Rishikesh – World Capital of Yoga

Rishikesh is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (now closed), and the town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga. Since the late ’60s, it has been a magnet for spiritual seekers. Most of the action is north of the main town, where the exquisite setting on the fast-flowing Ganges, surrounded by forested hills, is conducive to meditation and mind expansion. It is also the Gateway to the Himalayas. The Char Dham Yatra (Four Shrines Sacred Journey) ideally begins from Rishikesh. Rishikesh is not all about spirituality only; it’s now a popular white-water rafting centre and backpacker hang-out.

The center of town where the train and bus stations can be found is of little interest to most travelers. Further north-east are 2 bridges spanning the Ganges, Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, at either end of these bridges are the main hubs of activity and interest. The Beatles Ashram, located in a beautiful spot within the Rajaji National Park with the river Ganga flowing quietly behind it, was a place where the band members of the Beatles meditated in 1968. The stone cave made for them has some artwork inside. Parts of the Ashram have been decorated by graffiti artists from all over the world. It is a stunning place to visit.

Most accommodation and restaurants can be found near Lakshman Jhula, High Bank and Swarg Ashram. Rishikesh is in close proximity to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport [15 kms]. There are multiple direct flights from Delhi which is the nearest metro airport.