Rishikesh is well-known for being the ‘Land of Gods.’ It is the ideal location for solitude, tranquillity, and spirituality. The quiet and pleasant weather, the majestic and beautiful mountains, and the serene and holy waters of the Ganges have drawn innumerable visitors and tourists from all over the world to this amazing place. It is not only a renowned tourist destination in northern India, but it is also an excellent venue for sports lovers. The majority of visitors to this yoga centre are devout pilgrims seeking heavenly blessings, but other tourists come for adventure, leisure, and culture.
There are numerous attractions in the vicinity, including Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Gita Bhavan, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Swarga Ashram, Neer Garh Waterfall, Beatles Ashram, and many more. Most of us are unsure of which of Rishikesh’s top tourist attractions to visit because this vivacious city is renowned for giving visitors exactly what they want. The Garhwal Himalayas and the sacred Ganges beautify this metropolis, which is referred to as the country’s historic city. Here, we provide you with a list of some of the locations that will add allure to your vacation.
Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh:-
1. Lakshman Jhula (The Swinging Bridge)
Rishikesh is not just about religious practises, ghats, or temples; you may also see some amazing architectural wonders and constructions! Lakshman Jhula is one of these buildings and is a must-see attraction in Rishikesh. Two crucial Rishikesh villages are connected by the jhula. It links the villages of Jonk in Pauri Garhwal and Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal. Lakshman and Ram Jhula, two 450-foot-long iron hanging bridges, are the highlight of this breathtaking tourist destination. Four kilometres separate the bridges from the Rishikesh train station.
According to the Ramayan, a well-known Hindu myth, it is believed that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman crossed the Ganga river at the same location where the bridge was constructed.
In 1929, the bridge was made accessible to the public. The Lakshman Jhula was originally constructed of jute, but after the floods, an iron bridge that was considerably stronger and more durable was installed instead. Lakshman Jhula being a masterpiece of amazing architecture, is one of the most popular and unique locations in Rishikesh is this hanging bridge. Nowadays, tourists enjoy spending a lot of time in these locations throughout their Rishikesh trip.
2. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Located in Swargashram in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan is situated alongside the sacred Ganga River, nestled amidst the lap of the Himalayas and embraced by lush greeneries. Three is a school that adheres to conventional Indian patterns and is renowned for its in-depth research into Hinduism. On the Parmarth Ghat, the ashram supports a lovely Ganga Arti and Hawan each evening. Parmath Niketan Ashram is a sacred location that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. It is concealed by dense foliage in the Himalayan foothills. The ashram is renowned for both its breathtaking scenery and tranquil ambience.
Famous singers, spiritual and social leaders, and others frequently provide unique cultural and spiritual programmes at Parmarth Niketan Ashram Rishikesh. Both the celestial tree Kalpavriksha and a 14-foot statue of Lord Shiva gazing at the Ganges may be found in the ashram. There are also regular camps at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh where pilgrims from all over the world take intensive training in Ayurveda, yoga, pranayama, stress management, meditation, acupressure, and other ancient Indian disciplines.
3. Triveni Ghat
It is common to take ceremonial baths at Triveni Ghat and witness the most breathtaking Ganga Aarti there. The outcome is constant activity in the neighbourhood. At a distance of around 12km from Lakshman Jhula, the Ghat has the confluence of three rivers; the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati Rivers. It is supposed to have the power to cleanse the spirit. This ghat is thought to be the most spiritual of all the others in the area. The Triveni Ghat is the place that is most revered in Rishikesh. If you want to experience Triveni Ghat, make sure to arrive during sunrise and sunset.
At dusk, you will find an array of lamps that devotees float on the water. This is one of Triveni Ghat’s most notable features and is also referred to as the Maha Arti. Thousands of worshippers gather to observe it and offer prayers as it happens at the ghat itself. The aarti is performed by the chief priests of numerous temples amid the chanting of bhajans (devotional songs), the banging of drums and bells, and enormous congregations of worshippers singing along. A truly beautiful sensation is created by the chanting and bhajans, as well as the floating of lit diyas (oil lamps) and flowers by devotees as religious offerings in the river’s waters. This calming effect the light of the lamps has is unparalleled.
4. Beatles Ashram
The Beatles ashram, which was given its new name after the band’s 1958 visit during one of their most productive periods to observe the Maharishi Mahesh yogi’s teachings, is a great tourist destination for die-hard Beatles fans. After learning about the more modernistic interpretations of the Maharishis’ teachings of Indian spiritualism, The Beatles travelled to Rishikesh. The Rishi’s teachings are still followed today, and the setting is ideal for anyone wishing to unwind by visiting one of the many attractions in Rishikesh.
