Rishikesh, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance.
The city is located on the banks of the Ganga river and is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” With a plethora of tourist destinations to choose from, it can be difficult to determine the must-visit places in Rishikesh.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 13 tourist destinations that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Rishikesh.
- Lakshman Jhula
- Shivpuri
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
- Parmarth Niketan
- Triveni Ghat
- Ram Jhula
- Rishikund
- Bharat Mandir
- Kaudiyala
- Gita Bhawan
- Vashishta Gufa
- Kunjapuri Devi Temple
- Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple
1. Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is a famous iron suspension bridge that is considered to be one of the most iconic landmarks in Rishikesh. It is said that Lord Lakshman crossed the Ganga on a jute rope at this very spot, and the bridge is built to commemorate this event. It provides breathtaking views of the Ganga and is a popular spot for photo shoots.
2. Shivpuri
Shivpuri is a small town located along the banks of the Ganga river, just 13 km from Rishikesh. It is known for its scenic beauty and adventure sports like rafting, kayaking, and camping. It is a popular destination for tourists who are seeking a peaceful and serene environment.
3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on the banks of the Ganga river. The temple is said to be the place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that emerged from the ocean during the “Samudra Manthan.” It is a popular place of pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Shiva.
4. Parmarth Niketan
Parmarth Niketan is one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance. The ashram offers yoga and meditation classes, and is also a popular place for volunteer work. Visitors can attend the daily prayers and cultural programs that are held in the ashram.
5. Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat located on the banks of the Ganga river. It is believed that taking a dip in the Ganga at this ghat during the Kumbh Mela can wash away one’s sins and purify the soul. It is also the site of the Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is held every evening and is a spectacular sight to behold.
6. Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another famous suspension bridge in Rishikesh that is said to have been built by Lord Rama himself. The bridge provides stunning views of the Ganga river and is a popular spot for taking in the natural beauty of the area.
7. Rishikund
Rishikund is a sacred pond located in the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple complex. It is said that the pond was created by Lord Rama, and that the water in the pond has healing properties. Visitors can take a dip in the pond to purify their minds and bodies.
8. Bharat Mandir
Bharat Mandir is one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, and is a popular destination for devotees of Lord Vishnu.
9. Kaudiyala
Kaudiyala is a small village located in the foothills of the Himalayas, just 30 km from Rishikesh. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The village provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region and engage in adventure sports.
10. Gita Bhawan
Gita Bhawan is an ashram located in Rishikesh that is dedicated to the study and dissemination of the Bhagavad Gita. The ashram offers classes on the Bhagavad Gita and other Hindu scriptures, and is a popular destination for students and spiritual seekers.
11. Vashishta Gufa
Vashishta Gufa is a cave located near the village of Tapovan in Rishikesh. It is said to be the meditation spot of Sage Vashishta, one of the seven sages of Hindu mythology. The cave is considered to be a sacred place and is a popular destination for pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
12. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kunjapuri, who is considered to be an incarnation of the goddess Parvati. The temple is located on a hilltop and provides stunning views of the Himalayas and the Ganga river. It is a popular destination for devotees of the goddess and for tourists who want to take in the natural beauty of the region.
13. Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple
Shri Trimbakeshwar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located near the village of Trimbak in Rishikesh. The temple is considered to be one of the holiest places of pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Shiva, and is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere.
In conclusion, Rishikesh is a city that offers something for everyone, from natural beauty and adventure sports to spiritual significance and cultural heritage. The top 13 tourist destinations listed above provide a glimpse into the diverse range of experiences that visitors can have in Rishikesh. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to relax and take in the beauty of the region, Rishikesh has something to offer.
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