Rishikesh, located on the banks of the holy Ganga is one of the important Hindu pilgrimage centers in Uttaranchal. Home to a number of temples and ashrams, Rishikesh is about 230 kilometres from Delhi. As you touch base in Rishikesh, the difference in the air is clearly noticeable. Perhaps one of the many reasons, why people escape to this holy city to relax and rejuvenate. Vacations India takes you on a holy sojourn to Rishikesh.

Surrounded by a verdant forest and rinsed by the river Ganga, Rishikesh makes an exciting break in the foothills of the Himalayas. Rishikesh lies in the Garhwal Himalayas and has been a sacred land of saints. Half naked sadhus with ash-smeared bodies performing pooja is a common sight on the banks of the Ganga.

No doubt Rishikesh is known for its temples and most tourists make it point to visit these temples. Triveni Ghat is the most popular bathing ghats in Rishikesh and people take a holy dip here. The Aarti on the bank of the Ganga is other important activity that one should not miss. It is a wonderful sight to look at diyas (oil lamps) floating on the river in the evening. The river-bank comes alive with sound of chants and bells during Aarti. One of the important temples in Rishikesh is Bharat Mandir, which is dedicated to lord Vishnu and is believed to be the oldest temple in Rishikesh. Mansa Devi about 10 kilometres from Rishikesh is also most frequented temple by the tourists.

Rishikesh is not only popular destination among Indians but a number of foreign tourists also visit Rishikesh. Most of them come to discover a way of life that has fascinated many thinkers and philosophers. Yoga and meditation on the bank of the holy Ganga is a big draw among many foreign tourists. Rishikesh is perfect place to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation. As there are a number of ashrams and yoga centers that offer yoga classes to tourists.

Rishikesh is not only for those who are in search of spirituality and want to attain salvation but is also an exciting destination if you love adventure. There are a number of scenic spots in and around Rishikesh that one can visit after exploring the spiritual side of Rishikesh. River rafting, rock climbing and trekking are some of the adventure sports that you can try.

Lakshman Jhula, a hanging bridge on the river Ganga is one of the most famous spot in Rishikesh. According to Indian mythology, Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama crossed the Ganga with the help of hanging bridge made of Jute. The bridge offers a scenic view of the river Ganga as it tumbles down to Haridwar. The other bridge that is popular in Rishikesh is Ram Jhula.

Rishikesh is also gateway to Chardhams of Uttaranchal, which are Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Every year a number of tourists come to Rishikesh with their own idea of holiday but it takes a little more than an ordinary eye to discover a Rishikesh, which has been a favourite haunt of saints. Come and discover a way of life that is centuries old but still fascinating with Vacations India.