Mythical Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh: Today Vashishta Cave Timings

Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh sits about 25km from Rishikesh, right beside the beautiful Ganga River. This peaceful place is perfect for those who love meditationyoga, and quiet time in nature.

The Sage Vashishta

The sage Vashishta was truly remarkable. He wrote an important ancient text called the “Vashistha Samhita.” The cave feels extremely peaceful, surrounded by beautiful Gular trees. It is the perfect place to relax, reflect on yourself, and feel close to something divine. The atmosphere makes it feel almost magical.

Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh India
Aundhati  Cave Rishikesh India

Vashistha Cave Rishikesh Timing Rishikeshg )

The Vashistha Cave Rishikesh Timing  has specific opening hours for visitors. It is open in two slots during the day:

  • Morning Slot: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM: Visitors can enter and explore the cave during this time.
  • Afternoon Slot: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM: The cave remains closed for two hours from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
  • After 3:00 PM, it reopens for visitors to continue their exploration and meditation.

However, please note that on some days, the cave may remain open all day long, meaning there is no closure during the afternoon hours.

Vashishta Cave Gufa Rishikesh: 

Vashishta Cave Gufa sits about 25km from Rishikesh, right beside the beautiful Ganga River. This peaceful place is perfect for those who love meditationyoga, and quiet time in nature.

Why Visit Vashishta Cave Gufa?

  • The cave is famous because Sage Vashishta, one of India’s seven great sages, meditated here for many years.
  • The air is full of peace and tranquility. You feel calm and focused as soon as you enter.
  • The cave is surrounded by lovely Gular trees and charming scenery—making it truly magical.

How to Get to Vashishta Cave Gufa

  • You can drive or hire a taxi from Rishikesh. The ride is about 25km and takes you through scenic Himalayan roads.
  • The location is easy to reach, and many visitors come for day trips to rest, reflect, and recharge their spirits.

Special Facts About Vashishta Cave

  • Sage Vashishta wrote an important old book called the “Vashistha Samhita.”
  • The cave itself is ancient and carries a deep spiritual energy.
  • People say meditating here helps you feel connected to something divine.

What to Expect Inside the Cave

  • The atmosphere is very quiet. You hear only the soft sounds of the river and forest.
  • It is a great spot to sit, close your eyes, and practice breathing or gentle yoga.
  • Many visitors say they feel peace, happiness, and strong positive energy inside the cave.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear simple, comfortable clothes.
  • Bring a small mat or shawl to sit on during meditation.
  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the calmest experience.
  • Respect the silence and keep the area clean.

Vashistha Cave, Rishikesh

Vashistha Cave, Rishikesh

Overview: Vashistha Cave Rishikesh

Inside the Cave

  • Long and Natural: Vashishta Gufa is a long, naturally formed cave. It is not fully lit, so visitors are advised to bring a torch for comfort and safety.
  • Shiva Linga and Diya: Deep inside, a small diya (oil lamp) glows softly, illuminating a sacred Shiva Linga. Here, you will often see people sitting in silent meditation.
  • Calm Space: The cave is rarely crowded. It is meant for silence, reflection, and spiritual rest.

Experience of Meditation

  • Simple Practice: Sit quietly for 10-15 minutes. The gentle darkness and mild echoes help focus your mind and refresh your thoughts.
  • Feel the Energy: Many describe an uplifting, peaceful energy that makes it easy to relax, let go of stress, and connect with yourself.

Practical Tips

  • Carry a flashlight/torch: The cave is dim inside.
  • Dress simply: Wear comfortable clothes, and bring a shawl or mat.
  • Arrive early: For the quietest experience, visit in the morning or late afternoon.
  • Keep it clean: Help preserve the cave’s beauty by not littering.
  • No shops nearby: Bring your own water or snacks.

Vashishta Gufa Beach Rishikesh

The area boasts lush greenery and a seemingly endless stretch of the Ganges, making it a beautiful landscape and an ideal photography spot . Visitors can find tranquility within the cool, quiet cave, or relax on the beautiful sandy beach along the river, enjoying the calm environment, the sound of flowing water, and the cool breeze .

It’s a peaceful hideout for meditation, offering a chance to connect with nature and find inner peace away from the city noise

Suggested Read – Kasar Devi Cave- is the best for meditation Why NASA marked it GPS 8?
The Roadside Gate to visit the cave
The Roadside Gate to visit the cave

How To Reach Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh

To reach Vashistha Cave in Rishikesh, you can follow these steps:

  1. Start by getting to Rishikesh: If you are coming from outside Rishikesh, you can reach the city by train, bus, or flight. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 22 kilometers from Rishikesh.
  2. Travel to the Vashistha Cave: Once you are in Rishikesh, you can hire a private vehicle, taxi, or a local guide to take you to the Vashistha Cave. The cave is located around 25 kilometers from the city.
  3. Enjoy the journey: As you travel towards the cave, you will get to experience the beautiful scenery and the spiritual vibes of the region.
  4. Arrive at Vashistha Cave: The journey might take some time, but eventually, you will reach the cave. Be prepared to walk a short distance to reach the actual cave site.
  5. Explore and meditate: Once you reach the Vashistha Cave, take your time to explore the surroundings and feel the peaceful ambiance. You can sit for meditation, self-reflection, and enjoy the tranquility of the place.

