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/
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