The Reason I Love Rishikesh
Rishikesh, also popularly referred to by the name of “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a sacred city where sages, saints, rishis, and pilgrims have been flocking for centuries. The city’s streets include bustling markets areas of ethnic art and crafts, fresh fruit and vegetable markets, and holy shrines and sadhus dressed in orange. As the road narrows and the markets become scattered and you will come across an elevated footbridge that stretches high above the holy Ganga river. When you cross this bridge, with the sun shining through the Himalayan mountains to warm your soul, it will be like you’ve truly been home.
Rishikesh is the Yoga Capital of the World
Rishikesh, The World Capital of Yoga, has been one of India’s most holy and sacred centers for thousands of years. Rishikesh is a beautiful city that lies on the blue shores of the holy Ganges river and tucks beneath the gaze of the mysterious Himalayas. It is awash with temples and emerald-colored jungles with hidden waterfalls and beautiful landscape; Rishikesh is a jewel of a gateway to the Himalayas’ deepest valley and an ideal destination for those looking to dive deeper into their spiritual practices.
Rishikesh is the oldest place of pilgrimage in India. It is also known as Tapo Bhumi, which means the location for meditation and Yoga, The God. Rishikesh is a tranquil city of temples where the Ganges River flows clear and is filled with spiritual energy. Rishikesh is a sacred place that acts as the road’s start leading to the holy sites deep within the Himalayas. It is the perfect spot for those who are spiritual and those seeking some meaning. Spiritual seekers will be able to find complete peace and will feel at ease in Rishikesh.
Rishikesh means “city that is a shrine to saints.” Legend says that the spiritual sage Rishi Raibhya would sit at the bank of the Ganges and did a severe penance, which included strict Yoga and austere practices. Legend has it that the Lord Vishnu blessed him came as Rishikesh, which gave the location its name. Saints have prayed and performed sadhana through the centuries in this tranquil place beneath the majestic mountains and alongside the flowing Ganges.
The most well-known religious leader of the present, Adi Shankaracharya, traversed this area during the early 9th century. The pilgrimage he made towards Rishikesh is later codified as a major pilgrimage route and brought a new feeling of reverence to the place sacred to the gods. Since then, Rishikesh has been a starting point, and the first stop on the list of holy sites and shrines spread across the mighty Himalayan Range.
Rishikesh Sent its way to the World Limelight in 1960s
Rishikesh was brought into the global spotlight in the 1960s when the renowned British pop group The Beatles met and studied with their Guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in this place. Since then, Rishikesh has gained a cult status worldwide to learn and practice spirituality and has attracted millions of tourists, travelers, wanderers, and spiritual seekers.
Although it is more off the beaten path, the power and spirituality of Rishikesh remain strong from its incredibly woven roots, and it is still prevalent in the present. It is a peaceful city, with welcoming animals, happy dogs, smiley babas, and women carrying the hay in handbags on their heads, wandering around its shops, Tea stands, and cafe-lined streets. It is also home to the famous “Beatles Ashram,”, is a great place to visit where the Beatles resided and began their spiritual journey.
There are numerous yoga center in Rishikesh where students come from across the globe to learn in this holy location. This is why Rishikesh is now famous for being “the” Yoga Capital of the World. The Uttarakhand Tourism Board holds the annual International Yoga Festival from March 1 to March 7. The world’s most renowned yoga teachers and hundreds of students from more than 40 countries gather in Rishikesh to be a part of the universal spirit of Yoga.
People from all across the globe do meditation Yoga and reenergize and feel at peace. Many come as an aspect of their own spiritual journey. Whatever the reason behind visiting Rishikesh, such as cleaning oneself of karma in the Ganga or offering pujas, or watching the flame ceremonies performed along the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh touches the souls and hearts of all visitors. Everyone who leaves feels somehow transformed to the good.
A Few important facts about Rishikesh:
- Rishikesh is located in the Dehradun district in The Indian State of Uttarakhand.
- Rishikesh is located about 25 kilometers distant from Haridwar.
- Rishikesh is the holiest destination for Hindus and is also a well-known pilgrimage center. Hindu saints and sages have traveled to Rishikesh since the beginning of times in search of meditation and to gain greater knowledge of the Vedas and Purans.
