Tuesday 26 July 2016

Maa Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.


Aarti means the ritual that removes darkness. Ganga Aarti is the light offerings to the Goddess Ganga and the River Ganga. Devotees arrived to participate in the celebration of light.The pandit (priest) lifting the lamp facing towards Ganga. He is circling the lamp around in a clockwise manner
.Chanting mantra in praise of Goddess Ganga:
  Glory, glory, all glory to you, O sanctifier of the world; glory to you, O Ganga, the sacred river of the gods. Victory to you, O dweller among Siva's locks ! Your bouncing and rippling waves are incomparably beautiful.The celebration uplifts the spirits. The lamp is celebrated as the mark of victory of good over evil.

O Ganga, your vehicle, the immaculate and sacred crocodile, looks elegant and he who beholds the urn filled with ambrosia in your hand is at once spell-bound. The gold ornaments you are wearing are all studded with precious gems and the diamond necklace on your bosom is absolutely spotless (without any trace of impurity).

Ganesa, Lord of Siva’s faithful follower, is said to be foremost among all the adorable gods, but bathing in the Ganga takes precedence over him.O Goddess, you dwell in Brahma’s kamandalu, the pot made of earth or wood which he carries; but you came down to worship the lotus feet of Visnu, the feet that bestow happiness on all. 

 You absolved all the sixty thousand sons of Sagara of their sins and made Gangasagara the place of pilgrimage.Having enjoyed all the blessings of life he attains to the supreme state and is delivered from the cycle of birth and death. Blessed are you, O Mother, the celestial stream, the source of all happiness; blessed, all blessed is the confluence of the three rivers, triveni, at Prayaga, the holiest of the holy.

 He who regularly remembers the holy stream and observes the stringent rules of such a worship attains to the status of a noble person even if he is wicked. After the Aarti is over, a small boat with an earthen oil lamp (diya) candle, ghee and flowers that's floated down the river. It used for paying respect to Ganga and get blessings from the Goddess Ganga.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/


Sunday 24 July 2016

Bharat Mandir is famous temple in Rishikesh..


Bharat Mandir built around the 12th century by Adiguru Shankracharya, is the oldest temple situated in the heart of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. This beautiful temple has an idyllic location on the banks of the river Ganga. Although the original temple was completely destroyed in 1398 A.D. by Tamur Lane, it was rebuilt by the devotees. This centuries old temple is mentioned even in the ancient records of 'Kedarkhand'. The temple deity, Lord Vishnu, which is placed in the inner sanctum of the temple is carved out of a single black stone called Saligram. Also, it is interesting to note that the idol installed here has a distinctly Himalayan cast of features. A magnificent sacred Shree Yanthra is placed at the inner canopy of the temple. Recent archaeological excavations carried out in the premises of the temple have exhumed great number of old statues, coins, pots and other artefacts of historical importance. The popular, colourful spring festival of 'Basant Panchami' is also celebrated here.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/

The Iconic Beatles Ashram In Rishikesh..


The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram is located in a beautiful spot within the Rajaji National Park with the river Ganga flowing quietly behind it. It got the world's attention when it briefly housed the band members of the legendary English rock band The Beatles in 1968. In mid February, 1968, The Beatles were in Rishikesh, India, studying Transcendental Meditation at the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. George would celebrate his 25th birthday there. Apart from meditating, the band wrote many songs during this period - one of the most productive of their career.
"I think by 1968 we were all a bit exhausted, spiritually. We'd been The Beatles, which was marvellous. We'd tried for it not to go to our heads and we were doing quite well - we weren't getting too spaced out or big-headed - but I think generally there was a feeling of: 'Yeah, well, it's great to be famous, it's great to be rich - but what's it all for?'" - Paul, from The Beatles Anthology.The ashram in Rishikesh where the Beatles meditated and composed some of the most popular songs has opened for public visit. A new tourist attraction in Uttarakhand.
 But with time everyone forgot that, and the ashram turned into a ruin after it was abandoned in 1997.After being ignored for years, Uttarakhand's Forest Department has finally converted the ashram into an eco-friendly tourism destination. Nature walks, bird watching, and a visit to the ashram are on offer for an entry fee of Rs 150 for Indian nationals, and Rs 600 for foreigners. 
You can also hire a guide for the Beatle Ashram from Krishna Holidays in Rishikesh..

