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8 Things to do in Rishikesh the Yoga Capital of the World

Take a break from your usual life and soak in the serene sphere of Rishikesh. Renowned as the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh has its beauty lying across tranquil lands blessed with holy streams, beautiful temples, lush greenery, and divine ashrams. Take a tour of this wonderland and see yourself getting lost in its majestic surroundings that are often characterised by a peaceful ambience. Whether you are visiting the sacred banks of the River Ganges or you are exploring gorgeous hills on the outskirts of the town, you are bound to encounter amazement.

Though Rishikesh is frequented by travellers of all kinds, it is often a retreat for yoga enthusiasts who come here every season to learn about yoga, the yogic lifestyle, and its philosophy. That’s why indulging in yogic activities is one of the popular things to do in Rishikesh. However, here we list down the top 8 things to do in Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World.

Learn About Yoga

How can you not attend a yoga class while in Rishikesh? For some reason, yoga has been an integral part of the Rishikesh culture since time immemorial. It has been propagated by several world-renowned gurus who dedicated their entire lives to this medicine practice. That’s why people from every corner of the world visit this holy town to enrol in various yoga programs and learn about its practices.

You can also enroll in the best yoga TTC in Rishikesh and gain an in-depth understanding of poses, mental & physical disciplines, and other habits that yoga talks about. The yoga schools in Rishikesh offer 100 hour yoga TTC as well as 200 hour yoga TTC programs for all the aspirants out there. So, make sure you have yoga at the top of your list while you are on the exploration of this pilgrimage town that has a history of thousands of years.

Stay at an Ashram

The ashram life in Rishikesh is simply marvellous as it provides you with an opportunity to soothe your senses and indulge in introspection. The open spaces would revitalise your mind and body and the greenery would offer you a sense of satisfaction.

You can find beautiful ashrams all around the town, by the river, up in the hills, in the city centre, and on the outskirts. You can also get to stay at an ashram for free if you enrol in yoga programs like 100 hour yoga TTC, 200 hour yoga TTC, and more.

Attend Ganga Aarti

In the evening when the sun goes down, you can watch the entire Rishikesh coming alive with colourful lights and diyas. This is the time when tourists, as well as locals, crowd up near the Triveni Ghat of Ganga to watch the extraordinary event of Ganga Aarti where you witness priests offering prayers to God.

This is basically worshipping the river Ganga and chanting divine hymns in groups. The sound of bells makes the surroundings even more exciting and enthusiastic.

Enjoy Adventure Sports

Rishikesh has dozens of surprises and unending offers for its visitors. And one of these is adventure sports. Yes! You can try your hand at several adventure sports while in Rishikesh. Due to the presence of the river Ganga, whitewater rafting is an immensely popular activity here.

Apart from that, you can also indulge in trekking, cliff jumping, bungee jumping, camping, kayaking, ziplining, flying fox, and mountain biking. So, all set to feel the adrenaline rushing up your body?

Explore Beautiful Temples

Rishikesh is located in the land of Gods and hence, there is no two way about the presence of temples here. You can be anywhere in and around the town, a temple is just a walkable distance from you. Visit the sanctum sanctorum of these temples and watch how the ambience there tranquilises your soul.

Some of them are known for their historical significance, numerous for their mystical past, and several for their architectural grandeur. The list of most popular and must-visit temples in Rishikesh include Shri Bharat Mandir, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Trayambakeshwar Temple, Kunjapuri Devi Temple, and Bhootnath Temple.

Savour Delicious Food

Rishikesh might be a holy place for millions of pilgrims, yoga enthusiasts, and other such tourists who flock to the town every year. However, only foodies and explorers know that Rishikesh is equally interesting when it comes to luscious delicacies. So, take your taste buds on an adventure as you move from stalls to restaurants to riverside cafes and savour flavoursome meals.

Some of the best delicacies you must try in Rishikesh include aloo puri, chhole bhature, kachori, pakori, aloo paratha, kadi chawal, rajma chawal, etc. If you desire to taste authentic local cuisine, then you can feast on dishes like phaanu, arsa, gulgula, mandua ki roti, jholi ka saag, and chainsoo.

Indulge in Photography

You cannot leave your camera behind when you are planning a tour of Rishikesh for the town is extremely photogenic to miss out on. Capture some insta-worthy clicks and flaunt your skills on social media. Rishikesh paints a colourful canvas that deserves to be shot for lifetime memories. Sit by the Ganga river and photograph people bathing in the water.

Capture the liveliness around Lakshman Jhula with a backdrop of blue sky. The town hosts such innumerable spectacles that are nothing less than the ultimate treat to your eyes. So, take out your camera and get going!

Go for a Soothing Walk

Rishikesh is an untroubled, relaxing town sitting on the banks of the river Ganga. And when you have such an undisturbed environment, why would you confine yourself to the walls of your hotel room and not take a stroll outside?

Well, you can go for a soothing walk along the riverbanks, parks, gardens, green lawns, etc. On the pretext of stretching your legs, you can also explore several places in Rishikesh on foot.