About Vashistha Cave
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh railway station, 22 km away.
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, 38 km away.
Nearest Bus Stop: Rishikesh bus station, 21 km away.
Located in Rishikesh on the Badrinath Road, Vashistha Cave, or Vashistha Gufa, is a serene and sacred site where the great Sage Vashistha is believed to have meditated. Surrounded by natural tranquility, the cave draws seekers in search of silence and deep spiritual connection. Inside, a Shivlinga adds to the divine presence, while the cave floor is lined with white mats, accommodating around 12 people at a time. The gentle aroma of burning oil lamps and incense sticks fills the air, making it an ideal sanctuary for peaceful meditation.
In 1930, Swami Purshottamanand took the initiative to develop and preserve the area, establishing an ashram near the cave. Today, the Swami Purshottamanand Society continues to maintain both the cave and the ashram, welcoming visitors from around the world to experience its calm and meditative energy. Vashistha Cave is often included in Rishikesh tour packages, especially for those seeking spiritual retreats and peaceful nature escapes.
Vashistha Cave Highlights
• Discover the serene and ancient Vashishta Cave, a sacred site for meditation, tucked away in the hills of Rishikesh.
• Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance, where sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated, offering a spiritual escape from the bustling world.
• Admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and river, enhancing the spiritual experience of this sacred destination.
How To Reach Vashistha Cave
By road- The Vashistha Cave is located around 22 km from the Rishikesh city center and can be reached in approximately 47 minutes via NH 7 Route.
Best Time To Visit Vashistha Cave
Peak Season (October to February):
- Weather insights- Pleasant weather, clear skies, temperatures between 8°C and 34°C.
- Things to do- Explore the cave, unwind with yoga and meditation.
Moderate Season (March to May):
- Weather insights- Hot and humid, temperatures between 24°C and 36°C.
- Things to do- Discover the cave, relax through yoga and meditation.
Low Season (June to September):
- Weather insights- Moderate rainfall, potentially humid with temperatures between 24°C and 35°C.
- Things to do- Explore the cave, practice yoga and meditation.
Vashistha Cave Other Essential Information
Know before you go to Vashistha Cave:
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful and quiet experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the path is rocky and uneven.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the visit.
- Dress modestly, as it is a place of spiritual significance.
Explore the Cave
The sacred Vashistha Cave is steeped in mythology and spiritual legacy. Believed to be the meditation site of Sage Vashistha, a revered Saptarishi and son of Lord Brahma, the cave dates back thousands of years. Its simple yet powerful architecture and naturally formed stone chamber showcases stillness and sanctity. Inside, a Shivlinga rests at the heart of the cave, radiating divine energy.
Practice meditation
Vashistha Cave offers a deeply spiritual environment ideal for meditation. Surrounded by nature and steeped in spiritual energy, the cave’s peaceful ambiance makes it a favourite among meditators and yogis. The quiet, dimly lit interior lined with white mats, filled with the subtle aroma of incense sticks and burning oil creates a perfect ambiance for introspection and inner stillness.
Tourism Board Alliances
Vashistha Cave FAQs
What is the significance of Vashishta Cave?
Vashishta Cave near Rishikesh is a revered spiritual site believed to be where Sage Vashistha, one of the Saptarishis, meditated. Surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility, it attracts pilgrims and spiritual seekers in search of peace, introspection, and deeper meditation experiences.
What is the history of Vashitha Cave?
According to Hindu mythology, after losing his children, Sage Vashistha attempted to end his life in the Ganga, but Goddess Ganga intervened and saved him. Drawn by the beauty and serenity of the place, Sage Vashistha and his wife decided to stay there. He meditated in a cave for many years, and over time, an ashram developed around it. In 1930, Swami Purshottamanand took charge of maintaining the ashram and the cave, and it continues to be managed by the Swami Purshottamanand Society today.
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