 The Religious Heritage
Famous for its spiritual splendour, Rishikesh is nestled at the confluence of Chandrabhanga and Ganga. Lying on the banks of a holy river, surrounded by mountains, it is no wonder that many sages found their answers here. It is the gateway to the 4 major pilgrimage centers for the Hindus, also known as 4 dhams- Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Rishikesh is situated at a height of 1360 feet above the sea level.
For discovering the roots of Hinduism or getting close to nature, Rishikesh is the place to visit. The banks along the river are dotted with the ashrams of various saints. The entire place has a spiritual feel to it, as you find the entire place dotted with temples, some new and some dating back to ages. There are various meditation centers also in the place.
In fact, even the name of Rishikesh has a mythological connection. It is said that to reward sage Raibhya for his penance, God had appeared before him as Rishikesh, hence giving the place its name. Be it the past or ancient connections, there is something mystical about the place, which attracts several people all over the world to come and seek their answers here. The rock band Beatles in the 1960's came here to stay with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
Tourist attractions
The major tourist attractions in Rishikesh are Lakshman Jhoola, Shivanand Jhoola, Triveni Ghat, Raghunath temple, Pushkar temple. As you climb atop the Lakshman Jhoola, a hanging bridge on the River Ganga, you can see the Ganga rushing. Lakshman Jhoola also has a mythological connection to it. It is said that Lakshman, brother of lord Ram crossed River Ganga on a hanging bridge made of jute. Close to Lakshman Jhoola is Shivanand Jhoola or Ram Jhoola. Also visit the Triveni Ghat, which are popular with pilgrims, who take a holy dip here. It's said about the place that the streams of three rivers flow together to make this place more sacred.
There are several temples dotting the banks of Ganga. One thing not to be missed is the evening 'aarti' at the temples. The entire place resonates with chants and ringing of the bells. The diyas or the oil lamps form a beautiful sight. Witness the religious spirit of the place as you come across sadhus, shops selling rosaries, T- Shirts bearing the sacred 'Om' and verses, foreigners wearing saffron robes.
Adventure Sports
Ganga's white waters and beautiful environs have made it a favourite with travellers. Now Rishikesh also offers white water rafting and sailing. There are camps available where you could stay overnight and go on an adventure trip in the morning. You can also go trekking or mountaineering on the majestic Himalayas.
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