Gangotri To Rishikesh

We left Gangotri at around 7:30AM. On our way, we stopped at an apple orchard and bought some apples. We were also allowed to pluck a few from the tree and taste some fresh apples. 

We reached Dehradun by 7PM. Divyesh and I took a taxi to Rishikesh. We had booked a hostel on the way to Laxman jhula. We unpacked and headed to have dinner at our favourite cafe - Tattv. The avocado burger that I had there was delicious. 

Next morning, I went to Sai ghat - My favourite place in Rishikesh. It was peaceful as there were not many people around. 

On my way back, I stopped at a tea stall and had some tasty tea with Bun Maska. I visited the same guy every morning and by the time I left he knew what to prepare for me even before I could order. I like building such association when I travel. 

For breakfast, we tried South Indian food at Anna’s mess. It was good. One of the days, I took an auto till Ram Jhula and crossed the river to reach the other side. I bought a woollen shawl at Tribes India store. I then had Hummus and pita bread for lunch at Shivani’s cafe. The ambience there was good and the food was descent. 

In the evening, Divyesh and I went to see Aarathi at Ram Jhula. Back in 2021, there was only one Aarathi at Parmarth. Now, there are many such prayers happening. Even Sai ghat which never had such events has a few. Random poojaris would come and setup Aarathi and soon a crowd of tourists would gather. It is becoming a business. We are ruining the peaceful setting of these places in the name of worshiping the river. I wish people could care more about keeping it clean and respecting the river just for just what it is.

One night, Divyesh and I went to a restaurant because there was live music there. A young boy was singing Bollywood songs. He has a great voice and sang soulfully. While having our dinner, we stayed there and enjoyed the music. 

I enjoy being in Rishikesh. It is one of my most favourite places in the north. I like it when the tourists have gone back and the place is not very crowded. The early mornings and the late evenings are the best here. I hope that they do not over commercialise this place and ruin its beauty. This was a perfect end to my trip.