43-kms from Dehradun & 24-kms from Haridwar, the celebrated spiritual centre of rishikesh is situated amidst a calm environment, impressive water front, dense forest and hills. Virtually a town of saints, sages and scholars. Rishikesh is a lare religious centre located on the right bank of river Ganga. There are a number of Ashrams (hermitages) where religious discourses are held. The place is also a renowned centre for yoga teachins.
Rishikesh is not only an attraction for pilgrims but it also attracts foreigners who want to know about Hinduism, who want to spend some time close to the Lord, people who love rafting come here to conquer the rapids of Ganga. Rishikesh is also an ideal base camp for trekking in the nearby Himalayas.
Places of Interest in Rishikesh
Lakshaman Jhula:
This suspended iron bridge was build in 1939 and has been a major attraction among the tourists. Ram Jhula- The other suspended Iron bridge was recently constructed between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram.
Swarga Ashram:
One can find numerous temples here. This place has the eating joints and shops where one can do shopping. The beautiful statues in the area mesmerise the visitors.
Gita Bhavan:
This newly constructed building is famous for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.
Triveni Ghat:
This is a bathing ghat. Daily in the morning and evening there are thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river.
Nearby Attractions from Rishikesh
Dehradun:
The Doon Valley situated between the two most important rivers of India. i.e, Ganga & Yamuna, is most picturesque having moderate climate, nestling a number of places of tourist interest.
Mussoorie:
The queen of hill stations is the best weekend getaway choice for you.
Haridwar:
Gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttrakhand region, is located on the foot hills of Shivaliks.
Valley of Flowers:
The famous Valley of Flowers with the largest concentration of various species of wild flowers is off the Rishikesh-Badrinath road, 16 km from Govindghat.
Chila:
Chila is just 20-kms from Rishikesh. The whole place is covered with forests and provides very pleasant environment. Government has declared Chila a sanctuary. A canal from Ganga feeds the reservoir where one can spot many animals. One can stay at the tourist lodge and enjoy the peaceful scenic surroundings.
Adventure Sports at Rishikesh
White Water Rafting:
The challenge of violent rivers is no less than that of the rugged mountains. The icy heights of the Himalayas are the source of some of India's mighty rivers. Fed by innumerable streams, they race along tortuous boulder-strewn beds, cutting deep gorges and breaking into silvery-white rapids.
Rafting In Rishikesh:
The suitable period for river running depends on the adequacy of water volume. Thus September-November and March-April-May are most appropriate. Most of the river established river camps near the on the Ganges above Rishikesh operate from the end of September to mid-December, and from mid-February until late April. Tour operators even arrange rafting excursions varying in length from one-day runs to extended camping-rafting expeditions, but advanced booking is required.
Canoeing:
Adventure lovers can even indulge in canoeing at Rishikesh. A gentle canoe trip in a lightweight alloy-metal craft is popular with the adventurers.
Hiking & Trekking:
Hiking and nature holidays are also well accepted by the tourists in Rishikesh and an ideal base for trekking camps. You may choose from the Chandrashila, Devi Darshan, Kauri and several other treks from Rishikesh.
How To Get There
Rail:
Rishikesh does not have an airstrip of its own. But there are trains from all the major cities in the plains.
Road:
The best transport for Rishikesh is by bus. Bus services are available from far and near places. Particularly there are regular services from Haridwar, which is just half-an- hour journey from Rishikesh.
DISTANCES FROM MAJOR CITIES
» Delhi - 238 Kms
» Uttarkashi - 154 kms
» Dehradun - 42 kms
» Kedarnath - 228 kms
» Haridwar - 25 kms
» Mussoorie - 77 kms
