Rishikesh – Mussoorie – Dhanaulti: Spiritual Retreats

Rishikesh: City Of Saints

Rishikesh

Popularly known as City Of Saints, the holy town Rishikesh is a must visit place for devotees. The city has always been a legendary part of Garhwal. According to legends Lord Rama did penance here to kill Ravana. Also Rama’s younger brother Lakshmana, crossed the Ganges, where the current ‘Lakshman Jhula’ bridge stands today. Ram Jhula another similar suspension bridge near Shivanad Nagar was built in 1986.

Lakshman Jhula

Rishikesh is the world capital of yoga and white water rafting. It has become one of the favourite destinations for peace lovers and meditators Come and explore the whole new amazing world of Spiritualism and adventure at Rishikesh.

Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat – The sunset Ganga Aarti, a daily evening ritual at Parmarth Niketan, Triveni Ghat draws thousands of visitors each day from all religions, languages and cultures. It is a relaxed and intimate procedure that’s devoid of theatrics.

Oldest temple of Rishikesh, Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir – The oldest temple of Rishikesh, Bharat Mandir is located near the Jhanda Chowk. A beautiful sacred ‘Shree Yantra’ is mounted under the inner canopy of the temple.

Neelkanth Mahadev – Legends say this place, situated on the mountains across River Ganges, is known as Neelkanth because Lord Shiva drank the venom extracted during ”Sagar Manthan” here, which turned his neck blue.

Other major tourist attractions are Rishikund, Lakshman Temple and Vashishta Gufa.

Activities in Rishikesh

Rishikesh

White Water Rafting – This is one of the most awesome and adventurous sports that one must always give it a try. Enjoy camping out in the nature as part of your river rafting tour. Best season to go there is either March-May or September – November.

Bungee Jumping:- This activity can be tried from Jumpin Heights in Rishikesh located at 15kms from Rishikesh-Neelkanth Road. Jumpers can take the plunge from 83kms above the natural river and enjoy a adrenalin pumping thrill.

Other adventurous activities are Rappelling, Camping, River Crossing and Rock Climbing.

How To Reach

Rishikesh

By Air – Nearest Airport is Jolly Grant Airport (about 15 kms away). It is a well connected airport handling flights from all other metro cities.

By Rail – Rishikesh railway station is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, Amritsar, Rajasthan and Varanasi. The station is located is 5.6kms far from the main city.

By Road – NH 58 connects Rishikesh to Delhi. It takes almost 5-6 hours approximately.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie: ‘Queen of Hills’

The lush green hills, majestic view of Shivalik Range and varied flora and fauna Mussoorie gives Mussoorie its distinction as the ‘Queen of Hills’. Situated 35kms away from Dehradun Valley. Mussoorie derived its name from shrub known as mansoor (available in this region).

The hill station is not only famous for its scenic beauty but is also centre of education and business.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie as a destination is a great and popular choice by families and honeymooners especially in summer vacations.

When to Visit:-March – June/September – November

Tourist Attractions:-

Lush green hills

The Mall: Just like any other Hill station Mussoorie also has the main promenade, The Mall Road. It’s a lively market place lying on the eastern end of the hill station.

Gun Hill: It’s the second highest point of Mussoorie, first being Lal tibba. Gun hill offers a breathtaking view of the whole Hill station and the point can be reached by electric ropeway.

Kempty Falls:  These falls are just 15kms away from Mussoorie on way to Yamnotri and rank among the most beautiful falls of India.

Other major tourist attractions are Jharipani Falls, Tibetan School and Municipal Garden.

Majestic view of Mussoorie

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is located 54kms away. It offers almost daily connectivity with Delhi.

By Rail: Nearest railway station is in Dehradun (40kms away) which is well connected to Delhi and Haridwar. From there, you can take a cab to Mussoorie.

By Road: Mussoorie is well-linked with proper public and private conveyances. The proximity to Mussoorie from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand makes it all the more accessible.

Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti: The Picture Perfect Hill station

Dhanaulti also known as ‘The Picture Perfect Hill station’ is located 24kms from the summer destination of Mussoorie and 29kms from Chamba Valley.

Because of its easy accessibility, Dhanaulti is emerging as a popular weekend getaway from Dehradun, Haridwar and Delhi. The Hill station offers serenity and tranquility along with some great panoramic views.

It’s becoming favourite hot spot because of its proximity to other Hill stations like Mussoorie, Chamba and Tehri. The hill station rests on misty mountains amidst dense oak, alpine and rhododendron forests. Its quaint and peaceful atmosphere is a major draw for those looking for a vacation of relaxation and rest.

When to Visit – March-June or September–November

Tourist Attractions

Quaint and peaceful atmosphere

Dashavatar Temple: This temple was built by the ancient Gupta Kings and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The carvings of side walls depict Vaishnava mythology.

Deogarh Fort: It is one of the most popular forts located in Dhanaulti. The fort was built in 16^thcentury and comprises artistic Jain Temples and ornamented palaces.

Barehipani and Joranda Falls:  Joranda falls and Barehipani are the two picturesque waterfalls situated near Dhanaulti. This place is perfect spot for honeymooners and family picnics.

Other major tourist attractions are Matatila Dam, Jain Temples and ECO Garden.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is located 83kms away. It offers almost daily connectivity with Delhi.

By Rail: Nearest railway station is in Dehradun (60kms away) and Rishikesh (83kms away) both being well connected to Delhi and Haridwar. After that a cab can be hired to reach Dhanaulti.

By Road: Dhanaulti is well-linked with major destinations like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Tehri and Delhi by regular public transport.

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