- Haridwar and Rishikesh are often referred to for their status as Twin National Heritage cities, and the Union Tourism Minister of Uttarakhand awarded the title.
- In light of religious points of view, non-vegetarian foods and alcohol are not allowed in Rishikesh.
- Bags made of plastic and other forms of bags that are made from plastic are banned in Rishikesh.
- Rishikesh is well-known for Yoga and meditation, Ayurveda, Rafting, and other thrilling activities like Air safaris and more.
- Each year Rishikesh city hosts Yoga Festival, in which devotees from India and various countries around the world participate in the event at a large scale.
- The sacred river, the Ganges, also flows through Rishikesh.
- There are many ashrams hotels, Dharamshala (public stay room) in Rishikesh, which means there’s no issue for those traveling from other areas.
- Rishikesh is the point of departure for travel to Chota (small) Char Dham Yatra: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
- Rishikesh is well-known for Ayurvedic treatment. Several Ayurvedic centers are in operation that offers superior treatment for any problem through experienced Ayurvedic doctors.
- AIIMS (ALL INDIA INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SKILL) is located in Rishikesh and was established by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojna (PMSSY).
Famous Religious Spots in RISHIKESH?
There are many places of pilgrimage in Rishikesh. I am going over some of the most well-known ones, also known as Rishikesh, the Icon of Rishikesh (Land of Lord Shiva).
- RAM JHULA
Ram Jhula is a kind of iron Suspension bridge that is built over the River Ganges. The term Ram is associated with the Hindu god Rama and is believed to be the Lord’s avatar. Vishnu. The word Jhula is used in Hindi; it is believed that the word Jhula is used to describe bridges. It is believed earlier; bridges were constructed using jute ropes and wooden in the period of Ramayan (ancient Sanskrit epic of Hindus). The bridge is constructed with iron blocks and some kind of suspended wire. It is located approximately 3 kilometers from Rishikesh city. This bridge is accessible to bikes and bikes, but cars aren’t able to pass through since the bridges are narrow.
- LAXMAN JHULA:
Laxman Jhula is also an Iron suspension bridge that is constructed over the river Ganges situated at a distance of about 5km far from Rishikesh city. The bridge links two villages in Rishikesh. It is possible to cycle or bike across the bridge. Laxman jhula is a famous symbol of Rishikesh. It is thought it is believed that Hindu religious Laxmana (younger sister of Lord Rama) traverses the bridge while seeking Mata Sita. The bridge is built in two parts, each with a span of 450 feet and a carriage route of six feet.
The bridge was initially constructed using wood and jute ropes. However, later it was completed with the help of UPPWD (Uttar the Pradesh Public Works Department) in 1927-1929.
- TRAYAMBAKESHWAR TEMPLE
This temple is a multi-storied Hindu temple located in Rishikesh. Many gods and idols representing Hindu Gods and Goddesses are in the temple, but most of the temple is in honor of LORD SHIVA.
Ashram that is famous in Rishikesh
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
The oldest of the ashrams in the city in the city, The Parmarth Niketan Ashram includes 1000 rooms within its grounds and has all basics. The temple in the Ashram is the most serene and peaceful place. The wellness programs offered by Ashram will cleanse the body and purify your soul. You can participate in the morning prayers, study the Vedas, or take a trip to the famed Ganga Aarti from the ghat. It’s an idyllic spot to be at!
Parmarth Niketan is a true spiritual sanctuary situated on the holy river of Mother Ganga in the lap of the lush Himalayas. It is the biggest Ashram in Rishikesh and provides its thousands of visitors who travel from all parts of Earth with an uncluttered, pure, and holy atmosphere along with vast, stunning gardens. With over a hundred rooms, the facilities offer a wonderful combination of modern conveniences as well as traditional spiritual simplicity.
