Rishikesh is yet another centre of pilgrimage and tourist attraction for Indians as well as foreigners. Rishikesh is popularly known as the Yoga Capital of the World.
Rishikesh is 28 kms from Haridwar on way to Badrinath and is situated at the foothills on either side of holy river Ganga and is surrounded by Shivalik ranges from three sides Rishikesh complex consists of three distinct areas, known as Rishikesh, Muni-ki-Reti and Swargashram.
Triveni Ghat :
A confluence of three holy important Rivers the Ganges, the Yamuna and the Saraswathy, is a most revered sacred bathing spot in Rishikesh and is situated on the banks of Ganges River. It is of belief that those who take a dip in water at this ghat washes away all the sins and purifies the soul and will have salvation, a relief from all sins carried out; the water here has the power to purify them. Daily in the morning and evening there are thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river.
Trayambakeshwar Temple :
On the east bank of the Ganges at Lakshman Jhula Bridge, is 13 stories high, with different deities throughout.
Bharat Mandir :
Built by Adiguru Shankra Charya around 12th century, Bharat Mandir is situated in the heart of the old town on the banks of the Ganges. The Inner sanctum of the temple has the idol of Lord Vishnu, carved out of a single Saligram. In the inner canopy above the idol is Shree Yantra installed by Adi Sankraya Charya.
Ram Jhula : is situated 3 Km north of Rishikesh, Is an iron suspension bridge. It is made over river Ganges to cross the river and is a landmark of Rishikesh. Ram Jhula has been added recentlyconstructed between Shivananda Ashram and Sawargashram. The fresh air and sound of flowing water, the scenic beauty of the region can be seen from the bridge.
Lakshman Jhula - Laxman Jhula - Laxman Jhoola : is a 450 feet long an iron suspension bridge situated in Rishikesh in Indian state of Uttarakhand. Lakshman Jhula is one of the most prominent landmarks at Rishikesh. It is made over river Ganges to cross the river and is a landmark of Rishikesh. It is said that Lakshman crossed Ganges on jute ropes between the place where this bridge is built. Lakshman Jhula was built in 1939. There are spectacular views from the bridge.
Gita Bhavan :
Place of Guru Shri Ram Sukh Daasji, (the great thinker of his time) Popular among the Hindu Brahmin Community. Twice a year people gather at this ashram to read the Ramayana together.
Swarg Ashram : Shri 108 Baba Sali Kamli Wale Swami Atam Prakash Ji. Swargashram (Heavenly Adobe) as the name connotes is a beautiful place situated in picturesque surroundings at the foot of Himalayas on the left bank of the Ganges between Rishikesh and Laxmanjhula. It is the spiritual "ground zero" of Rishikesh, filled with a concentration of ashrams and temples. The areas is known for its healthy and satwik living environment. It is this spot where from ages of yore the famous Yogis and Rishis have been doing the Tapasya. Numerous mention of this spot occurs in the holy scripture Puranas.
Parmarth Niketan : One of the few Ashrams left in India where Kids get the Vedas Education. Must Visit in Evening for the Pooja/Aarti. 5 PM in Winter and 6 PM in summer.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple : is situated on the outskirts of Rishikesh, around 12 km away, is a revered temple, known as 'Nilkanth Mahadeo' Perched on top of a hill, at a height of around 1675 m, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Legends say that the venom that oozed out while the 'Samudra Manthan' was ingested by Lord Shiva at the place which is now known as the Nilkanth Mahadeo.
Vashista Goofa : One hour drive from Rishikesh up river is situated Vasishtha Goofa, where famous saint vasishtha meditaed on the banks of the Ganges. The cave is very peaceful and is a perfect place for meditation.
