Rishikesh is a pilgrimage center. There are many religious places in and around the city. Some of the main religious places in Rishikesh are:
Bharat Mandir
The 12th century temple, built by Adiguru Shankracharya, lies in the heart of the old town. Situated on the banks of the river Ganga, the temple is a major pilgrimage centre at Rishikesh. This temple is recognized to be the most ancient and oldest temple in the town. Detailed description of this temple are available in ancient record of Kearkhand. The temple's presiding deity is of lord Vishnu. It is a black stone idol of God Vishnu. This idol is believed to have been sanctified by Adi Shankaracharya when he visited Rishikesh in the ninth century. The inner canopy above the statue is shree yantra, which was installed by Adiguru Sankracharya.
Triveni Ghat
This ghat is the chief bathing ghat in Rishikesh. It is situated right in the center of the town. It is the most prominent bathing ghat of Rishikesh. Every day in the evening a large number of pilgrims attend the Ganga Arti at the Ghat.
Swarg Ashram
This has many ashrams, shops and food stalls. This ashram is a perfect place for people who are looking for insights into spiritual themes.
Parmarth Niketan Temple
Parmarth Niketan is one of the most popular temple complexes and ashrams in Rishikesh. The Niketan has a school run on traditional Indian patterns, which is known for its substantial work on Hinduism. Every day in the evening, the Ashram organizes enchanting Ganga Arti and Hawan on the Parmarth Ghat .
Kunjapuri Temple
The Kunjapuri is one among the thirteen most important goddesses of the lower Himalayan Shivalik range. The place situated on the Himalayan peaks offer the excellent views of sunrise and sunset as well as Indo Gangetic plains. The visitors can also view the peaks of Banderpunch (6316 mts.), Swarga Rohini (6252 mts.), Gangotri (6672 mts.) and Chaukhamba (7138 mts).
Vasishtha Goofa (Cave)
The place is situated upriver, and can be reached by one hour drive. Vasishtha Goofa is the site where saint Vasishtha meditated on the banks of the river Ganga. The peaceful cave is a perfect place for meditation.
Rishikund
Located close to Triveni Ghat, Rishikund is the most ancient place. The past evidences relate this place to Kubz Saint, who was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna, by saturating this pond by its water. On the banks of the pond the Raghunath temple stands, which is dedicated to Lord Rama and his wife.
Nilkanth Mahadeo
Situated at a distance of 12 Kms from Rishikesh, the place is surrounded by tranquil forests. According to the Hindu mythology, once the ocean was being churned for ‘amrit’ first venom oozed out, Lord Shiva drank the venom at the place, which now known as Nilkanth Mahadeo.
Shivananda Ashram
Run by the Divine Life Society, it is one of the oldest and most active ashrams in the area. It runs one of the best and biggest charitable hospital in the area too. If you are bitten by the Yoga bug after your visit to Rishikesh, its best to enroll yourself in one of the beginners courses here!
Yoga Study Centre
Dedicated to Hathayoga, this ashram hold yoga classes every morning and evening.
Yoga Niketan
Yoga Niketan has two guest houses in the area and runs yoga classes regularly.
Sant seva Ashram
Organised and run by Maharshi Umesh Yogi, this ashram has huge big rooms which are normally booked in advance. It offers a mixed style of meditation and yoga in keeping with the latest trends.
