RISHIKESH
Rishikesh, a 5 hour train ride from Delhi, is famous for many things. It is the centre of yoga, its many ashrams – some clearly humbly ascetic, with others verge on the opulent – continue to draw devotees and followers from around the world. The whole place is considered to be sacred, as it is believed that meditation here leads to attainment of salvation. For tourists, the evening prayer ceremony on the banks of the river is one of the main reasons for visiting. Rishikesh is also where the Beatles spent some time and where they stayed, though now in ruins, it located just inside the Rajaji National Park. For adventure lovers, head upstream and enjoy some of the country’s best white-water rafting and treks! Every March sees the International Yoga Festival held at Rishikesh when over 2000 participants from around the globe come together.