State - Uttarkhand
District - Dehradun
Altitude - 1220 ft
Well Known As - The Yoga Capital of the World.
Famous for - Yoga Destination, pilgrim, tourist destination, White river rafting in Ganges,
About Rishikesh in Uttarakhand
If there is any other word for tranquility, it has to be Rishikesh! Rishikesh or Hrishikesh as fondly called is a small town perched on the foothills of Himalayas in the state of Uttarakhand. Scenically placed, Rishikesh City is one of the frequently visited tourist destinations in India. The banks of River Ganges allows it to adorn the cap of being one of the sought after destination for pilgrims. The town of Rishikesh defines tranquility and serenity. Crowned with the cap of being the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh proclaims itself to be one of the holiest place to the Hindus. To add feather to the cap, the annual International Yoga Festival is hosted by the town of Rishikesh. But that is not all, apart from known for its spirituality and holiness, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is also one of the most visited tourist places in India.
The town of Rishikesh gained its popularity when the famous and world known band 'Beatles' stayed here with their guru Maharashi Mahesh Yogi. Since then this town has gained popularity in terms of most visited spiritual center. The many ashrams that are placed within Rishikesh have become popular among tourists from all over the world. People enchanted by yoga and spiritualism visit Rishikesh for spiritual endeavor.
Being the Gateway of Ganges, Rishikesh is one of the holiest destinations in India. Pilgrims from all around the world flock to Rishikesh and Haridwar. The evening site at Rishikesh is spell-bounding with this beautiful city perched amidst lush hills, the soft breeze creating a pleasant atmosphere, the echoing of ringing bells in the temple, the evening aarti beckoning the pilgrims to gather around the temples resting near the banks of Ganges and within all a beautiful blend of people from different origins - all seeking peace and serenity.
Pilgrims visit Rishikesh in large number because it also happens to be the starting point of one of the most holiest yatras in India - The Char Dham Pilgrimage. Char Dham Pilgrimage is a pilgrim journey to the four holiest places in India which every Hindu believes in visiting at least once in the lifetime. These Char Dham (four pilgrim places) include Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. There are many ashrams(pilgrim residences) in Rishikesh which are flocked by tourists all year around. The week long International Yoga Festival hosted by Rishikesh is held during the month of March.
But that is not all!
Rishikesh river rafting is a popular activity among tourists. The wild River Ganges allows different stretches of Rishikesh rafting suiting to all age groups. Luxury camping in Rishikesh is other such activity to look forward too. The best part of Rishikesh weather is that it is pleasant all year along.
Suggested Read Rishikesh river rafting
Best Time To Visit Rishikesh
The holy town of Rishikesh can be charming all year along. Summers are mild yet pleasant. Though the river rafting is shut down during monsoon, yet tourists visit Rishikesh in monsoon. Most of the hotels in Rishikesh offer maximum discounts on hotel rates for luring tourists for a visit during monsoon. The most desirable climate for visiting Rishikesh however is from post September to early May when other than enjoying the scenic places and temples of Rishikesh, you also get a thrill out of various adventure sport activities such as
Rishikesh white river rafting, camping, bungee jumping, rappelling,
trekking , rock climbing, paragliding and so many other such sports.
Shopping in Rishikesh
When it comes to shopping, Rishikesh has it all. One can indulge in an amazing shopping delight while exploring the streets of Rishikesh and the Rishikesh Market. There are many shopping corners around Rishikesh, especially outside the temples and ashrams. Many ashrams and temples have there in-house shopping corners which sell religious Rishikesh souvenirs and prasad. But there are big shopping markets near Triveni Ghat and Lakshman Jhula. Bargaining is a must at Rishikesh markets as the shop-vendors charge exorbitant prices for items that would be worth only half of the claimed price. One can shop for various items including -
- Religious books.
- Religious Artifacts.
- Idols carved out of stone, wood, brass and plaster of paris.
- Wooden ornaments.
- Expensive gemstones and jewelry.
- Shawls and dress materials.
- Artificial jewelry.
- Bangles and necklaces.
