The yoga and adventure sports Mecca of India, Rishikesh, is bustling throughout the year with both national and international tourists, yet it is the winter season when people flock in its narrow alleys, looking for peace and serenity. While some stay throughout, heralding a newer year, for others it’s a week-long affair in lieu to find deeper meaning to life. Rishikesh holds a special place in people’s hearts as it is teeming with an inimitable charm that lingers on.

The quaint town has a lot to give apart from the atonement of sins in the hallowed waters of the Ganga. Some say the air in December has a bite to it but for most, it resembles a beautiful serenade to that lost lover of life. Although it certainly is a month of snow and slush, the town rouses up in spirit as unsaid secrets of mysticism and adventure wait for those who search for that zest in life. Be in terms of romance, adventure or an outlet to connect with the spiritual sense, Rishikesh holds great promise.

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December stands witness to the end of humidity and downpours while the biting cold of the Himalayan winters play hide and seek; making it the perfect weather to be surrounded by the mountains. Those “mountains are calling” slogans fit perfectly during this time as the ancient sentinels embrace one with pleasantness. That said one should be prepared for a chilly nip as evening descends. This makes it perfect for those bonfire nights that you have envisioned, strumming the guitar by the banks of the vibrant Ganga. The pious cleanliness that comes post-monsoon makes it just-right to walk barefoot on the lush expanse of grass.

The pleasant weather attracts an influx of visitors from the European continent, all looking for a slice of spirituality. The concept of nirvana has recently formed a dear part of one’s existence and the West has warmed up to this sense of spiritual oneness. Rishikesh forms the pinnacle for a soul seeking journey as people go out of their way to experience a metamorphosis of their older selves. This, then, becomes a spectacular confluence of coming across like-minded people from all over the globe as you wander in search of purpose through the winding lanes of Rishikesh. They provide a perfect platform to learn and unlearn and create an existence like none other. The chilly winter cleanses the soul, strengthens the core for a truly out-of-the-body awakening! They say extreme environment acts as a catalyst for spiritual arousal, making winters at Rishikesh a favourable development for the so inclined.

The days during winter are also great for travel bugs who have kept a visit to Rishikesh as a venereal part of their bucket list. Exciting excursions and activities in and around the town, which were earlier halted, open up during these times. Lovers of trekking can opt from the choicest big or small treks in the Himalayas — one be assured that the climate will prove to be an enabler as one climbs through the curvy paths of the mountain. For those seeking the thrill of being Columbus, grab a Scooty and enjoy chasing the wind as you traverse your way through all those winding lanes that Rishikesh is famous for. Romance throbs in the soul of the town and couples are bound to make memories of a lifetime by cosying up near the fire and getting lost in the quaint lanes. For foodies, rejoice as the choosiest Lebanese and Iranian cuisine tantalise, as well as the Indian dhaba cuisine with the intense “pahadi” touch tease the taste buds. A special mention should be given to the variety of cultural events that would be bringing every street to life.

Yet more than what has been mentioned already, it’s the adventure seekers who would enjoy the vivacity of this month. Do you know that fall is the prime month for adventure sports such as kayaking, hang gliding and the most majestic of all sports — Bungee Jumping? Imagine taking the leap of faith as you hang upside down in the chilly December air under the winter sky. Bungee Jumping amid the gorgeous landscape of Rishikesh is therapeutic for the fatigued, worn out soul, and December is a darling for adventure sports enthusiasts.

A visit to the Rishikesh during winter would colour your life in ways that you have never imagined. As the rest of the world shivers in the cold, you would come back rejuvenated and refreshed, ready to take on life.

The writer is director, business development, Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh