Rishikesh is a sacred city in northern India regarded as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” Located in the foothills of the Himalayas where the Ganges River emerges from the mountains, Rishikesh has been a pilgrimage site and spiritual center for thousands of years. The city gained international attention in 1968 when the Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram there.
Historically, Rishikesh has been home to numerous saints, sages (rishis), and yogis who practiced meditation in the surrounding forests and caves. Today, the city hosts dozens of ashrams and yoga centers that offer teachings in various yoga traditions. The famous Sivananda Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, and the Bihar School of Yoga all have established presences in Rishikesh.
The International Yoga Festival, held annually in Rishikesh, draws thousands of yoga practitioners from around the world. The city is also known for its suspension bridges spanning the Ganges, particularly the Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula.
Many aspiring yoga teachers travel to Rishikesh to complete their yoga teacher training certifications. The city offers an immersive environment for yoga study, with the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the spiritual energy of the Ganges providing an ideal backdrop for deepening one’s practice.
