Rishikesh represents the Gateway to the Himalayas in the Tehri-Garhwal region of Uttar Pradesh. It abounds in natural splendour. The spectacle of the Ganga rushing through the Himalayan foothills is an awesome sight. Several temples dot the banks of the Ganga at Rishikesh. Rishikesh is located at a height of about 1360 feet above sea level. It is believed that several yogis and sages lived and practised penance here. Rishikesh represents the site where Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu.Tapovan on the other bank of the Ganges houses a temple to Lakshmana. It is believed that Lakshmana carried out penances here. It is also believed that his brother Bharata meditated here, and there is a temple to Bharata here. Also seen here are the Swargashram and the Geeta Bhavan temples.

Places of Interest

Lakshman Jhula  - a 450 feet long suspension bridge was built in 1939. A newer bridge the Ram Jhula has been added recently. The Ganga abounds in fish. Offerings of puffed rice are made to these creatures. The freshness of the air, and sound of flowing water, the scenic beauty of the region and the distant sound of bell chimes create an unforgettable experience for those that visit this ancient pilgrimage town.

Ram Jhula -  Another suspension bridge close to Lakshman Jhula is the Ram Jhula. This suspension bridge was recently build between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is similar to the Lakshman Jhula. Ram Jhula is also known as Shivanand Jhula.

Kailash Niketan Temple - This is the main temple at Laxman Jhool and one can see the sculptures of all Gods and Goddesses in this thirteen storey mansion.

Nilkanth Mahadeo Temple - 12 km away from Rishikesh is located the Nilkanth Mahadeo temple at a height of about 5000 feet, commanding spectacular views of the region.

Swarga Ashram - One can find numerous temples here. This place has the eating joints and shops where one can do shopping. The beautiful statues in the area mesmerise the visitors.

Gita Bhavan - This newly constructed building is famous for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.

Satya Narayan Temple - The idol of Lord Satyanarayan has been enshrined inside the temple located enroute to Rishikesh, 10 kms. away from Hardwar. The visitors use this place as a station to halt for a casual worship.

Triveni Ghat - This is a bathing ghat. Daily in the morning and evening there are thousands who take bath here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river.

Rishikund -  Close to Triveni Ghat is the most ancient place, the rishikund. Ancient records relate this to Kubz Saint , who was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna by saturating this pond by its water. The pond reflects the temple of Ragunath , dedicated to lord Rama and his wife

Shatrughan Temple - This is an ancient temple dedicated to Shatrughan, Lord Ram's brother and is situated 5 kms. away from Rishikesh.

Bharat Mandir - The Bharat Mandir is the oldest temple in Rishikesh, near the Triveni Ghat. This temple is dedicated to Bharat, the younger brother of Lord Ram.

Tera Manzil Temple - A multistory temple complex of idols of Hindu Gods, and Goddesses. Very popular among the domestic pilgrims. One can have an excellent view of the entire area from the top floor of the temple complex. Sunset view from this place in winters is a excellent option.  

Haridwar - Read Details Here

Getting There and Around

By Air : Domestic airlines operate flights between Delhi and Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun. These flights are available only on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

By Rail : Haridwar and Rishikesh are  connected to almost all part of Uttaranchal and India by rail links.

By Road : To get to Rishikesh, take the National Highway 58 passing through Modinagar, Khatauli, Muzzafarnagar, Roorkee, Haridwar and Raiwala. Rishikesh is served by well defined road networks and is connected by buses to other towns of Garhwal, UP and Delhi, which are further connected to other major cities of India by road. Some important road distances from Rishikesh are - Badrinath 301 kms. Delhi 224 kms. Dehradun 43 kms. Kedarnath 228 kms. Gangotri 258 kms Yamunotri 288 kms. and Uttarkashi 154 kms

Accommodation

Rishikesh has numerous accommodations located in & around the town. There are number of luxury as well as budget hotels.Dharamshalas are also available for free or for nominal amount.