Rishikesh, situated in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, holds significant religious and spiritual importance, as well as being a popular tourist destination. The history of Rishikesh is deeply intertwined with Hindu mythology and the evolution of yoga and meditation practices.From a religious perspective, Rishikesh is often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and is considered one of the holiest places in India.
It is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, which is considered sacred by Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama, along with his brother Laxman, crossed the Ganges River at Rishikesh on their way to the Himalayas. The name “Rishikesh” is derived from the Sanskrit words “rishika” (sage) and “ish” (lord), meaning “Lord of the Sages,” as it is believed that several ancient sages and saints meditated in this area.
Rishikesh gained prominence as a spiritual center during the 20th century when various spiritual leaders, including Swami Sivananda and Swami Vivekananda, established ashrams and yoga centers here. The Beatles famously visited Rishikesh in 1968 to study transcendental meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, bringing global attention to the town. Today, Rishikesh attracts thousands of pilgrims and spiritual seekers from around the world who come to practice yoga, meditation, and participate in spiritual retreats.
The town is renowned for its serene atmosphere, scenic beauty, and the presence of numerous ashrams and temples.From a tourist perspective, Rishikesh offers a wide range of attractions and activities. The iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, named after Lord Rama’s brother Laxman and Lord Rama himself, respectively, are popular landmarks that attract visitors. These bridges offer panoramic views of the Ganges River and the surrounding hills.
Other places of interest include:
Parmarth Niketan: One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, known for its daily yoga and meditation classes, as well as the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony held on the banks of the river every evening.
Swarg Ashram: A tranquil area on the eastern bank of the Ganges, dotted with ashrams, temples, and yoga centers. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama meditated.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Located around 12 kilometers from Rishikesh, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated amidst dense forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Beatles Ashram (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram): Abandoned since the 1990s, this ashram gained fame after The Beatles’ visit. It’s now a popular tourist spot adorned with graffiti and murals.
Kunjapuri Devi Temple: Situated atop a hill, this temple dedicated to Goddess Durga offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks at sunrise and sunset.
Overall, Rishikesh’s rich history, spiritual significance, and natural beauty continue to attract visitors seeking spiritual rejuvenation and tranquility amidst the foothills of the Himalayas.
We are visiting this fabulous place presently courtesy my daughters, Rajni Singh and her family from Mumbai and Jodie from USA with her husband Monty and son Angad. Courtesy my daughters I was put up at Aloha Hotel by the Ganges, a fantastic place overlooking Ganges. Rishikesh is also famous for river rafting and other adventure sports which my daughters and their families enjoyed very well. I very much wanted to participate but checked myself being 73. So we simply took a walk along the Ganges and enjoyed shooting pics of various places thus collecting more memories to our life library. I still remember that being a young Captain in the Indian Army in 1974, I was posted 300 Kms away from Rishikesh at a place from where the river Ganges emanated. Visit of mine refreshed my memories of 50 years back and I smile on it. Thank you my lovely angel daughters for getting me back in the Time Machine. God bless each one of us.
Guchi.
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