Remember to carry essential items like water, a torch for illumination, and comfortable shoes for walking. The journey to Vashistha Cave will be a rewarding experience, offering you a chance to connect with nature and find inner peace.

Here is a list of the top five things to do at Vashishta Gufa:

  • Meditation: Vashishta Cave is renowned as a spot for meditation and spiritual reflection. Spend some time in the peaceful ambiance of the cave, connect with your inner self, and experience the calming vibrations.
  • Yoga Retreat: Many yoga retreats are organized near the cave. Participate in a half-day or one-day yoga retreat to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul amidst the serene surroundings.
  • Explore the Cave: Take a walk inside the cave and explore its ancient beauty. The cave has historical significance, so immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere.
  • Enjoy the Scenery: The location of Vashishta Cave is surrounded by beautiful green hills of the Himalayas and the flowing Ganges River. Enjoy the scenic beauty and connect with nature.
  • Visit the Jesus Cave: Take a short beach walk downriver from Vashishta Cave to the nearby “Jesus Cave.” Enjoy the stunning view from the almost vertical cliff and learn about its spiritual significance.

Suggested Read- Why Mahavatar Babaji Cave is unknown by many of us

Shivalinga Inside the Vasishtha Cave Rishikeh
Shivalinga Inside the Vashistha Cave Rishikesh

Jesus Cave Rishikesh

Just a five-minute walk downriver from Vashistha Gufa  Rishikesh, there is another fascinating cave known as the “Jesus Cave.” It sits on the side of a steep cliff, overlooking the Ganges River and the beautiful green hills of the Himalayas. The cave got its name from the belief that Jesus once spent time here with Mother Ganga.

Back in 1957, Sri Sathya Sai Baba visited this cave, and he mentioned it in his book. According to the stories, both Swami Rama Tirtha and Swami (Papa) Ramdas lived in this cave at different times, and they had visions of Jesus meditating here.

Historically, the Kashmiri tradition’s Rajatarangini, written in 1148 A.D., mentions a great saint named Issana living at Issabar on the bank of Dal Lake. Moreover, the book titled Jesus Lived in India” provides additional evidence about Jesus’ presence in this region.

The Jesus Cave is not only a beautiful place but also a spot rich with historical and spiritual significance. It’s a wonderful place to visit and feel the connection with nature and history.

Suggested Read- Tat Wale Baba Cave in Rishikesh 
Jesus Cave and Arundhati Cave
Jesus Cave and Arundhati Cave

Arundhati Cave Rishikesh:

  • Arundhati Cave is a small cave near the Vashistha Cave. It is named after Arundhati, who was the wife of Maharshi Vashistha. In Hindu stories, she is connected to the morning star and the Alcor star, which is linked to Maharshi Vashistha.

Vashistha Cave History:

  • Vashishta Cave, also called Vashishta Gufa, is an ancient cave where Maharshi Vashishta and his wife meditated for a long time. Legend says that Vashishta Maharshi was a wise person and one of the seven great Rishis, known as Saptarishis.
  • The cave ( Gufa) is situated among Gullar trees by the Ganges River, making it a perfect place for meditation. Vashishta Maharshi was an important scholar in ancient Vedic times and contributed to Rigveda.

Yog Vasistha

  • The Yoga Vasistha, also known as Maha Ramayana, is a long text with 32,000 verses, second only to the Hindu epic Mahabharata. In 1960, Swami Pursottamananda rediscovered the cave and meditated there. His followers later built an ashram at the spot where he left his body.
  • When you visit Vashishta Gufa, it’s nice to also see the Samadhi Sthal of Sri Prusottamananda Swami. It’s a special place with a rich history!
Suggested Read- Mahavatar BabaJI Cave- Birthplace of Kriya Yoga
River Bank at Vasishtha Cave Rishikesh
River Bank at Vasishtha Cave Rishikesh

Yoga Retreats:

Recently, the Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh or Gufa has become famous for hosting half-day yoga retreats and meditation retreats near Rishikesh.

The Vashishta Gufa  is about 20-25 feet deep and can comfortably hold 10-15 yoga enthusiasts. Additionally, the spacious Ganges riverbank allows hundreds of visitors to participate. This makes the cave’s ashram a great location for one-day yoga retreats in the Rishikesh area.

Stay at Vashishta Ashram

If you want a longer spiritual retreat, you can stay at the nearby Vashishta Ashram. The ashram welcomes meditation practitioners and visitors looking for simple accommodation, daily yoga, and community gatherings in a peaceful riverside setting.

Conclusion:

Vashishta Cave Gufa Rishikesh is more than just a tourist spot. It is a special retreat for anyone who wants a peaceful mind, a restful heart, and a closer connection to nature and spirituality. The beauty of the Ganga, the shade of Gular trees, and the ancient energy of the cave make it a must-visit place for meditation and self-discovery.

FAQ

  • Vashistha cave: Vashistha Cave Rishikesh is not really in Rishikesh it is about 25 km away from Rishikesh
  • Vashishta Gufa Rishikesh timing: Summer timing from 8 am 12 pm and  3 pm to 8 pm/ Winter Timing 8 am  to 1 pm and 3 pm to 6 pm.
  • Vashishta Gufa Temple Shivpuri: It is not in Shivpuri Town it is Gullar , near Sirasu village

 

 

Author

Namaste! I am Om. I am a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I’m originally from Varanasi. Now, I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel more. Hari Om

Comments are closed.