RISHIKESH VACATIONS

Rishikesh - A Spiritual Feast

24 km from Haridwar, Rishikesh is a lionised spiritual terminus in the abode of Gods Uttaranchal, situated amidst serene environs, stunning water front, lush greenery and forested hills. Famed as the abode of saints, sages and godly men since times immemorial, Rishikesh is a supreme spiritual destination on the banks of the holy river Ganges. There are a number of Ashrams or hermitages which are especially favoured among the foreigners who come here seeking mental peace and impressed by the equanimity often choose to stay for a lifetime. Rishikesh is also widely acclaimed for its yoga centres.

Rishikesh is not a mere attraction for the devout, but has also become popular among tourists who like to be in the lap of nature and spend some quality time nature gazing in the verdant surroundings. Adventure sports enthusiasts can try a hand at the sport of river rafting with the river Ganges gushing downhill with all its might creating some of the most ferocious rapids seen anywhere in the country. The place also acts as a base camp for trekking in the Himalayas.

Sites to Check Out

Lakshman Jhula
The suspended iron bridge has been a stellar tourist attractor since the time it was built in 1939. Labeld after Laxman, the mythological character from the Hindu epic Ramayana, the bridge affords a panoramic view of the lush valleys and river Ganges flowing with great fury below. Another similar structure, the Ram Jhula was built recently suspended between Shivanand and Swarga Ashrams.

Swarga Ashram
The hermitage is a huge structure housing several temples, eateries and other shops. Thronged by a large number of devotees, especially foreigners, the place sometimes gives you a feel of being in a European country. The intricately carved statues and beautifully done murals are especially notable.

Gita Bhavan
The neat and clean structure is situated just across the Laxman Jhula. Free accommodation and quality food services are available for the devotees. Beautiful sculptures and images of mythological characters adorn the walls of the Ashram.

Triveni Ghat
The bathing ghat besides river Ganga is especially regarded holy and believed to possess purifying powers. The maha arti performed every evening witnesses a huge number of devotees thronging the place. Just having a quite time sitting and enjoying the pleasant breeze can be a rewarding experience.

Hot Getaways

Dehradun
Situated just about 45 km from Rishikesh, Dehradun is a quaint little hill town known for its imperial natural beauty and gorgeous views. The salubrious climate, excellent facilities and a plethora of sightseeing opportunities attracts plenty of visitors round the year.

Mussoorie
The queen of hill stations, Mussoorie was the former summer retreat for the British during the colonial times. The extreme natural beauty and relief from the scorching summer heat of the plains never fail to attract thousands of visitors to this paradise on earth.