Why Rishikesh should be your first travel destination after COVID-19

Rishikesh has been on our minds. The entire world is going through unprecedented times. A lot of us have had to cancel travel plans and are faced with the uncertainty of when we can travel next. Especially for mountain lovers, who tend to need a break from the heat of the cities. We feel you all. And while we’re stuck at home too, sipping ginger tea on our balcony to catch a whiff of fresh air and keep some semblance of sanity intact, we’re spending our time day-dreaming of better days when we, like birds, could take off to any destination of our choice. And we asked ourselves – where would we like to go first? Would it be the tough terrain of Ladakh or the mysteries of the North East? Spiti Valley or Bhutan? And we were overcome by a longing for peace and tranquility – a way to unwind from all this madness. 

Is it any wonder then, that Rishikesh topped our list? While we have no idea when this pandemic will truly blow off and what that will mean for travellers, we can assure you that Rishikesh is a good idea at any time of the year. Why do we think that it should be your first travel destination after Covid-19 too? Read on to find out.

Why go to Rishikesh –

1. RISHIKESH OFFERS SOME OF THE BEST SPAS 

There’s no denying it. Our bodies are in need of some pampering. After weeks in lockdown, we could all use some fragrant oil and firm hands massaging our stress away. Rishikesh is home to one of the most famous spas in the country – The Ananda in the Himalayas. True to its name, it will leave you feeling satisfied and rejuvenated. Ask for an Ayurvedic treatment here or in one of the other equally good spas in the town. We’re sure just reading this has helped melt some of that stress away.

2. THE GANGA AARTI WILL CALM YOUR MIND

Dealing with ambiguity at your workplace? Or simply frazzled over having done all the house chores without any help? Thousands of people line up on the banks of the Ganga to take in the famed Ganga Aarti. The sight of hundreds of floating diyas, the surreal acoustics of the evening chants and the sheer energy that emanates from the place will calm your mind and your soul. Head to Parmarth Niketan Ashram or Triveni Ghat for a great experience of the Ganga Aarti.

3. YOGA HAS A DEEPER MEANING HERE

In Rishikesh, you will soon realize that yoga is not merely the practice of asanas, but a way of life. Known as the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh boasts of some of the best teacher training ashrams as well as beginner courses for yoga. It also hosts the annual International Yog Festival, which you must definitely attend if you travel in March. If you do not want to sign up with any ashram, even most hotels here conduct yoga classes. Whatever you choose, the experience will be unlike any other and will enrich you.

4. YOU CAN LIFT YOUR SPIRITS WHILE FALLING DOWN FROM GREAT HEIGHTS

Err, literally. Rishikesh is home to some of the best adventure activities in the country – from bungee jumping to river rafting. If being cooped up inside has made you restless and adventurous, this town will provide you with enough of an adrenalin rush to write home about. You’d be hard-pressed to keep the pandemic state of mind while jumping from a height of 83 meters!

5. YOU CAN EVEN CHOOSE LUXURY

While most associate Rishikesh with its hip and spiritual vibe, it is actually a great destination for luxury travellers as well. Resorts like the Taj, Ananda and Raga are famous for their service and luxurious pampering. You can also put up in luxury tents on the banks of the Ganga and enjoy the best of both luxury and nature. Waking up will never have felt this good when it is to the sound of the gurgling river. If COVID-19 has completely drained you and all you want is to check in somewhere amidst unparalleled beauty, Rishikesh will do wonders for you.

5. YOU COULD DIG YOUR FOOT INTO THE SAND AT THE BEACHES

It is a little known fact that Rishikesh is full of secret beaches! The silvery-white sand of these beaches on the shores of the Ganga will leave you spell-bound. Where else will you find a pristine beach with crystal clear waters flowing through, all amidst the most spectacular mountains? 

We also curate extra-special experiences on these beaches such as a cook-out with a candle-light dinner!

5. OR SIMPLY MEDITATE IN THE SPIRITUAL ATMOSPHERE

Rishikesh and spirituality go hand in hand. It is quite impossible to arrive in this town and not be bitten by the spirituality bug. And while most Ashrams provide meditation opportunities, we’d say wing it solo and find a cave temple to introspect. You’re likely to find some sages deep in meditation, which will only make the whole experience more authentic. You could also find a spot on the banks of the Ganga a little before sunrise or sunset and open your eyes to a truly exhilarating sight. God knows we need it after the whole craziness we’re living through!