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/



Saturday 23 July 2016

Rainy Weather at the Kunjapuri Temple in Rishikesh..




Kunjapuri Devi Temple is located on a hillock around 24 km away from Rishikesh. This temple is dedicated to one of the thirteen most important goddesses of Shivalik range. The temple is well-known among the travellers as it gives a beautiful view of the sunrise and the sunset from the greater Himalayan peaks. Snow ranges and peaks of Garhwal Himalayas like Swarga Rohini, Gangotri, Banderpunch and Chaukhamba, can also be seen from this temple.
Kunjapuri Devi temple is considered as one of the 52 Shaktipeeth of our divine Mother. Shakti denotes power. To understand the meaning and significance of Shaktipeeth, let us go back to our Puranas (Hindu scriptures).
Goddess Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva. In her previous birth, Goddess Parvati was known as Sati. She had married the Lord but her father King Daksha was not too pleased. He had organized a Yagna, a spiritual gathering where offerings are made to Agni Dev (Fire God). He had purposely not invited his daughter and her husband. When Sati came to know of this, she was furious and decided to go uninvited. Lord Shiva tried to persuade her to drop this idea but she was relentless.
King Daksha gave his reasons to Sati which was nothing but public humiliation of her husband. Angered by this, Sati jumped into the sacrificial fire and ended her life. Lord Shiva was torn apart. He destroyed and created havoc at the Yagna. Then carried the remains of Sati’s body on his shoulder and danced the dance of destruction-Tandav which would eventually destroy the Universe. While other versions state that in grief, the Lord carried her body on his shoulders and walked aimlessly in grief. He refused to complete the final rites.
Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe felt that if Sati’s body did not receive proper cremation according to the Hindu Shastra’s then she could not take rebirth as Goddess Parvati. While Lord Vishnu was concerned that Lord Shiva’s grief would slowly cause the destruction of the Universe. They could not control or face Lord Shiva’s anger so Lord Vishnu took his Sudarshan Chakra (Disc) and cut the body into pieces. As Lord Shiva traveled her body part fell and last rites were done by the gods. The places where divine Mother’s body parts fell is known as Shaktipeeth. Temples have been built around it and worshipped daily. People travel across continents to seek blessings of Shakti.We have been very fortunate to seek blessings from one such Shaktipeeth located in Rishikesh where divine Mother’s chest had fallen.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/

Thursday 21 July 2016

History of Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh..


Neelkanth Temple is one of the most revered holy shrines of the Hindus. Located on a hill above Swarg Ashram in Haridwar, Neelkanth Temple is easily accessible from here. The temple lies at a comfortable distance of 12 kms and can also be reached from Rishikesh. The way to this temple is surrounded by lush green hills and rivers, providing some of the most beautiful sights, one has ever seen. Many pilgrims come to this temple by trekking, which takes around 4 hours from Rishikesh which is provided by Krishna Holidays in Rishikesh.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is believed to be the most complex Gods of the Hindu pantheon. The establishment of this temple has a legend behind it. According to the mythological stories, Lord Shiva drank the poison that appeared from the 'Sagar Manthan' (churning of ocean). This place is said to have been the same place, where Lord Shiva drank the poison. On drinking the poison, his throat turned blue and from that time onwards, Lord Shiva came to be known as 'Neelkantha' (One having blue throat).
Encircled by the hills of Manikoot, Vishnukoot and Brahmakoot, Neelkantha Temple is to be found at a height of 1330 meters. The way to this shrine is quite a thrilling one. The steep and narrow roads, taking above the hill, where river is flowing on one side, send chills down to the spine. Positioned at the union of Madhumati and Pankaja rivers, Neelkantha Temple is placed between the picturesque hills of Uttaranchal.
The temple complex has also got one natural spring where devotees usually take a holy bath. The main shrine of the temple comprises a Shiva lingam (phallic form of Lord Shiva). The spiritual aura of the temple creates a devotional feeling in the hearts of people. People make an offering of coconut, flowers, milk, honey, fruits and water to the Lord. Subsequently, devotees get 'Parshad' of vibhuti, chandan and other things from the shrine.
The temple observes two fairs that held annually on the occasion of Shivratri (Feb-Mar) and Shivratri of Shravan (July-Aug). At that time, the temple is thronged by thousands of pilgrims. This place is also loved by tourists for its picturesque beauty. Neelkanth Temple is a holy place that provides a celestial affection to the people, who visit the shrine with a devoted heart.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/


Facts about Vashishta Cave in Rishikesh..



