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The term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which means ‘union’. Thus Yoga signifies the union of one’s consciousness with the supreme consciousness. The subtle effects that result from, yoga Sadhana brings about perfect harmony between one’s body and mind. The ultimate point is reached in yogic practice when one feels liberated which is one attains a state of nirvana or Mukti. It is the state of self-realization that brings peace, health, and harmony to one’s life. Yoga is a culture in itself that brings about spiritual upliftment. A state of equanimity is reached when one develops the ability to control one’s body and mind while practicing yoga.
Yoga is a science in which hatha yoga and asanas prepare an individual’s body to sustain higher levels of energy and then next in the process comes control of breath, the mind, and the inner self. It is used, at times, as a therapy for the bodily ailments and the ailments of the mind bringing about the health and fitness of an individual. Yogis believe that yoga is not related to any religion or community as such but is a science of inner well-being meant for global humanity.
In India, there are different traditional schools of yoga whose approaches are different yet they all strive to achieve the ultimate goal of yoga. A few of the traditional schools are kundalini yoga, karma yoga, bhakti yoga, dhyana yoga, jnana yoga, hatha yoga, raja yoga, mantra yoga, etc. To attain the goal ofyoga one must undertake to practice Yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, Dharana, dhyana (meditation), samadhi, bandhas & mudras, shat-karmas, yukata-ahara, yukata karma, etc.
Stability of mind and body is achieved as one acquires the ability to maintain one’s evolved awareness for a considerable period. Four fundamental paths to follow by a yoga Sadhak are karma yoga which works at the level of his body, bhakti yoga which works at the level of his emotions, jnana yoga which works at the level of his mind, and finally kriya yoga works at the level of his energy.
The rituals and customs in India are a result of an inclination towards yoga that has bred among Indians a compassionate outlook toward all God’s creations.
Pieces of evidence there that easily prompt one to conclude that yoga developed and existed in ancient India. Excavations of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation(3300 BC – 1300 BC) sites have secured several seals & fossil remains with Yogic motifs & figures performing yoga, suggesting the presence of yoga in the period of this ancient civilization. In the chronology of events, this was the Pre-Vedic period when the suggested origins are even found in the eastern Indian states of Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
The Vedic period in India is marked between 1700 BC to 500 BC but the period from 500 BC to 800 AD is considered the most important and prominent period as far as the development of yoga is concerned. Vedic ascetic practices culminated in the development of yoga as a systematic concept. Vyasa Rishi on yoga Sutras did increase the significance of many folds. Early yogic descriptions are available in Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita. Early references are also there in the Rig Veda and Upanishads.
The post-Vedic period saw Yoga Sadhana being revealed in the teachings of Buddhism and Jainism. Patanjali yoga sutras depict various aspects of yoga. The period from 800 AD to 1700 AD saw the contributions through the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, and Ramanujacharya. Hath Yoga was made popular by the Natha Yogis. The modern period saw the development of Raja Yoga by great Yogacharyas such as Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Vivekananda, etc.
Today yoga finds an important place in the life of the Indians solely for the maintenance of their physical and mental health. Very important personalities that have advanced and sustained yogic practices in contemporary times are Maharshi Mahesh Yogi, BKS Iyengar, Sri Aurobindo, Shri T. Krishnamacharya, etc. They have preserved and promoted Yoga.
Yoga involves practices that involve physical mental and spiritual aspects of the human being. There are specific breathing techniques that help achieve the goals of yoga. Yoga took birth in ancient times in India and soon became a way of life in the country. It signifies Hindu philosophical traditions that are deep-rooted in Indian society. Yoga thus is a culture and heritage of India Yogsaadhna brings the harmony of body mind and breath.
Yoga in India was born when the Hindu belief systems came into existence, somewhere with the dawn of civilization. Hindus believe Shiva to be the Adiyogi, who several thousand years ago transferred his sacred knowledge to Saptarishis who in turn carried this knowledge of yogic science all over the world. Close parallels have been revealed in this regard among the ancient global cultures that establish a strong belief in the legend. Agastya Muni one of the Saptarishis introduced yogic life across the Indian subcontinent. Yoga Gurus, from ancient times to this date have not only preserved and promoted yoga but also have developed and adapted it to cater to the modern lifestyles of individuals not forgetting in the process to keep the traditional discipline for maximum benefit.
