Rishikesh, a most tranquil and multifaceted place in Northern Uttarakhand.
A potpourri of yoga, ashrams, shrines, adventure activities, camping riverside, ayurvedic massages, meditation classes, organic food, and tropical drinks.
Rishikesh is a razzle-dazzle mix of cultural diffusion and cafe culture. They are poles apart and mirror at the same time. From Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat to Bistro Nirvana feeling of self-indulgence remains the same. The vibe of the city is amicable and placid.
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| Rishikesh, River Ganga |
Nestled comfortably in the foothills of Himalaya, Rishikesh has been popular go-to-destination for white water rafting that renders an electrifying experience with rapids of different grade and also a world-famed spiritual seeker paradise. Anywhere you look you will get a glimpse of spiritual disposition in sadhus roaming in the winding streets. It embodies Yoga and it is visible throughout. The city houses plenty of Yoga Ashrams, an international yoga week is
organized here every year by Uttarakhand Tourism between 2nd and 7th of
February which makes Rishikesh Yoga capital of the world.
READ MORE: YOGA AT HOME
READ MORE: YOGA AT HOME
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| International Yoga Festival 2019- Parmarth |
Phool Chatti, is an all in one space, adventures to delightful riverside camping with bonfire and amazing waterfall treks. The sound of the river fills the air, lulling you to snug in a deep sleep. You can find many sports centers that organize these adventure activities at Tapovan. The famous stretch of rafting starts from Shivpuri to Rishikesh and it's the longest of all.
For backpackers, Zostel is the best place to stay. Activity led hostel will help you to explore the city like no other. My indecision over hotels was soon remedied at Divine Ganga Cottage, honestly not for the hospitality or healthy tariffs, certainly for the striking view - the mountains, the rushing river, the warm sun against the crisp winter air...all of it and every bit of it has captured the whole attention.
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| Ganga Beach |
As per locals-Rishikesh has about 500 cafes and bakeries, dish up a range of delicacies around the world.
From Iranian breakfast to an authentic filter coffee of Madras, from contemporary to bohemian, from shakshuka to masala chai... City cafes are a melting pot of all-you-can-savor. To name some, highly recommend Bistro Nirvana, The 60's Beatles cafe, Freedom Cafe, Ganga View cafe. Lounge and bite-in healthy palates, overlooking the serene calmness of river Ganga while mingling with fellow travelers, works like a social lubricant and is the most Rishikesh-ey thing you can do.
ALSO READ: HOW TO PLAN A TRIP TO RISHIKESH
ALSO READ: HOW TO PLAN A TRIP TO RISHIKESH
As the dusk descends, the sun dipping down, evenings here are famous for a different reason altogether.
Rishikesh - Aarti
A notable sight to witness awaits at Triveni Ghat, the divine bells start ringing and it is time to line up to watch the nightly aarti on the banks of Ganges.
Rishikesh - Aarti
A notable sight to witness awaits at Triveni Ghat, the divine bells start ringing and it is time to line up to watch the nightly aarti on the banks of Ganges.
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| Ganga Aarti! |
It is a not-to-be-missed spectacle. A spellbound moment, touching your inner-self, deep, deeper, and deepest!
I insist, don't predominantly take photos, soak up the soulful atmosphere and appreciate the rituals. I tried to keep both arts alive, camera does not express the soul, Spiritual relationship is far more precious....
I insist, don't predominantly take photos, soak up the soulful atmosphere and appreciate the rituals. I tried to keep both arts alive, camera does not express the soul, Spiritual relationship is far more precious....
3 comments
Yoga capital of the world.
ReplyDeleteRishikesh where there is tranquility, beauty, serenity and soul satisfying hostility.. couldn't agree with you more on this...Well captured aspects of a beauty that embodies nature at its best
ReplyDeleteTruly, this is a dream come true. There is so much beautiful hope. I will definitely try to visit.
ReplyDelete