Rishikesh, a sacred town 24 km from Haridwar located in the laps of the lower Himalayas, provides access to three other major pilgrimage sites - Badrinath-Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. It is here that the holy river Ganga leaves the mountains and joins the plains for her long journey. The whole area is considered sacred for the Hindus as it is believed that meditation here leads to attainment of salvation.

There are many temples - some ancient, some new - along the river Ganges. The riverside is dotted by the ashrams of sadhus and sages.
Rishikesh is also famous for ashrams which teach Yoga. In the 60s, even the Beatles came to Rishikesh to meet their Guru.

The Ganga, which is known for its strong currents and fierce behaviour upstream, suddenly becomes slow and gracious as it crosses the town.

Rishikesh not only attracts pilgrims but also people who love rafting. Rishikesh is also an ideal base camp for trekking in the nearby Himalayas.