It’s no wonder that visitors come to the Ashram from across the globe. The breathtaking splendor of this Ashram’s clean flowing Ganga and the magnificent mountains and the lush, green forests will enfold and revitalize the whole of your being. Parmarth Niketan is a place of peace, inspiration, and energy for the body, mind, and spirit, as in a deeper connection to the Divine. While you are in the Ashram, you’ll be able to feel your soul soaking in the tranquility of sacred energy, including those emanating from nature and those that come from the enduring healing power from saints, saints, and holy ones. Parmarth Niketan carries within it the voice and the divine spirit communion.
Beatles Ashram
Formerly called Chaurasi Kutia, Beatles Ashram is a well-known Ashram in Rishikesh. The location received plenty of attention and gained wide acceptance after the Beatles band from Liverpool arrived in the area in 1986.
The members of the group did meditation and wrote numerous great songs at this location.
In later times the Ashram was empty, but it was opened to tourists in the year 2015. Today, the Beatles Ashram is frequented by both locals and tourists, and the majority of visitors are Beatles fanatics. The Ashram is usually visited by people who are interested in history, experiencing the tranquility and peace lovers, nature lovers photographers, as well as people who are interested in meditation.
The main highlights of the Ashram are the stunning dome-shaped construction and amazing graffiti art, and the stunning image of band members from the Beatles band painted on one of the walls of Ved Bhavan.
Some other interesting things to be found in this area are the mysterious writings found in the walls of Siddhi Bhavan and Anand Bhavan and the exquisitely designed meditation rooms of Chaurasi Kutia.
The Beatles Ashram is believed to possess a distinct energy and an uplifting vibe that helps people appreciate the true importance and significance of spirituality.
The relaxing and rejuvenating ambiance of the location soothes the body’s inner sanctum and rejuvenates your mind, filling it with joy. In the midst of other tranquil sights of The city. This location is worth a visit if you’re traveling to the nation’s Yoga Capital, Rishikesh.
Sivananda Ashram
One of the top yoga centers, Sivananda Ashram was created in the late Swami Sivananda and is run by the Divine Life Society. The teachings are based on the five yoga points, including breathing, postures, relaxation, meditation, and eating. Meditation and yoga classes for free are available every day.
However, accommodation (which is also at no cost as well as food) is only offered to serious seekers who submit an application at least a month prior to the start date. The Ashram is located close to Ram Jhula, adjoining the main road.
Omkarananda Ganga Sadan
Omkarananda Ganga Sadan is the hotel guesthouse in Omkarananda Ganga Sadan, the guesthouse of Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas is the home of the Patanjala Yoga Kendra yoga center. Iyengar yoga sessions are the mainstay there. The center is situated in the Muni-ki-Reti area in Rishikesh, situated near the banks of the Ganges River. It is home to its own ghat and the daily aarti ceremony, which is held. Yoga sessions are offered every day (except on Sundays); however, reservations need to be made at least a month ahead of time for the intense yoga classes. Talks and seminars on the Bhagavad Gita are also available. Rooms are affordable and clean. Many rooms are equipped with views of the river.
Swami Dayananda Ashram
The Ashram was founded in the 60s under Swami Dayananda Saraswati, an internationally acknowledged instructor in Vedanta as well as an expert in Sanskrit. It is located in a picturesque area approximately 10 minutes away from the Ram Jhula area. Regular residential classes are conducted by a teacher who focuses on Bhagavad Gita as well as the Upanishads. Vedic Chanting is also taught in the sessions. Additionally, guest instructors conduct Iyengar as well as Hatha Yoga retreats (suitable for intermediate and beginners learners) at the Ashram. There are more than 150 rooms equipped with bathrooms that are accessible to students.
Osho Ganga Dham Ashram
Osho Ganga Dham Ashram is situated on the Ganges River at Brahampuri, about 10 minutes away, close to the Laxman Jhula area on Badrinath Road. There are many types of Osho Active Meditation techniques taught at the ashram, and meditation programs are offered throughout the season. Or, you could simply take in the talks or nothing else but sit and relax. There are a variety of accommodations, from hostels to luxurious private rooms, to fit every budget.
The Reason I Love Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the place where people discover their courage, strength, peace, and conviction and give their hearts to the city in return. Rishikesh offers much more than it will take from you. A fresh perspective that will transform your perception of the world, Rishikesh offers lesser judgments as well as more respect and huge quantities of happiness.