Vashishta and Arundathi Gufa, very peaceful retreat around 25km from Rishikesh, along the Badrinath road. A place where Sage Vashishta, son of Lord Brahma, one of the Sapta Rishis, meditated. His wife, Arundhati, meditated in a cave not far from his.
Vashishta Gufa, situated on the banks of the Ganga River, is one of the most beautiful places of meditation in Rishikesh. This cave was where Vashishta- Lord Brahma's manas putra meditated. He was also among the seven great sages (Saptarishis) and the guru of Lord Ram. According to popular beliefs, after the death of his children, Vashishta Muni came here to commit suicide. However, the holy Ganga River failed his attempt. Arundhati, Vashishta's wife, liked the environs and decided to stay here.Sage Vashistha had possession of the divine cow Nandini. Nandini was daughter of Kamdhenu. Nandini has power to produce food instantly for lots of people. Mitra Varuna & Urvasi was parents of Vashistha. Vashistha was one of the authors of ancient Indian scripture Rigveda. Vashistha was Guru (Teacher) of Lord Ram & he was also Rajpurohit (Chief priest) of Ikshwaku family (Surya Vansh).
In the mid 20th century, Swami Purshottamanand came to this site and maintained it. At present, the Swami Purshottamanand Trust manages this cave. The gufa also houses a small Shiva linga, which is considered sacred. To reach this cave, one has to climb a flight of around 200 steps.
The Vasishta Gufa is a hugely popular place for devotees who are interested in the art of meditation. Undoubtedly, a must visit place for tourists travelling to Rishikesh.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/

Wednesday 20 July 2016

Beautiful View of the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh/ By Krishna Holidays



Tri means three and veni means confluence. Hence Triveni means confluence of the three. This place is believed to be the confluence of the Ganges, the Yamuna and legendry Saraswati river. Triveni Ghat holds a spritual value and is considered a great place for pilgrimage.
Triveni Ghat is a scared Ghat and bathing spot on the right bank of river Ganges, where devotees take a holy dip and offer their heartful prayers.
The aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat takes place daily at dusk. An Awe-inspiring sight, when flame of belief illuminates the entire environment and the mind and body rejuvenated by the hymns recited in praise of the Ganges. Devotees release flower-filled leaf boats carrying tiny oil lamps and let them float out on the river, which is the ceremony of worship, rememberance and hope.
One must take a boat ride in Ganges to get the joy of nature including gushing waters, mountain ranges, forest and wild life.
Triveni Ghat Ganga aarti is performed on the behest of Ganga Seva Samiti, Rishikesh. Ganga Seva Samiti manages Cleanliness, Lighting , celebration of Festivals, Ambulance Service and Toilets at triveni ghat.
Ganga Arti Timing depends on sunset (सुर्यास्त), in peak winter Time is 5:30PM whearas in peak summer it is 7:30PM.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/

Monday 18 July 2016

Ram jhula in Rishikesh





 Ram Jhula in Rishikesh  is an iron suspension bridge situated at Muni Ki Reti in Tehri Garhwal disctrict in Indian state of Uttarakhand. Built in the year 1986, over river Ganges to cross the river and is a landmark of Rishikesh.
Ram jhula is located 3 kilometres north of Rishikesh at Muni Ki Reti. There are some of the Hindu ashrams and religious centers like "Gita Bhawan", and "Swargashram" located here.It is also a connecting bridge between Swargashram, Gita Bhawan and other temples with Sivananda Ashram. Though similar in design, this bridge is bigger than Lakshman Jhula. This bridge constructed with the span of 750 feet. Cars and tuk tuks are not allowed to cross the Jhulas, though motorcycles, tourists, monkeys and cows often bring pedestrian traffic to a standstill. At any given time, hundreds of people are pushing their way across; and the bridges sway accordingly.
On one occasion, the crowds and high winds coming off the Himilayas made the Ram Jhula bounce up and down in the air. In monsoon the view of Ram Jhula and the mountains is cover with the white clouds and you see the nature beauty of the Rishikesh.
After 3 days of raining, Now the weather of early Morning at the Ram Jhula..
More info:http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html

Foggy weather at the Lakshman Jhula..


