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If you are putting together a plan or blog post about the side of Rishikesh Vashishta Gufa (Vashishta Cave) is a great place to feature.
While the town center of Rishikesh has lots of cafes and ashram bells this ancient cave offers silence that hits you the moment you step inside. Here is a guide to its history, distance and visitor guidelines.
1. The. Mythology
The Legend: According to Hindu mythology Vashishta Gufa is the cave where Sage Vashishta. One of the seven great Vedic sages and the spiritual guru of Lord Rama. Came to meditate. He was heartbroken after losing his children. Wanted to end his life in the River Ganges.. Goddess Ganga did not want him to. So he settled into this cave beside the river for meditation with his wife, Arundhati.
The Ashram: For centuries the cave was a place for yogis. In 1930 a saint named Swami Purushottamanand Ji arrived loved the peace. Established the Swami Purushottamanand Ashram. The ashrams monks still keep the cave clean and peaceful.
2. Distance from Key Locations
Vashishta Gufa is located on the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway (NH-58) near Gular Village.
From Tapovan: 17 km (35 to 45 minutes by road).
From Laxman Jhula / Ram Jhula: 22 to 25 km (50 minutes).
The Drive: The drive is great. You go up the mountain road with the Ganges river on your right. Local jeeps or buses to Shivpuri, Byasi or Devprayag pass by the entrance.
3. What to Expect Inside
The Descent: You walk down 200 steps to the cave.
Inside the Cave: The cave is long, cool and dark lit by an oil lamp. The floor has mats for visitors to sit and meditate.
The Atmosphere: The air has a smell from camphor and incense. There is a Shivling* at the end where people pray.
Arundhati Cave: There is a cave named after Arundhati just as peaceful.
The River Beach: The path opens up to a empty river beach.
4. Visitor. Timings
Timings: The cave is open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee: Free.
No Photography: No. Videos, inside the cave.
Dress Code: Dress modestly cover shoulders and knees. Leave footwear outside.
Maintain Silence: Be quiet and do not disturb others.
