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Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the Ganges River, Rishikesh is a spiritual hub and popular travel destination in Uttarakhand. Known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World,’ Rishikesh abounds in ashrams, temples, and natural scenic beauty, attracting travellers from across the globe. If you’re planning a trip to Rishikesh, there are many incredible places to experience in this holy city.
From ancient temples and ashrams to adventure activities and nature trails, Rishikesh offers profound spiritual experiences, cultural immersion, and adrenaline rushes alike. Stay at Tapovan Resort Rishikesh because it has world-class amenities and serene surroundings create an ideal retreat. Here are the top places to visit on your Rishikesh itinerary:
Laxman Jhula
The iconic suspension bridge Laxman Jhula is a top Rishikesh landmark built across the Ganges. Take memorable photos on the bridge with panoramas of the river and Himalayan foothills.
Drop by the many cafes and shops dotting the bridge, visit the 13-story Tera Manzil temple nearby, and watch evening aarti rituals on the ghats.
Ram Jhula
Another pedestrian suspension bridge and important pilgrimage site, Ram Jhula, connects Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Nagar.
Crossing the bridge offers scenic river views and a path to key ashrams. You can also find market shops selling jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs on the bridge.
Triveni Ghat
One of the holiest bathing ghats in Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganges, Triveni Ghat’s waters contain the mystical convergence of three rivers.
It hosts the famed Maha Aarti each evening with lamps, chants, and prayers, along with spiritual discourses.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Parmarth Niketan is one of Rishikesh’s most renowned yoga ashrams on the banks of the Ganges. Hosting students year-round, it offers daily yoga and meditation classes.
Be sure to visit the beautifully carved temple on its grounds. The ashram is famous for its International Yoga Festival each March.
The Beatles Ashram
Once home to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram, where The Beatles studied meditation in 1968, it is now an abandoned ashram and tourist attraction.
Wander through the remains of murals, meditation cells, and lecture halls once traversed by the Fab Four.
Neer Garh Waterfall
Tucked away in the forest, about 5km from Laxman Jhula, lies this spellbinding waterfall, descending from a height of 25 meters. Take a rejuvenating dip in its natural pool beneath the cascade.
The short, scenic hike to the waterfall through the lush wilderness is itself memorable.
Shivpuri
Paradise for adventure junkies, Shivpuri is Rishikesh’s river rafting hub, located upstream on the Ganges. Brave the rapids or just soak in breathtaking views on the shore.
Explore activities like mountain biking, cliff jumping, zip lining, camping, and more in this picturesque haven.
Neer Gaddu Waterfall
Accessible only by trekking, the hidden Neer Gaddu waterfall in the Tapovan forest region features pristine cascades set amidst verdant wilderness.
The challenging 4 km hike crosses streams and boulders, rewarded by the sight of untouched natural beauty.
Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Perched atop one of the highest points in Rishikesh, this temple devoted to Goddess Kunjapuri grants sweeping vistas of the Himalayas.
Legend says the Devi temple was built after Lord Shiva appeared at the site millennia ago, following intense meditation.
Gita Bhavan
This unique museum is a must-see for spirituality enthusiasts, housing a collection of mythological statues depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures.
Marvel at dioramas, paintings, and models bringing the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings to life through intricate artistry.
Tapovan
The small village of Tapovan lies on the banks of the Ganges, upstream from Laxman Jhula. Renowned as a spiritual retreat, it is home to many noted yoga ashrams, like the Sivananda Ashram.
Apart from ashram stays and yoga courses, Tapovan draws visitors to nature spots like Neer Gaddu Waterfall.
Vashistha Cave
According to mythology, this ancient cave is where the revered sage Vashistha meditated for hundreds of years. It has a naturally formed shivling inside, along with hot water springs believed to have healing properties.
Swarg Ashram
One of the oldest and most famous ashrams in Rishikesh, Swarg Ashram sits picturesquely on the banks of the Ganges. With its colorful gardens, riverfront ghat, artsy cafes, and quaint shops, it is a lovely spot to find your spiritual center.
Trek to Kunjapuri Temple
For the adventurous, take on the 7-kilometer uphill trek through forests and across streams to reach the mountain-top Kunjapuri Temple and its awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas.
Omkarananda Ganga Sadan
Visit this ashram to see the grand Akhand Jyoti, an eternal flame representing humanity’s inner light. Their daily Ganga Aarti is also a mystical experience.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred Hindu temple is situated at 1330m altitude and features stunning mountainscape views along the trek to reach it.
Rajaji National Park
Take a wildlife safari through Rajaji National Park just north of Rishikesh to spot elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and over 300 bird species in the wild.
Lakshman Temple
One of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, Lakshman Temple, was built in the 12th century and has intricately carved walls, shikaras, and idols of several Hindu deities.
Parmarth Niketan Yoga Ashram
Consider staying at Parmarth Niketan, one of the largest yoga ashrams in Rishikesh, to immerse yourself fully in daily yoga and meditation sessions.
Shivpuri Ropeway
Take a scenic ropeway ride across the Ganges from the Shivpuri River rafting area to the opposite bank for panoramic views of the river and valleys.
Maa Yoga Ashram
Situated on the banks of the Ganges, Maa Yoga Ashram is a peaceful retreat offering yoga teacher training programs and drop-in yoga classes with expert instructors.
Rishikesh offers endless opportunities for spiritual awakening, adrenaline-pumping adventure, and immersion in Hindu culture. From iconic landmarks to secluded natural wonders, the experiences here leave travellers forever transformed. Those who want to fully absorb Rishikesh’s essence should book at tapovan resort Rishikesh, perched right on the Ganges.
Conclusion
Boasting a unique blend of tranquillity, natural splendour, and adventure, Rishikesh is an unmissable destination for experiencing spirituality, yoga, meditation, and more against a backdrop of Himalayan majesty. The many sacred sites, attractions, and activities here reveal different facets of this holy city on the banks of Mother Ganga. Travelers seeking profound journeys, whether pilgrims, adventure junkies, or soul-searchers, will find their calling in the powerful energy and appeal of Rishikesh.
