Hippy-Trippy Rishikesh

Yoga was invented in Rishikesh, India, but the town didn’t garner the world’s attention until the Beatles came to visit their guru, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, in the early 60s. The Beatles may be gone, but the 60s seem to live forever. In Rishikesh, groups of laid-back hippies happily pad around town barefoot, visiting the local Ashrams. Holy chants ring out over the river at all hours of the day and night. At dusk, priests and members of the Ashrams offer fire to the river, and thus to the gods.



In addition to the hippy-stinx mojo floating around, Rishikesh swells with a gorgeous, reflective vibe. Rishikesh’s religious communities drape lazily along the banks of the infamous Ganges River. Thickly forested hillsides rise up from the holy river, to add to the contemplative feel. Monkeys frolic in the forest canopy, while sacred cows loiter in the streets. It is a menagerie masquerading as a meditation retreat.



For us Rishikesh is a stop on the way to Rajasthan, but for some it remains a sacred place, and even a lifestyle.

Enjoy the Rishikesh Photo Gallery.