The truth, the depth that this ancient science encapsulates can only be understood in India and nowhere else in the world. Sooner or later it is ultimately the destination India where a seeker will be able to understand the spiritual aspect of yoga. The world has instantly taken to Hatha Yoga and Asanas from India and these are being practiced widely for health and fitness, but the spiritual upliftment aspect of yoga that culminates into oneness with the supreme consciousness is the yoga that helps attain freedom or Mukti or nirvana or moksha or a state of liberalization.
India is thus not only the birthplace of yoga but also a most sought-after yoga tourism destination. A large number of retreats, yoga schools, ashrams, resorts, and yoga teacher training centers are available all over India. India Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Ayush are also promoting India as a “Yoga Tourism hub”.
The Asanas incorporated in yoga lessons the chronic lower back pain, arthritis, headache, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Yoga has the power to lower blood pressure and reduce insomnia. Other physical benefits include-
Apart from physical benefits yoga also helps one to manage stress. Yoga is very effective in developing coping skills and reaching a more positive outlook on life. Some mental benefits include-
Rishikesh is snugly situated with the views of towering Himalayas remaining before one’s eyes all the time. The place emanates power and energy so subtle that it captures one mind and heart instantly. Situated in the state of Uttarakhand in the Northern part of India, Rishikesh is located on the banks of the holy river Ganga. Saints, Yogis, and yoga practitioners have visited Rishikesh for ages to attain proficiency, become proficient teachers, and acquire spiritual enlightenment. The positive vibes the city emanates can never go unheeded. So pious is the place where one feels blessed by the positive aura that encompasses the city.
It was here on the banks of the holy river Ganga that Rishi Raibhya undertook to perform a severe penance. This penance was in the form of yoga Sadhna. Lord Vishnu then blessed him in the form of Rishikesh. The severe penance cleansed the place and Rishikesh became a holy place for Hindu saints and sages who have from ancient times, visited the place to meditate and to reach higher realms of spirituality. Rishikesh thus radiates peace and serenity that has lured many sages to carry out yogic sadhana sitting in the surrounding hills. Many started teaching yoga to seekers.
It is believed that the Beatles visited this serene city around 1968. This brought the city to the world glare and people from every walks of life and different parts of the world started visiting the place from then on. Rishikesh is the holy place of spiritual practice by awakened yoga gurus that have worldwide name and fame. These renowned gurus are capable teachers and those who come with a mission simply to learn from the best.
Mother Goddess Ganga just livens up Rishikesh with spiritual energy so rare and unique to the place. There are a large number of reputed yoga schools, ashrams, yoga training institutes, and yoga teacher training centers that cater to one’s specific options. Only choose the best when in Rishikesh that abounds adds to the religious ambiance that radiates calmness which makes Rishikesh the most authentic yoga capital of the world.
The modern lifestyle of people, the high intake of junk food, and the stressful life have led to preponderant problems due to imbalances in body, mind, and soul. Nowadays people are aware, they truly know the solution to this problem. Yoga has shown the way to a stress-free healthy and balanced life. People have been so eagerly joining yoga classes to rejuvenate. The world yoga capital- Rishikesh is a town on the banks of river Ganga and offers some major centers for Yoga. The centers in Rishikesh teach the styles of yoga that are based on what the ancient sage Patanjali has propounded centuries before. Below are some renowned centers for Yoga in Rishikesh-
The Hari Om Yoga Vidya School has experts in the traditional form of Yoga. A Systematic approach to yoga not only makes an individual achieve expertise in Asanas but also there is the upliftment of one’s spiritual side. The classes here start from the beginner level to the advanced level of yoga. Apart from practicing Asanas in the traditional Hatha and Ashtanga forms one can have a soulful experience of living amidst nature by taking up residential classes here. The yoga classes here give one an insight into the art of asanas with the right postures and alignments.
