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Exploring The Temples Around Rishikesh, A Spiritual Journey

There’s a lot more to Rishikesh other than adventure activities, and that is, the legendary temples and renowned yoga schools. Rishikesh is home to numerous old temples and the following is the list of a few ancient temples along with their history and stories associated.  

1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:

Neelkanth Mahadev temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and is one of the most revered Hindu sites. This temple is situated about 7km. from Swarga Ashram in the PauriGarhwal region. According to the Hindu mythology, it was this place, where lord Shiva consumed the poison that appeared after the ‘AmritManthan’ that turned his throat blue. Hence, the name NeelkanthMahadev. 

2. Triambakeshwar Temple (Tera Manzil Temple):

This temple is also known as the Tera Manzila Mandir as it has 13 stories and is situated on the banks of the Ganges. This temple is also dedicated to lord Shiva and its main feature is that it could be seen from the Lakshman Jhula. Apart from its phenomenal architecture, it offers a wonderful view from the top story.

3. Shri Bharat Mandir:

This temple was founded in the 12th century by Adhiguru Shankaracharya and it has a very beautifully carved statue of lord Vishnu from the stone Saligram. Inside the canopy of the temple is where the Shree Yantra lies. The architecture of the temple is extremely detailed in the record of Kearkhand. The present structure was rebuilt after the original one was destroyed by Taimur.  

4. Kunjapuri Temple:

This temple is considered one of the Shakti Peeths and is dedicated to the first wife of lord Shiva, Sati. It is believed that the chest part of Mata Sati had fallen here at this location as lord Shiva carried her corpse across the universe.  

5. Raghunath Temple:

Raghunath Temple is a very sacred place for Hindus as this is the place where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place every evening. The deities worshipped here are primarily Ram and Sita and this temple is closely located to the sacred pond of Rishikund.

6. Hanuman Mandir:

The Hanuman Mandir is also one of the famous temples around here and Tuesdays are busy at this temple with numerous rituals and offerings that take place. Not to forget that the key highlight is the Ganga Aarti that is conducted here. 

7. ShatrughnaMandir:

This temple was founded by Adi Shankaracharya and is dedicated to the younger brother of lord Ram, Shatrughna. This temple is located in the Ram Jhula and is of great historical significance.

8. Bhootnath Mandir

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by Rajaji National Park from 3 sides and the Ganges from the other. It is believed that lord Shiva rested here on the journey to marry Mata Sati. This temple is located at an elevation hence providing a breathtaking view of the city.  

9. Lakshman Temple:

This temple holds significance from the legend of Ramayana, as it is believed that it is this place where both Ram and Lakshman attained enlightenment. Some numerous ancient sculptures and paintings adorn the temple. 

10. Swarg Ashram Temple:

This temple is located alongside the Ganges and is a 3 story temple that provides an absolutely stunning view of the valley. This is also one of the favourite tourist spots as it offers a sense of peace and serenity.

11. Parmarth Niketan:

This is the largest aashram of Rishikesh has more than 1000 rooms and provides a spiritually captivating environment for people all across the globe who visit the city. The daily activities of the ashram include yoga sessions, hatha yoga, vinyasa etc..it’s the best place to be for someone who seeks holistic experience.   

These shrines and their stories contribute to the richness of the culture and spirituality of Rishikesh, attracting tourists across the globe to explore their greatness and find solace in the sacred landscape. These temples not only are a haven for the spiritual seekers but also portray the roots of tradition and legends of Rishikesh.   

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Exploring Rishikesh; The Yoga Capital Of The World

Rishikesh is mostly known as the center for yoga and meditation across the globe and this reputation is well deserved by the city. The beautiful landscape has been utilized perfectly by the practitioners for yoga and meditation and even during the day, finding a yoga centre or an ashram is a very easy task as there are numerous of them scattered all over the town.  

These ashrams are renowned for the facilities and lifestyles that they offer to the visitors. However, some of them even offer a luxurious stay. The growing awareness of yoga and meditation across the world has started to attract a good number of tourists and locals who want a natural retreat to Rishikesh. 

Some of the institutions are:

1. Yoga Niketan:

This yoga centre attracts a lot of visitors from all over the world and was established in the year 1964 by Swami Yogeshwaran and Paramhansa. The teachings at this institute are connected to the 8 aspects of yoga which the students are expected to stick to strictly. This place offers brilliant teaching facilities and accommodations that make it one of the best places for practising yoga in Rishikesh.   

2. Parmarth Niketan:

Parmarth Niketan is the leading yoga centre in Rishikesh that provides the ideal environment for those individuals to seek to align their mind, soul and body.  Founded in 1942, it’s situated near the Ganga river and it draws a huge number of visitors every year, especially during International Yoga Day in March. 

