Introduction
Understanding the place
Rishikesh is located on the Gange at the foot of the Himalayas. Holy town, a stage towards the great Himalayas pilgrimages and the international centre of yoga, it brings together ancient traditions and contemporary industry of wellbeing.
To be retained
- Holy city on the banks of the Gange
- Himalayan Pilgrimage Gate
- World Centre for Modern Yoga
- Discernment required in response to offers
History and context
The region is linked to stories of wise and ascetic, while many ashrams develop in modern times. International fame is growing strongly in the 20th century, especially with the global circulation of yoga and the stay of the Beatles in an ashram in 1968.
Why is this place spiritual?
For Hindu pilgrims, the Ganges, temples and rites d ārati are the sacred heart of the place. Ashrams offer varied disciplines of yoga, meditation and study. Not all commercial offers have the same depth and guarantees.
What the landscape makes you feel
The green river, the footbridges, the bells and the hills create an immediately recognizable landscape. An attentive practice also consists of observing the differences between spirituality, tourism, pollution and the local economy.
Energy, atmosphere and feelings
Rishikesh is often promoted as a global energy centre. This formula is a spiritual and touristic language; the effect experienced can be due to the natural setting, practice and expectations, without proving a physical property of the site.
Discover with respect
- Choose teachings with discernment.
- Respect the river and limit waste.
- Do not confuse traditional yoga, wellness classes and therapeutic promises.
Sources
