The Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh, is all set to host the International Yoga Festival 2024 from March 15 to 21 on the shores of the holy river Ganga. With its spiritual base and yogic tradition, Rishikesh and Uttarakhand have been attracting people from various nooks of the world. In addition, the International Yoga Festival will boost the flow. The participants of the Yoga Festival will get the opportunity to delve into the ancient tradition of the rich yogic background of Rishikesh.
The International Yoga Festival will be followed by enriching events such as spiritual talks, yoga practice sessions, and expert guidance. This year’s festival is going to be extraordinary, offering an exceptional platform for yoga enthusiasts to delve into education and personal development. Situated alongside the banks of the revered river, Yog Bharat Ghat in Muni Ki Reti emerges as a center of profound spiritual enlightenment and comprehensive wellness during this week-long celebration of yoga.
Distinguished personalities including Swami Sukhabodhananda, Dr. Hester O’Connor, S. Sridharan, Douglas Atmananda Rexford, Swamy Ajay Rana, and Anshuka Parwani will be present at the event, imparting their wisdom and perspectives to steer participants towards holistic well-being. Many premier Yoga schools like Art of Living, Isha Foundation, Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Sivananda Ashram, and Manav Dharam Ashram will provide attendees with their wisdom.
To learn more about the International Yoga Festival, visit the official website – https://internationalyogfestival.com/
The Significance of Yogic Tradition in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, also referred to as the “World Capital of Yoga,” is the primary location for yoga instruction and practice. When the Beatles came to this little Indian city back in 1968, they raised awareness of Rishikesh. However, the truth is that for ages, yogis, saints, and practitioners have traveled here to become teachers, advance their practice, or even achieve enlightenment. For Hindus, Rishikesh is among the most sacred locations. For thousands of years, yogic arts masters and sages have been coming to the city for this reason. Renowned spiritual masters and yoga gurus such as Adiguru Nilkantha, Guru Vashishtha, Jatawale Baba, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Swami Sukhdevanand, Swami Dayanad Saraswati, and Swami Aatm Prakash have all chosen Rishikesh as their spiritual home. Yoga is playing a significant role in boosting the tourism sector of Uttarakhand, drawing attention from all over the world.
The nation is making every effort to establish reputable institutions for yoga trainees in light of the growing need for yoga and the requirement for yoga instructors. They won’t merely pick up yoga poses and practices; however, they also understand the background and significance of yoga. They become more sensible than typical as they acquire self-control and modesty. Even though there are yoga centers all over the world, millions of people are encouraged to visit the top yoga schools in Rishikesh in order to find serenity. People travel from all over the world to meditate at Rishikesh, besides those who live there. It motivates them to construct better yoga institutes for the populace.
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How to Reach Rishikesh
By Flight – The closest airport, Jolly Grant, is located outside of Rishikesh in Dehradun. Flying into Dehradun from Delhi or Lucknow, one can take frequent buses and cabs from the airport to Rishikesh.
By Train – Haridwar, the closest train station, is located 25 kilometers away from Rishikesh. Haridwar has excellent access to the nation’s major cities through a multitude of frequent express and superfast train services. From the Haridwar station, there are buses and taxis that go all the way to Rishikesh.
By Bus – Regular bus connections are available to Rishikesh from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. To go to Rishikesh, one can choose to use busses or hire a taxi from these locations.
READ MORE: Top Things to do in Rishikesh
Nearby Places to Explore in Rishikesh
If you find yourself in Rishikesh, there’s an abundance of activities awaiting you. From exploring renowned bridges like Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula to experiencing the tranquility of Neel Waterfalls, Rishikesh offers something for everyone.
- Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula – Renowned bridges that offer breathtaking vistas of the majestic Ganges River.
- The Beatles Ashram – Known as Chaurasi Kutia, was once the temporary abode of the iconic band in the 1960s. Today, it stands as an artistic haven adorned with vibrant graffiti and murals.
- Neel Waterfalls – Neer Garh Waterfall is a hidden gem with three levels, each offering stunning views and a serene natural pool for a refreshing dip amidst tranquil surroundings.
- The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Sacred place of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva, enveloped by verdant forests.
- Triveni Ghat – Must-visit spot to witness the enchanting evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, where the river comes alive with the glow of lamps and melodious chants.
- Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary – For adventurous souls, a day trip to the Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary near Rishikesh provides an opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat and reconnect with nature.
- Adventure Activities – Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and along the sacred Ganges River, boasts a plethora of exhilarating adventure activities such as white-water rafting, trekking in the Himalayan foothills, and camping under the starlit sky.