3. Patanjali International Yoga Foundation:

This is an NPO that aims to spread the wisdom of yoga and Veda, and its principles, all around the world. It is tucked in the Himalayan region and it offers a variety of yoga teachers courses and Ayurveda retreats too. 

4. Rishikesh YogPeeth – Yoga Training School in Rishikesh India:

Rishikesh YogPeeth was established in the year 2005 and it offers a unique opportunity to dive into the world of yoga away from the city life, near Patna village. This school offers numerous yoga teachers, yoga retreats and training courses. 

5. Sivananda Ashram:

This Ashram stands as one of the topmost yoga centres in Rishikesh, founded by Swami Sivananda in the year 1936, and this Ashram aims at the core aspects of yoga like the asanas, breathing control, mind relaxation techniques etc. This school is officially certified and is highly regarded for its quality and discipline. Since they are mostly all occupied, the enthusiasts are requested to book their reservations in advance.  

It’s been a while since the Western world started to acknowledge the need and importance of yoga and meditation in daily life, but it’s pivotal to understand that this Hindu discipline transcends just physical postures. But, with its unique collaboration with spiritual enlightenment, techniques and natural surroundings, Rishikesh is the best place where you can accomplish your physical and mental health and take up a transformative path towards self-awareness and wellness. 

The connection of yoga to spirituality goes back to the days of legends scriptures and ancient writings. There is a lot of Ramayana mythology linked with this region and the reference can be seen in the Vedas and the Upanishads further solidifying its role as a spiritual hub for the visitors. 

Currently, Rishikesh is the host for a lot of retreats and Ashrams that attracts a lot of visitors. Be it the traditional Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga or the Vinyasa and Kundalini, all the levels of practitioners are welcomed here with open arms.   

The meditation options in Rishikesh are plenty and provide ample opportunities to connect with one’s self and start a new spiritual journey from within.

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Know The Jungle; Exploring The Zones Of The Jim Corbett National Park

All nature enthusiasts out there, get ready to experience nature like never before! If you’re craving some excitement and adventure in life, Jim Corbett National Park is a destination that is just the one for you. Popular for being one of the most acknowledged wildlife habitats, it offers you the chance to observe and live as close to nature as possible. So whether it’s the tigers that fascinate you or the elephants that attract you, this sanctuary holds a lot of natural gems that are waiting to be discovered.  

Tucked in the soothing lands of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park has a lot to offer when it comes to the natural beauty and the adventurous safaris. What makes it stand out is the numerous safari zones and locations that unveil the unknown about the jungle. 

In the upcoming sections, we will be diving into the secrets of the Dhikala zone, the adventures of the Bijrani zone, the beauty of Jhirna zone, the splendours of the Durga zone, the excitement of the Sonanandi zone and many more. These zones are known to be the best encounter points with tigers, leopards, birds, etc. 

Whether you are a pro or just a beginner in the world of adventures, joining us on Corbett’s safari zones will prove to be one of the best decisions of your life. So get ready to make some lifetime memories, it’s time to explore the unveiled secrets of the jungle.  

Bijrani Safari Zone 

The Bijrani zone in the Jim Corbett National Park offers a beautiful and captivating experience. With the lush green trees around, you will feel as if you are in the very heart of nature where the air talks with the wildlife. As you pass through the trail, you’ll be thrilled throughout as you may spot tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, monkeys or even birds that’ll fill you with awe. The gentle whispers of the green leaves blended with the humming of the birds will provide you with the best soothing music to your ears and mind. It’s a gorgeous yet exhilarating journey that allows you to make a connection with the wild. 

Dhela Safari Zone

This zone is also known as a paradise for all wildlife enthusiasts. It’s not just renowned but is also a hot spot for encountering wild cats so close that it’s just like a dream come true for thrill seekers. 

And it doesn’t end here, Dhela is a diverse ecology that teems with the wildlife. Apart from tigers and leopards, you will also spot elephants, deer, and maybe rhinos. To catch these wild creatures when they’re most active, visit the park in around June to November. It’s a simple yet exciting adventure that promises to provide you with the most unforgettable memories from the heart of nature.  

Dhikala safari zone

This one is perfect to be described as the gem in Jim Corbett National Park’s crown. The area spreads across 310 sq. km. and it’s a realm where the majestic natural reign invites you to retrieve all your senses at the hands of nature.

Here, in the middle of this beautiful landscape, you are prone to discover the rare spectacle of tigers, elephants, leopards and other predators. The best time to visit is in the months between November and April. 

You have a plethora of options to choose your adventures, from exploring the jungle by walking or even through the extravagant jungle safaris or even you could and enjoy the view from an elephant’s back. Monsoon is just not a good idea to pay a visit here (July-September) due to flooding so plan your trip wisely to take back most of it. 

