Colorful mythological tales abound on how this place came into being. One legend says a Hindu devotee Rishi performed severe yoga to seek Nirvana, an ultimate state of liberation. Observing the struggle, Sage Rishikesh blessed him and granted him Nirvana, giving this valley its name. rishik - means senses and Esh means God - therefore the place came to be known as the ‘god of senses’.