- Pooja items such as diyas, fragrant incense sticks, camphor, shawls for idols, dhoop and other brass items.
- Rishikesh Stone Shaligrams.
- Beautiful paintings.
- Expensive saris.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Local Sweets and other eatables.
- Holy Water of Ganges (Gangajal)
- Handicraft items including handmade bags, purse, shawls, baskets, wooden items.
- Exclusive handmade wall pieces and home decorative items.
- Rudraksha garlands and single Rishikesh rudraksha.
- Fresh flowers and garlands.
- Artificial flower ornaments.
Places to Visit in and Around Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat at Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat is one of the most tranquil place one should definitely pay a visit. Located on the banks of River Ganges, Triveni Ghat is the holiest ghat for Hindus as it is the confluence of three holy rivers - The River Ganges, River Yamuna and River Saraswathy. Devotees who seek spiritual well-being soak in the River Ganges for healing their body and soul. The calmness and peace one seeks here beckons you to spend more quality time. Triveni Ghat could be a bit over-crowded, but yet one can navigate through the narrowed lanes a further down along the river banks to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
The most astounding sight is where your eyes are greeted by the spellbounding glimpse of phenomenal River Ganges coursing its way to the sea. Triveni Ghat turns into something magical during the Maha-Aarti when chanting of bhajans go along with rhythmic drum beatings, ringing of bells and glowing lights. Small diyas are placed on leaves and released in the river on this occasion which is a mesmerizing sight.
There are two main temples on the Triveni Ghat, the Geeta Temple and the Laxmi Narayan Temple. The Bharat Mandir is located about 1 km from Triveni Ghat. Triveni Ghat is a serene place to spend some time alone or to enjoy a walk. The surreal views from Triveni Ghat are spell-bounding, especially in the evenings after sunset. Though you are bound to be hounded by sages and priests for money or donations, yet if you learn to overlook that, then the visit to Triveni Ghat is definitely worth it.
There is no entry fee for visiting Triveni Ghat but one has to pay minimal charges for enjoying a boat ride which is arranged and managed by the Swami Narayan Mission Society. There is a market besides Triveni Ghat where one can indulge in some good shopping. Things that could be bought here includes religious books, bhajan cds, gems, jewelry, rudraksha, paintings and clothes.
Lakshman Jhula In Rishikesh
Lakshman Jhula is a hanging bridge in Rishikesh that was built in 1939 and works as a bridge between two villages - Tapovan and Jonk. The 450 meter long Lakshman Jhula is a one of the main attractions of Rishikesh. It also holds religious significance according to the local tales, as the bridge was said to have been constructed during the era of Lord Rama. As per the ancient tales, Lord Lakshman had crossed River Ganga on this location. Earlier the bridge was constructed with jute thread, but now it has been solidified with steel and iron construction and is one of the first jeepable suspension bridge. Walk through Lakshman Jhula is worth experiencing! One can peer over the railings to have a sneak at the river rafters on the River Ganges, or enjoy the majestic views of panoramic hills and lush forests. There are markets on both ends of Lakshman Jhula.
Beatles Ashram In Rishikesh
Also known as the Chaurasi Kutia, Beatles Ashram is one of the must visit attractions in Rishikesh. The ashram got it's name from the international famous band Beatles who visited Rishikesh and resided here in 1968. Beatles spent their time meditating at the Maharishi Yogi's Ashram which then later was known as Beatles Ashram. The Beatles Ashram is located at a scenic location within the Rajaji National Park. River Ganga flows quietly behind the Beatles Ashram. One of the reason behind the world-wide popularity of Rishikesh as Yoga Capital is the visit of Beatles.
The trend of Yoga and Meditation captured a scenario and Rishikesh became known worldwide. Officially the Beatles Ashram is closed and entry is prohibited inside. But one can take a walk around and relive history. The Beatles Ashram is perched on the Manikoot Hill and is spread over an area of 14 acres within the forest. The ruins comprises of small kutirs or huts along with meditation domes and meditation caves that are spread all along the ashram.
