Rishikesh - World Capital of Yoga

"Rishikesh - World Capital of Yoga"

Introduction

Rishikesh is a small, serene, picturesque town situated in the foothills of Himalaya Mountains. Being one of the ancient core places for spiritual healing and religious activities, this town is surrounded by hills and located on Ganga River’s bank. This hub of yoga is located in North of Uttarakhand, India. The term “Hrishikesh" is derived from the word Hrishik meaning Vishnu that is ' lord of the sense' therefore the word Hrishikesh refers to lord Vishnu or Lord of Sense. Being the gateway for Hindu pilgrimage, Rishikesh is also famous for its rich culture and heritage as well as exotic range of food that is offered here.

History

Several myths are associated with this place. A common believe is that a Saint namely Raibhya Rishi came here and performed penance on the Ganges River bank. Being contented with his gestures, Lord Vishnu appeared to him in shape of this beautiful city Hrishikesh which is now known as Rishikesh. This place gained popularity after the Adi Shankarcharya visited it in the 9^th century. He was regarded as popular religious chief of modern era. It is also stated that Lord Rama came here to seek repentance for killing Ravana who was the demon. His younger brother crossed this River Ganges at the spot where the bridge made from jute is standing today. By law this city is considered a vegetarian place and a holy city too.

Getting to Rishikesh

Fortunately its popularity has gained so much that tourism industry has provided almost all means of travelling to this place ranging from bus to plane. Rishikesh is nearer to Dheradun where a small airport is located facilitating two flights from Delhi but initiatives are planned to stretch the runway so that more and more flights are operated not just locally but internationally also. If one is not in a hurry and has ample time to travel so an option of travelling by road is perfect. Especially if an individual is visiting to calm themselves so going by road is quite amusing. Traveling by train is more suitable in the peak time when buses are diverted to Haridwar and trains often are empty offering low fares. Bus is a cheaper option but then takes 5-7 hours to reach from Delhi.

When To Visit

Located on foothill of Himalaya Mountains, it presents a fresh and cool flee during summers. March-April and also September-October is an ideal visiting time. From second quarter the weather gets hotter and in July-August, heavy showers are experienced making the place muddy and mushy. In the monsoon season the climate is humid with roads and pavements being more slippery because of the steepness this hilly area has. Right after the rainy season the surroundings are fresh, moist, greener and soothing so that time is preferable too. In the month of July a festival called Saavan is celebrated, for which many people visit this place so Rishikesh is crowded during this time of the year.

Attractions

The vicinity is surrounded by many sacred temples and other than these religious attractions, historical orphanages as well as national parks are looking forward to welcome you. Trevini Ghat, Bharat Temple, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev, Kailash Niketan Temple, Kunjapuri Temple and exclusive Vashisht Cave are few of the temple that are a must visit. Trevini Ghat is named after the three mountainous streams that flowed here in the old times. Rajaji National Park, Swarga Ashram and Gita Bhuvan are some delightful spots to wander across and discover. The best and hassle free way to visit these allures is to wear comfortable joggers and walk around the city. People who love experiencing adventures can come here for rafting and trekking as well. They can also go camping, rappelling, rock climbing, cliff jumping, kayaking, and bungee jumping and enjoy astrology services.

You can also entertain yourself by going to music festivals organized by music centers there. It will be an awesome experience to meditate one’s own self through live music offered in Ram Jhula or take music classes to learn the basics and specific types as well. The music instructors are professional degree holders who are renowned internationally.

Yoga in Rishikesh

Apart from performing pilgrimage, people can come here to indulge in yoga. This philosophical science, as is termed, lets one enjoy the charm of being existent. Rishikesh is titled as world capital of yoga because it was this place from where yoga was originated. Being the center of yoga almost every tourist who comes here never ends up their tour without going to any yoga centers and trainers. A common belief among locals is that yoga brings nearer to accomplishment of moksha (release) or liberation. A dip with therapeutic powers in River Ganges is also worth a try to feel the sense of being pure and relaxed, away from the worldly tensions and disturbances.

Rishikesh is also an institution in itself to learn about different meditation, postures, and tricks of reiki through experienced reiki masters. Some reputed yoga centers include Rishikesh Yog Dham, Himalayan Yoga Academy, Rishikesh Yog Peeth, and Institution for Higher Meditative Consciousness etc.

Food & Accommodation

As Rishikesh is a sacred town so one may not expect to find meat related food items. For a change tasty and healthy herbal food is exciting enough to fill your stomach. The ayurvedic teas are a must drink item because the refreshed feeling it gives is unmatched to ordinary sodas and juices. Chotiwala restaurant offers the most exotic Indian cuisine in town. Other than formal eateries, road side cafes and stall are always there to greet you to enjoy some authentic Indian entrees on low and reasonable prices. Rishikesh is always known for its miniatures and Shikhawati paintings that can be a best souvenir for friends and family back home. One can also shop for books related to religion, clothes, and locally manufactured handicrafts.

As far as accommodation is concerned, Rishikesh has a wide range of resorts and hotels from cheap rates to premium prices. It depends upon your budget and pocket for how much can you readily pay. The more cheaper and traditional option is to stay at ashrams which in many cases also offer free meals and medical treatments to the visitors. The overall holy and composed environment amuses and inspires visitors to inculcate virtuous thoughts within themselves. The unique factors held by Rishikesh are fascinating enough to grab attention. Not forgetting the picturesque beauty and nature it has, this is one of those scenic places that rejuvenates and helps to revitalize an individual’s personality.