Rishikesh is a sacred place to Hindu devotees. It is located in Dehradun district, Uttarakhand, India. Haridwar, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal districts surrounds this city. People believe that Lord Rama had made a penance to Kill Ravana. Along with Yamunotri, Badrinath, Gangotri and Kedarnath it is called Chota Char Dham. City is named after Lord Vishnu. Basant Panchami is a major festival of this place. This place is also famous for adventurous activities.
What to see at Rishikesh:
Lakshman Jhula: It is a suspension bridge which was constructed in 1939. In 1889, it was a Jute Bridge. It is believed that Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana used this bridge to cross the Ganga River. From this place visitors can see River Ganga, Ashrams and temples.
Triveni Ghat: It is the confluence of 3 sacred rivers such as Saraswati, Yamuna and Ganga. People believe that taking a dip at this place will wipe off all the sins. Maha Aarti is the major attractions of this place.
Parmarth Niketan: It is one of the oldest Ashrams. This is famous for its Hawan on the ghats of Ganga Aarti and Parmarth which takes place in the morning and in the evening. To gain the science of Yoga several people visits this place.
Bharat Mandir: It is one of the oldest temples of Rishikesh. Adi Guru Shankaracharya built this temple. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here.
Lakshman Temple: It is another ancient temple of this place. At this site Lakshman performed Tapa. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshmana built a twing bridge near this temple while they were going to Himalayas. Rishi Kund is the major attraction of this place. Lord Rama and Lakshmana had taken bath here to wipe off all the sins of killing Demon Ravana.
Neelakanta Mahadev Temple: Lord Shiva is worshipped here. It is located on the top of the hill. From this place, people can have a spectacular view of Brahmakoot, Manikoot and Vishnukoot.
Other attractions of Rishikesh: Other attractions of Rishikesh are Tera Manzil Temple, Swarg Ashram Area, Shri Tryambakeshwar Temple, and Kali Kambliwale.
What to see around Rishikesh:
Narendra Nagar: This place has historical importance. In 1919, this city was built by Maharaja Narendra Shah. Major attractions of this place are Nandi Bull and Royal Palace.
Haridwar: It is located 19kms away from Rishikesh. This place is a gateway to God. Major attractions of this place are Vaisho Devi Temple, Shravanathji’s temple, Gaurishankar Mahadev Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Sapt Rishi Ashram.
Shivpuri: It is located 19kms away from Rishikesh. Lord Shiva’s temple is the major attraction of this place. River Rafting Sports are other attraction of this place.
Kaudiyala: It is located 38kms away from Rishikesh. This place is famous for wild life. Kaudiyala is famous for white water rafting and several adventurous sports. Rock climbing of this place also attracts several tourists to this place.
Getting to Rishikesh: Rishikesh is well connected with road and railways. From Kotdwar, Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri buses come to this place. Rishikesh railway station is well connected with all the major cities. Nearest airport is located at Dehradun.
Getting around Rishikesh: Town can be explored on foot. Buses and taxis are available to visit the surrounding place of Rishikesh.
Best time to visit Rishikesh: In the month of May heat at this place is unbearable. Remaining all the months of the year are best months to visit this place.
Where to stay in Rishikesh: From budget to luxury hotels staying options are available at Rishikesh. Cost of luxury hotel is Rs.6000 per night and cost of Budget hotel is Rs.800 per night.
Where to eat in Rishikesh: Most of the people come to this place to see the temples or for Yoga. Generally they will not prefer for non vegetarian. So, visitors can experience vegetarian experience at this place. Continental and Italian Food are available at Selected Places.