Lakshman Jhula, the famous hanging bridge across Ganga, is about 3 km from the main township of Rishikesh. It is 450 feet long and is situated at a height of 70 feet from the river. As per mythological tales, once Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, crossed river Ganga at the same site where the bridge now stands. At that time, there was only a suspension bridge, made of jute. After this incident, the bridge came to be known as ‘Lakshman Jhula’. With time, the jute bridge eroded and a new iron bridge was built along the same path in 1929. 
Lakshman Jhula is actually an adjoining bridge across the Ganga, along the old route to the holy shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The jhula has now become one of the most visited tourist spot of Rishikesh, not simply because of its ancient origin and religious sanctity, but also because of the grand temples and wonderful local market have come to be developed around it. A thirteen storey temple, called Terah Manzil, near the Lakshman Jhula is very popular amongst visitors. The top floor of this temple gives a wonderful view of the surroundings.
Another temple around the bridge is the ‘Lakshman temple’, with Risha Kund. According to locals, Lord Ram and Lakshman took bath in the kund, after killing Ravana, to get rid of their sins. The entire area around the Lakshman Jhula gives a mystic, holy and serene feeling. As you see people lost in the religious traditions, the entire area gets submerged in enchanting mantras and shlokas from the temples. The market around Lakshman Jhula is famous for wooden goods, Rudraksha, Idols of Gods and Goddesses, holy books, gems, local jewelries, clothes and excellent street food.

More Info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html


Saturday 9 July 2016

The Spiritual Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh : Truly Incredible!

The very popular Ganga Aarti is performed every evening at the Triveni Ghat, on the banks of the Ganga River in Rishikesh. The lightning of the lamps along with the recitation of sacred chants provide an unforgettable spiritual experience for the visitors. As the river Ganga is believed to have powers to remove the pains and sufferings of people, thousands of devotees from varied ethnic backgrounds assemble at the ashram for the holy ritual. The ritual is more relaxed and intimate when compared to the aartis at Varanasi and Haridwar.
Unlike other ashrams and temples, the aarti is not performed by the pundits. It is instead performed by the residents of the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, especially children who study Vedas there. The ritual begins with singing of the devotional songs (bhajans) and prayers. Then, all the lamps in the ashram are lit with the aarti, as the final part of the entire ceremony.
The main reason for performing the aarti is to request God to shower his blessings on everyone. It is conducted to thank god for his kindness and love. The Ganga Aarti ceremony does not specify the name of any God. It is simply conducted to thank the divine entity which removes all the pain in our lives. The Aarti is performed daily so that visitors and devotees are relieved from their strains and normal stress of everyday life. The main aim of the event is to meet together in peace, reverence and joy.
Since the Ganga Aarti is open for everyone, make sure you arrive early to get a good view of the ceremony. Remember to remove your shoes and go barefoot for the ritual!

