Rishikesh, also spelt as Hrishikesh, is a city governed by Rishikesh Municipal Corporation (since October 2017), and a tehsil in Dehradun district of the Indian state Uttarakhand. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, it is known as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas" and "Yoga Capital of the World". It lies  21 km (13 mi) north of the city Haridwar and 45 km (28 mi) southeast of the state capital Dehradun. As of 2021, Rishikesh tehsil has a total population of 322,825; this figure includes 93 surrounding villages as well as the city. It is the seventh most populated city in the state of Uttarakhand. It is known as the pilgrimage town and regarded as one of the holiest places for Hindus. Hindu sages and saints have visited Rishikesh since  ancient times to meditate in search of higher knowledge.In September 2015, the Union tourism minister Mahesh Sharma announced that Rishikesh and Haridwar will be the first in India to be given the title of "twin national heritage cities". Due to the religious significance of the place, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited in Rishikesh. The city has hosted the annual International Yoga Festival on the first week of March since 1989.

 The festival attracts around 35,000 visitors.
Rishikesh is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World", with yoga being a major tourist attraction. It has numerous ashrams and temples open to tourists, including Ram Jhula which connects Rishikesh to Haridwar on its southern side across the river Ganges via Lakshman Jhula bridge. The city is also known for its proximity to nature and various outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking etc., are popular among tourists visiting Rishikesh in winter season from November till March every year.

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