Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital Of The World
Rishikesh, the land of the hermits that translates to “hair of the sage,” has always been famous for attracting people from all around the globe- be it yoga enthusiasts, religious pilgrims, or those who are in search of spirituality in their lives. Rishikesh has rightfully earned the title of the “Yoga Capital of the World” due to the tranquility and unending nourishment it offers.
This city serves as the entryway to the Garhwal Himalayas and is geographically brimming with breathtaking landscapes. But if you’ve known Rishikesh to be just a spiritual destination all this time, let me tell you- it is also known as the adventure capital of India.
Why is it named so? Read along to find that out!
Places To Visit In Rishikesh
Rishikesh is full of mesmerizing locations, such as:

• Laxman Jhula
  Laxman Jhula is undoubtedly the ideal textbook representation of Rishikesh. This 450 ft long and 70 ft high suspension bridge built in 1939 is believed to be erected at the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the river Ganges on a jute rope.
• Ram Jhula
  Almost identical in its structural form, Ram Jhula is just a few miles from Laxman Jhula. Although this bridge was built in 1980, it follows the same significance as its predecessor.
• Triveni Ghat
  Famous for being the juncture of three major rivers, namely Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati, Triveni is one of the most important ghats in India with its daily arrangement of its Ganga Aarti in the evening.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
  This holy temple of Lord Shiva, situated almost 30 kilometers from Rishikesh, is one of the most prominent pilgrimage sites for Hindus since it is believed that this temple was built at the exact location where Lord Shiva drank the venom to attain the elixir of life.
  Likewise, you can visit other temples in Rishikesh are Raghunath Temple, Laxman Temple, Tryambakeshwar Temple and Kunjapuri Devi Temple.
• Shivpuri
  Shivpuri is the best place in Rishikesh to indulge in adventurous water activities. Be it the shorter 9 km expedition on the Ganges or the 21 km one; you will experience the real thrill of fully equipped whitewater rafting over here.
• Rishikund
  Situated near the entrance of the Raghunath Temple, Rishikund is a historically holy reservoir of water that used to be the pond for hermits. The water body exhibits a calm aura, which makes it very relaxing for the travelers to spend some time.
• Vashistha Cave
  This beautiful cave in the foothills of the Himalayas is dedicated to Saint Vashistha, who is claimed to have meditated and lived in this place at the end stages of his life.
• The Beatles Ashram
  Situated on the city’s outskirts, the Beatles Ashram has become one of the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh due to its cultural and societal significance.
  Besides these places, you can also visit Sivananda Ashram and Omkarananda Ashram for a spiritual retreat.
  Things To Do In Rishikesh
  There are so many things for you to do in Rishikesh. Let’s go through them in detail:
• River Rafting
  Whitewater river rafting is one of the most iconic adventure activities that you can take part in Rishikesh if you want to experience the utmost glory of the holiest river on the planet.
• Waterfall Trekking
  Since Rishikesh is situated amidst the hilly terrains overlooking a multitude of waterfalls, waterfall trekkings and free hiking facilities can be a great way for you to explore them all.
• Bike-Riding In The Himalayan Foothills
  If you ever dreamt of riding a motorbike through the foothills of the Himalayas, then Rishikesh can be an ideal destination for you! You can even take a trip to the near Kunjapuri Devi Temple while riding along the steep mountain roads.
• Camping
  Backpacking into the serenity of nature and away from the hustle and bustle of commercial hubs makes Rishikesh a hot favorite among travelers. So, plan a camping trip in Rishikesh if you want to explore the peaceful face of the Himalayas while spending time with like minded travelers.
• Rock Climbing
  Rishikesh is the perfect destination for rock climbers and adventure erthusiasts. After all, what’s an adventure capital without the presence of active rock climbing spots for travelers?
• Cliff/Bungee Jumping
  If you consider yourself an adventurer, then take a moment and decide why you would want to skip out on the fun of jumping down the cliffs or mountains while in Rishikesh? Because if you do, you’ll miss out on the actual flavors of thrill.
• Paragliding & Parasailing
  If you want to capture the best possible views of the picturesque landscapes of Rishikesh, then paragliding or parasailing is the best way to do it.
• Ganga Aarti At The Ghats Of Triveni
  Spending your evening watching the Ganga aarti, the sacred fire offering ceremony of the Hindus, at the Triveni Ghat is one of the best things to do while you’re in Rishikesh.
• Safari In Rajaji National Park
  You don’t have to worry about missing out on the Corbett National Park Safari if you make it to the Rajaji National Park Safari in Rishikesh.
• Visit The “Beatles Ashram”
  The legacy that the iconic Beatles left behind can be clearly understood once you take a trip to Rishikesh and visit the ashram, where they sought inspiration for their musical album back in the 1960s.
  You can even practice yoga and watch the sun rising (or setting) over the Himalayan backdrop while hiking in the mountains.

Best Time For Visiting Chopta
If you want to capture the best face of Rishikesh, the months between September and March will be ideal for you to visit. However, it depends on your preference.
Since Rishikesh is a major hub for pilgrimage, it attracts tourists and pilgrims from everywhere throughout the year. Being the gateway of Char Dham, Rishikesh gains a lot of travelers in May to October compared to other seasons.
Moreover, the place is easy to travel to from near Haridwar.
Having mentioned that, winter and spring months are far more pleasant for adventure tours and exotic getaways in Rishikesh.