Rishikesh – 'the Gateway to Land of Lords', is one of the popular Hindu pilgrimages destinations in India. It is a perfect combination of pilgrimage, adventure, wildlife, yoga and meditation. The holy city awaits millions of devotees and adventure enthusiasts every year. Rishikesh is often crowded, specially from April to October.
Historical Tales
Heralded amidst lofty hills, the city is located at an altitude of 356 m above the sea level. It is also known as 'Tapo Bhumi' means the place for meditation of Gods. According to legends, sage Raibhya Rishi did severe penance and as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh. It is also said that the land has witnessed the incident in which Lord Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu.
Yoga and Meditation Centres
Rishikesh is also popularly known as world of yoga and meditation. The holy town is dotted with numerous yoga resorts where people can do meditation and yoga for their spiritual development. The serene and calm ambiance in the ashrams conducts yoga and meditation to attain complete mental peace and satisfaction. Some of the popular centres includes The Yoga Study Centre, Sri Ved Niketan Ashram and Yoga Niketan Ashram.
Adventure Activities
Set an expedition to adventure world filled with lot of excitement and enjoyment. Have a thrilling experience of white water rafting in Rishikesh. Rafting on water of wisdom is an unique experience that enchants every visitor. Explore the wild waves of Ganges that gushes down from an altitude of 480 m. Those who are sacred of rafting can indulge themselves in gentle canoeing here.
The other option to add more thrill in your Rishikesh trip is trekking. Explore the fascinating trekking routes surrounded by lush greenery on high ranges of great Himalayas. The trek route offers a magnificent panaroma of picturesque locales.
Shopping Arcade
Rishikesh is primarily a pilgrimage destination. Therefore visitors can rarely find big markets or souvenir shops. But there are few things which can delight the shopaholics. They can shop for handicrafts made of sea shells, beads, pearls etc. Visitors can also look for saris, handloom fabric, bed covers and cotton fabrics at local shops.