Since ages Rishikesh, the land of yoga, has been a spiritual centre for learning. With a view to promote yoga worldwide, U.P. Tourism organises the International Yoga Week in the month of February in Rishikesh. This provides the participants an opportunity to learn, discuss, absorbs and practice Yoga on the banks of the holy Ganga.

The programme consists of asana practice, pranayama, meditation, discourses on Yoga by revered spiritual leaders and scholars, and personal consultation by the yogacharya.

Yoga sessions are held along the banks of the Ganges at Rishikesh. Prominent exponents of yoga throughout the week hold lectures and demonstrations.

The International Yoga Week, apart from teaching the participants an extremely exciting and transforming new way of life, also offers a major platform for exchanging and sharing ideas, understanding different cultures and promoting universal brotherhood.

In addition to Yogic training and instruction some organisers allow the participants to engage themselves in various cultural activities. Excursion trip to various nearby places are organized during and after the programme.

Yoga is not a religion. Yoga is the communion of the individual soul with the Universal soul or God. Yoga literally means "Union"- it is the union of breath to the body, of the mind to the muscles, and most importantly of the self to the divine. Yoga, the ancient Indian discipline is highly relevant in the modern day context.

The secrets of the ancient science of Yoga were passed down from the saints and sages. Through their meditation, austerities and prayers, a treasure-chest of wisdom was bestowed upon them for the benefit of humanity.

Transcendental Meditation leads to solace, and spiritual peace.