Rishikesh is a city and the municipal corporation of Dehradun district in the state of Uttaranchal, India. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, it is known as the Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Rishikesh is surrounded by three other districts such as Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwa and Haridwar.
Rishikesh, often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World," is a serene town located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. Renowned for its spiritual significance, Rishikesh attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, offering numerous ashrams, meditation centers, and yoga retreats.
Transportation
How to get there
- By train: The nearest railway station, Haridwar is 25 km from Rishikesh. Haridwar is well connected to major cities of the country via a number of regular express and superfast trains. One can take up a bus or cab available from the Haridwar station up to Rishikesh.
- By road: Rishikesh has regular bus services from Delhi, Haridwar and Dehradun. One can opt for buses or hire cabs from these places to reach Rishikesh.
- By flight: The nearest airport Jolly Grant is in Dehradun, away from Rishikesh. One can opt for a flight to Dehradun via Delhi or Lucknow and reach Rishikesh via the regular buses and taxis available from the airport.
Ways to get around the city
- By Taxi/Jeep: Getting around in Rishikesh by taxi is quite convenient. These can be hired from local tour operators or the taxi stand in Swarg Ashram. The other alternative would be to take a jeep which can be taken on a per seat basis. The jeep stand is in Lakshman Jhoola.
- By Auto rickshaws: Auto rickshaws are also known as vikram here. These can be hired on a shared basis or you can hire one for yourself. These are not metered and often have fixed fares, so determine the fares before you begin the ride. It’s a good idea to put on your negotiation caps and haggle well or the auto drivers will literally and figuratively take you for a ride. You can find autorickshaws everywhere in Rishikesh. It’s also the best way to get to the bus stand or railway station or places like Lakshman Jhoola.
- By Ferry: If you want to reach the Eastern bank of the River Ganga, then you will have to take a ferry from Ram Jhula. This is a picturesque way to cross the river, although you can also walk across the Ram Jhoola or Lakshman Jhoola bridges.
Best time to visit
Renowned for its snow-capped mountains, lush landscapes, and clear skies, Rishikesh is a perfect place for a peaceful vacation. The best time to visit Rishikesh is between October to February when the temperature ranges between 12-30 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant, and evenings are cold.
Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti is a sacred religious ceremony held every night on the banks of the Ganges River. The ceremony aims to pay homage to Mother Ganges - the holiest river in Hinduism. At sunset, hundreds of shimmering oil lamps are lit, creating a magical scene on the river surface. Ascetics wearing traditional costumes will sing melodious hymns, praying for peace and purity.
Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge
This is a pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the Ganges River. The bridge was built in 1929 connecting the two banks of the river with ancient temples, lovely cafes and colorful souvenir shops.
Walking on the Lakshman Jhula Bridge, you will admire the breathtaking scenery of the gently flowing Ganges River, undulating mountains covered with green trees and the bustling life of local people. In the evening, the bridge is shimmeringly lit, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park, located near Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary that spans over 820 square kilometers. Established in 1983, the park is named after C. Rajagopalachari, the first Governor-General of India. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The park offers opportunities for trekking, jeep safaris, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The picturesque landscape features lush forests, riverine habitats, and the scenic backdrop of the Himalayas, providing visitors with a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the region.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of the King of Tehri Garhwal, located in the town of Tehri in Uttarakhand, is a significant historical site that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Garhwal region. Constructed in the 19th century, the palace served as the residence of the royal family of Tehri Garhwal, a princely state that played an important role in the region’s history.
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