Yoga Vini in Rishikesh offers classes for all levels of yoga learners. This center not only delivers expertise in the practice of yoga but also focuses and teaches one to live a simple life, eating sattvic food. The experts here enlighten people to lead a stress-free, healthy, and balanced life. It is one of the most popular yoga centers in Rishikesh. These are the key components of its classes.
The Om Shanti Om Yoga has been conducting yoga classes in Rishikesh since the year 1999. Its main focus is on teaching the ancient Indian forms of Yoga, mainly the style propounded by Patanjali. The classes for beginners to expert level are conducted in Om Shanti Om Yoga. Meditation and Pranayama, being central to the holistic approach to yoga are taught here. The key highlight of this center is that it provides ancient Marma therapy to cure ailments. Training is provided outdoors in a picturesque natural environment.
Patanjala Yog Kendra was set up by Usha Devi in the year 1993. It was started to provide yoga classes in Ashtanga, hath, and other forms too in the Iyengar style of teaching. This Yog Kendra has a history of 26 years of teaching yoga to students in India as well as abroad. Late Shri Iyengar always stressed the right postures while doing asanas. Several props were invented to ensure the correct posture and alignment of the body while practicing Yoga. The training here is based on the Iyengar style and the props are used for correcting the postures. Special classes for children are also held here regularly.
Patanjali International Yoga Foundation offers yoga lessons in different disciplines with a major focus on the purest form of traditional Indian Yoga. Apart from Shatkriyas, bandhas and asanas, meditation, Ayurveda, mantras, and Pranayama classes are also provided one can attend its seminars, workshops, and retreats that aim to bring soulful experience and help one to attain balance among two realms of being physical and mental.
Phool Chatti Yoga is one of the oldest centers in Rishikesh. The yoga sessions here are provided for beginners and expert levels. Asanas, pranayama, chanting, cleansing kriyas, meditation, and other practices are taught here in PhoolChatti Yoga. This center was set up by the Late Shri Devi Dayalji and has been providing lessons in the ancient practice of yoga ever since.
Rishikesh Yog Dham is one of those yoga centers that keep class sizes small just to ensure that the right training is imparted to all in the class. Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa are the primary focus, and breathing methods and exercises are also taught. This center provides a hygienic, nutritious, simple vegetarian diet with accommodation to the students who take up its residential class. The session held here is for all levels of learners from beginners to experts.
Tattva Yogshala is one of the leading centers in Rishikesh. It offers both practical and theoretical lessons in traditional Hatha and Ashtanga forms of yoga. It provides residential yoga classes and focuses majorly on Ashtanga and Hath yoga principles. The food diet provided here is as per the traditional Satvik preparations.
Rishikesh is a recognized worldwide mega center of learning yoga. Jeevan Moksha Yoga Center is one of the primary centers offering yoga classes. The objective of yoga is to help people achieve well-being in three realms of existence- physical, mental, and spiritual. Yoga offers to achieve this along with pranayama, meditation, and other disciplines too. This center emphasizes Satsang and spiritual discourses. If one has a keen interest in knowing about yoga and wants to practice it in its purest form then Jeevan Moksha Yoga Gurukul classes shall be considered.
Rishikesh Yog Peeth is the best option if a person wants to learn the right art of yoga asanas, pranayama, and also how to use yoga to live a life that has a balance between body, mind, and soul. This center has been at the forefront of teaching ancient Hatha, breathing, and meditation methods to students from around the world. It provides beginner as well as advanced courses in ancient wellness methods.
Ajarya Yoga Academy is one such yoga center where both yoga and Kundalini meditation are taught. Yoga and Kundalini meditation can do enormous benefits to one’s body, mind, and soul. Yoga asanas keep the body, the temple of the soul, fit, and healthy. Kundalini is akin to the flow of energy that balances the body and the mind. One gets to learn different types of bandhas, Nidra yoga, cleansing, or detoxification. Using kriyas and mantra chanting here in Ajarya Yoga Academy.
