Rishikesh, India

A Few Things to Enjoy

Rishikesh, India 

A city with spectacular views, sounds, and a step into the Indian Culture. The phone is only needed for pictures to capture the beauty. So, let me share my experience of the beauty of Rishikesh and places to visit. Welcome to a little piece of heaven on earth.  

The first stop in Riskikesh is Laksman Juhla 

 An iron suspension bridge across the Ganges or "Ma Ganga" (as the locals say). Only walking and motorcycles can cross the bridge. Oh careful for the monkies, if you have food or anything they just may steal it and enjoy. From time to time you even share crossing with the cows. Looking in every direction you see mountains, nature, culture, smiles, and simply beauty everywhere. Do not miss the opportunity to take pictures in each direction with stunning views.  As you walk across the bridge, you will come into ashrams, markets, restaurants, and complete step away from the modern stores many of us Westerners are accustomed to.   

The beaches 

There are beaches all along the Ganges to do yoga, sit, meditate, bathe, journal, or just simply enjoy. This is another free stop in Rishikesh. There are no words really for the beauty of the beaches.  The sand has tan color but a crystal like sand as well that is just stunningly beautiful. On my stop one day, I came across one of the sacred cows enjoying as well. The perfect spot to enjoy whatever your heart desires. 

The Waterfalls

If you walk a little ways out of the city and a trek up a mountain, you can find the stunning views of one of the waterfalls. There are three waterfalls as you trek up, Garud Chatti, Phool Chatti, and Neer Gaddu, each magical within themselves. Throughout your hike, there is places to stop and rest. Take in the views because again, in every direction there is a soul touching view. Once you get to the top, do not forget to sit and have a cup of chai. Perfect place to rest, meditate, and fill your spirit with nature. 

Take in the Sun

One of the most breathtaking sunset sets! This is the perfect place to sun gaze, sun bathe, or just admire the beauty of the sun. Each evening as you look to the West, you cannot over look the mesmerizing sunset.  As I sat reflecting one day, I found a young man sun gazing and it was just a perfect opportunity to share the sunset.

“Ô, Sunlight! The most precious gold to be found on Earth.”Roman Payne

The Ashrams

As you walk through the city, there are many Ashrams to view. Some have gardens, some have stunning statues, artwork, amazing views. Stop and take in the peaceful feeling. Each night right before dark, there is lighting ceremonies that cannot be explained how joyful it is to watch and listen to. The town is full of mantras, incense, people, and prayers. One night as I watched the prayers, I had to stand with one of the cows, it was enjoying as well. 

Sunrise at the Highest Point

For a small price you can take a taxi to the very highest point and

watch the sunrise. This is one thing that is more than worth the money. I saved this for the last thing I did on my trip. Honestly, I was more than happy to end my trip with sunrise at the highest Ashram. This is a place where your soul truly feels One with nature, God, Source, The Divine, or whichever name you choose. I will never forget my last morning in Riskikesh, watching the sunrise, listening to the birds as tears rolled down my face. Not a thought in my mind but how thankful I was. 

Riskikesh  is amazing experience of more than just beauty but a culture of smiles and friendly greets. As you walk the street you hear Namaste, meaning in Hinduism is, "I bow to the divine in you". A spectacular city with so much to offer, especially if you want to get in touch with your soul and inner self.