admin Updated on: April 2, 2018

Excursions at Rishikesh on the Way to Char Dham Yatra

Chardham Yatra, the most definite way to get the pacified feeling of spiritual attainment in the Uttarakhand state of India includes a visit to the famous shrines namely at Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham. Commencing on the month of May, this famous yatra is attracting loads of pilgrims, engaged in their respective arrangements. Generally, the sacred Yatra commences from Haridwar, one of the most divine land of the Hindu devotees followed by Rishikesh (the land dedicated to Lord Vishnu- the lord of all senses); and then towards the respective destinations of Char Dham Yatra preferably for Uttarkashi for visiting Gangotri and Yamonotri temples. And this is why; Rishikesh has an equal importance in Char Dham Yatra.

The land which is a perfect gateway to the Himalayas brings tremendous attractions for the dedicated tourists and the devotees for much exploration in the grand Himalayan valleys. Let us find some of the best bewilderments of Rishikesh while heading on to the Chardham trip:
Neelkanth Mahadev – Lying across the elevation of the sacred mountain across River Ganges, the Neelkanth Mahadev is the most sacred place which has the mythical value. This is the mighty place where Lord Shiva drank the venom excreted during “Sagar Manthan” and as a result turned his throat blue. The place was named as Neelkanth and so do the name of Lord Shiva who drank the venom for the welfare of mankind.
Laxman Jhula – the most exciting attraction in Rishikesh, the 450 long hanging bridge on the river Ganges was built in the year 1939. According to the legend, Lord Rama’s broth Lakshmana crossed the river Ganges with the help of a Jute rope. Today this place is being covered with the help of the Aluminum Bridge that appears in a hanging position and the tourists can feel its movement while standing still.

Swarg Ashram – this is the most ancient ashram founded by Swami Vishudhanand and is being denoted as heaven since this is a beautiful place located in the scenic surroundings at the foot of the Himalayas along the River Ganges between Rishikesh and Laxmanjhula. This is the most spiritual place filled with tremendous ashrams and temples for ultimate pacification and calmness.

Ram Jhula –  a lookalike of Lakshman Jhula but bigger than that in size and not so far from it, the Ram Jhula is yet another attraction for the pilgrims. This bridge connects Swargashram and Shivananda Ashram and one can find many ashrams all around this fascinating bridge.

Gita Bhavan –  it is one of the oldest temple complex located by the side of Lakshman Jhula. Gita Bhavan is actually a museum to create a fabled and mythological awareness among the general public and the devotees. The building is a large complex with thousand available rooms for the devotees and the convenient services like pure vegetarian food, kitchen and grocery items including Indian sweets are also available.

Triveni Ghat –  this is the major ghat where evening Aarti for Ganges is being performed daily. This is also a sacred point where it is believed that the three major rivers namely Ganga, Yamuna and Sarawati meet together underground and people take a holy dip to this place to wash away their sins.

Bharat Mandir –  it is the oldest temple in Rishikesh near Jhanda Chowk. The locals celebrate the festival of spring at this temple known as Basant Panchami, when lots of gathering takes place. The inner canopy of the temple can be seen with an impressive sacred shrine of Shree Yantra.

Trayambakeshwar Temple – the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is also being known as the three eyed Lord, is located atop the majestic Himalayas. Filled with intriguing, rich ancient and legendary importance, the temple highlights the ancient idols and carvings at its walls and boundaries. Being recently excavated, the area was being discovered with many age old statues, pottery, coins and more.

Adventure Activities as a Complimented Pack

Besides being the sacred and holy destinations for the spiritual beings the land is also being accustomed by the enthusiastic adventure lovers since Rishikesh also pours tremendous dancing waves of river Ganges perfectly made for rafting. This is also the reason people visit this place for some thrilling moments. Besides this the travelers can also enjoy bungee jumping and exciting camping opportunities for more fun. As a whole, Rishikesh comes with both spiritual and adventurous expedition for all.

Published: 27 Mar, 2018