Rishikesh, a sacred town situated on the banks of Holy River Ganga in the foothills of Himalayas in Uttaranchal is one of the Holy Cities in India. Rishikesh is the starting point of “Char Dham” i.e. the Holy journey for the Hindus. The Char Dham includes Kedarnath, Gangotri, Badrinath and Yamunotri. Rishikesh is home to many ancient temples which is why Hindus from all over the world visit Rishikesh. Rishikesh home of many Ashrams on both sides of the river Ganges and it got its name after Lord Vishnu.
Rishikesh is not only popular for its temples but also famous all over the world for its Yoga center and is popularly known as the “”the world capital of Yoga”. For adventure lovers Rishikesh offers one of the best “White River Rafting”, trekking and wild forest experiences. Gifted with sheer natural beauty this place is blessed with peace. Best time to visit Rishikesh is from mid September to April.
With the sound of bell chimes & mantras in air, purify your soul by visiting Rishikesh the land of Gods surrounded by scenic Himalayans. Gain some positive energy and get close to God visiting Rishikesh.
Here’s a quick travel guide to Rishikesh.
Location: Rishikesh city located under Dehradun district in Uttarakhand. It is popularly known as The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. It is nearly 20 km from Haridwar.
Route:
By Air: Nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Gant Airport in Dehradun which is 18km away. Taxi services are available from the Airport to reach Rishikesh.
By Rail: Nearest railway station to Rishikesh are Haridwar which is 18kms far and Dehradun which is 43kms.
By Road: Taxi service is easily available from Haridwar & Dehradun by road and many type of bus services ranging from Volvo, AC, Non AC, AC are on daily basis from Haridwar & Dehradun. Delhi to Rishikesh Bus fare started around Rs. 450/- per person.
Nearest Railway stations: Haridwar Junction
Nearest Airports: Jolly Gant Airport in Dehradun
Bus Stand: Bus services are available from Lakshman Jhula bus stand and main Roadways Bus stop
Famous Places around the area: There are plenty to explore in Rishikesh. Along with Bharat Mandir, Nilkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Ashram, Shri Tryambakeshwar Temples, Sivananda Ashram, people mesmerized when they see ‘Laxman Jhula’ – a 450 Ft long Iron bridge extension is one of the main attractions in Rishikesh. Aarti performed at the Triveni Ghat in the evening is one of the most popular among tourists. ‘Vasishtha Guha’ is another famous place here.
For an adventure sports lover – white river rafting in Ganga and trekking to the foothills of Himalayas is not to be missed.
Climate: Summer (21°C to 42°C); Winter (5°C to 26°C)
Population: 102,138 (2011 census report)
Local Famous Foods: Non-Vegetarians will be disappointed as it is banned in this Holy City. But for vegetarians it is a treat. Gorge in some delicious street food like chats, tikkis and samosa with a cup of tea and enjoy the Himalayan beauty around you.
Local restaurants: Do visit to these popular Eating Out places in Rishikesh and help yourself with wide range of spicy foods.
Hotel Suresh, Hotel Neelam, Mukti’s Health Food Café, Chotiwala
ATM locations: Near Rishikesh Bus stop, and local market
Emergency numbers: Lakshman Jhula, Police Station: +91-135-2430228
Nearest Hospitals/Nursing homes: Nirmal Ashram Hospital, Mayakund: +91-135-2432215
Budget and safe hotels for middle class:
Bharat Bhoomi Tourist Guest House
Near Bus stand
Rishikesh – 249201,
Ph – 0135 274 0896
Tarriff – 600+
Hill Top Swiss Cottage
High Bank, Tapovan
Rishikesh 249192
Ph – 080 06 551415
Tarriff – 950+
Hotel Raj Resort
Badrinath road Tapovan,
Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
Ph: +91-9897996881, 9456171728
Tarriff – 1100+
Hotel Jaipur Inn
Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh 249302
Ph: 0135 244 0221
Tariff – 650+
Divine Ganga Cottage
Tapovan, Laxman Jhula,
Rishikesh 249192,
Tarriff: 2000
Estimated expense per person: Approx Rs. 1500/- (excluding food)
Tags: Rishikesh