Nada Yoga School was set up in the year 1952 by Veena Baba who played sitar. He believed that along with yoga, classical music was intended to self-transform oneself. The vibration of musical instruments can be used in conjunction with yogic practices to promote mental and physical health. One can attain higher levels of soulful experiences. These practices are being provided by Nada Yoga School.
As the name goes Hatha Yoga school provides lessons in conventional Hatha Yoga of Indian tradition. Yoga helps in making the body strong and the mind has better control over emotion to lead a balanced and healthy life. The classes offered here are provided to bring qualitative change in the lifestyle of people by helping them realize their inner selves. This center provides accommodation and meals as well.
Vishwa Shanti Yoga Center in Rishikesh provides residential yoga classes with accommodation and Satvik Indian meals. It offers all levels of learners- beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. It teaches Hatha, ashtanga, and vinyasa flow yoga. Shatkarma is practicing cleansing the body of all toxins. The yoga asanas deliver strength to the body, concentration, and mental peace. Vedic rituals of worship are followed for spiritual connection. Vedic rituals of worship are also followed for spiritual connection. This center is for overall learning of the science of wellness of ancient India.
Yoga, mantras, and meditation deliver calmness and stability of mind, the strength of body, and self-awareness. Chandra Yoga International focuses on the effects of Yoga on the mind, body, and soul in its classes. It was established by Dr. Sunil Yogi for the advancement of self-realization through yoga. The classes here teach yoga along with pranayama, meditation, and chanting of mantras. They believe that sound vibrations are said to have a positive connection between body, mind, and soul.
The charm of Yoga Capital-Rishikesh coerces one to explore the place till one falls in love with this North Indian Paradise. Famed as a spiritual destination surrounded by the enormous Himalayas, all covered by blankets of clouds, Rishikesh is the pre-eminent destination for alpinists in India. The pretty beaches, serene waterfalls, and breathtaking sunsets of this place make Rishikesh a wonderland. Some of the top places to explore are-
Laxman Jhula is an iron suspension bridge. It is over the holy river Ganges at Rishikesh. It is one of the popular hanging bridges. The Jhula/bridge is a link between two important villages in Rishikesh- Tapovan village in Tehri and Jink village in Pauri Garhwal. It is one of the major centers for tourist attractions. According to Hindu mythology, Ramayan, Lord Ram, and Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga river with the help of just two ropes at the same place where the bridge was built. This bridge was opened to the public in 1929. The bridge is an excellent architecture and is a major pilgrimage spot and one of the top places to visit in Rishikesh.
Ram Jhula, also referred to as Shivananda Jhula is positioned in Muni kiReti. It is one of the famous attractions of Rishikesh. It was built in the year 1980. The total length of the bridge is 450 feet. One can find several temples as well as ashrams on both sides of the bridge. It serves as the connection between Muni Ki Reti and Swarg Ashram. This iron bridge is Rishikesh’s biggest landmark and attraction. One can get a panoramic view of the river Ganga from here. It is one of the most iconic places to visit in Rishikesh
Shivpuri town is located at a distance of about 19 km from Rishikesh. This town is pure heaven. It is one of the top places that offer a wide variety of adventure options. The key highlight of this town is that it is nestled on the banks of the Ganges. The camps by the river bank are one of the best attractions in this town. Adventures like river rafting, trekking, and boating can be chosen when in Shivpuri. It is worth exploring this splendid town. One can even do overnight jungle camping and pay a visit to the beautiful Sakhya Sagar Lake and Karera Bird Sanctuary.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is situated at a distance of 12 km from Rishikesh. It is one of the sacred Shiva Shrines in India and one of the most visited and religious places to visit in Rishikesh. The temple has a freshwater spring that attracts devotees for the bath. The major attraction of this temple is the tomb which is inside this temple which depicts the Saga of Samudra Manthan.
