In a country replete with places of religious significance, Rishikesh has carved out a niche for itself as a magnet for all things spiritual. The Beatles famously spent some time here in the 1960s, and many have followed ever since in their footsteps seeking yoga, meditation and spirituality.
Situated in the Himalayan foothills on the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is the starting point for pilgrims travelling to the four Hindu pilgrimage places in the Himalayas: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. It is also starting point for many Himalayan tourist destinations.
The Ganges here is clean and fast flowing, still unsullied by the polluting industries down the river. Over the years, Rishikesh has become a popular river rafting centre, attracting those who seek thrills rather than spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.