The remarkable dome-topped “meditation caves,” which appear ancient but date back to the 1960s, were erected to house Sanyasis and Bramacharis as they engaged in their Sadhana using stones sourced from India’s holiest river, the Ganges. The enigmatic writings that have been done on the walls of Siddhi Bhavan and Anand Bhavan, as well as Chaurasi Kutia’s exquisitely crafted meditation chambers, are additional intriguing items that can be observed here. Visitors to The Beatles Ashram are said to experience a special energy and uplifting mood that helps them understand the true power and importance of spirituality. The setting’s tranquillizing and revitalising atmosphere calms the body from the inside out and reenergizes the mind, uplifting you.
5. Rajaji National Park
The Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 as a result of the Rajaji Sanctuary, one of its constituent units. The park was created by combining Rajaji, Motichur, and Chila, three already-existing wildlife sanctuaries. The park has an area of 820 square kilometres. Rajaji National Park, which is situated alongside the Shivalik peaks in the Himalayan foothills, is a crucial part of the Shivalik ecosystem. The Ganga, Chila, and Song rivers pass through the park, which is home to 23 different mammal species and about 315 different bird species. Elephants from Asia can only be found in the Northwest National Park.
The flora and a variety of forest habitats, such as riverine, broad leaf mixed, pine, scrub, and grassy pasturelands, are available. The park also harbours the largest concentration of tigers, hyenas, Himalayan kingfishers, sloth bears and great piping hornbills in the state. Between November and March, the park is home to a sizable population of migratory birds. The best way to explore the park is on a vehicle safari. There are lots of fish in the park because both the Ganga and the Song run through it.
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
On the summit of Swarg Ashram near Rishikesh, there is a temple named Neelkanth Mahadev that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the most popular tourist destinations nearby Rishikesh is Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, which is about 32 kilometres from the city borders and is located at a height of 1,330 metres above sea level in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. This temple is simply amazing. The architecture and design are significant. They stand in for Hinduism’s extensive culture, customs, and rituals. Because it is Lord Shiva’s temple, everyone who supports him or her should visit there at least once. Of all the temples, this one boasts the largest following of Lord Shiva devotees. The Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot valleys surround the Shiva dwelling.
In honour of Shivratri and throughout the month of Shravan, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple hosts two fairs (July-August). Shivratri attracts thousands of worshippers. To reach the Parvati temple, which is perched atop a tall hill, you must go two kilometres up from the Neela Kantha temple. A modest temple can be found in a Cave (gufa), which is another two kilometres up the hill. Along the route, there are wonderful sights. The trip to the cave is not too difficult, but the climb to the Parvati temple is pretty challenging.
7. Neergarh Waterfall
The Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh should be visited by every adventurous or environmental enthusiast travelling through the Himalayan region. It is a tiny brook with blue water that is encircled by thick Himalayan vegetation. Near Lakshman Jhula, the jade-blue Neergarh waterfall is situated 5 to 7 kilometres away. This natural waterfall cascades over the sheer cliffs with a splendour reminiscent of the Empyrean. Witnessing the furious torrent crash over towering rocks and into a crystal-clear pool of water is exhilarating. It is wonderful for relaxing, practising meditation, and even capturing pictures of the surrounding area.
This incredible waterfall, which rushes down a rock up to 25 feet high, is formed when three gorgeous waterfalls come together. The journey to this waterfall takes 15 minutes to navigate through the dense forest. There are two bridges and a stream of water on the paths you’d go. The area is home to a variety of plants and animals. There would be nothing else like it on your entire journey. Bring your binoculars to take a look inside the hill station, as the location will also provide you with some breathtaking views of the neighbouring valley.
Also Read: Benefits of camping.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Ans. Rishikesh is known as ‘The yoga capital of the world’. The great Himalayas are located near Rishikesh which makes it the perfect destination for scenic trekking. Rishikesh is situated on the bank of the river Ganga which is a sacred river, pilgrims visit the river to carry out rituals, and prayers and cleanse themselves with the holy water.
Ans. There are different attractions in Rishikesh to Visit.
Triveni Ghat.
Lakshman Jhula.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Beatles Ashram.
Rajaji National park.
Neelaknth Mahadev Temple.
Neergarh Waterfall.
Ans. On day one you can go to many ashrams early morning for meditation or yoga, and during lunch, you could visit many cafés (Rishikesh has many options for vegetarians). In the evening you could head to Triveni Ghat to witness the Ganga aarti, it will be an enlightening moment for one to be part of. On day two you can head to a campsite, where you can enjoy camping in Rishikesh, trek or go river rafting or the Neer Garh waterfall for some serene time in nature alternatively you could visit the Rajaji National Park to have a jeep safari where you can spot wild animals like tigers, elephants or leopards.
Ans. The best months to visit Rishikesh are from the middle of September to the end of April because during these times more activities are available and the overall weather is pleasant making these months the ideal times to visit Rishikesh.
