Strangely, the spiritual importance of Triveni Ghat is underrated amongst visitors. Many do not seem to have the area of Triveni Ghat on their radar but rather focus on Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Over the years I have found a lot of treasures in the old part of Rishikesh. Amazing buildings and original sights that carry the vibes and wisdom of ancient times.
One such gem is Rishikund. Together with its neighbouring Raghunath Mandir both are one of the most ancient and significant places in town.
The actual temple was damaged during an earthquake in 1893, and later rebuilt. Speaking to the resident pujari and local people, it becomes clear that there exist many myths and stories about the pond.
It is believed that the legendary rivers Yamuna and Saraswati join Ganga here, hence the name at Triveni (tri = three, veni = flow). Geographically, Yamuna meets Ganga in Allahabad (one of the sacred Kumb Mela spots), but metaphysically speaking, the seers found its location here.
Apparently, during the ancient era, Rishikund was a havan kund and fireplace. It was here that the great sages performed Yagna to appease Goddess Yamuna. The holy river eventually appeared and stayed in the kund ever since.
Another saga reports, that once upon a time, the people of Rishikesh would take water from Ganga to fill this Kund. Upon letting the water rest in the sun for some time, it would become warm and more inviting than the cold water flowing in the actual riverbed. People would then use this kund to bathe.
While Rishikund was used by many great sages to perform ablutions, before heading deeper into the Himalayas.
It is also believed that Lord Rama took bath in this pond during his exile. According to legends, it was here that Lord Rama did penance for killing Ravana.
Henceforth, this beautiful temple of Raghunath is primarily dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita Devi. In one temple wing a special consideration is made to Maha Lakshmi and Lord Narayana. Remember, that Lord Rama was the incarnation of God Vishnu and Ma Sita the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.
As per Hindu epics and Puranas, this place was visited also by Lord Krishna when he got hurt by the arrow of a hunter. We could not find any further references though.
Visit Rishikund on a sunny, balmy afternoon. Avoid Saturdays as Triveni Ghat tends to be very crowded then. You may also keep in mind that since time immemorial, every evening, the famous light ceremony "Ganga Aarti" gets performed on the Ghat. Not to be missed when you're there.
Address:
Rishikund & Raghunath Mandir
Mayakund,
Triveni Ghat
Rishikesh
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