The doorway to the Himalayan pilgrimage, Rishikesh is located 24 km from Haridwar, Uttaranchal and 43 km from Dehradun. The spiritual center of Rishikesh sets the perfect ambience for the pilgrims. Blessed with the bounties of nature the holy Ganges rushing through foothills of the Himalayas. There are several temples and ashrams (hermitages) on the banks of the Ganges. It is located at an altitude of 1360 feet. There is no specific time to visit the place. You can visit throughout the years. Rishikesh is considered as the place for sages, saints and scholars. It is known for its yogic culture. Along with the holy essence of the place Rishikesh is known for its adventure sports activities. It's a paradise for people who love river rafting as they can conquer the white water of the Ganges and it also serves as the ideal base camp for trekking in the nearby Himalayan range.
Places of Worships in Rishikesh
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is a 450 feet long suspension bridge. It was built in 1939 and recently a new iron bridge called the Ram Jhula has been added, which connects between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is one of the major tourist attractions. The beautiful sound of flowing water, pure air, and pictorial scenic beauty of the region and the floating sound of the holy bells in the temple creates an atmosphere, which is unforgettable
Nilkanth Mahadeo
Nilkanth Mahadeo is located at an altitude of 5000 feet, 12 km away from Rishikesh.
Tapovan
There is a temple of Lakshman called Tapovan on the other bank of the Ganges. According to legends Lakshman carried out penances here. It is also said that his brother Bharata meditated here, so there is a temple to Bharata here.
Swarga Ashram
There are various temples here. There are different types of eating joints and shops here.
Gita Bhavan:
This building is newly constructed and it is famous for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology. It is situated just across the Lakshman Jhula
Triveni Ghat:
This is a famous bathing ghat. Daily thousands of pilgrims take bath in this ghat. And everybody who takes bath here witnesses the Maha Aarti being performed everyday.
Nearby Attractions from Rishikesh
Dehradun
Mussoorie
Haridwar
Valley of Flowers:
It is famous for the largest concentration of various species of wild flowers. It is off the Rishikesh-Badrinath road, 16 km from Govindghat.
Chila
It is 20 km from Rishikesh. The whole place is covered with forests. Government has declared Chila a sanctuary.
Adventure Sports Activities in Rishikesh
White Water Rafting
Canoeing and Kayaking
Hiking & Trekking:
Camping
Rock Climbing
