Rishikesh

A view of temples on the banks of river Ganges near Laxman Jhula

Students from around the world undergoing

Ganga Aarti At Triveni Ghat

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Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a city located in the northern part of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga rivers, Rishikesh is known for its spiritual significance, yoga centers, and adventure sports. It is often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and attracts thousands of spiritual seekers and tourists each year.

History

The history of Rishikesh dates back to ancient times, where it is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. According to legend, the sage Raibhya Rishi performed penance here, and as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh, hence the name. Rishikesh has been a part of the legendary 'Kedarkhand' (the present-day Garhwal). It is believed that Lord Rama did penance here for killing Ravana, and Lakshmana, his younger brother, crossed the river Ganges, where the present 'Lakshman Jhula' bridge stands.

Geography

Rishikesh is located at the foothills of the Himalayas and is surrounded by hills on three sides. The city is approximately 25 km north of Haridwar and 43 km southeast of the state capital, Dehradun. The Ganga River flows through the city, making it a sacred place for Hindus.

Culture

Rishikesh has a rich cultural and spiritual heritage. It is home to many ashrams, temples, and yoga institutes. The International Yoga Festival, which attracts participants from all over the world, is held here annually. The city also serves as a gateway to several Himalayan shrines and pilgrimage sites such as Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Gangotri.

Tourism and Adventure Sports

Rishikesh is not only a spiritual center but also a hub for adventure sports. White water rafting, bungee jumping, camping, and hiking are some of the popular activities. The city's serene environment, coupled with its religious significance, makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Education and Research

Rishikesh is home to several educational and research institutions, including the AIIMS Rishikesh, which is part of the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences. There are also numerous yoga and meditation centers that offer courses and training for enthusiasts and professionals.

Transport

Rishikesh is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and other parts of India. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the city has its own railway station, Rishikesh Railway Station, which connects it to several major cities.

Environmental Concerns

The rapid growth in tourism and development in Rishikesh has raised concerns about the impact on the city's natural environment and resources. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices and preserve the city's ecological balance.

See Also

• Haridwar
• Ganga River
• Yoga
• Himalayas