Durga Devi Safari Zone

This place is just the perfect delight haven for all nature lovers. As you wander through the trails, the possibility of encountering wild cats and other animals is genuinely thrilling. 

The soothing sounds of the birds create a harmonious background and every step on the trail draws you deeper into the heart of the wilderness. Participating in activities like hiking, bird watching, trekking etc. will enable you to find your true self with a profound connection with nature. It’ll give you an experience that’ll not be possible to be described in words but will surely leave a huge impact in your heart. 

Jhirna Safari Zone

Jhirna Safari Zone offers a genuine heart-touching experience and is one for all nature enthusiasts. You will always be thrilled to know that at any moment you could spot a tiger a leopard or even an elephant. The engine sound of the jeep makes it more anticipating and curiosity struck as the leaves whispers always indicate an unexpected encounter. It’s an original sense of adventure that leaves you feeling grateful for the beautiful memories that you’ve made in the animal kingdom. 

Sitabani Zone

Sitabani zone is not just one of the other zones in the Corbett but it’s the profound encounter with nature’s finest. Here, the wildlife roams freely painting a vivid picture of the wilderness.

In the core of Sitabanizone, the sky is filled with beautiful species of birds which makes it a paradise for the birdwatchers. From the vibrant Red Junglefowl to the decent Grey-headed Fish Eagle, this zone has a lot to offer when it comes to an avian display.

There’s a lot one can do here like trekking and visiting the ancient Sutabani Temple, blending culture and nature together perfectly. It’s an escape that your heart will always thank you for. 

Sonanadi Safari Zone

This is a place where the nature actually comes to life. The animals move freely around and the symphony of birdsong captivates your journey while encountering amphibians and reptiles add to the trill of the journey. The best time to visit is between November and June when you are offered safari adventures, immersive nature walks and whatnot. It’s a tapestry of life and an unforgettable odyssey into the wilderness.  

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What to do around Kosi River In Jim Corbett?

When we hear the name ‘Jim Corbett National Park’ the echoes of water flowing, roars of tigers and lush green forests cross our minds. Among its numerous natural wonders, the Kosi River is seen as the hidden gem in this wilderness. Situated in the village of Ramnagar, this Himalayan river, popularly known as ‘Kosila’ among the locals, is of length 168 meters and serves as a lifeline for the farmlands of Kumaon village. But not that, this river provides sustenance to all the wild lives of the national park.

Now, let’s talk about the exciting activities that take place around the Kosi River and discover the hidden gems of the wilderness. 

River Rafting

If you are someone who is always on their toes for some adventure, then river rafting in the Kosi River is a must-try experience. River rafting is a must-have experience that delivers an adrenaline rush like no other, and the waters of Kosi River in Corbett is just perfect for that. It buries you into the heart of adventure, as you go through the spine-tingling, rock-studded rapids. However, it’s important to note that river rafting in Corbett is a seasonal water activity, mostly done during the monsoon season, in the absence of heavy downpours.  The Kosi River gracefully sets the stage for an unforgettable rafting experience that promises to satisfy both beginners seeking new experiences and seasoned professionals looking for an adrenaline-packed challenge.

Angling and Riverside Bliss

For those looking for a more pleasureful way to connect with the river, the dazzling waters of Kosi invite you to sit by the riverside and chill with your people. You can dip your feet into the cool waters while you enjoy the beautiful scenery around you or engage in the art of penning down your thought, whichever way suits you as this mesmerising ambience is a paradise for writers, inspiring them to bring the best out of them. The Kosi River is also home to a species of fish called Mahseer, which attracts a variety of migratory birds who come to feast on this aquatic delight.

Bridge Slithering

Attention thrill-seekers hold on to your breaths! Bridge slithering is a very interesting rope activity that involves participants leaping from a Jhula bridge near the Garjia Temple. Before diving into the water, you will be sliding down until 6 feet above water. Hanging above the glittering waters of the Kosi river is an exciting way of establishing a connection with it. 

River Crossing

If you’re someone who is into an adventure that requires balance and courage, river Crossing is the best experience for you. Guarded with all the gears and safety equipment, you’ll cross the river, balancing on a thin string while being tethered to a rope that extends from one end of the river to the other. It’s a thrilling way to encounter Kosi’s gentle currents.

The Kosi River in Jim Corbett is a package of adventure, fun and excitement that offers a variety of experiences. From thrilling river rafting to beautiful riverside moments and adrenaline-pumping bridges slithering, this river has something for every nature enthusiast. Kosi River therefore provides a lovely and memorable experience, whether you are seeking adventure or just a getaway from routine life.