December 1st, 2017 by Charvee Sharma

A spiritual centre, an adventurer’s little paradise, a weekend escape; nestled by the Garhwal mountains, blessed by the river Ganges, the Holy town of Rishikesh knows how to satiate every yearning heart. Being a gateway to most Himalayan pilgrimage shrines and an epicenter of Yoga, Rishikesh promises indelible memories to tourists of all kinds.

Weather

In summers, the temperature can go as high as 35 degrees, making May-June heat a little too much to bear; however this is the peak season for all adventure sports. October-February make the ideal months for a trip with maximum temperature at a pleasant 20 degrees. The monsoon months from June-Sept can be avoided as unpredictable landslides and messy roads can spoil all the fun.

Places to Visit

(i) The well-known landmark iron suspension bridges, Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, especially for pedestrians are ideal for a casual walk to soak the air alongside River Ganga.

(ii) The quiet town of Rishikesh owes its global recognition to the Beatles Trip in the late 1960’s. Located in the Swarg Ashram area, Beatles Ashram was where the band spent their most productive years. The area is now swamped with artistic paintings and graffiti on walls, elegantly surrounded with abundance of trees and chirping birds.

(iii) Situated 24 kms from Rishikesh, one can enjoy elephant rides and jungle safari in Rajaji National Park. Declared as a tiger reserve, this area is full of lush flora and fauna, a must for all wildlife enthusiasts.

(iv) About 15 kms from the city, with trees of Gular lining the avenue, lies a lesser known yet well maintained Vashishta Goofa. This cave serves as an ideal location for those seeking peace and some quiet meditation time.

(v) A happening place for adrenaline junkies, Rishikesh offers a wide selection of all major adventure sports. The exquisite setting with turbulent rapids of Ganga and rich topography has given rishikesh river rafting its fame not in India, but also around the globe

(vi) Allow yourself to be immersed in the magic of River Ganga, the Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat located in proximity to Ram Jhoola, promises to be an experience of a lifetime. The evening rituals performed at dusk are sure to leave an everlasting impression, making it the perfect way to say goodbye to this city.

Where to Eat

Thronged by backpackers, casual leisure-seeking tourists, last minute holiday planners along with hordes of devotees, the small city of Rishikesh brings varieties of scrumptious food to cater all.

Dine at:

• For ghar-ka-khana feels, visit Chotiwala restaurant, at Swarg Ashram
• Little Buddha Café, Near Laxman Jhula
• South Indian platters at Madras Cafe, Near Ram Jhula
• For contemporary European cuisines, Devraj Coffee Corner, Near Laxman Jhula

Where to Shop

From traditional knick-knacks to junk jewellery, ethnic wear and yoga gear, it’s not difficult to find what you need wandering in the narrow markets of Rishikesh.

Shop at:

• Ram Jhula
• Laxman Jhula
• Rishikesh Main Market

With a sprawling suburb, assorted with ashrams and settlements, trust the tranquility of river Ganga shimmering in the music of temple bells; experience the lush green forests in the city of Rishikesh, bundled carefully the Himalayan foothills.

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About Charvee Sharma

Born in a big city, Charvee finds her heart in small towns. A free spirit, who loves to wander places in search of stories, within stories. At the end of a long day, she finds her therapy in long aimless walks and conversations, with the Moon.