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Located in the northern Indian State of
Uttar Pradesh, at the base of the Himalayas and where the river Ganges
comes down into the plains from the hills is the small town of Rishikesh.
A place of breathtaking beauty where the wild mountainside merges with
placid plains, Rishikesh’s tranquil ambience and peaceful landscape has
long been the favorite of monks and sages for meditation.
The Pilgrimage season starts in end April/ Early may and lasts until the
day of Deepawali (festival of light) end of October/early November.
What to See in Rishikesh
 1. Daksh Mahadev Temple
Constructed by the Queen Dhankaur in AD1810, this ancient shrine may be
found south of Kankhal town. While going around Kankhal, visitors may
also find several other temples and ashrams.
 2. Sapt Rishi Ashram (Spiritual Center)
Also known as Sapt Sarovar, the ashram is situated just along the
Haridwar-Rishikesh road. Visitors here also see the river Ganges flowing
in seven streams in front of the ashram.
 3. Rishikund
Close to Trivenighat is the most ancient place, the Rishikund. Stories
relate this to Kubz Saint , who was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna by
filling this pond with its water. The pond reflects the temple of
Ragunath , dedicated to lord Rama and his wife.
 4. Chila Wildlife Sanctuary
Part of the Rajaji National Park, the sanctuary covers an area of around
240 square kilometers. Twenty-three species of various mammals and over
315 different plant species may be found occupying the sanctuary
grounds. Tourists can catch glimpses of elephants, tigers, leopards,
Himalayan yellow-throated martens, barking deer, king cobras and all
other sorts of fauna. Fishing in the river may be allowed with the
necessary permits.
 5. Bharat Mandir
Built by Adiguru Shankra Chrya arround 12th centuray, Bharat mandir is
situated in the heart of the old town on the Banks of the Ganges.
Detailed accounts of this Rishikesh’s oldest temple are available in
ancient record of Kearkhand. The Inner sanctum of the temple has the
idol of lord Vishnu, carved out of a single Saligram. In the inner
canopy above the idol is shree yantra installed by Adi Sankraya Charya.
 6. Triveni Ghat
A lovely place to be at especially at dawn, tourists may observe the
local Hindus make offerings of milk to the river and feed the fish.
After sunset, priests set floating lamps on the water during the Aarti
ceremony.
 7. Vasishtha Goofa
One hour drive from Rishikesh up river is situated Vasishtha Goofa ,
where famous saint Vasishtha meditated on the banks of the Ganges. The
cave is very peaceful and is a perfect place for meditation.
 8. Temple of Neelkanth Mahadev
A 4-hour walk from the town center of Rishikesh, the temple of Neelkanth
Mahadev is often associated with the Lord Shiva.
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