Triveni Ghat is a crowded ghat alongside the river Ganges, with pilgrims bathing around. The aura and spirituality around this place spellbound every visitor. The evening aarti here mesmerizes every visitor who pays a visit to this beautiful Ghat. It is considered to be the most sacred Ghats in Rishikesh with a congruence of three holy rivers -anga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The key highlights of this Ghatare the Ganga Aarti and the floating lamps in the river. It is worth visiting the place. A visit to this Ghat will give one an insight into the spiritual beauty of Rishikesh.
NeerGarh Waterfall is nestled 2 km from Laxman Jhula. It is one of the pretty waterfalls. NeerGarh Waterfall is an apt place for wanderer photographers. It is the perfect spot to spend time from the hustle of hectic traveling. One is awestruck by its serenity. One can trek to the top of the waterfall and experience the tranquil beauty of this waterfall.
Swarg Ashram is situated at Gangapar Ram Jhula. It is the oldest ashram in India. It was constructed in remembrance of Swami Vishudhanand. One can pay a visit to several ashrams and temples inside the Swarg Ashram. This Ashram is popular among foreign tourists as well as among locals for its ethnic touch. It is maintained by Kali KamliwalaKshetra's trust. Religious activities- Chanting, meditation, and aarti takes place inside this ashram. One can watch the sunset and enjoy the natural endowments of this place.
Rishikund means- Pond of the Sage. It is one of the important places to explore in Rishikesh. Rishikund is a natural hot water spring. According to the legends, a pious sage named Kubz was blessed by the Goddess Yamuna who promised to stay in Rishikund forever. There are many other tales related to Rishikund. One of the stories is that it was once the bathing place of Lord Rama. It is believed that this holy pond was once a Havankund. In ancient times as the holy Ganges was not flowing nearby, it created havoc among the people. A few pious devotees then performed yajna to please Mother Ganges and to their request, Goddess Yamuna appeared and stayed here forever.
Muni kiReti means sand of the sages. It is situated at a distance of about 5 km from Rishikesh. It is a pilgrimage center famed for its ashrams. Muni kiReti is labeled as the gateway for the pilgrimage of Char Dham. This is the reason it has several ashrams which provide basic facilities to the pilgrims to help them in their spiritual journey. History reveals that in this place King Bharat is believed to have performed the act of penance.
The GarudChatti waterfall is situated near the railway station and Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh. It is one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in Rishikesh. One can enjoy a bath in the cold water which is rejuvenating. Several tourists favor this waterfall due to its scenic beauty. Monsoons are apt to explore this splendid waterfall.
Byasi is a small village located on the banks of the holy river Ganga. It is considered to be a major spot for adventure activities as this village has favorable water flow and geography that make it one of the apt rafting spots in India. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in camping and river rafting here. The other reason that makes Byasi one of the favored destinations is that it offers affordable restaurants, eateries, and budget-friendly accommodations. These aforesaid reasons make Byasi one of the apt weekend getaway destinations.
Rajaji National Park is one of the top national parks to explore in Rishikesh. It is about 16 km away from the city center. This national park is rich in flora and fauna. It is a live example of nature’s bounty with refreshing vibes that make one’s day. The park is home to several animals like a tiger, Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Hog deer, Barking deer, goral, jackal, elephants. This park includes Rajaji, Motichur, and Chilla wildlife sanctuaries. It is a heaven for nature lovers. This park is rich in avifauna too. Around 315 species of birds inhabit this park. One can go for a thrilling safari as it acquaints one well with the different dimensions of the park. If lucky enough one can spot leopard and tiger during their safari.
Bairaj Lake is one of the topmost destinations to pay a visit to Rishikesh. It is one of the supreme creations of Mother Nature. It is the best place for a picnic. The landscape is pretty tranquil. One can explore the lake park relax under the sun and get a view of the Pashulok Barrage releasing water into the lake.
Bhootnath Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is nestled on top of a hill. It is one of the mesmerizing temples in Rishikesh. One has to trek to the temple which is a bit challenging but once one reaches one is awestruck by the panoramic view of Rishikesh city. The temple has a Shivalingam at the center and is surrounded by bells from all sides- North, South, East, and West.
