Rishikesh known as the ‘yoga capital of the world’ is a town in the Indian state of Uttarkhand. It is not just famous for the many yoga centres it is home to but also for the numerous temples that dot the town and the plenty of adventure activities like river rafting and cliff jumping it offers to the visitors. With so much to do and see in Rishikesh, people visiting this tourist town are spoilt for choice. But what if you don’t have the luxury of time to leisurely experience everything that Rishikesh has to offer and want to just visit the major attractions? Here is list of a few must visit attractions that you don’t want to miss when you are in Rishikesh.
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat- The Maha Aarti or the Ganga Aarti as it is popularly known is one of the most mesmerizing sights that can be seen in Rishikesh. Many priests performing aarti to the holy river Ganga at a time in a synchronised way is a feast for the eyes. A large number of devotees and visitors chanting bhajans accompanied by the sound of drums and bells creates a vibrant atmosphere. Watching hundreds of diyas left afloat in the holy river by the devotees is a soul soothing experience which is to be experienced when you are in Rishikesh.
Lakshman Jhula Bridge- Lakshman Jhula is a suspension bridge built over the gushing Ganges and it was built nearly more than 70 years ago when the old bridge was washed away by the floods.It is 450 feet in length and offers a scenic view of the gushing Ganga River below. Indian mythology tells that Lord Rama’s younger brother Lakshman crossed the river using jute ropes in the place where the mighty bridge stands now. There are also a lot of shops and cafes that have sprung up in the surroundings overtime. The yentire area of Lakshman Jhula is a spectacular place to visit.
The Beatles Ashram-The Beatles Ashram as it is popularly known today is a must visit place if you are the kind of person who likes solitude. The ashram came to be known as the Beatles Ashram since the world famous music band, ‘The Beatles’, stayed here in 1968. There are a lot of kutiras (meditation chambers) inside the ashram premises where you can meditate or just read a book. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the ashram just seeing the paintings and enjoying the quaint nature.
Tera Manzil Temple- Situated right on the banks of River Ganga and very close to Lakshman Jhula, this temple is special as it has 13 floors with symmetrical idols of various Hindu gods in all floors. Though it is difficult for most to climb up all the 13 floors of the temple, the beautiful view of the town and Lakshman Jhula Bridge from the top most floor of this temple is worth the climb. There are a lot of small shops inside the temple complex selling souvenirs and artefacts.