Rishikesh is a holy city in Uttarakhand state in India. The town is located on the bank of river Ganga, in the foothills of the Himalayas. The city holds great spiritual value and deep culture. The place is renowned as Gateway to the Himalayas, from here the Hindu Char Dham Yatra starts.
The world recognizes Rishikesh as its Yoga Capital. The place is known for its ancient yoga centers and ashrams for spiritual studies. This place of the Sages has a feeling of peace and harmony in its environment. Rishikesh is a favorite adventure destination for tourists visiting here. the town offers various adventure hot spots like river rafting, cliff jumping, kayaking, hot air ballooning, and so on.
Spiritual value
Rishikesh is a land of sages. It is the place where the Rishi Raibhya meditated under a mango tree and Hindu Lord Vishnu appeared as Hrishikesh. The city was earlier called Kubark. Rishikesh is 24km away from Haridwar. The land is devoted to Lord Shiva, and several statues and temples of lord shiva are located here. The famous Neelkanth temple is situated in this holy spiritual land.
Many Sages visit Rishikesh today for a dip in the holy river Ganga and to meditate on the banks of the river. People say that it helps a person to reach Moksha or liberation. The major attraction of the place is its Ganga Aarti in the evening. At this time all the locals and visitors collect on the bank of the river, (the Ganga ghat) to worship the goddess Ganga.
Tourist attractions of Rishikesh
- Lakshman Jhula :- It is a 450 ft. long bridge over the sacred river Ganga. The Jhula is made to honor lord Lakshman in 1923. Earlier it was a 248 ft long footbridge to cross the river until 1889. Lakshman Jhula is a famous landmark of Uttarakhand.
- Rajaji National Park :- It is a beautiful tiger reserve situated between the Gangetic Plains and Shivalik Ranges of the Himalayas. The park is home to Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, Sloth bears, and many more animals. This breathtaking bio reserve is rich in flora and heaven to nature lovers.
- Jumping Heights :- It is the best-suggested place in Rishikesh for adventure. Jumping heights are 83 m high from the ground. It is the highest bungy jumping here. Tourists visit here to enjoy the thrilling jumping experience between the green hills of the Himalayas.
River rafting of Rishikesh
It is important to dip in the holy river Ganga when you visit Rishikesh, then why not make this dip a thrilling one? Rishikesh is not only full of spiritual value but also a hub of exciting adventure sports. And the most famous adventure sport in Rishikesh is river rafting. There are several points for rafting. But Shivpuri is the main point of rafting in Rishikesh.
Tourists from different parts of the world visit Rishikesh to enjoy the rafting experience of the river Ganga. As the river offers several sets of rapids, named blind mice, roller coaster, good morning, tee off, and so on. For rafting, there are different grades available according to the difficulty level.
River rafting is a teamwork and fun activity, it lets you learn how to coordinate paddling with others. While rafting it is important to listen and follow the instruction of the guide to stay safe. If you fall into the river then do not panic, rescue is easy if you stay calm. River rafting is an experience that you will never forget in your entire life.
The best time for rafting in Rishikesh is from September to mid of October. During this time weather in Rishikesh is moderate not so warm and not so cold.
How and when to visit Rishikesh
You can visit Rishikesh via taxis, auto rickshaws, and cars. There is no direct transport to Rishikesh. First, you must reach Haridwar or Dehradun then with any local transport you can visit the place. Haridwar is well connected with major cities of India via railway tracks and highways. Tourists can also opt for flights as Dehradun has its domestic airport called Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport.
Rishikesh is a full-year tourist destination. But the best time to visit the town is from September to March. At this time weather here is pleasant and cold. During this time region experience the cold and fresh air of the Himalayas. Most tourists visit here between May to October. Because these are the months for Char Dham Yatra. Therefore, Rishikesh being the Gateway of Char Dham is more populated this time.
Conclusion
It is concluded that Rishikesh is a fun and adventurous destination with spiritual awakenings. The place is full of experiences whether it is thrilling or scenic. It is the gateway for many pilgrimages and tourist destinations. Rishikesh is a tour of seven days with family, and friends as well as alone. The town on the banks of river Ganga provides complete solitude and peace to one’s soul and mind.
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