Rishikesh

Lakshman Jhula happens to be one of the famous hanging bridges across the holy river Ganga. The jhula is a link in between two important villages in Rishikesh. It connects the Tapovan village in Tehri Garhwal and Jonk village in Pauri Garhwal. The bridge is made up of iron and it is almost 450 feet long, which is suspended at an elevation of almost 70 feet above the river. Lakshman Jhula has been one of the centres for tourist attraction since its inception for its amazing association of the Hindu Mythology. As per the popular Hindu mythology, Ramayan, it is believed that Lord Ram and his brother Lakshman had crossed the Ganga river at the same place, where the bridge has been built. The bridge was opened for public in the year 1929.  In recent times, in order to boost the tourist footfall, many other developments have been carried out around the famous Lakshman Jhula. Tourists now love to spend a considerable amount of time in these places in the course of their Rishikesh Trip. You can not only visit the Lakshman Jhula, but you can also spend time in some of the other nearby tourist attractions like Tera Manzil Temple, Ram Jhula, and Lakshman temple. Let us get to know more about this religious place of worship.History of Lakshman Jhula- Lakshman Jhula has its significance in the most popular Hindu Mythology, Ramayana. As per the tales, Lord Ram and Lakshman had crossed the river Ganga at this place. The duo crossed the river Ganga with the help of just two ropes. In order to praise this act of fearlessness, Lakshman Jhula was built. This 284 feet long suspended bridge was the main point of contact between the villages until the year 1889. However, one of the floods in the year 1924 completely washed away the bridge. Initially the Lakshman Jhula was made up of jute, however, after the floods, it was replaced by a much stronger and sturdier iron bridge in the year 1939. The reconstruction was instigated in the same place and the name of the bridge was also not changed as per the significances. The bridge now stands tall above the river Ganga and happens to be one of the major tourist attractions in the tourism corridor of Rishikesh. However, the Lakshman Jhula is no more used for communication from 12th July 2019 for safety concerns. This bridge is almost 96 years old and it is not capable of handling the load of the current traffic. In order to preserve this iconic tourist attraction, one more bridge has been built and the Lakshman Jhula stands as a mere tourist attraction near to it. 

Ram Jhula is one of the most iconic places in Rishikesh and if you are planning a pilgrimage to the city, or just visiting for a holiday, you must stop by this iconic bridge. It is a suspension bridge, built entirely out of iron and the length of the bridge is around 450 feet. It was constructed in the year 1986, by the PWD. The bridge is located over the holy Ganga river and it connects Sivananda Nagar in Muni Ki Reti, in the district of Tehri Garhwal in the west to Swargashram in the district of Pauri Garhwal, in the east.This bridge can be found in the state of Uttarakhand, approximately 3 kilometres away from the main town of Rishikesh. It is a comfortable walking distance from Rishikesh, and if you like long walks in the midst of stunning scenery then you can walk the length of the bridge as well. People can also traverse the bridge with bikes or cycles. A number of holy ashrams and Hindu religious centres and temples can be found lining the side of the bridge. These ashrams encompass the true essence of Rishikesh, with their peace, hospitality and piety. Another well-known bridge in the area is the Lakshman Jhula, which is lengthier than Ram Jhula and is situated 2 kilometres upriver, on the banks of the Ganga. One of the most memorable experiences you can enjoy at the Ram Jhula is overlooking the holy city of Rishikesh from the bridge itself in all its natural and historical glory, surrounded by the river and the mighty mountains. History of Ram JhulaThe famous Ram Jhula was initially a bridge made of very strong jute ropes, tightly intertwined to give it strength and to help it bear the weight of passers-by. It did not have any pillars to provide structural support in the beginning. Later, it was re-constructed with iron in the year 1986 by the PWD under government supervision. Since it is located in the spiritual and holy city of Rishikesh, the name of the bridge is derived from the Aryan King- Lord Ram- the protagonist of the epic Ramayana. The other famous bridge on the river is the Lakshman Jhula. The story goes that in the era of Ram’s reign, Lakshman had crossed the Ganga with the help of two ropes. To commemorate this mythological event, the Lakshman Jhula was constructed with ropes, in the year 1889. Therefore, a gesture of sibling love and camaraderie between the two brothers- Ram and Lakshman, the second bridge was named ‘Ram, indicative of the divine bond between the two brothers. About Ram Jhula MarketKeeping in mind the vast number of tourists and pilgrims who visit the place every year, there are innumerable shops and markets near the starting and ending point of the bridge. The Ram Jhula Market can be found in the point where the bridge ends, where you can find shops selling everything imaginable- from groceries to mementoes and religious tokens. You can find religious sculptures, statues and framed pictures of different gods and goddesses, dress materials, jewellery and other artefacts available in the markets. One can buy authentic semi-precious stones and gems at reasonable prices from here as well. Shoppers can choose from beautiful, ethnic, locally sourced handicraft items to bright and comfortable cotton clothes like sarees, lehengas and cholis, all at reasonable prices. 

