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Ashrams in  Rishikesh Rishikesh has an ancient connection with ashrams. From being shelters for the hermits in ancient times to today being havens of yoga and spirituality, ashrams have evolved to suit the current times. However, the essence of ashrams, especially those in Rishikesh is still the same as it was eons ago – that of providing an environment for yogic living. Given the status of a spiritual city and more recently the International yoga capital, it is no surprise that Rishikesh is dotted with ashrams. Interestingly, the visit by the famous band, The Beatles to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram brought Rishikesh on the world map. Just like the city, some ashrams too have international acclaim. People from all corners of the world come here to experience the ashram life in its full expression. Most ashrams are nestled away in the corners of the city, far from the hustle bustle and mundane chaos. Offering tranquility, yoga, and life off the grid – ashrams have become a ha

Ganga Ghat in  Rishikesh Ghat is a Hindi word that means embankment. It is generally characterized by a flat area followed by a staircase that leads to the holy river. A ghat is meant for taking a dip in the sacred river. Ganga Ghats are spread across all the towns and cities that share the banks of the holy river. Triveni Ghats in Rishikesh have a special place in the hearts of devotees. Loosely translated, Triveni means merging of three. The name is eponymous with the spot as it is considered the merging point of three sacred rivers - the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Sarswati river. It is believed that by taking a dip in the holy river at the Triveni Ghat, one can wash away all their sins. At sunrise, many devotees walk bare feet to the ghats to take a dip in the river or to feed the fish. However, what attracts everyone to the ghats – from the wandering tourists, to the spirituality seekers, to the devotees is the Ganga Aarti, held here at dusk, every day. G

Climate of Rishikesh The town of Rishikesh is located at a high elevation at the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains; therefore, the climate here generally remains cool. Rishikesh’s climate is much cooler than many other Indian cities, but it never becomes extremely cold even during the winters. The pleasant weather ensures that tourists throng the place round the year. During spring season, which runs between late February and March, intermittent rainfall is common in Rishikesh. The temperature during spring remains between 20-30 °C and is ideal for trekking and camping. Summers in Rishikesh are quite dry. During summers, which are between the months of May and mid-July, temperature remains between 30-40 °C. Mountaineering, trekking, camping and river rafting are in full swing in the summers The monsoon season brings with it continuous heavy rainfall. In Rishikesh, monsoon season starts during late July and keeps showering the place until

History of  Rishikesh Often referred as the ‘Abode of Gods’, Rishikesh is among the most ancient pilgrimage centers of India. The history of this town is rich with numerous legends and mythical stories. The name of the town itself is after one of the names of Hindu God, Lord Vishnu. According to legends, the great Hindu saint Raibhya Rishi performed prolonged penance on the banks of Holy River Ganges at this place. As a reward to saint’s strong penance, Lord Vishnu appeared to him in his incarnation of Lord Hrishikesh. Thus the place got its name. Since ancient times, Rishikesh has been an important pilgrimage spot for the saints and Hindu devotees. However, it is during the initial medieval period in India that the place started to gain more popularity. During 8th century Adi Shankaracharya, one of most renowned and revered sages from India, built several temples and ashrams in the region. Unfortunately, most of the temples and ashrams were destroyed because of several earthq

Welcome to Rishikesh Laxman Jhula Rishikesh, the name conjures two vivid images – yoga & spirituality and white water rafting. It is no wonder that the place has become a mélange of spirituality seekers - trying to find eternal peace by the Ghats of the sacred Ganges; and adventurers - looking for that adrenalin gush in the rapids of the Ganges. Rishikesh has always held a scared place for the Hindus as the holy river - the Ganges, worshipped as a Goddess by Hindu devotees - has cleansed it pure by running through its heart. Also, being in the foothills of Himalayas, Rishikesh had always been a favourite haunt for vermilion and ash covered sadhus, chanting mantras or deep in meditation or initiating their Char Dham Yatra (sacred pilgrimage). However, the arrival of the rock band, the Beatles, at the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in late 1960s gave this quaint town visibility on the world map; and since then the place has grown into a hub for spirituality and yog