Rishikesh, India

Rishikesh touts itself as the "Yoga Capital of the World," but the reality is a city struggling with pollution, waste management, and tourism pressures. As of 2021, the city has a population of 322,825 and a literacy rate of 86.86%, exceeding the national average. However, the rapid growth in tourism has strained Rishikesh's infrastructure, leading to significant air quality challenges - the city consistently exceeded national standards for particulate matter from 2012 to 2017. Bureaucracy is also a persistent headache, with enforcement of environmental regulations facing public cooperation issues. Overall, Rishikesh may appeal to spiritual seekers and adventure travelers, but its environmental woes make it a poor choice for those seeking a tranquil, pollution-free escape.