Rishikesh vs Varanasi: A Cultural Showdown
Two Indian cities along the Ganges each have claims to fame.
Dubbed the “yoga capital of the world” for its numerous ashrams and yoga teacher training courses, Rishikesh is particularly popular among spiritual seekers (as well as those who are just in need of a good stretch). Follow the Ganges south, and you’ll find Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, drawing pilgrims for thousands of years.
Rishikesh Welcomes All to its Ashrams and Temples
A travel journalist visited Rishikesh countless times and once spent an entire month studying yoga in the city. Rishikesh remains one of her favorite weekend destinations from Delhi to this day.
Rishikesh, located on the banks of the Ganges River, has drawn in a steady flow of travelers for generations. While it has captivated many Indian travelers, it wasn’t until the 1960s that an influx of Western visitors began to arrive.
The ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, nicknamed the “Beatles Ashram,” stand as a relic of the flower-power era, marking the time when the Fab Four studied Transcendental Meditation here. Today, the ashram operates as a tourist attraction with signage, well-maintained passageways, a photo gallery, and a small cafe.
Activities in Rishikesh
- Join a lamp- or candle-lighting ceremony on the banks of the Ganges.
- Hike up to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
- Study the teachings of Swami Sivananda.
- Participate in the evening aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
Rishikesh’s historic ashrams and temples are active and welcoming to all visitors. Unlike Varanasi, which may charge hefty fees for entry, Rishikesh is known for its friendly environment, welcoming seekers regardless of background. Moreover, it offers many opportunities for yoga practice, with classes ranging from beginner-friendly to rigorous teacher training courses certified by the Yoga Alliance.
Adventure Awaits in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, located close to the Gangotri Glacier, is known for the cleanliness of the Ganges River, making it safe to bathe or swim. This area is particularly famous for whitewater rafting, with numerous operators offering beginner-friendly trips on the river. Additionally, the forest-fringed foothills of the Himalayas provide ample opportunities for hikes and adrenaline-filled adventures, such as bungee jumping. Such outdoor activities are not typically found in Varanasi.
Varanasi: A Deeply Spiritual Sacred City
In researching India, a traveler noted Varanasi’s unique connection with life’s mysteries, unmatched by any other place.
Varanasi at dawn offers a glimpse into a spiritual experience like no other. Pilgrims make their way down the steps of the ghats to perform puja (prayers), deeply connecting with Mother Ganga. This sacred river is not just a body of water but a profound symbol of spirituality and purification in Hinduism.
Mark Twain famously described Varanasi as being older than history itself. Although many fall in love with its spiritual offerings, the city is not for the faint-hearted. Observing intimate rituals of life and death in public spaces can be profound yet overwhelming.
The Ghats of Varanasi
Of the 84 ghats in Varanasi, many are used for bathing, while others serve a more intense purpose. The main burning ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, operates day and night, cremating up to 200 people daily.
Experiencing Varanasi can evoke powerful emotions as one witnesses rituals that connect deeply with the cycle of life and death. Nightly ceremonies, where priests lead the ganga aarti, create a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws many to the river’s edge.
Learn and Grow in Varanasi
Varanasi is also an academic hub, offering opportunities to learn new skills. You can explore courses in Hindu mythology, Indian astrology, photography, and even yoga. The shaded campus of Benares Hindu University adds to the educational atmosphere, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in diverse subjects.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Experience
Ultimately, Varanasi is the embodiment of India’s spiritual heart. Though it lacks the wellness retreats and adventure sports found in Rishikesh, the experience one gains from the deep cultural encounters and connections in Varanasi often proves transformative. Few visitors leave this city unchanged, cherishing the impact it leaves long after their journey ends.
