Vashishta Gufa, or Vashishta Cave, is an ancient cave located on the Uttarakhand-Rishikesh route, 6 km from Shivpuri and 22 km from Rishikesh. Situated on the banks of the Ganga River, it is a popular destination for meditation enthusiasts. It is believed that the renowned sage Vashishta meditated in this cave. Vashishta was a tutor to Lord Rama and one of the seven great sages, or Saptarishis. According to Hindu legend, Sage Vashishta intended to drown himself in the Ganga River after his children’s deaths, but Goddess Ganga prevented him. Vashishta’s wife, Arundhati, chose to stay in the area as she found it pleasant. The cave is said to have been the site of Sage Vashishta’s extended meditation sessions.
History
Vashishta was one of the seven great sages (Saptarishis) in Hindu mythology and is considered Lord Rama’s tutor. He was the son of Lord Brahma. After the death of his children, Vashishta attempted to end his life in the Ganga River, but Goddess Ganga stopped him. To overcome their grief, Sage Vashishta and his wife Arundhati meditated at this location for many years. A modest hermitage eventually developed near the cave, which is now known as Swami Purushottamanand Ashram. The famous Hindu saint Shri Swami Purushottamanand Ji visited the site in 1928 and 1961.
Timings of Vashishta Gufa
The cave is open for visitors every day from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. It remains closed from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The Price of the Vashishta Gufa Ticket
Entry to Vashishta Gufa is free of cost.
Some Tips
- It is recommended to bring any necessary medications, as the ashram is not close to any pharmacies.
- There is no gas station near the ashram, so it’s best to refuel in Shivpuri.
- Bring enough cash, as the ashram does not have an ATM. The nearest ATMs are in Tapovan and Rishikesh.
- Inside the cave, sit peacefully and meditate.
- You can relax on the beach by the river outside the ashram complex.
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The Best Time to Visit
Vashishta Gufa can be visited year-round due to its pleasant weather. However, the ideal time to visit is between February and June and September and December.
How to Reach
By Train: The nearest train station is Rishikesh Railway Station. Trains do not stop directly at Vashishta Gufa. To reach the destination, you can get off at Rishikesh Railway Station and take a bus, a local boat, or a cab.
By Road: The nearest bus stop is at Rishikesh Bus Stand. The city and its surroundings are well connected by road, with transportation options including automobiles and rickshaws.
Nearest Places to Visit
- The Beatles Ashram: Formerly known as Chaurasi Kutiya, this ashram is located in the Uttarakhand foothills, east of the Ganges River, opposite the Muni ki Reti area of Rishikesh. The Beatles stayed here in 1968, which brought significant media attention and fame to the site.
- Triveni Ghat: This is the largest ghat in Rishikesh, situated on the banks of the holy Ganga River. The waters are believed to purify the soul and provide moksha. Thousands of people visit daily for the Mahaarti ceremony and to bathe.
- Ram Jhula: An iron suspension bridge located 3 kilometers north of Rishikesh, spanning the Ganga River. It connects Savargashram and Sivananda Ashram and is known for its natural beauty.
- The Ganga Beach: Located on Laxman Jhula Road, this beach is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the sunset. It offers a variety of local foods along the beach.
- Neer Ghattu Waterfall: A significant waterfall located about 2.5 km from Tapovan, Rishikesh. Visitors must hike up a hill for one kilometer to reach it.
FAQs on Vashishta Gufa (Cave)
Which is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Vashishta Gufa is between February and June and September and December, although it is open all year round.
How to reach by train?
Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest train station. To reach Vashishta Gufa, you can take a bus, a local boat, or a cab from the station.
