HomeUttaranchalRishikesh

Best time to visit: Throughout the Year

Rishikesh is the gateway to the Himalayas in the Tehri-Garhwal region. It is located at a height of about 1360 feet above sea level. According to legend, several yogis and sages are believed to have lived and meditated here. It is the site where Lord Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu.

Myth also has it that after killing Ravana Lord Rama came here with his brother for penance. Rishikesh is considered by Hindus to be a literal gateway to heaven as its tough mountainous terrain leads directly to pilgrim spots like Gomukh, Kedernath, Badrinath, Hemkund, and Gangotri. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides. The serene surroundings of this place make it an ideal setting for meditation. The town is dotted with countless ashrams. The sparkling clear water of the Ganga here is a treat to watch as it gushes down the narrow crevices of the mountains to unite with the plains. For the adventurous, Rishikesh is a delightful spot for whitewater rafting.

This road to the Himalayas has seen innumerable tourists, trekkers, visitors, and holy men pass by over the years, including the Beatles.
 

By Air: The nearest domestic airport is Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, which is about 35 kms from Rishikesh.

By Road: Connected well by road, Rishikesh has buses plying to Haridwar, Agra, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Delhi and Nainital besides other places. The bus terminus, UP Roadways Bus Stand is located at the junction of Agarwal Road and Bengali Road. The Yatra Bus Stand is on the Dehradun Road.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Haridwar which is well connected to several important cities in the region as well as other parts of the country.
 

Haridwar, Garhwal, Gomukh, Kedernath, Badrinath, Hemkund, Gangotri, Nainital, Dehradun