As a center of spirituality, Hindu teachings and wisdom resonate throughout Rishikesh. Gurus and babas line the streets, even on the remotest, loneliest stretches.

Most of the town’s roads trace the turquoise Ganges River’s path, the holy river that carries the prayers of Hindu faithful from the Himalayan peaks to the Indian subcontinent.

Rishikesh’s spiritual energy is mellow and warm, unlike other pilgrimage towns (such as Varanasi) where frantic devotion overwhelms the senses.

Check out photos of Rishikesh’s mellow mood below.