 Adventurers know Rishikesh as the land of river rafting as it is one of the most popular destinations for this activity anywhere in India. So if you are planning a trip to Rishikesh, make sure not to skip this adrenaline-pumping adventure of rafting through the blustery waters of River Ganga. As your raft glides along with the swift river, you will also have a chance to catch the undiluted charm of the Himalayan foothills.Three different stretches of the river, ranging from 9 km to 26 km, are open for rafting. These stretches feature grade 3, grade 4, and grade 5 rapids, so whether you are seeking hardcore adventure or you are a beginner, rafting in Rishikesh is ideal for all. To give a boost to your adrenaline rush, the rafting experience also offers opportunities for cliff jumping and body surfing.Highlights: Long stretches, various rapid grades, and beautiful scenery.Timings: 7 am to 10 pmPrice: INR 600 per person

Nestled amidst the lap of the Himalayas and embraced by bucolic and lush greeneries, Parmarth Niketan Ashram along the banks of the sacred Ganga River is the largest ashram in Rishikesh. Visited by devotees from across the globe, it is known for its serene, salubrious, calm and tranquil ambience. With over 1,000 rooms for the devotees, it also offers some of the modern day amenities and facilities. A stay in Parmath Niketan Ashram will not only bring you closer to your inner-self, but will also awaken all your senses along with uplifting the state of your body, mind and soul! Religious and spiritual preaching here is believed to show you the ways to purify yourself and know more about the energy points within yourself. Yoga, meditation, spiritual classes, satsang, kirtan, Ganga Aarti and spiritual lectures are the daily curriculum of Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

credits: Claudio NicheleParmarth Niketan Ashram, located in the lap of the verdant Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganges, is one of the most popular ashrams in Rishikesh. The ashram specialises in traditional ayurvedic practice treatment, yoga, meditation and various other natural healing techniques. The ashram was founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj. With over 1000 rooms, lush gardens, clean and pure ambience, the ashram provides a calm and serene refuge to devotees and patients alike. The ashram keeps its doors open for people of all religions, gender, caste, class and nationalities. The ashram is the home to a 14-feet statue of Lord Shiva that has been placed along the river bank. The divine or holy tree, Kalpavriksha, also boosts the sense of spirituality on the ashram campus.  Various activities of the ashram include different healing yogas, universal prayers and meditation classes, kirtan, daily satsang, spiritual talks and seminars among other events. The ashram with its various activities aims to help people connect with their inner self and rejuvenate their senses. During your stay at the ashram, you can feel being associated with the peaceful surrounding of the ashram as well as nature.The place has hosted hundreds of holy men, sages and yogis among others from across the globe. Parmarth Niketan Ashram has its own private ghat where Ganga Aarti is offered every evening. This is a blissful sight to witness if you are spending a day or two at the ashram. History of Parmarth Niketan Ashram:   Parmarth Niketan Ashram is one of the largest ashrams of Uttarakhand. The founder of the ashram Pujya Swami Divyanand Ji Maharaj established the place in 1942 with an objective to provide his followers a deep understanding of spirituality and the significance of connecting with one’s inner self. To imbibe the essence of peace and tranquillity in our daily lifestyle is a requisite and the ashram was founded based on this very notion.Therefore, the ambience has been created here suitably where there is an abundance of natural beauty with lots of nicely maintained gardens, while the clean, pure and sacred house offer the much-needed refuge to the visitors. Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Maharaj has been the president and also the spiritual head of the ashram since 1986.He has been a pioneer in creating the ashram into a hub of various traditional Hindu healing practices, nature cure, ayurvedic treatment and training. Since its emergence, Parmarth Niketan Ashram has been hosting various spiritual events

