India's Yoga Capital

Rishikesh - one of the ancient cities in the country

With the recent pandemic, you must have seen lots of people turn to yoga. People who were looking for an outlet for the emotions that were kept bundled or a coping mechanism to sudden isolation we faced, many found solace in meditation and yoga - your journey towards self-discovery, self-realization. Why are we talking about what they call a ‘Zen’ life? Well, we are taking you to India's yoga capital, 'Rishikesh'.

Old world charm and western hippies

Rishikesh is a place where you will feel the potential powers of your body, mind, and soul with every fibre of your being. The vast crowd of tourists, Hindu devotees, yogi's, modern hippies, and spiritual kindred spirits doesn't affect the relaxed and good vibes this place radiates. The place attracts all souls seeking spirituality with its perfect blend of nature, adventure and serenity. 

It's a dream destination that has numerous activities for spiritual seekers, yoga enthusiasts and meditation lovers.

Legends from the mythology

Rishikesh is a holy city located in the sacred and heavenly state of Uttarakhand in India. The famous Char Dham Yatra (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) starts from Rishikesh. Rishikesh is located right on the banks of the river Ganges. Many religious and mythological legends and folklores are passed down the generations, written in books and told by the locals. 

The city is said to have been established in the 9th-century AD by Adi Shankaracharya. Legends say Lord Rama did penance here for killing Ravana, and Lakshmana, his younger brother, crossed the river Ganges, using two jute ropes at the present point - where 'Lakshman Jhula' is located. It is one of the most photographed spots in Uttarakhand.

Mesmerizing clouds, overlapped mountains, fast-flowing rivers, acres of forests are picture-perfect destinations located at the foothills of the lofty Garhwal Himalayas. The mighty Ganges cuts right through the city, making it more stunning and picturesque. The Ganges represents spontaneity, purity and essence of life. 

'Here Comes the Beatles'

After Attending Maharishi's seminar in Wales in 1968, the iconic British boyband arrived at Rishikesh at the start of 1968. The band led by George Harrison found the answers they were looking for during their stay at such a holy place. After all, they wrote about 40 songs here, Ringo wrote his first song here, this place gave birth to 'Abbey Road 'and the white album. The ashram where they stayed is now turned into The Beatles Ashram. 

All things you can do

You can enjoy amazing experiences like cliff jumping, kayaking, body surfing, etc. However, river rafting was banned for a short period. The picturesque waterfalls, the raw wilderness of nature and the jaw-dropping spectacle of the Maha Aarti, all has the power to heal your soul from any heaviness you have been carrying around in your heart for a long time.

As the gentle night breeze caresses you, you are overwhelmed with the serene experience and feeling of being connected to the forces of nature. The city is a giver, all it needs is your strength, courage, conviction, belief, and it will give you a new perspective, lesser judgments, more humility and tremendous amounts of joy.