Rishikesh, famously known as the “yoga capital of the world,” is located at the entrance of the Himalayas. With the holy river Ganges flowing along the side, Rishikesh offers both a serene view and spiritual experiences. The historic town traces its roots back to Lord Shiva, often referred to as ‘the ultimate yogi,’ sharing his spiritual knowledge with his wife, Goddess Parvati, through meditation.

It is also believed to be where Lord Rama attained spiritual purification through deep meditation after killing Ravana.

Legend has it that many great sages and saints visited Rishikesh in order to attain spiritual enlightenment. This divine city is quoted in multiple ancient Indian texts and manuscripts, such as Ramayana, Mahabharata, Skanda Puranas, Vedas, etc., transforming this place into an epicenter for yoga and spiritual learning.

Rishikesh is filled with yoga centers and retreats imparting yoga knowledge. From traditional ones like Hatha yoga, Ashtanga yoga, and meditation to modern ones like kundalini yoga, vinyasa yoga, pranayama, and much more, this city has everything for individuals seeking inner peace.

Due to the historical significance, the greater energy, and the natural silence of the location, Rishikesh provides healing for the soul. People don’t stop at yoga and meditation but also practice vegetarianism and a simple life, harmonizing with nature.

Every year, the first week of March is celebrated with an International Yoga Festival. Attracting famous personalities around the globe to the revered place.

Consider yourself doing pranayama, a breathing exercise, while facing the great Himalayas. To your right, the River Ganga is flowing silently, and you have a veg spread ready with chai. Calmness! Isn’t it?

Rishikesh got its modern surge of yoga tourism mainly due to The Beatles staying there in 1968 and mentioning this era as their creative period. Many notable personalities across continents touched base here. From Uma Thurman to Swami Dayananda Saraswati, everyone is in awe of this place and its tranquility.

Multiple reputable institutions and spiritual figures founded their ashrams for practicing yoga and a satvic lifestyle. They offer beginner-friendly yoga classes to complete structured ones.

As Sadhguru of the Isha Foundation quoted, “Here, the very air pushes you towards stillness. This is sacred geography.”

In the evenings a majestic aarti ritual is performed. The ceremonies can be watched at the Parmath Niketan Ashram as well as the Triveni Ghat. This Ghat is where all three rivers merge, the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati.

Other major attractions to this place are river rafting, bungee jumping, trekking to waterfalls and hill temples, and camping along the riverside. Therefore, this place has the ability to give you the extremes of calmness and adrenaline!

Give it a try!

Whenever you feel the constant grind is getting out of hand, this place would be ideal to kick off your journey towards wellness, holistic packages, and a splendid view indeed!