The convergence of three great rivers of Ganges, Yamuna and the Saraswati defines the Triveni Ghat. Nestled in the lap of Himalayas, Triveni Ghat is the most sacrosanct bathing spot and considered the holiest spot in Rishikesh. Triveni Ghat, all year round is inundated with people. It is believed that when one takes a dip in the Ghat, it washes away all the sins of the person resulting in a pure soul. Pilgrims from all over the globe visit here to take a dip in the holy waters to reach divine salvation. When you set your eyes on the Ghat, the holy chants, the fragrance of flowers, the light of the earthen lamps and the feeling of peace will envelop you.Maha-Arti is performed here every day in the morning and night. The arti has its relevance and is said to hold special significance to those who attend it. Despite people swarming in great numbers, Maha-Arti is attended both the times with much enthusiasm and devotion throughout the year. Devotees also release small oil lamps on boats made of big leaves and release them in the holy water. There are other ceremonies like 'Pindha Daan' considered very important for ancestral salvation performed here.Right across the Ghat, is a flourishing market that satiates the needs of pilgrims for religious artifacts and objects of worship. The market also has souvenirs and items of daily need which is why it is always crowded. You can also sit by the Ghat and enjoy a moment of much-needed peace and serenity. Feeding the fish is also an engaging and satisfying activity while sitting here. Rishikesh is full of beauties and Triveni Ghat is satisfying not just as a pilgrim locale but also as a place where you can find salvation. History of Triveni GhatThe name Triveni means three and that comes from the fact that it is the confluence of three major rivers of India namely Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is said that a dip can relieve a human from all his sins and takes him/her towards purity of mind and soul. Devotees offer many things here, especially in the morning like milk and food for fish. Triveni Ghat holds an important place in Hindu Mythology and finds its mention even in the great tales of Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is said that Lord Krishna came to the Ghat when he was hit by an arrow shot by Jara, a hunter. The famous Krishna Chatri is also constructed here because of the Lord's visit.The rivers also have their part to play in the rich history of the Ghat. The confluence of the rivers brings together this magnanimous Ghat. The Ganges is always considered holy mainly because it is considered to ward off evils and sins that the human has done in his entire life. The Ghat is also considered as the cremation place of Lord Krishna. Every Ghat which marks the meeting of rivers holds importance in their own right.

When you are in Rishikesh, there can be no adventure more fascinating than hiking in the foothills of the Himalayas and camping on the bank of River Ganga. A perfect combination of thrilling and rejuvenating experiences, camping and hiking in Rishikesh is a matchless treat for anyone seeking a holistic healing over the weekend. River Ganga is the major attraction in Rishikesh, and camping on the white sand by its blue water stream is surely going to have a soothing effect on your senses.To add some action and movement to the affair, Rishikesh gives you an opportunity to partake in river rafting and hiking. So if you are planning a quick getaway with your friends, nothing can beat the company of River Ganga and Shivaliks. Highlights: Riverside camping, river rafting, hiking, and picturesque surroundings.Price: INR 899 per person

Another not to be missed places to visit in Rishikesh, Gita Bhawan is also located on the banks of the Ganga River and is adorned by the enchanting charm of the Himalayas. Comprising of a large complex, it serves as an institute where a devotee can learn about Hinduism to a large extent along with participating in many religious and cultural events as well. The institute offers free food, stay and education to the pilgrims. People living within the bhawan participates in daily prayers and sadhana along with mediation and other necessary activities. Visitors to Gita Bhawan can also participate in all the activities and can also enjoy pure-vegetarian meals and other facilities at a minimal price. It also offers free boat rides and has a dispensary that offers free ayurvedic treatments and medicines made according to the religious scriptures with the holy water from the Ganges. With ample of meditation places and bathing ghats, it offers a pleasant and soothing ambience to indulge in Ganga dip and other religious activities.