Rishikesh – The Adventure Capital Of India
Rishikesh has recently emerged as the most sought-after adventure hub in India. It has become a popular travelers hangout place and a gateway for escapades into the Himalayas in the last decade. Tourists visiting Rishikesh today, have different expectations – thrill, adventure, and fun. Adventure activities in Rishikesh, start with trekking and camping trips. It has evolved as a destination famous for adventure activities that attract adventure lovers and explorers from across India and abroad.
The best time to visit Rishikesh is between October to February when the temperature ranges between 12-30 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant, and evenings are cold.
Rafting in Rishikesh is a thrilling adventure that attracts adventure enthusiasts from all over the world. The Ganges River, flowing through the beautiful Himalayan landscape, offers some of the best rafting experiences in India. The rapids range from easy to challenging, catering to both beginners and experienced rafters. The best time for river rafting in Rishikesh is during the months of September to June, when the weather is pleasant and the water levels are ideal for rafting. During the monsoon season, rafting is usually closed due to high water levels and strong currents.
Apart from rafting, Rishikesh offers a plethora of other adventure activities such as bungee jumping, cliff jumping, camping, and trekking. Rafting in Rishikesh is not only famous among Indians as a weekend getaway but also a popular spiritual and adventure destination for foreign tourists as well.
Wonderful Walking On Hanging Rope Bridge
The Lakshman Jhula is a famous hanging bridge across the river Ganga that connects two villages, Tapovan in the Tehri Garhwal district and Jonk in the Pauri Garhwal district. Located 5 kilometres to the northeast of the town Rishikesh in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, the entire bridge is made up of iron, is 450 feet long and is situated at the height of 70 feet from the river. The Lakshman Jhula is extremely well known amongst tourists because of the rich mythological associations that are connected with the bridge. It is widely believed that Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, had crossed the river Ganga at this same site, where the bridge now majestically stands for all to see.
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Iconic suspension bridges spanning the Ganges River. They offer beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Holy Dips At Triveni Ghat
Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, Triveni Ghat is the biggest ghat in Rishikesh. ‘Maha Aarti’ happens every evening at Triveni Ghat. Triveni Ghat plays an essential role in Hindu Mythology and is also mentioned in the epics Ramayan and Mahabharat. The Triveni Ghat is also where the chattri of Lord Krishna was constructed. In fact, the ghat is considered to be the cremation ground for the great Lord Krishna. Along with the holy dips, the devotees also make offerings to the river in the form of milk, while feeding the fishes in the Ghat too.
Parmarth Niketan: One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, offering yoga and meditation programs. They also host the renowned Ganga Aarti ceremony every evening.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Situated around 12 kilometers from Rishikesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the place where he consumed poison during the churning of the ocean.
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): This ashram gained fame when the Beatles stayed here in the 1960s to learn transcendental meditation. Now abandoned, it’s covered in colorful graffiti and makes for an interesting visit.
Rajaji National Park: Located around 15 kilometers from Rishikesh, this national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and over 300 bird species. Jungle safaris are available for wildlife enthusiasts.
Vashishta Gufa: A cave where the renowned sage Vashishta is said to have meditated. It’s a peaceful place for meditation and introspection.
Tera Manzil Temple (Trayambakeshwar Temple): Situated near Laxman Jhula, this thirteen-storey temple is dedicated to various Hindu deities. It offers panoramic views of Rishikesh and the Ganges.
Swarg Ashram: A tranquil area on the eastern bank of the Ganges, known for its ashrams, temples, and meditation centers. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll along the river.
