With its heavenly setting and temperate climate, Rishikesh is a paradise for meditation enthusiasts. Spiritual seekers, yogis, and casual travelers converge in this small town stretching along the banks of the Ganges, at the foot of the Himalayas.

Located 200 kilometers from New Delhi, Rishikesh, the world capital of yoga, is known as the "gateway to the land of the gods" because according to Hindu mythology, this is where the passage leading to paradise can be found. The city's history is rich with mystical legends—the yogi Rabhya, among others, is said to have been rewarded for his ascetic life with an apparition of the God Vishnu.

"The essential elements of yoga—postures accompanied by breath awareness, meditation, and relaxation—help me live in peace with myself and with the entire universe," shares Yogi Parveen. "I share and transmit my knowledge in an ashram, literally a place of intense spiritual effort, with all those who wish to work on themselves."

In India, yogis, or yoga masters, have meditated on the banks of sacred rivers since ancient times. The Ganges, revered for over 2,000 years, is the earthly incarnation of a goddess, sent to earth to flood the plains and purify the hearts of men. Life in this peaceful region is marked by ganga aarti, ceremonies at sunrise and sunset dedicated to the sacred river, a truly living temple. The orange robes of Sannyasins (monks) and those of sadhus—or babas—who chose renunciation and asceticism to free themselves from the cycle of reincarnations, testify to the spiritual importance of the city.

Rishikesh became famous worldwide when the Beatles stayed there for two months in 1968. They composed around forty songs, drew inspiration from the city's atmosphere for the famous White Album, and met photographer Paul Saltzman. Mia Farrow and the Beach Boys are also among the famous visitors attracted by the city's mysticism. As a result, from May to August, Indian city dwellers and pilgrims flock to the city, followed from September to March by stressed-out Westerners.

"Drawn like a magnet by the city's energy, I come here every year," explains Amit Shirat, a 22-year-old Israeli tourist. "I've always danced, and practicing yoga helps me become aware of the connections between my body and spirit. I got Yogi Parveen's contact information through a friend," she continues, "he truly believes in what he does—he's not a charlatan chasing money." Attracted by the prospect of quick gains, many indeed improvise as yoga masters, and posters offering classes are everywhere throughout the city.

Yet the proximity of spiritual bookstores, clothing shops, temples, and chai vendors (spiced milk tea) reminds us that in this holy place, the profane and the sacred coexist. At the town's edge, an inscription carved on an archway recalls the city's motto: "Serve, love, give."