Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World

The holy city of India, which is perched along the bank of the Ganges and is flanked by the Himalayas, will always be associated with the holy Hindu Pilgrimage, Chardham, Ashram, Temples & Beatles who came to learn transcendental meditation in 1968.

The Himalayas and The Ganges both constitute the essence of Yoga

Rishikesh is also the best-known yoga capital of the world, known to be the origin of ancient yoga & meditation traditions. This peaceful town sits on the verge of Rajaji National Park along the holy river Ganges, apart from yoga capital city, now it is getting popularity as the hot-spot for outdoor adventure activities.

Things To Do In Rishikesh

Kunjapuri Temple-  Rishikesh is filled with hiking & trekking trails, some moderate and others that entwine into short day hikes to temples. Kunjapuri Temple provides mesmerizing views of the town.

Only 45 minutes drive away, The Kunjapuri Temple that sits atop approx. 1635 m from sea level, is known for sunrise view with eye-sweeping view of the snowcapped peaks of the Trans-Himalayas. The temple is devoted to the Hindu goddess, Sati, and is one of the most visited temples of Rishikesh.

Sunrise View at Kunjapuri Temple 

The Temple is also famous for Sunrise Trek, normally adventure lovers return to Rishikesh through the downhill trail, scaling the distance of 9 km by trek. The trail offers the opportunity to interact with locals, a waterfall & a cave.

Join Ganges Ceremony

The Hindu daily rituals are known as Aartis, normally performed on holy river banks every evening at sunset, and assisted by Indian classical music and holy fire as offerings to the presiding deities of the temple or to the holy river the Ganges.

Take A Part of Kirtan

Rishikesh houses thousands of small Ashram which act as temporary venues for religious musicians for performing kirtan rituals (a long vocal call and collective prayers chanting) accompanied by other participants.

Enjoy Jungle Safari

Only a 40-minute away from Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park serves as home to approx. 500 elephants, along with others disperse animals like panthers, leopards, deer, and even anteaters, and the park offers on-site accommodation facilities for the vitiators who want to make overnight. The Park also has also tiger reserve that houses more than 48 tigers.

Visit Rishikesh Town

Many pilgrims to Rishikesh ignore the Rishikesh Town that represents mini-India, probably they are unaware that bustling streets markets happen just 30 minutes of walking distance from their quiet confines.

Rishikesh center is an upsetting bunch of restaurants, sweet shops, vegetable, and fruit roadside stands & motor mechanics on both sides of busy roads.

Hug The Animals

As you have seen in most parts of India many different animals coexist with Indians in town, considering sheep, cows, pigs, and dogs. Monkeys are known for taking the food off pilgrims as they pass by, or raiding into hotel rooms’ premises — even while guests.

Though the best way to stay away from monkeys is to avoid feeding them,  the peaceful cows are worthy to feed any leftovers.