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html


Friday 8 July 2016

Bharat Mandir: One of India’s Oldest Temples in Rishikesh



Bharat Mandir, an imposing shrine located in the heart of the city Rishikesh was founded in the 12th century by Adiguru Shankaracharya. Located in the middle of Rishikesh, it is considered one of India’s oldest temples. Although the name of the temple is derived from Lord Ram’s brother, the primary deity worshiped is Lord Vishnu also known as the Preserver of the World.The other idols of Lord Shiva, the destroyer of the world can also be found here.
Shree Yanthra, that is considered sacred, can also be located within the inner canopy of the Bharat Mandir. It is believed that the temple that stands today is actually a renovated image of the original temple, which was destroyed by a bandit, Tamur.
You can locate this temple easily, as it is half a kilometre from Triveni Ghat, which is a popular river bank in Rishikesh. Lord Hrishikesh Bharatji’s idol can also be found in the Bharat Mandir. This idol was concealed in the Maya Kund area of the temple in order to save it from destruction by the Boddha people.
If you are visiting Rishikesh during the Basant Panchami, you can witness the procession of this idol. Every year, on this day, Lord Hrishikesh’s idol is carried out in a sacred procession, after which it is dipped in the holy water of the river Ganga. Thousands of devotees from all across the country come to visit this spectacle. Your pilgrimage to Rishikesh would be incomplete without a visit to the Bharat Mandir.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html

Thursday 7 July 2016

Some Facts About Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh..



When The Beatles chose the Mahesh Yogi ashram in Rishikesh as their retreat way back in 1968, little did they know that the place will end up for global travellers and those seeking meditation, as the 'Beatles Ashram'. While it remained a hotspot for many years, its neglect for the past two decades became a sore in the eyes of many, who blamed the management for its sorry state. However, when the ashram was re-opened on December 8, much to the delight of locals and Beatles' fans alike, it also marked the 35th death anniversary of the band's lead member John Lennon. For starters, it is the same place where the band spent three months, to learn transcendental meditation. Its renovation has made it all the more special for 'The Beatles' fan Mitriya who came from Russia to witness the iconic retreat location being converted into an eco-friendly tourist destination.
This is our state's treasure and its opening is an important landmark for us. We plan to include a yoga learning centre and meditation classes at a later stage. Our aim is to ensure that visitors don't simply come for The Beatles connection, but to learn the magic of nature, meditation and yoga.
This is also the place where the band, sitting on the banks of river Ganga, wrote 48 songs in just seven weeks, many of which made it to their famous White Album. Even though the ashram got a facelift, the artwork on the walls have been left untouched, which is also the biggest draw for tourists.
This temple of spirituality has been renovated and opened for public who see the Chaurasi Kuttiya as an epitome of yoga, spirituality and music.The location now offers nature trails with tickets ranging from Rs 150 for Indians to Rs 600 for foreigners. For those who wish to catch a glimpse of the location where their favourite band was regenerated, refreshed and found peace, all they have to pay is a nominal fee.
More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html

Wednesday 6 July 2016

A Morning view at Maa Kunjapuri Temple..


Kunjapuri temple is one of the must visit places for all travellers coming to Rishikesh not just because of its story related to gods and goddesses (it is counted among the 52 Shaktipeeths of the Goddess Shakti) but also for the panoramic view of Garhwal Himalayan peaks it has to offer.
Standing on the top of a hill at a height of 1676 meters, tourists have to climb more than 100 steps to reach the temple. Located at a distance of 29 km from Rishikesh.The Kunjapuri temple can be seen on the top of the hill from Rishikesh town. There are many local devotees, who start their new year visiting the temples to receive the blessings of Goddess. Every year a gang of bikers from Rishikesh, visit Kunjapuri temple on 1st January. From there, they continue their journey towards Surkanda Devi temple.
Kunjapuri Temple, standing at 5,400 ft in the foothills of the Himalayas, is one of the 52 most sacred temples to visit when worshiping the Goddess Durga. Visiting this temple at Sunrise offers epic views of the Sun coming up through the mountains. On a good, clear day one can even see snow-capped Himalayan peaks! This temple shares the story of Lord Shiva and the incarnation of Durga as Sati, and how her heart came to rest at this very place where the temple sits.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html





Tuesday 5 July 2016

Peaceful Place for mediation at the Vashishta Cave..



