Sitting in the foothills of the Himalayas in Northern India lies the city of Rishikesh. Often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and the "Gateway to the Himalayas" this is one oasis that lives up to its name. About one year ago, I was lucky enough to find myself in this magical place. This isn't a typical travel destination, it's not well known like Paris or Barcelona. So I thought I'd let you in on the secret of why this place is so wonderful for adventure junkies to people who just want to relax alike.
1. You have to want to get there.
There is no direct flight to Rishikesh. In fact, the idea of plane, train, and automobile (plus walking) becomes quite literal. First you'll have to fly into New Delhi. From there you'll take a train into a neighboring city, Haridwar. After that, you can take a crowded bus to the outskirts of Rishikesh. Then catch an auto (or tuk-tuk for us tourists) to the bridge to Rishikesh. After that, hop off your auto and sling on your backpack because you'll be walking the rest of the way. No automobiles (except motor bikes) can cross the bridge into the other side of Rishikesh. Luckily, it's not too far of a walk to the other side but yeah, you'll have to want it.
2. Adventure activities are abundant.
If you're an adventurer this is the place for you. Being located in the Himalayas means that hiking is right around the corner, literally. There are tons of people who connect you with campsites and activities and if you just take a look around you're bound to find the perfect one. I spent two nights in a sturdy canvas tent that included a comfy bed right on a beach on the side of the Ganga River in the Himalayan mountains. During the day I went white water rafting. On this white water rafting trip I got to hop off the boat and navigate myself through crowded boulders until I finally reached the highest one, of about 35 feet in the air and take a plunge into the watery depths. You'll also find rappelling, kayaking, bungee jumping, flying foxes, and countless other risky activities to make you're true daredevil will come alive.
3. The perfect place to care for your well-being.
It's not called the "Yoga Capital of the World" for nothing. Rishikesh is full of ashrams. Originally, ashrams were places where Hindus retreated from the world to practice community living and deepen their practices in Hinduism. In recent years, an ashram is still for this purpose but is also used for deep spiritual practice in general. I am not Hindu but stayed in an ashram. Ashram's are a place to retreat and focus on living an intentional life. Many ashrams in Rishikesh have yoga and chanting multiple times a day if you chose to participate. Since they are generally Hindu the food is usually home-made, vegetarian. This is a great way to focus on your health and well-being. It's an escape from the rest of the world. It has built in yoga classes, it's a calming atmosphere, plenty of space and time to meditate, and healthy meals are already prepared for you. If you want to reconnect with yourself this is the place to do it.
4. The perfect time for a social media cleanse is when you have no choice.
Wifi and cellphone service aren't exactly high on the priority list here. You're in the mountains in India, service being spotty is one way to put it. While I was in Rishikesh I was so separated from the rest of the world I had no idea that the earth-quake in neighboring Nepal happened, even though I should have felt shocks from it in Rishikesh and my parents didn't know how to contact me to make sure I was safe. I recommend finding the number of an Ashram where you'll be staying or the group's you'll be camping on the beach with phone number but taking a break and separation from your technology is not a problem here.
5. If the price is right...
In India everything is generally cheaper than in the U.S. The ashram I stayed in was free but they requested a donation of 500 rupees per person a night, which gladly I gave (about $8 a night) which includes a furnished room and bathroom, yoga classes, and 3 meals a day, basically a steal. As far as adventure activities, they’re more expensive but in comparison to what they would be in the U.S. they are nothing. I spent, all together, about $40 for 2 nights and 3 days of good food and snacks, camping on the beach, white water rafting, and rides to the campsite from the city.
6. It’s beautiful.
Rishikesh just might be the most beautiful place I have ever been. The Ganga River rushes through and in this area it is clean enough to take a dip. The Himalayan mountains stand tall all around. There are temples and ashrams on every corner. Little shops line the streets. What could be better than that?
7. This is a place for the true Beatles fan.
Many years ago, The Beatles decided to escape the rest of the world and head to an ashram. The ashram they dropped their bags was located in Rishikesh. In this ashram, it is said that much of the White Album was written. This ashram is now abandoned but still stands guarded. It’s about a 100 rupee bribe to get in (about $1.50). Once inside, there is so much space to explore. The Ashram is filled with old buildings with crazy architecture. At the very back of the grounds is a building that has been deemed “The Beatles Cathedral” by hippies who flock to this site. When you walk in it is filled with art. You’ll most likely find some backpackers lying around and singing songs. You could easily spend an entire day exploring and enjoying this enchanting place.
8. The people.
As with visiting other places, it’s always the local people that really make the trip so special. I met so many kind folks who want you to learn about their culture and their beliefs, whether it’s the monks at a temple or the woman at the restaurant, they are all excited to show off their beautiful town as long as you are respectful of it.
So, now you know the secret. This place is ready for you and whatever it is your heart truly desires. I’ve mentioned some of the best Rishikesh has to offer but further exploring will only lead you to find more cool and incredible things about this beautiful place. Ten out of ten, would recommend!
