Situated in the serene setting of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a destination that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. It is a city that often revered for its holiness and is known as the world capital of yoga. While the place is filled with yoga institutions and numerous temples, there are other magnificent things such as the Himalayan mountains and the Ganga river that automatically make this place more captivating for a visit. And it doesn’t end there, apart from being filled with natural and cultural vistas, this destination also offers numerous thrilling adventure activities like white water rafting, paragliding, etc. Therefore, if you are seeking a destination that offers thrill, serenity, and religious fervor, then Rishikesh is a place to be. Below are some of the best tourist spots from the top places in Rishikesh that will give you a great insight into the destination and tells you what you will see when you visit it on your next holiday trip.
Lakshman Jhula
The first place on this list that you certainly should visit in Rishikesh is Lakshman Jhula. Constructed in 1939, Lakshman Jhula is a suspension bridge that holds quite an importance in Hindus. The bridge is the center of attraction that also connects various temples and ashrams. When standing upon this bridge, you can see the magnificent view of the mountains, waves of temples aligned together, and the holy river of Ganga.
Beatles Ashram
Although Rishikesh is loaded with numerous ashrams, the Beatles ashram is the most popular among them. The ashram got its name when the most famous rock band, the Beatles, once visited Rishikesh to learn meditation in this ashram. During their visit, they wrote a lot of songs that went on to become the biggest hits in the world. The ashram is still flocked with numerous tourists, and among them, many visit it to learn yoga and perform meditation.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Neelkanth Mahadev temple has great importance among Hindus as it is the place where Lord Shiva drank the venom, which was produced by other Gods and Demons. While there is no evidence of it, the temple is still visited by thousands of pilgrims. Though the temple remains open throughout the year, visiting this temple during the month of Shravan and the holiday of Shivratri will offer you an out of the world experience.
Shivpuri
As the name indicates itself, the place is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at a distance of 19 km from Rishikesh, you can reach Shivpuri through the national highway that operates between the Rishikesh and Patisira. Apart from being a Shiv’s residence, this place is also famous for providing numerous water sports, especially water rafting. Hence, if you are looking to experience the thrill, then you must visit this place.
Swarg Ashram
Swarg Ashram is the oldest yoga ashram in India that spread around the whole area between the Ram and Laxman Jhula. Being built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanand, the ashram is the ideal place to experience the serenity of this city. Here you can meditate for hours near the riverbanks and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Parmarth Niketan
Founded in 1942 by Swami Shukdevnandji, Parmarth Niketan is the largest ashram in the city, having more than 1000 rooms for visitors. The prominent objective of this ashram is to offer a rejuvenating experience to the pilgrims and provide them with clean and serene surroundings. While the ashram itself is quite magnificent, the garden here is the popular spot that will offer a great visual retreat to your eyes. Moreover, this place is perfect if you want to know more about yoga and meditation techniques and learn exercises, asana, and healthy diets.