Rishikesh is a holy city for Hindus located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India. It is 24 kilometers away from another holy city, Haridwar, and is considered an access point for the cities that form the Chardham - Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
The sacred river Ganga (anglicized to Ganges) flows through Rishikesh, adding to its spiritual appeal and natural beauty. In fact, it is here that the river leaves the Himalayas, and flows out into the plains of northern India. Several temples, ancient as well as new, can be found along the banks of the river in Rishikesh. The city attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year, from within India, as well as from other countries. The city has several Yoga centres that also attract tourists. It is believed that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to attainment of salvation, or moksha, as does a dip in the holy river that flows through it.
