Sports in Rishikesh

Encompassed by hills on three sides, Rishikesh is perched on the banks of river Ganga, at its conflux with the Chandrabhaga rivulet - one of the sacred pilgrims center in the foothills of majestic Himalayas. Rishikesh, the land of ashrams and yogis is located in the state of Uttranchal in North India. The pristine atmosphere, lush green vegetation, flaming of fragrant sticks, gongs of temple bells makes it a perfect sight for meditation and devotion.

It has come out to be one of the renowned centers, for schools of yoga and meditation along with its diversified adventure sports. Rishikesh is also significant as the trekking base, to the Himalayan shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Trekking Thrill
The trekking in Rishikesh begins from Thalisain via Pauri, most beautiful hill station, showcasing a scenic vista of the snow-capped peaks of Himalayas and sunset- a worth sight from Kondolia, 5 km from Thalisain. The entire trek trails through the forest is rich in deodar, silver, fir, pine, oak and wildlife.

Kedarnath Vasukital Trek: Covers -Rishikesh - Gaurikund - Kedarnath - Vasukital - Gaurikund - Rishikesh. It's a mild trek usually undertaken for 6 days during the summer months.

Kalindikhal Trek: Covers Gangotri - Bhojwasa - Nandanvan - Vasukital - Khara Patthar - Kalindi Base - Rajparav - Ghastoli - Badrinath. This is high altitude high trek undertaken for 12 days in the month of July to August.

Rock-Climbing/Mountaineering
This adventure is conducted at George Everest House Phoolchatti near Rishikesh. There are proper provisions of trained instructors who assist in climbing, equipment required for mountaineering/rock climbing with transport facilities and Camping/ Catering and First Aid.

Camping
Experience vacations with a difference at the exotic Tented Camp. These camps offer with the excitement of the outdoors and the spill of White Water Running. Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas 16 km from Rishikesh, the campsite is set up amidst scenic splendor by the holy Ganga River and is girdled by a thick Sal forest. Tourist can experience the diversified adventures taken up during the stay in the camp like- Rafting, Rappelling, Nature walk, Bird watching in the surrounding areas, Kayaking on a peaceful stretch near the camp, beach games like volley ball, Frisbee, water polo etc.

River Rafting
One of the popular energetic stretches of 150km is from Rudraprayag to Rishikesh an idle place for River Rafting. The starting zone to this sport adventure is little ahead from the main town of Rudraprayag. The route is a 4-hour run through calm stretches, a series of rapids and frigid temperatures. The rafting become little hazardous when the water level drops down as prickly rocks and stones at the surface can tear a raft apart.

Besides many private rafting operators, the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) and UP Tourism also offer river runs along the stretch.

Other Attractions
Besides adventure other attractions of the town lies in the world famous ashrams like Swarg Ashram, Kali Kumbliwale, Parmarth Niketan embellished with statues of gods and goddesses and the Gita Bhavan with its Ayurvedic dispensary. The Triveni Ghat, an absolute banks to bath in the holy waters of the Ganga. The Bharat Mandir situated near the Triveni Ghat is the oldest temple in Rishikesh and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu presiding in a black stone Vishnu. About 2 km upstream over river Ganga is the old footbridge called Lakshman Jhula and a new bridge Ram Jhula - one of the biggest attractions of the city.

Reaching Rishikesh
Being a main center of meditation and yoga the town of Rishikesh is well connected with Air, Rail and Road Transport to all parts of India.