Why do so many foreigners come to Rishikesh?

From the land of saint and sages to a melting pot of people from around the world, Rishikesh has evolved into a spiritual destination with global appeal over a period of time. It is called Yoga capital of the world not without a reason. The beautiful Uttarakhand city attracts people from various cities of the world for some or the other reason. Be it adventure activities like river rafting, Ganga aarti at Triveni ghat, or a spiritual vibe that attracts seekers from around the world, Rishikesh has something for everyone. A large chunk of tourists come for learning and practicing Yoga in Rishikesh as the natural beauty of the place merges beautifully with the deep spiritual knowledge and wisdom that the saint and sages living here possess.

Rishikesh has a range of ancient temples and ashrams and the stories associated with each of these places are unique and fascinating. Many tourists also come to Rishikesh as it is a gateway to pilgrimages in the Middle and Upper Himalayas.

1. Yoga and meditation

Rishikesh is one of the best places in the world to begin your Yoga practice. Situated in the lap of Himalayas and at the bank of River Ganga, the place is capable of transporting you to a zone where connecting with your inner thoughts become easier. Rishikesh also has some of the best Yoga schools and ashrams with learned trainers and guides that will help you achieve your spiritual goals.

 

2. Religious significance

Many saint and sages did their penance in Rishikesh thousands of years back. The place is also a witness to many incidents that are connected to Hindu mythology. Be it Lakshman crossing the river Ganga with jute ropes or Lord Shiva resting at Bhootnath temple here before marrying Sati, many such events have made Rishikesh a destination of great religious significance. Foreigners visiting Rishikesh like to visit these places, temples and ashrams.

 

3. Beatles Ashram

At the peak of their popularity, legendary English rock band Beatles visited Rishikesh in 1968 to learn meditation and seek inner peace. They stayed in Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram and composed dozens of songs here. When Beatles’ fans who followed their lives closely came to know about this, they were also keen to find more about the ancient practice of Yoga and that’s how India and Rishikesh became one of the favourite spiritual destinations among tourists worldwide. The ashram where Beatles stayed for a few months was re-named Beatles Ashram and it’s still a major tourist attraction in Rishikesh.

 

4. Gateway to many pilgrimages

It is believed that Chaar Dhaam yatra cleanses the soul and brings it closer to the God. It is also believed that the devotee can get moksha from the cycle of death and birth. Rishikesh is the gateway to the char dhams –  Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath nestled up in the Himalayas.  While every Hindu is advised to visit the Char Dhams at least once in their lifetime, the Indian spiritual destinations are becoming quite popular among many foreigners too who take group tours, bus services, cabs from Rishikesh to reach there.

 

5. To meet saint and sages

Rishikesh is home to many saints and sages who come here from different parts of the world to do their sadhna and ultimately attain moksha. They are always open to guide people on the spiritual path. Meeting them and listening to their experiences can trigger positive changes and this is the reason many foreigners like to come to Rishikesh. There have been many cases when a foreigner on visit to Rishikesh has settled in the little quaint town and guide new seekers.

 

6. Hobby classes

Rishikesh is also bustling with a wide range of interesting activities. If you are someone who always wanted to pursue their passion but couldn’t, you can come to Rishikesh to join may be a guitar, harmonium, or a tabla class. There are many dance schools which train students into various Indian dance forms such as Bharatnatyam, Odishi and Kathakali. You can also engage your philanthropic side by donating to medical care institutes and underprivileged. In case you are adventure sport lover, Rishikesh is again the perfect destination for you with its activities like river rafting, and bungee jumping.

 

7. Find themselves

Many people come to Rishikesh to discover something beyond their mundane life. They also come to connect with their inner self. It is believed that River Ganga can not only heal but guide. People who are at crossroads of life, can find guidance here and decide what they can do in their life. If you want to take another path in your life and unsure about it, come to Rishikesh