Tera Manzil Temple at Rishikesh
At the far end of Lakshman Jhula one gets to visit the Tera Manzil Temple. Tera Manzil Temple is also referred as Trayambakeshwar Temple. Tera Manzil Temple means 13 storey temple is known for its distinctive symmetric architecture and holds special significance for Hindus. Unlike most of the temple which is devoted to one single deity, the Tera Manzil Temple allows the devotee to worship all of the gods and goddess within one single roof. Located on the banks of River Ganga, each room of the Tera Manzil Temple is dedicated to different deities. Every floor holds shopping corner for souvenirs and religious items. The top floor of Tera Manzil Temple offers a beautiful view of the sunset.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh
Located about 32 km from the main bus terminal of Rishikesh, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a famous Shaktipeeth, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a mythological site located on the mountainside nestled amidst lush green forests and is well known among Hindus. As per the Hindu Mythology, The Neelkanth Temple is located on the site where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emerged from the ocean during
Saamudramanthan and his throat turned blue in color. The Shivalinga of Lord Neelkanth Mahadev is the main deity and is placed within the temple complex. There is a natural spring that originates in the temple complex and the devotees take a holy bath here before entering the temple premises. One of the main festivals celebrated with a grand gesture is the Mahashivaratri when thousands of devotees throng the temple to be part of this festival. Two annual fairs are held within the temple complex which includes the Maha Shivaratri Festival fair and the Shivaratri of Shravana Month fair.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Timings: 5:00 am to 6:00 pm open throughout the year
Camping in Rishikesh
Given the pleasant climate and panoramic topography of Rishikesh, camping is one of the activity enjoyed best by the tourists. Camping in Rishikesh is one of the classic way to enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Tourists enjoy the camping experience in Rishikesh with daily doses of yoga, and meditation amidst the lap of Mother Nature. Camping also comes as part of the overnight
Rishikesh rafting package.
Suggested Read: Trekking in Rishikesh
Hotels in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is flocked with thousands of tourists and pilgrims all around the year. And because of this, the town of Rishikesh has innumerable options when it comes to lodging and boarding. Accommodation facilities ranging from budgetary hotels to high end luxury hotels such as the
Namami Ganges Resort can be found in Rishikesh. There are many lodges and home-stays that offer cheap accommodation facilities. Pilgrims often stay put in ashrams all around Rishikesh. But the most common accommodation facilities tourists prefer include the GMVN accommodations and the UTDC's Uttaranchal Tourist Guest House - Hotel Radhey Radhey.
GMVN Rishikesh
The GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) is a venture of the government of Uttarakhand. GMVN offers accommodation facilities all around prime tourists destination in Uttarakhand, that suits to individual's budget. Ranging from low budgetary to deluxe accommodation arrangements, GMVN has a lot to offer to suit a tourist's accommodation needs. In Rishikesh itself, GMVN has four properties placed strategically around Rishikesh. Four of these properties are:
Rishikesh GMVN Bharat Bhoomi TRH: GMVN Bharat Bhoomi TRH is a two star budgetary resort that offers luxury accommodation with it's deluxe rooms and facilities including 48 luxury rooms, an in-house Indian restaurant, travel desk, room service and hot water. It also provides a 60 bedded dormitory for budgetary travelers. It is located near Natraj Chowk on Haridwar Bypass road.
Rishikesh GMVN Rishilok Tourist Guest House: The GMVN Rishikesh Rishilok Tourist Guest House has 35 rooms which comprise of deluxe room, economy rooms, ordinary rooms and 16 bedded dormitory. The facilities provided by this guest house include in-house restaurant, hot water supply, cable TV, parking facility and room service. GMVN Rishikesh Rishilok Tourist Guest House is located closer to the main market, near the Shri Kailash Ashram .
Rishikesh GMVN Ganga Resort TRH: The GMVN Tourist Rest House Rishikesh Ganga Resort is located in scenic environs and offers spell bounding view of the Ram Jhula( Ram Jhula is a suspension bridge constructed few miles ahead of Lakshman Jhula on the Western banks of River Ganges) and the holy ashrams of Rishikesh. It is a two star deluxe resort that offers air-conditioned rooms with deluxe amenities. The resort also houses a 6 bedded dormitory for budgetary tourists. Facilities at GMVN Rishikesh Ganga Resort TRH include in-house pure Indian restaurant, hot water supply, room service, car parking and beautiful garden. The GMVN Rishikesh Ganga Resort TRH is located on the banks of River Ganges just 2 kms from Rishikesh railway station.
