Rishikesh is a city located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, India. It is renowned as the 'Yoga Capital of the World' and holds significant spiritual importance. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the Ganges River, Rishikesh offers a serene environment for yoga, meditation, and spiritual retreats. ​ The city is also a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas and serves as a starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage. Adventure enthusiasts visit Rishikesh for activities like white-water rafting, trekking, and camping. ​ In 2000, Uttarakhand was carved out of the north-western districts of Uttar Pradesh, and Rishikesh became part of this new state.