Kaudiyala is the major destination for White water rafting. It is a good 16 km stretch and is the best rafting zone in the world. Major adventure activities here are – White water rafting, boating, and camping by the river. Highly adventure expedition enthusiasts from different places pay a visit to Kaudiyala to enjoy the thrill of the most challenging zones of rafting which stretches between Kaudiyala to Shivpuri.
Rishikesh is an adventurer’s paradise. There are endless options for adventure enthusiasts. One of the thrilling activities is bungee jumping. Jumpin Heights is one where one gets to explore a wide range of adrenaline-pumping options. The team at Jumpin Heights provides thrilling activities like- bungee jumping, flying fox, and giant swing.
Geeta Bhawan is one of the best tourist spots in Rishikesh. It is one of the renowned pilgrimages for ages. A trip to Rishikesh is incomplete without a stay at this free shelter. It is built on the bank of the holy Ganga and offers shelter to more than 1000 pilgrims every day.
The Vashishta Gufa is an ancient cave away from the city lights. It is an ideal destination to visit in Rishikesh. The serenity and calm surroundings make this spot the most visited and most liked destination in Rishikesh. It attracts thousands of tourists. It is the cave where Sage Vashishta meditated. There is very strong energy and a spiritual atmosphere present here that draws one into internal peace.
After the Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram it got globally acclaimed. The tranquil atmosphere of this place leaves one spellbound. A meditation session makes one fall in love with the spiritual beauty of this awesome place. It is also known as ChaurasiKutia. It was first a training center for students for Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who devised the Transcendental meditation technique.
Phool Chatti Waterfall is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. It is one of the pristine waterfalls in Rishikesh. Trekkers can trek to this place. Tourists can come here for camping, making a bonfire, and photography. It is one of the prettiest waterfalls of Rishikesh.
Rishikesh View Point is another mesmerizing place in Rishikesh. The serene view spellbound visitors. The fresh air rejuvenates the mind from within. This place is heaven for nature lovers. The clouds touching mountains covered in greenery completely overpower the surroundings. One can witness the amazing sunset and sunrise from this point.
Patna Waterfall is one of the popular waterfalls in Rishikesh. It is apt for nature lovers. One can come here and spend some time in solitude amidst nature. The Patna Waterfall is named after a village located near to it. One can also explore the limestone cave that is next to this splendid waterfall. One can trek to this mesmerizing place. It is 5 km away from Laxman Jhula.
Raghunath temple is one of the renowned places to visit in Rishikesh for religious ceremonies. It is nestled near Triveni Ghat. The temple has a Kund- hot water pond. It is devoted to Lord Rama and his wife Sita Mata. The temple also houses a Kund which is known as the Rishikund.
Andhra Ashram in Rishikesh is considered to be the most unique ashram. It is managed and maintained by a group of South Indian people. Andhra Ashram was built in 1930 with its founder being Shree Sachidananda Saraswathi. One coming here can witness the beautiful temples- SreeVenkateswaravari and SreeChandramouleshwara. It was built for Andhra pilgrims who did not know about the local language. He created a trust and gave the name Andhra Ashram. Several festivals of South India are celebrated here with great pomp and show.
Tera Manzil Temple is one of the most popular temples among visitors. It is devoted to several deities. It is one of the most renowned religious places in Rishikesh. It is famed for its intricate and symmetric architecture. One can enjoy the serene location and feel the calm vibes here in this temple. It offers one an outstanding opportunity to worship one’s deity and witness the most captivating religious rituals in India.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram is nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas and is embraced by lush green surroundings. It is situated along the banks of the holy river Ganga. Parmarth Niketan Ashram is famed for its tranquil environment. The ashram has around 1000 rooms for the devotees. A stay at this serene ashram will evoke all good and positive vibes and bring one closer to one’s spiritual senses. The daily activities conducted in this ashram are -morning universal prayers and meditation classes, yoga-Hatha yoga, and Nidra yoga. Visitors visiting this ashram daily attend Satsang, lecture programs, kirtan, and Ganga aarti at sunset. So, Plan a Rishikesh Trip with a Travel Ride.
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