A Crusade To The Holy City Of Haridwar And Rishikesh

The doors of Indian spirituality are open for all and hence tourists from all over the world visit the pilgrimages of the country to imbibe the extraordinary wisdom hidden in Indian rituals. Rishikesh and Haridwar are two of the most popular spiritual tourist destinations of incredible India.

The Gateway to Indian spirituality- Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a well known Hindu pilgrimage and is conferred to be the first place from where 'Dharma Yatra' starts. The snow cladded Himalayas and the sacred River Ganges coming down from the hills create a serene environment, where prayers come out from the deep core of the heart. Rishikesh is dotted with numerous ancient temples, like that of Nilkanth Mahadev temple, Kunjapuri temple, Bharat Mandir and Raghunath temple. Tourists can witness the true Hindu ways of worship at these age old shrines.

The banks of River Ganga are captivating at evening as thousands of 'diyas' float on the river, creating a golden hallow. Besides being the hub of spirituality, Rishikesh is a land of adventure sports. As River Ganges freely flows down from the snow cladded mountains, tourists plunge into the cool waters for water rafting. This small city of Dehradun district is also the hot seat for learning yoga. There are several ' ashrams' here, where tourists can rejuvenate their senses and learn to live a stress free life using the ancient health science, Yoga.

With the aroma of incense in air and the sound of bells everywhere, Rishikesh preaches a life of harmony and peace.

The holy city of Haridwar

Haridwar is the gateway to the four temples of Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath & Badrinath, located at the Himalayan range, hence is also known as chardham. Haridwar truly seems to be the gateway to heaven as the divine aura of evening aarti reflects over the sacred River Ganges. This holy city is also the site of large festivals, like Kumbh Mela and Kanwad mela. The true Indian life is portrayed at these fairs, as people from all around the country gather to pay homage to the Lord, seeking a blessed life for their loved ones.

Haridwar is also blessed by the bounties of nature. Besides sacred Ganges, several natural streams break down from the mountains, enhancing the beauty of the mountains. The pilgrimage city of Haridwar is also a popular shopping destination for handicrafts, carved idol stones, utensils of brass, bead jewelry and colorful glass bangles.You can also enjoy Kerala crafts and arts work in South India.

The pious atmosphere of these two cities is apt to enjoy some simple, vegetarian cuisines. Rishikesh is located very close to Haridwar, just at 20 kms of distance. Both these are places are easily accessible, via bus service.

Hence if you want to spend some soulful moments, the pilgrimage cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh can be your resort. Experience the simple lifestyle and the infinite wisdom of Hinduism at the laps of nature, where day starts chanting God’s name and night is greeted by worshipping the pristine waters of River Ganges. Be a witness of more temples in south India and feel blessed.

I’m passonate travel writer crazy to visit interesting places.Currently I’m working on wildlife in Kerala backwaters wondering to see Beaches of Kerala.