ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT IN RISHIKESH

Set at the foothills of the Himalayas on the banks of the river Ganga, Rishikesh offers a blend of spirituality and adventure. From bird-watching, biking, river rafting and trekking to its holistic wellness legacy, the yoga capital of the world is action-packed ethereal and soulful in equal parts.

RAM JHULA

This iron suspension bridge over the Ganga River at Muni Ki Reti is the ideal location for capturing memorable photographs and enjoying sublime views. With a length of 750 feet (230 metres) the pedestrian bridge connects Sivananda Ashram on the west bank with Swargashram on the east, thus also known as Shivananda Jhula. Most of the famous ashrams are located nearby, including Sivananda Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, Gita Bhawan, Swargashram, Yog Niketan and others. You can also shop for gemstones, jewellery and clothes at shops on either side of the bridge.

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DEVPRAYAG

This iconic town is where the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet to form the Ganges. At an elevation of 2,723 feet, the Devprayag sangam (confluence) is one of the Panch Prayags (five sacred river confluences) of Uttarakhand. Among other places of interest in the town is Dashrathshila, a legendary rock associated with stories of King Dashrath from the Ramayana, and the serene Teen Dhara. You’ll also love walking on the suspension bridges, which give you stunning views of the rivers.

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TRIVENI GHAT

Triveni Ghat is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges. It is a ceremonial bathing place with steps leading to the waterfront. It’s renowned for the Ganga Aarti or Maha Aarti, which attracts a large number of devotees. The atmosphere is charged with devotional fervour, chants, beating drums and bells. People light oil diyas, put them on flower-filled leaf boats and release them in the holy waters of the river.

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WHITE-WATER RAFTING

India’s most sacred and longest river provides a riveting landscape to launch into an adrenaline-pumping adventure. This must-do activity in Rishikesh is best experienced on the 16 km stretch is from Shivpuri to Rishikesh .Before embarking on the journey, rafting guides provide a brief safety demonstration and instructions on paddling techniques. Equipped with a life jacket and a helmet, you’ll be ready to take on the legendary rapids, including Roller Coaster, Golf Course and Return to Sender, among others, while surrounded by the stunning Himalayas.

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CHAURASI KUTI - THE BEATLES ASHRAM

Located on a cliff in Swargashram, one kilometre from Ram Jhula, this iconic ashram is where the Beatles - the greatest pop band ever - lived in 1968 to write dozens of songs and meditate. The ashram complex houses a former temple, library, kitchen and meditation huts. Most of the buildings are in decay but there is colourful graffiti on the walls. There is also a small gallery and a cafe. To reach the ashram, visitors have to park their vehicles at the new parking at Janki Setu on the western bank of the Ganges, and walk for 1 kilometre.

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