ram Ghat | Indian | Lunch / Dinner |
3 | MOHAN JI PURI WALE | Har ki Pauri | Indian | Lunch / Dinner |
4 | PRACHEENMATHURA WALA | Har ki Pauri | Indian | Lunch / Dinner |
NOTES: Haridwar is a holy city. Consumption of all non vegetarian food and alcohol drinks are legally and strictly probhited here.
THINGS TO DO:
- Visit Har ki Pauri in the evening for a holy dip in Brahamkund and watch evening
Ganga Aarti from Clock Tower Island. - Picnic at Clock Tower Island and enjoy delicious Mangoes dipped in the cool Ganges.
- Take a spiritual and thrilling ropeway ride to Neel Parvat and pray at
Mata Mansa Devi Temple and Mata Chandi Devi Temple. - Enjoy a Tonga Rides driven by Horses and walk across the lanes and by lanes to explore the holy heritage city of Haridwar.
- Taste street food, especially the Aloo Puri at Mohanji Puriwale and the Kachoris at Kashyap Kachoriwala, Sweets at Mathura Walon ki Prachin Dukaan. Also visit the famous Chotiwala restaurant at Haridwar and Rishikesh for fresh delicious food.
- Feel the spiritual environments at Har ki Pauri in Haridwar and Swargashram at Rishikesh.
- Practice yoga and meditate in cool, peaceful and spiritual environments sitting on the bank of holy Ganga River.
- Take a boat cruise in the Ganges at Rishikesh.
- Take a holy dip in the natural spring water at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
- Enjoy River rafting and other activities in Rishikesh.
- Take a Yoga secession at Patanjali Yogapeeth (Baba Ramdev Ashram). Also visit Medicinal plants and ayurvedic medicine centre.