Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal), India

Rishikesh

It is said when Raibhya Rishi did hard penances, God appeared by the name of “Hrishikesh” and this area was henceforth called by the name “Rishikesh”.

Rishikesh, situated on the right bank of Ganga and surrounded on three sides by Himalayan ranges, known from medieval time as celestial abode, is a great pilgrimage centre of India, attracting a large number of pilgrims. It is believed that Bharat, brother of Lord Rama, subjected himself to severe penance here. A temple known as Bharat temple was later constructed at the site and the town of Rishikesh sprang up around the temple. It has since been the abode of saints and sages from where they sojourn before undertaking the arduous pilgrimage that lay ahead on the distant Himalayan peaks.

This gateway to the Abode of Gods and pilgrimage to Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri is clustered with Ashrams, finest Hotels, Tourist Rest Houses and Dharamsalas.

The Yoga centres of Rishikesh have enhanced the significance of the place, home and foreign tourists from all over the world visit this place to have lessons in yoga and meditation.

Places of Tourist Interest and Pilgrimage

Neelkanth Mahadev, Rishikesh (distance is 14 km from Rishikesh): It is located at a height of 1550m, is also famous for its healthy climate and scenic beauty. There is a temple dedicated to Neelkanth Mahadev. At Neelkanth good food and accommodation is available. From here it is worthwhile to visit Bhuvaneshwari Devi Temple – 2 km trek and further 3 km is Jhilmi gufa. Nowadays it is motorable.

Rishikund and Raghunath Temple, Rishikesh (distance is 1.6 Km): Legendary tank where Lord Rama took bath, is a popular bathing spot for pilgrims.
Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh (distance is 1.6 Km): A bathing ghat, where three streams of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati are said to flow together. This is a sacred place where ‘Pind Shradha’ is performed. There are several temples around.

Bharat Temple, Rishikesh (distance is 1.6 Km): Opne from 5.00 A.M. to 11.00 A.M. and 1.00 P.M .to 9.00 P.M. A very old temple built and surrounded by massive walls, this temple is situated in the heart of Rishikesh town.

Laxman Jhoola, Rishikesh: It is about 3 km north of Rishikesh. There was a hanging jute rope bridge (without pillar) till 1889 and was rebuilt with iron ropes in 1939, on the Ganges with a span of 240 metres, is a beautiful sight. Raghunathji’s temple and Thirteen Storey Temple are the main attractions around Laxman Jhoola.