Located in the Himalayan foothills beside the holy Ganges River, the city of Rishikesh has many places of interest. The eastern bank of the river is dotted with temples. The town is also famous for its Swarg Ashram, a traffic-free, alcohol-free, vegetarian enclave. For a spiritual retreat, the city offers a unique opportunity to learn about yoga and meditation.
Triveni Ghat
If you’re interested in the spiritual side of life, you’ll probably want to visit the Triveni Ghat, a famous ghat in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. As the largest ghat in the city, it is the most popular ghat on the Ganges and remains heavily populated by devotees. Many of these pilgrims take ritual baths here to purify themselves of past sins.
There is no need to rent a car in Rishikesh, though you can find parking in the vicinity. The Ghat itself isn’t the most popular tourist spot, but it is a popular pilgrim site. It’s worth taking the time to see it in person and pray at the different temples and ashrams. Whether you’re visiting the Ghat for a spiritual experience or simply to see the city from a different perspective, there’s something for everyone in Rishikesh.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual inspiration or a little adventure, a trip to Rishikesh is sure to be unforgettable. The first place you should visit is the Triveni Ghat, the site of ancient Hindu rituals. Located along the banks of the Ganges, this ancient site is a place to experience pure devotion and find peace. It’s also worth noting that it’s a relatively short walk from most hotels in the city.
While you’re in Rishikesh, you may want to visit the Bharat Temple. This temple is dedicated to the god Bharat and is still active. It is also a very popular tourist spot, especially during the weekend. It’s also possible to visit the Kunjapuri Devi Temple, which is located on a hill. Kunjapuri Devi is one of the 52 Shakti Peets. It is popular with both men and women.
The Laxman Jhula, a 450-foot long suspension bridge, is another major attraction. Built in 1939, it is a favorite landmark of the city. The bridge gives breathtaking views of the region. Aside from the Ganga Ghat, Laxman Temple and Tera Manzil Mandir are close by. You can enjoy the stunning panoramic views from either of these landmarks.
Laxman Jhula
Swarg ashram is one of the most important points of interest in Rishikesh. Located on an isolated river bank, the ashram is home to devotees from all over the world. The serene surroundings of this ashram are ideal for meditation, and it’s also the perfect place to watch the sun set. Here, you can also join a yoga class.
Another place of worship near Laxman Jhula is the Trimbakeshwar Temple. This Hindu temple offers free shelter to more than 1000 pilgrims each day. Visitors are also able to buy gemstones at Arihant gems. This temple is a favorite with tourists for its stunning architecture and rejuvenating Vedic treatments. Once you have had your fill of the temple’s sanctified atmosphere, head over to the Ram temple for a heavenly experience.
If you have enough time, you should also make time to visit Laxman Jhula. This suspension bridge is over the Ganga River and has a unique vibrating sound that can be felt as vehicles pass over it. This temple is famous for a story in which Laxmana, a character from the Ramayana, crossed the river using ropes to get to the other side. This temple offers stunning views of the city.
The Rishikund, also known as the Pond of the Sage, is one of the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh. It is a holy water body near Ragunath Temple and reflects the temple’s entrance tower. The sacred water here is said to have been blessed by the River Goddess Yamuna. Near the Lakshman Jhula, you’ll find the Rishiund Temple. Its ancient carvings and sculptures will make you want to spend time here.
If you’re interested in visiting temples in Rishikesh, be sure to visit the Tera Manzil Temple. This thirteen-storey temple is home to multiple deities. The symmetry of this temple and the overall sanctity of the temple make it a popular destination for devotees of all faiths. The top floor of the temple provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Osho Gangadham Ashram
There are many places to visit in Rishikesh, but none is quite as popular as the Osho Gangadham Ashram. Located on the banks of the holy river Ganga, the Ashram combines scientifically proven practices and a relaxing, natural setting. Many popular saints from around the world visit the Ashram to meditate and practice yoga and pranayama.
Osho’s ashram is located in the town of Rishikesh and offers free ashram stay on the banks of the river. You can even get meals for a small fee at this ashram. This is an ideal location to visit with a significant other, or to have a romantic evening. And if you’re looking for a peaceful place for two, the Geeta Bhawan Ashram is the best place to visit in Rishikesh.
Near the Osho Gangadham Ashram, you can also visit the Muni Ki Reti. Literally translates to “Sands of the Sages,” this ashram is home to many saints and Sadhus. Visitors can find the ashram close to Triveni Ghat and Ram Jhula Parking. The Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple dedicated to God Hrishikesh Narayan, is located in the heart of Rishikesh.
Osho Gangadham Ashram, Rishikesh is open year-round. However, visiting the Ashram during the cold winter season may make traveling difficult. Although winter is pleasant, the temperatures can drop significantly and the city can get extremely crowded. The rainy season, on the other hand, can also be dangerous. So, if you’re able to go, plan ahead!
Another interesting place to visit in Rishikesh is the Beatles Ashram. The Beatles lived in the ashram during their most productive period. Today, it’s one of the hippest places to visit in Rishikesh. The Beatles also visited the ashram during one of their trips to Rishikesh. A visit to this place is one of the best off-beat activities to do in Rishikesh.
For a romantic getaway, visit Rishikesh during autumn and winter. The temperature is pleasant year-round, but don’t visit during the monsoon season because landslides may occur. During these months, you can enjoy rafting and river activities. If you’re traveling alone, you can take advantage of Rishikesh’s yoga festivals in March and April.
Swarg Ashram
Located in the outskirts of Rishikesh, the ancient ashram of Swarg Ashram is a famous place to visit. This place is free from the noise and pollution that are so typical of the city. Its sprawling premises are home to hundreds of rooms and halls, and there are also a number of temples and shrines. The ashram is also home to a Sanskrit school and a large library of religious books.
The ashram is a spiritual destination, where the followers of Swami Vishudhanand practice yoga and other spiritual practices. The Swarg Ashram is a large association that is popular with both foreign and domestic visitors. There are many religious services held here, and you can also seek Ayurvedic solutions. The Ashram is a popular destination for spiritual and nature-loving individuals.
In the Swarg Ashram area, you can find the Geeta Bhawan, an ancient temple that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Located on the banks of the River Ganga, this temple has an impressive 13 storey structure. Its colourful facade is a great way to distinguish it from the other temples in Rishikesh. It is also a great place to meditate.
Another popular attraction in Rishikesh is the Ganga Ghat, or Ganga Ghat. According to Hindu mythology, taking a dip in the Ganga water near this ghat will purify one’s sins. Located 18 km east of Rishikesh city center, this temple is known as the “Home of the Beatles”. In 1967, a woman named Pattie Boyd registered for a class in Transcendental Meditation and was inspired to write a novel.
While staying in Rishikesh, you might want to spend the night at one of the many ashrams in the city. There are a number of hotels and resorts, but most ashrams are located close to the Ghats of the holy river. You can practice yoga there or join a yoga retreat. You can even learn to teach yoga. Moreover, there is plenty of shopping and dining to do, so there’s no need to rush.