Rishikesh is a holy city in Dehradun district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is a holy city for Hindus located in the foothills of the Himalaya in northern India. It is also known as the gateway to Himalayas and is located about 25 kilometers away from another holy city Haridwar.

Rishikesh is also known as the 'place of sages' is Haridwar, at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga. It is believed that God by the name of 'Hrishikesh' had appeared as an answer to the hard penances by Rabhiya Rishi and henceforth the place derived its name. It is the starting point for the Char dham pilgrims but also for the people who are interested in meditation, yoga and other aspects of Hinduism.

For the adventure seekers, rishikesh is the suggested place for starting their trekking expeditions to the Himalayan peaks and for rafting. Also, International Yoga Week which attracts participation form across the world, is held here, every year, in February on the banks of the Ganga.