The crucible of spirituality in India, second only to Varanasi. Rishikesh is currently heralded as the yoga capital of the world with its many ashrams for meditation. Originally the waypoint for pilgrims on their way to the Himalayas, there is so much one can do within Rishikesh itself.
It was the Beatles that popularized this small hill town back in the 60s, when they visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The ashram that is now christened after the Beatles lies aways from Rishikesh, decked out in the band’s colors and exuding the essence of a different time and place. Having said to be one of the locations where Rama performed penance after slaying the demon king Ravana, there are also several bridges in Rishikesh named after the king and his brother. Namely the Ram Jhula and the Laxman Jhula! Rishikesh is not merely a location of religious spirituality; the multitude of streams, waterfalls and hillocks provide the ultimate sense of physical wellbeing when you reach there and take a moment for yourself. The Ganga flows through Rishikesh at a steady rate almost all year round thanks to its source, the Gangotri glacier. Finally, these holy lands are also the perfect spot for some adventure. River rafting is a popular activity in Rishikesh, along with zip-lining across the Ganga!
You can start your spiritual journey by arriving in Rishikesh from Delhi, an overnight journey.
Nalagarh:
Nalagarh is a lovely transit point before your next big stop. This small hill town boasts of an ancient fort that was constructed in the 15th century. Besides that, the picturesque views of the lower Himalayas are definitely worth a stay. Strolling around the slow paced town savoring some local pakoras, siddu or babru. You can take this time to visit the fort and the palace on your visit. Such places in small towns have their own charm!
