Romance in Peaks
Rishikesh
Rishikesh represents the Gateway to the Himalayas in the Tehri-Garhwal region of Uttar Pradesh. It abounds in natural splendor. The spectacle of the Ganga rushing through the Himalayan foothills is an awesome sight. Several temples dot the banks of the Ganga at Rishikesh. Rishikesh is located at a height of about 1360 feet above sea level.
History of Rishikesh
It is believed that several yogis and sages lived and practiced penance here. Rishikesh represents the site where Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu. Tapovan on the other bank of the Ganges houses a temple to Lakshman. It is believed that Lakshman carried out penances here. It is also believed that his brother Bharata meditated here, and there is a temple to Bharata here. Also seen here are the Swargashram and the Geeta Bhawan temples.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh
Rishikesh can be traveled round the year. but its better to plan your tour between September & November, as this is the most ideal time for all visitors.
Tourists Attractions of Rishikesh
The Lakshman Jhula, a 450 feet long suspension bridge was built in 1939. A newer bridge the Ram Jhula has been added recently. The Ganga abounds in fish. Offerings of puffed rice are made to these creatures. The freshness of the air, and sound of flowing water, the scenic beauty of the region and the distant sound of bell chimes create an unforgettable experience for those that visit this ancient pilgrimage town.
12 km away from Rishikesh is located the Nilkanth Mahadeo temple at a height of about 5000 feet, commanding spectacular views of the region.
Rishikund - Close to Triveni Ghat is the most ancient place, the rishikund. Ancient records relate this to Kubz Saint , who was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna by saturating this pond by its water. The pond reflects the temple of Ragunath , dedicated to lord Rama and his wife.
Tera Manzil Temple - A multistory temple complex of idols of Hindu Gods, and Goddesses. Very popular among the domestic pilgrims. One can have an excellent view of the entire area from the top floor of the temple complex. Sunset view from this place in winters is a excellent option.
Bharat Mandir - Built by Adiguru ShankraChrya around 12th century, Bharat mandir is situated in the heart of the old town on the Banks of the Ganges. Detailed account of this oldest temple of Rishikesh are available in ancient record of Kearkhand. 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 SankrayaCharya. The original temple was destroyed by Tamur lane in 1398 A.D. Lot of old statues , coins, pots and other things of historical importance were found in recent excavations in the premises of the temple.
Triveni Ghat - The main ghat in the town area where most of the pilgrims take holy dip. Every evening hundreds of pilgrims attend the Ganga Arti at the Ghat.
Geeta Bhawan - One of the oldest temple complex in the area. The famous Indian epic Ramayana and Mahabharata are described here on the walls.
Parmarth Niketan - One of the most renowned temple complex and ashram in the area . Known for its substantial work on Hinduism, three is a school run on traditional Indian Patterns. The ashram organizes excellent Ganga Arti and Hawan on the Parmarth Ghat every evening.
Ram Jhula - Another suspended bridge close to Lakshman Jhula is the Ram Jhula. This suspended bridge was recently build between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is similar to the Lakshman Jhula. Ram Jhula is also known as Shivanand Jhula
Yoga and Meditation Centers - Described by the ancient Indian scriptures as the communion of the individual soul (Jivatma) the Universal soul or God (Parmatma) Yoga the ancient Indian discipline is highly relevant to the modern day context.
Today, as we enter the 21st Century, the outside world is becoming more restless and life is full of strive and tensions. Yoga provides the perfect panacea.
Lakshman Jhula - The bridge has been a major attraction among the tourists to Rishikesh. The suspension iron bridge Lakshman Jhula was build in 1929. This is where Rama's brother Lakshman is said to have crossed the river on a jute rope. One can enjoy the spectacular surroundings and the cool breeze from the river while standing on the bridge.
Tourist Places Around Rishikesh
Kunjapuri temple - Sun Rise or Sun Set - Drive to Kunjapuri, one of the thirteen most important Goddesses of Shivalik range , the lower Himalayas. One can witness excellent sunrise or sun set on the Greater Himalayan Peaks and the vast Indo Gangetic plains . One can see almost all the peaks of Garhwal Himalayas from here e.g. Banderpunch (6316 Mts) , Swarga Rohini (6252 Mts) Gangotri ( 6672 mts) Chaukhamba (7138 mts) etc.
Vasishtha 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.
