Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat Rishikesh is the confluence of three holy Rivers, the Ganga, the Yamuna and the Saraswati. The revered bathing spot is said to be holiest places in the town snuggled in the lap of Himalayas along the River Ganges.
According to belief, bathing or taking a dip in waters of Triveni Ghat washes away all the sins and purifies the soul. The divine source is said to grant salvation, a release from all the circle of life and death. Pilgrims from all over the world bathe in the glacial waters throughout the year.
The Triveni Ghat is the site where daily “Maha Aarti” both in the morning and evening are performed. Thousands of pilgrims gather at the Ghat to witness the ceremony. The fragrance of flowers, the chant of hymns and the twinkling lights creates a divine ambiance. The melody of drums, bells and mystical chants makes an otherworldly connection. Devotees release small oil lamps placed on leaf boats in the water. Holy ceremonies like 'Pindha Shraddha' for the salvation of ancestors are also done at Triveni Ghat.
It is very relaxing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river. Enjoy the sunset or sunrise view. Feed the fishes or just absorb the ambiance, it is wonderful. A chaotic market is located at the ghat. From religious objects to things of daily use, you can find everything here.
History of Triveni Ghat
The name Triveni means three and that comes from the fact that it is the confluence of three major rivers of India namely Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is said that a dip can relieve a human from all his sins and takes him/her towards purity of mind and soul. Devotees offer many things here, especially in the morning like milk and food for fish. Triveni Ghat holds an important place in Hindu Mythology and finds its mention even in the great tales of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
It is said that Lord Krishna came to the Ghat when he was hit by an arrow shot by Jara, a hunter. The famous Krishna Chatri is also constructed here because of the Lord's visit.The rivers also have their part to play in the rich history of the Ghat. The confluence of the rivers brings together this magnanimous Ghat.
The Ganges is always considered holy mainly because it is considered to ward off evils and sins that the human has done in his entire life. The Ghat is also considered as the cremation place of Lord Krishna. Every Ghat which marks the meeting of rivers holds importance in their own right.
How to Reach Triveni Ghat
By air: The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is about 35 km away from Triveni Ghat. From the airport, one can hire a cab or taxi to reach the Ghat. There are direct flights from Delhi and Lucknow regularly.
By train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar which is 25 km from Rishikesh. It is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi. You will find conveyance from the station easily either by bus, auto-rickshaws and even cabs.
By road: One can easily find several buses from Delhi and Haridwar which will bring you directly here.