Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a city in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan foothills beside the Ganges River. The river is considered holy, and the city is renowned as a center for studying yoga and meditation.
Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is one of the most pilgrimage centers of India. Rishikesh City is the gateway to the cities that form the Chardham - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The name of the city is taken from Hrishikesh, which was one more name of Lord Vishnu. The sacred river Ganga flows through this state. Rishikesh is to be found on the right bank of river Ganga and bounded on 3 sides by Himalayan ranges. It is said that when Raibhya Rishi did self-mortification, God appeared by the name of "Rishikesh" and hence this region was known as by this name.

Geography of Rishikesh
Rishikesh city is placed at Uttarakhand on the Tehri Garhwal area. Rishikesh city lies on the banks of river Ganga and is bounded by the Himalayas. Rishikesh is located at a height of 356 m above sea level. The geographical position of Rishikesh is 30.7 North Latitude and 78.42 East. It is only 25 kilometers away from Haridwar.

Cuisine of Rishikesh
People of Rishikesh city are strict vegetarians. Non-vegetarian food has been banned in the city from several years. North and south Indian cuisine is broadly offered, and there`s no shortage of multi-cuisine backpacker cafes. There are scrumptious Ayurvedic and health food restaurants that serve quality food.

Tourist Places
Rishikesh city is best to wander and travel around on foot. The flowing water, chime of bell is constantly heard. Triveni bathing ghat is perfect for taking dip in Ganges River and to offer prayers. The twilight prayer is spectacular and adventure lovers can enjoy rafting and trekking opportunities.

Rishikesh city travel guide informs you about the popular places liked by tourists. Some top ashrams include Shivananda Ashram, Yoga Niketan , adventure sports like rafting, camping, trekking and many old and new temples, many yoga and meditation centers.

Rishikesh Excursions

Rajaji National Park : Rajaji National Park in situated 25 kms far from Rishikesh. The park is extended across the 820 sq. kms. There are 500 elephants, 12 Tigers, 250 Panthers, 400 bird species and so many animals found here. Jungle safari is also organized at the park. Best place if you are interested wildlife. During monsoon it is closed.

Vashistha Cave : Vashistha cave or Vasistha cave is beautiful cave 25 kms far from Rishikesh. Vasistha was a sage and Guru of Lord Ram. Vasistha meditated here for a long period. Small Shivlinga is also located inside the cave. Cave has very peaceful atmosphere. Not So much tourist visits here so you can easily spend some time inside the cave for meditation.

Kunjapuri Devi Temple Trek : Kunjapuri is a temple of Goddess Durga near Narendranagar (26 kms far from Rishikesh. The temple has amazing view of the snow clad Himalayan peaks. This temple is located at 1640 meter height. To reach temple you have to walk more than 350 steps. The temple is very famous among the local people.

Jhilmil Gufa (Jhilmil Cave) : Jhilmil is cave near Nilkanth Temple. Jhilmil gufa is situated 06 kms far from Nilkanth Mahadev Temple. The place is visited by only few people. The whole 02 kms trekking is inside the Jungle. At cave you can meet monks who takes care of the cave.

How to Reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh By Air : The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun (Capital of Uttarakhand).

Rishikesh By Rail : Rishikesh is well-linked by railway network to the major cities of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and North India.

Rishikesh By Road : Rishikesh is conveniently connected by roads to the major cities of Uttarakhand and neighboring states. It is connected with cities like Haridwar, Dehradun, Mussoorie, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Jodhimath, Delhi, etc.