Rishikesh GMVN Kaudiyala TRH: The GMVN TRH Kaudiyala offers cottage style accommodation with super deluxe amenities. It also has family a/c rooms for budgetary accommodation. There are total four cottages in all. Facilities such as deluxe amenities, in-house vegetarian restaurant, room service, intercom, travel desk etc are offered. The GMVN Kaudiyala is placed on the main road just above the River Ganges. Kaudiyala is one of the famous beach camps on the River Ganges which is known for water sport activities.
Rates for booking vary as per season.
Booking queries and reservations should be done at GMVN Online Reservation and Booking Office for Rishikesh or at GMVN Dehradun head office.
GMVN Dehradun (Head Office)
GM (Tourism),
Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd.,
74/1,
Rajpur Road,
Dehradun-248001.
Phone number: 91-135-2740896 / 2746817 / 2749308 / 2748478
Email: gmvn@gmvnl.com, gmvn@sancharnet.in
GMVN Rishikesh Office
Rishikesh - Tourist Information Centre
Yatra Office
Shail Vihar
Haridwar Bypass road
Rishikesh - 249201
Phone number: +91- 135 - 2431793 / 2431783 / 2435174
Email: yatra@gmvnl.com
Rishikesh Uttarakhand Tourism Office
Tour Executive,
Trekking and Mountaineering Division GMVN Ltd.
Kailash Gate,
Muni-Ki-Reti,
Rishikesh.
Phone number: 0135-2430799
Uttaranchal Tourist Guest House (Hotel Radhey Radhey Rishikesh)
An initiative by the UTDC, the Hotel Radhey Radhey Rishikesh is a Uttaranchal Tourist Guest House. This guest house offers accommodation which comprises of Deluxe rooms, a/c double rooms and family four bedded room. The Uttaranchal Tourist Guest House offers variety of facilities and services including room service, travel desk, guide service, adventure sport service, WiFi, car and bike rental and other facilities. Hotel Radhe Radhe is located near the banks of River Ganges, about 14 km from the famous Shakti-peeth, Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple. It is also closer to Rajaji National Park.
Contact Details of Hotel Radhey Radhey / Uttaranchal Tourist Guest House
Hotel Radhey Radhey
Near Swarg Ashram,
Rishikesh,
Uttarakhand 249304
Telephone number: 07830404044 / +91-0135-2440746
Email id: info@hotelradheyradhey.in
Website: Hotel Radhey Radhey
How to Reach Rishikesh
Rishikesh is widely connected with the major town and cities in India. The nearest domestic airport for Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun which is about 15 km away. The nearest international airport for Rishikesh is Delhi airport. One can easily get private taxis and rental car from Dehradun as well as Delhi. From Delhi airport to Rishikesh the journey is about 6 to 7 hours.
The nearest railway station for Rishikesh is Haridwar. Haridwar is well connected by major railway stations in India. Many express and passenger trains including Jan Shatabdi, Mussoorie Express, Shatabdi Express ply regularly to Haridwar. Once at Haridwar station there are many buses, auto-rickshaws(shared for 40 to 50 rupees per seat or whole auto for INR500) and taxis that can take you further to Rishikesh.
It takes about 30 minutes to reach Rishikesh from Haridwar railway station. Rental air-conditioned cars too can be hired from Haridwar Railway station. They cost you about INR 1000.There are several air-conditioned and private buses that are ran by several tour operators from Delhi to Rishikesh.
Distance from Rishikesh to Dehradun - 45 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Haridwar - 20 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Mussorie - 75 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Dhanaulti hill station- 69 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Delhi - 226 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Chandigarh - 209 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Shimla - 272 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Nanital - 240 km
Distance from Rishikesh to Pithoragarh hill station- 423 km