On the banks of holy river Ganga, away from the crowd of Rishikesh town, there is a very peaceful place known as Vashishta Gufa.Vashishta Gufa is located about 17 KM from Tapovan(Rishikesh) and 6 KM from Shivpuri on Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway. This ashram is located among the trees of Gular. There is a small village near the ashram known as ‘Gular village’. The ashram is located in a pristine and peaceful location surrounded by mountains.
According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vashishta was one of the seven great sages (i.e. Saptarishi). He was the son of Lord Brahma and is also known as the teacher of Lord Rama. After the death of his children, Vashishta was very upset and he decided to commit suicide in river Ganga. But the Goddess Ganga didn’t accept his plea of suicide. Then Sage Vashishta and his wife Arundhati meditated at this place for hundreds of years to overcome their sorrow. Over the years a small ashram was built near the cave. This ashram is known as Swami Purushottamanand ashram. There are some rooms built outside the cave area, where many sadhus have been living permanently.
The entrance of the cave has some light. But as you go deeper, it is pitch dark. The cave is properly maintained. It is very clean and the floor is strewn with white mats for about 12 people, which I was not expecting after looking at the outer area. At the end of the cave, there is a Shiv Linga and a flickering oil lamp. There is no external noise and the air inside the cave is very cool. The interior of the cave is filled with some aroma of burning oil and sticks. It is definitely a very nice place to meditate deeply.You may find a priest worshipping the Shiv Linga and some other tourists during daytime. You are supposed to sit quietly inside the cave.
Outside the ashram premises, you may relax on the beach near the river. There is also a small cave outside the ashram called “Arundhati Cave”. On the other side, you will see an iron bridge near the Gular village to cross the river.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html

Monday 4 July 2016

Evening time at the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh..



Triveni Ghat, which is a well known bathing ghat of Rishikesh, is a confluence of three sacred rivers that are Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The evening aarti, also known as the 'Maha Aarti', which takes place at this ghat, is the major attraction among the tourists. This aarti is accompanied by chantings of bhajan, beating drums, bells and diyas glowing all over the place. The devotees release small oil lamps placed on leaf boats in the water. These lamps floats down the river and provide a beautiful view. Ceremonies like 'Pindha Shraddha' in the name of ancestors are also done at Triveni Ghat.
Rivers play an important part in the Hindu mythology. Almost all the rivers starting from the holy Ganges to the mighty Brahmaputra has a story to tell. Triveni Ghat in Somnath is one such spot where three Rivers namely Hiran, Kapil and Saraswati meet with the Arabian Sea. The confluence of the three rivers or Sangam as it is referred to in Hindu religious terms is one of the most holy places in India. This is also the place where the chatri of the Lord Krishna is constructed. Krishna is said to have visited this holy spot after being hit by an arrow. The Ghat is considered to be the cremation ground of Lord Krishna.Triveni Ghat has a market also. You can get gems, precious and semi-precious stones, knickknacks, clothes, puja items, CDs and tapes. Also shops for religious goods, kullu topis, Nehru jackets, kurtas, salwar kameez and jewellery, bangles on the narrow streets. Pick up simple, painted Ganesh idols, gems, incense, rudraksh beads, religious books, paintings, Natarajas and statues of almost every deity in the Hindu pantheon. For food they have road side shops Ice creams Shops, Golgappa and sweets shops. For who like to read books they have a book stall you can find every kind of books here.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html

Sunday 3 July 2016

Foggy Weather at Ram Jhula in Rishikesh..



Ram Jhula is an iron suspension bridge situated at Muni Ki Reti in Tehri Garhwal disctrict in Indian state of Uttarakhand. Built in the year 1986, over river Ganges to cross the river and is a landmark of Rishikesh.
Ram jhula is located 3 kilometres north of Rishikesh at Muni Ki Reti. There are some of the Hindu ashrams and religious centers like "Gita Bhawan", and "Swargashram" located here.It is also a connecting bridge between Swargashram, Gita Bhawan and other temples with Sivananda Ashram. Though similar in design, this bridge is bigger than Lakshman Jhula. This bridge constructed with the span of 750 feet. Cars and tuk tuks are not allowed to cross the Jhulas, though motorcycles, tourists, monkeys and cows often bring pedestrian traffic to a standstill. At any given time, hundreds of people are pushing their way across; and the bridges sway accordingly.
On one occasion, the crowds and high winds coming off the Himilayas made the Ram Jhula bounce up and down in the air. In monsoon the view of Ram Jhula and the mountains is cover with the white clouds and you see the nature beauty of the Rishikesh.

More info: http://raftingcampingrishikesh.com/sightseeing-in-rishikesh.html