43-kms from Dehradun & 24-kms from Haridwar, the celebrated spiritual
centre of rishikesh is situated amidst a calm environment, impressive water
front, dense forest and hills. Virtually a town of saints, sages and
scholars. Rishikesh is a lare religious centre located on the right bank of
river Ganga. There are a number of Ashrams (hermitages) where religious
discourses are held. The place is also a renowned centre for yoga teachins.
Rishikesh is not only an attraction for pilgrims but it also attracts
foreigners who want to know about Hinduism, who want to spend some time
close to the Lord, people who love rafting come here to conquer the rapids
of Ganga. Rishikesh is also an ideal base camp for trekking in the nearby
Himalayas.
Lakshaman Jhula:
This suspended iron bridge was build in 1939 and has been a major
attraction among the tourists. Ram Jhula- The other suspended Iron bridge
was recently constructed between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram.
Swarga Ashram:
One can find numerous temples here. This place has the eating joints and
shops where one can do shopping. The beautiful statues in the area mesmerise
the visitors.
Gita Bhavan:
This newly constructed building is famous for its attractive paintings and
statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.
Triveni Ghat:
This is a bathing ghat. Daily in the morning and evening there are
thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It
very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze
from the river.
Dehradun:
The Doon Valley situated between the two most important rivers of India.
i.e, Ganga & Yamuna, is most picturesque having moderate climate,
nestling a number of places of tourist interest.
Mussoorie:
The queen of hill stations is the best weekend getaway choice for you.
Haridwar:
Gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttrakhand region, is located on the
foot hills of Shivaliks.
Valley of Flowers:
The famous Valley of Flowers with the largest concentration of various
species of wild flowers is off the Rishikesh-Badrinath road, 16 km from
Govindghat.
Chila:
Chila is just 20-kms from Rishikesh. The whole place is covered with
forests and provides very pleasant environment. Government has declared
Chila a sanctuary. A canal from Ganga feeds the reservoir where one can spot
many animals. One can stay at the tourist lodge and enjoy the peaceful
scenic surroundings.
Adventure Sports at Rishikesh
White Water
Rafting:
The challenge of violent rivers is no less than that of the rugged
mountains. The icy heights of the Himalayas are the source of some of
India's mighty rivers. Fed by innumerable streams, they race along tortuous
boulder-strewn beds, cutting deep gorges and breaking into silvery-white
rapids.
Rafting In Rishikesh:
The suitable period for river running depends on the adequacy of water
volume. Thus September-November and March-April-May are most appropriate.
Most of the river established river camps near the on the Ganges above
Rishikesh operate from the end of September to mid-December, and from
mid-February until late April. Tour operators even arrange rafting
excursions varying in length from one-day runs to extended camping-rafting
expeditions, but advanced booking is required.
Canoeing:
Adventure lovers can even indulge in canoeing at Rishikesh. A gentle canoe
trip in a lightweight alloy-metal craft is popular with the adventurers.
Hiking & Trekking:
Hiking and nature holidays are also well accepted by the tourists in
Rishikesh and an ideal base for trekking camps. You may choose from the
Chandrashila, Devi Darshan, Kauri and several other treks from Rishikesh.
Rail:
Rishikesh does not have an airstrip of its own. But there are trains from
all the major cities in the plains.
Road:
The best transport for Rishikesh is by bus. Bus services are available from
far and near places. Particularly there are regular services from Haridwar,
which is just half-an- hour journey from Rishikesh.
DISTANCES FROM MAJOR CITIES
»Delhi - 238 Kms
»Uttarkashi - 154 kms
»Dehradun - 42 kms
»Kedarnath - 228 kms
»Haridwar - 25 kms
»Mussoorie
- 77 kms