Pilgrimage to Rishikesh

Rs. 5700 / Person (Minimum 4 person)

Rishikesh, often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World”, is a spiritual town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the sacred Ganga (Ganges) River in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its ashrams, temples, and scenic beauty, it is a hub for spirituality, yoga, and adventure tourism.

Overview of Rishikesh

Location: Rishikesh is located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, approximately 25 km from Haridwar and 43 km from Dehradun. It lies along the banks of the sacred Ganges River.
Significance: Rishikesh is revered as a holy city and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is believed that bathing in the Ganges here purifies the soul and washes away sins.

2. Key Attractions

Triveni Ghat: This is the main ghat in Rishikesh, known for its evening Ganga Aarti, a spiritual ceremony that attracts large crowds. Witnessing the rituals at Triveni Ghat is a profound experience.
Parmarth Niketan: One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan offers spiritual teachings, yoga classes, and meditation sessions. The evening Ganga Aarti held here is particularly mesmerizing.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Located about 32 km from Rishikesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is set amidst lush forests. It is an important pilgrimage site and offers stunning views.
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: These iconic suspension bridges connect the two banks of the Ganges. They offer scenic views and are surrounded by numerous temples and ashrams.
Bhootnath Temple: Situated near the banks of the Ganges, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important place of worship for devotees.
Yoga Ashrams: Rishikesh is home to numerous yoga ashrams, where you can attend yoga and meditation classes, including the famous Sivananda Ashram and the Himalayan Institute.

3. Activities

Ganga Aarti: Participate in the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan, where lamps are lit, and prayers are offered to the Ganges. The atmosphere is spiritually uplifting.
Yoga and Meditation: Engage in yoga and meditation classes at local ashrams to enhance your spiritual experience. Many ashrams offer programs for beginners and advanced practitioners alike.
Spiritual Workshops: Attend workshops on Vedic philosophy, Ayurveda, and spirituality at various ashrams to deepen your understanding of Hindu traditions.
Adventure Activities: For those seeking adventure, Rishikesh offers activities like white-water rafting, trekking, and camping along the banks of the Ganges.

4. Cuisine

Local Delicacies: Rishikesh has numerous eateries that serve vegetarian cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:
- Aloo Puri: A popular dish made of deep-fried bread and spiced potatoes.
- Chole Bhature: Spicy chickpeas served with fried bread.
- Sweets: Try local sweets like jalebi and kheer, which are often found in street stalls.

5. How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 20 km from Rishikesh. Taxis and buses are available for the journey to the city.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, about 25 km away. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Rishikesh.
By Road: Rishikesh is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi and Dehradun. Buses and taxis regularly operate between these cities.

6. Accommodation

Options: Rishikesh offers a wide range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury ashrams. Staying near the Ganges or in an ashram can enhance your spiritual experience.

7. Best Time to Visit

Seasons: The best time to visit Rishikesh is from September to June, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and spiritual pursuits. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

Conclusion

A pilgrimage to Rishikesh offers a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re participating in the Ganga Aarti, practicing yoga, or exploring the tranquil surroundings, Rishikesh promises a transformative experience.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Overview of Rishikesh

Day 01 :

Delhi - Rishikesh

Morning:
Departure from Delhi:Start early in the morning from Delhi (around 6:00 AM).
Travel by car. The road journey via NH334 takes about 5-6 hours (240 km).
Breakfast stop en route at one of the highway dhabas near Muzaffarnagar.
Late Morning (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM):
Arrival in Rishikesh and check-in at your hotel/ashram or riverside camp.
Take some time to freshen up and relax.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a local café or your accommodation.
Explore Ram Jhula & Lakshman Jhula:
Start with a visit to Lakshman Jhula, the iconic suspension bridge over the Ganga, followed by Ram Jhula. Both offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills.
Visit Trayambakeshwar Temple and nearby shops for some local souvenirs.
Evening:
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM):Head to Parmarth Niketan Ashram for the famous Ganga Aarti on the riverbanks. This spiritual ceremony is a must-see for visitors, with priests chanting and lamps floating in the river.
Dinner at a local restaurant or ashram (vegetarian meals are the norm).
Night:
Relax at your accommodation or take a peaceful walk by the river.
Overnight stay in Rishikesh.

Day 2: Adventure and Spirituality in Rishikesh

Day 02 :

Adventure and Spirituality in Rishikesh

Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM):
Early Morning Yoga or Meditation:Start your day with a yoga or meditation session at your hotel or any of the ashrams (many offer morning classes).
Breakfast at the hotel/café (try some local favorites like aloo puri or parathas).
Late Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM):
White Water Rafting:Head out for river rafting in the Ganga, one of the most popular activities in Rishikesh. The rapids range from Grade I to IV, and the rafting stretch usually takes around 2-3 hours (popular options are Shivpuri to Rishikesh or Marine Drive to Rishikesh).
Afternoon:
Lunch at a riverside café or back at your accommodation.
Neer Garh Waterfall Trek:
After lunch, enjoy a short trek to Neer Garh Waterfall, a beautiful spot surrounded by nature. The hike takes about 20-30 minutes, and you can take a dip in the refreshing pools.
Evening (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM):
Visit to Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia):Explore the famous Beatles Ashram, where the band once stayed to practice transcendental meditation. The place is now a peaceful, graffiti-filled attraction with a spiritual vibe.
Explore Local Markets:Visit the Rishikesh markets near Ram Jhula for handicrafts, spiritual books, beads, and local souvenirs.
Night (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM):
Dinner at one of Rishikesh’s popular cafes (e.g., Little Buddha Café, Freedom Café).
If time allows, enjoy another peaceful Ganga Aarti or a stroll by the river.
Late Night:
Depart for Delhi or stay overnight if you prefer a relaxed trip.

Optional Add-Ons (If Time Allows):
Bungee Jumping at Jumpin Heights: If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can add bungee jumping to your itinerary.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A half-day trip to this sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, about 30 km from Rishikesh.

Return to Delhi
You can either leave for Delhi by late evening or the next morning, depending on your preference. The journey back takes about 5-6 hours by road.

Day 03 :

Sightseeing and Return to Delhi

Afternoon:

Explore nearby temples such as Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located about 30 minutes from Rishikesh. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in a lush green environment.