Rishikesh

Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhoola – A spiritual getaway

Rishikesh, popularly known as the entrance to Char Dham, is located at the foot of the Himalayas. It is the 7th largest city in India and the most popular destination in the state of Uttrakhand. Rishikesh is blessed by the River Ganga that flows through it. An ideal spot for building and exploring the spiritual connection between the soul and the higher power, Rishikesh is the perfect blend of modern adventure tourism and ancient cultural tourism. On the one hand, you will find ashrams and yoga centres, and on the other hand, you will see groups of people enjoying river rafting, paragliding and countless other adventure sports. The overall persona of the city is spiritual, and you will find a wide array of options in pure vegetarian food.

The famous Lakshman Jhoola

The iconic Lakshman Jhoola was opened for the public back in 1939. There are a lot of locations around it that you can visit while enjoying the mesmerizing view of the architectural wonder that Lakshman Jhoola is. It will give you that rustic old country-side feel that is better known as the real India. A mix of people from the villages, devotees, backpackers, shoppers and day-to-day travellers make this area a living and breathing entity. The bells of temples around Lakshman Jhoola will occasionally ring during the day reminding you that you are currently standing under the shade of Gods.

Why visit Rishikesh?

The yoga capital: Yoga is the main reason to visit Rishikesh. Better known as the Yoga capital of India, Rishikesh offers you a chance to learn the secrets of the historic Yoga practices from the best teachers. It does not matter if you are a beginner or an expert, Rishikesh will have something to offer you. Unlike the rest of the world, Rishikesh has kept the authenticity of the Yoga practices intact.

The spiritual guide: Rishikesh is known as one of the holiest places on earth. Hundreds and thousands of pilgrims visit the city every year in search of ways to connect to the higher power. The traditional Ganga aarti that takes place twice a day will bring you closer to the almighty and let you detach from the worries and stress.

Extreme adventure sports: If you are not the spiritual soul kind of person, visit Rishikesh for the best adventure sports options in India. In the last couple of decades, Rishikesh has become one of the most popular places for adrenaline junkies who want to experience the thrill of the river rafting on the wild white water. Mountain cycling, kayaking, cliff jumping and many other options will keep the rush alive.

Vegetarianism has its benefits: No matter if you are a hardcore vegetarian or a dedicated non-vegetarian; the city will only offer you the options in vegetarian food. However, there will be so many taste-explosions happening around you that the desire for meat will vanish in the aroma of spices. The alcohol-free drinks and vegetarian food served in the spiritual and mystical city will bring a whole different world to you.

The peaceful therapy called shopping: The local markets of Rishikesh will leave you spellbound. Famous for handicrafts, headpieces, artistic items, showpieces, traditional clothes and more, these markets will have a lot for you to take as souvenirs. Please keep in mind that there are Khadi and government-approved shops which you should prefer to find the authentic items at the right price.

How to reach Rishikesh?

Rishikesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations and is well connected to the rest of the world. You can reach here via road, rail and air.

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the closest option for flyers. It is 35 KM away from Rishikesh. If you are coming from outside India, the nearest International airport will be Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. From there you can either take a flight, car or you can travel by bus or rail.

By Train: The nearest railway station of Rishikesh is Haridwar which is 25 KM away. Frequent trains reach Haridwar from all across India. Some of the popular options include Jan Shatabadi, Shatabadi Express, Mussoorie Express and AC Special Express. From Haridwar, you can either opt for the bus or hire a cab.

By Bus: Countless options are available from Kashmere Gate Bus Stand in New Delhi as well as from Dehradun Bus stand for Rishikesh. Most of the people first reach Delhi and then either travel in the same bus or change it on Kashmere Gate Bus Stand to reach Rishikesh. Both government and private buses run on 30 minutes to the 45-minute frequency in three categories that are regular, deluxe and luxury.

By Road or self-drive: The city is well connected to the rest of the country via National Highway 58 that means you can easily drive in the city without much hassle. If you own a car or hire one to drive, it is one option that you should consider.

When to visit Rishikesh?

The best time to visit Rishikesh will be between February and March and then from August to October. It crosses 35 degree Celsius during the summer season that makes it a little uncomfortable place if you are not habitual of living in a hotter place. Otherwise, pilgrims, spiritual seekers and yoga trainees visit here throughout the year.

Where to visit in Rishikesh and around Lakshman Jhoola?

Lakshman Jhoola Market: It is one of the most popular shopping destinations for tourists. You will find everything from clothing, souvenirs, paintings, art and craft, traditional items, spiritual items and more.

Trimbakeshwar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is a famous destination for nirvana seekers. The mesmerizing beauty of this temple and the fact that it is located near River Ganga makes it a must-visit place.

Lakshman Jhoola: The iconic bridge that was built in the 1930s has a lot of scenic beauty to offer. When you walk across the bridge, you will be able to hear the mighty Ganga flowing under your feet. It gives a different perspective of looking at the world.

Triveni Ghaat: Visit during the morning or evening to experience the beauty of Ganga Aarti. The spiritual connection that you can make during the aarti is not explainable in words.

Beetles Ashram: For those who are Beetles fan, this place has a whole different meaning. However, it is one of the best locations for meditation.