Rishikesh is the Gateway to the Himalayas and is located around 25 kilometers away from another Holy City Haridwar. It was Located on the banks of River Ganga, it is here that the river leaves the Shivalik mountains 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 Ganges in Hrishikesh. The city attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year, from within India, as well as from other countries. Haridwar attracts a large number of Hindu Pilgrims from all over the world.

Rishikesh has gained popularity, especially between foreign tourist and the NRI as a centre of learning YOGA, Hindu philosophy and ayurveda. There are plenty of ashrams offering yoga courses and the lectures on Hindu philosophy. It is believed that meditation in Hrishikesh brings one closer to attainment of moksha, as does a dip in the holy river that flows through it. You can go around the east bank of Laxman jhula to Swargashram to check out the various ashrams.At the northern end of Laxman jhula you can view the stalls selling the religious audio and video cassettes, kurtas, kullu topis, salwar kameezs and jeweler line the narrow streets.

Shops in Haridwar have some interesting things to offer to the tourist. The main shopping centers are Moti bazaar, Upper Road, Jwalapur and Kankhal. You can also check out the Government Handloom and Handicrafts Emporiums and the Gandhi Ashram. Here you will find a range of handicraft decorative pieces. If you are interested in jewelry, then you can choose from a variety of imitation ones which make good fashion accessory.