Popularly known as the “Yoga capital of the world”, Rishikesh is situated 356m above in the foothills of the Garhwal region, in the state of Uttranchal of North India. The place holds the glorious saga of God and Goddesses.

The scenic place of beauty is blessed with the most sacred river Ganga and is the starting point for 4 pilgrim centers commonly known as the four dhams of Uttarakhand - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. This spiritual center is sprayed with the religious deeds of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and got world wide recognition in 1960.

The lofty mountain surrounding Rishikesh has made it the most sought after place for river rafters and mountain climbers. Every year, in the month of February, the International Yoga week are organized here and the aura gets warm with a number of participants from the country and abroad.

History of Rishikesh
The history of Rishikesh goes back several centuries. There are several mythical stories associated with this place. It is this place where Raibhya Rishi, a noted saint, performed stern penance while sitting on the banks of the holy River Ganga. He got his reward when the lord appeared in front of him and gave the name of this place as Rishikesh. There is also a famous landmark called Bharat Temple and legend states that the brother of Rama, Bharat also did severe penance at this place. One of the most well-known religious leaders of contemporary times, Adi Shankaracharya, visited Rishikesh in the 9th century AD and this place thus got catapulted to the status of one of the major religious spots of north India. Rishikesh is also popular for Kailas Ashram Brahmavidyapeetham that happens to be a 120 years old institute offering courses for the traditional Vedantic Studies.

Season, Climate and Clothing
The climate of Rishikesh remains moderate throughout the year, being in the foothills. During the summer months, temperatures can go up to more than thirty degrees centigrade. The winter months are quite pleasant barring some occasions when the nights can get bitterly cold. For the summer, cotton clothing is recommended but do carry heavy woolens during the winter months. These helpful inputs about Rishikesh are certainly going to make your holidays a satisfying experience. Touristplacesinindia.com is a reliable travel guide on Rishikesh and provides valuable information on the hotels and tourist attractions in Rishikesh.

Major Pilgrimage Attractions in Rishikesh
World famous Swarg Ashram:
This fascinating place of Rishikesh comprises of charming cafes, ashrams, temples and shops. It is positioned opposite to Shivananda Nagar and enlighten with the Baba Kali Kambliwale, founded by Shri Baba Vishuddha Nandaji and the Parmath Niketan Ashram. The Ashram is also known as the Divine Life Society and is one of the oldest and most active ashrams.

Programmes on yoga and meditation are held regularly and the area is also well-equipped with a charitable hospital. The Gita Bhavan, nearby the ashram represents the pictorial presentation of the epic of Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is also a houses of Ayurvedic dispensary and shops selling khadi and religious literature.

The Triveni Ghat:
The Trivani Ghat is the most sacred bathing spot on the banks of the river Ganga. It is believed to be the confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati river. Devotees take a holy bath and proceed for an evening "Aarti" ceremony, carried out at the ghat.

Tapovan:
The term Tapavon closely relates the religious custom of spiritual souls. It is the ideal location for meditation in Rishikesh. The temple within the tapovan premises are devoted to Lakshmana of the legends of the Ramayanas. It is situated 2 Kms upstream over river Ganga and endorsed with an old footbridge called Lakshmanjhula built in 1939. The quiet place is believed to be the home of rishis and yogis. Today the place has been beautified with invigorating ashrams which offers an inspiring and spiritual moment to the pilgrims

Popular Excursions from Rishikesh
Haridwar The nearest town to Rishikesh, is the divine Haridwar(24 Km). It is at the meeting point of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga rivers. The place is popular for the religious Kumbh mela held after every 12 years.

Pauri Situated at an altitude of 1814mts. above sea-level, is the Pauri town. The panoramic view on the northern slopes of Kandoliya hills and the snow clad Himalayan peaks of Bandar Poonch provides a delightful time to the sightseers.

Dehradun A 43 km journey from Rishikesh will help you explore the capital town of Uttranchal, the Dehradun. This most beautiful hill stations in India is located in the foothills of Himalayas . Travelers can soothe their eyes with a view into the fertile Doon Valley and can also enjoys the gushing flows of river Ganga in the east and river Yamuna in the west.

Char Dhams A religious tour at Rishikesh can be further extended with a trip to Char Dham namely– the Badrinath, the Kedarnath, the Gangotri and the Yamunotri. This four dive place is dotted with Hindu temples and Hindu Mythology says that life receive salvation only after a yatra to Char Dham

How to Reach There
By Air : Nearest airport is Jollygrant Airport situated in Dehradun and 18 km away from Rishikesh is the nearest aerodrame. Regular flight connects the pilgrimage center to Delhi International airport, which cover all the major cities in India and abroad.

By Rail : Rishikesh railway station has connecting railheads to all cities in India. A number of regular train ply over Rishikesh and major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Dehradun and Kotdwar

By Road : The holy town Rishikesh is connected to the neighboring cities via many regional and private buses which offers a smooth journey to the visitors.