What :
A holy city at the foot of the Himalaya Mountains, Rishikesh became world-famous after The Beatles visited in the 1960s to spend time at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram.
The city is split by the holy Ganges River, and it’s as common to see sadhu holy men in saffron robes performing ascetic rituals as travelers hiking into the mountains. Often referred to as “The World Capital of Yoga,” Rishikesh’s numerous ashrams, meditation retreats, and yoga spas have grown in popularity over the years as Yoga has spread to western countries.
Rishikesh is a vegetarian city, and the pilgrimage point’s popularity among domestic and international travelers has given birth to a delicious culinary scene. A wide variety of dishes from across India and abroad are available, and coffee houses and western-style bakeries have begun to appear in town catering to foreign travelers.
Across Lakshman Jhula, a steel-cable suspension bridge spanning the Ganges, the white and orange exterior of Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple’s 13 stories beckon travelers and the devout to explore the numerous shrines dedicated to the pantheon of Hindu gods.
Less than a mile beyond Trayanbakshwar Temple, the Swarg Ashram features temples, shrines, and yoga training centers against a scenic backdrop of dense forest. Watching the ritual bathing at the river Ghats, and the numerous spiritual rights performed in the community should not be missed while visiting Rishikesh on one of our luxury tours of India.
When :
The best weather to explore Rishikesh’s stunning scenery and mystical nature falls between October and March. Rains in July and September turn the hillsides around town to an eye-popping green after the high temperatures between April and June.
Where :
Rishikesh is the gateway to the Himalaya Mountains in the Northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It’s best reached by private vehicle leaving from the nearby town of Haridwar.
Who :
Long before The Beatles wrote many of the songs for the White Album here, Rishikesh was known as inspiring and spiritually awakening destination among Hindu practitioners. More than five decades after John Lennon penned “Dear Prudence” here; travelers and pilgrims still come searching for their first steps on the path to enlightenment. We consider Rishikesh a must-see for our guests in Northern India.
Appropriate Attire :
Western-wear is fine in town, but most Hindu temples require shoulders, arms, and knees to be covered while on holy ground. Some areas may also ask visitors to remove their shoes before entry.
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