Rishikesh is one the holy cities of India, the hatha yoga capital of the world, a totally vegetarian town. It's about a 6 hours ride from Delhi, and Rishikesh is also a major gateway to the Himalayas. About 26 Kms from Haridwar. Located in the laps of lower Himalayas, and is surrounded by scenic beauty of the hills on three sides with Holy Ganga flowing through it.The pace in Rishikesh is much more melllow than Delhi, and you will enjoy walking about town undisturbed by touts and hawkers The whole place is considered to be sacred as it is believed that meditation at this place leads to attainment of salvation.

There are many temples-some ancient, some new along the river Ganges. Rishikesh is important not only as pilgrimage centre closely associated with the Ramayana, but also as home for many important centres of Hindu religious thought and spirituality, and Great Yoga Centres. There are a great many ashrams and Yoga institutes here.

Rishikesh is also the gateway and the start-off point for journeys to important religious places like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Rishikesh is also acquiring greater significance as a centre for white water rafting, other riverine sports, a base for treks and hikes in the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas.

Attractions

• Lakshman Jhula
  The bridge has been a major attraction among the tourists to Rishikesh. The suspension iron bridge Lakshman Jhula was build in 1929. This is where Rama's brother Lakshaman is said to have crossed the river on a jute rope. One can enjoy the spectacular surroundings and the cool breeze from the river while standing on the bridge.
• Ram Jhula
  Another suspended bridge close to Lakshman Juhla is the Ram Jhula- This suspended bridge was recently build between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. It is similar to the Lakshman Jhula. Ram Juhla is also known as Shivanand Jhula.
• Gita Bhavan
  This newly constructed building is famous for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.
• Bharat Mandir
  It is the oldest temple in Rishikesh. The image installed here has a distinctly Himalayan cast of features. Though the temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu, it holds a number of image normally associated with the worship of Lord Shiva.

Ashrams in Rishikesh
There are many important ashrams in Rishkesh. Most ashrams are centres for spiritual studies which also calls for Physical disciplines. Some ashrams, however, are monasteries. Among the better known ashrams are :- Paremarth Niketan, Sivanand Ashram, Yoga Niketan, Omkaranand Ashram, Vanprastha Ashram, Ved Niketan, Dayanand Vedanta Ashram, Vanmali Gita Yogashram, Shankaracharya Nagar Transcendental Meditatation Centre, Vithal Ashram and Yoga Study Centre.

Adventure Sports in Rishikesh
You love challenging the rushing waters in the roaring rivers? Then come to Rishikesh and try some river rafting here. You can enjoy almost all the levels of river rafting in this Mecca of Yoga and Meditation. White Water Rafting : Rafting is truly a challenge in this part of the world. The violent rivers, fed by countless streams are challenging and tortuous with cutting devouring gorges are perfect for the lovers of extreme adventurous sports.

How to reach

• Air
  The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant. This small airport is situated at a distance of about 24 km from the main Rishikesh town. However, air is not the preferred mode of transport for getting into the town. Reach Delhi International airport in India and take a train or bus route to Rishikesh.
• Rail
  Rishikesh is well connected with all the major towns and cities of India though some of the links can only be accessed from Haridwar.
• Road
  Rishikesh is 6 hours (250 kms) by bus from Delhi. Buses depart regularly throughout the day from ISBT. Rishikesh is very well connected by a network of roads to all major towns of Uttaranchal and surrounding areas.