Rishikesh Travel Guide
Are you planning to visit Rishikesh? Great choice! You will see one of the most visited pilgrimage and adventure destinations in North India. The awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks, the tranquil flow of the holy Ganges, soul-pleasing yoga and meditation centers along with numerous ancient temples to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. It is truly an enchanting hub to seek inner peace and relaxation.
Things to Do in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a cool destination where fun never stops. You will never get bored here. Its a heaven for every kind of traveler. If you are spiritual and love the vibes of temples, you are in luck. Rishikesh has numerous ancient temples like Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Laxman Temple, Terah Manzil Temple, etc. The tranquil ambiance of Ganga Ghats and the divine Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a source of eternal bliss. Those craving for peace, Rishikesh has amazing Ashrams and Yoga centers for meditation and therapies.
Here every moment is an adventure. You can try Bungee Jumping, zip lining, trekking, giant swing, and rafting. Here is a list of amazing things to do in Rishikesh.
Fun-Filled Adventure Activities in Rishikesh
Bungee Jumping - Thrilling Freefall, Defy Gravity!
Be a bird for a day! Bungee Jumping is one of the best adventure activities in Mohanchatti in Rishikesh. You will jump from a height of 83 meters.
Giant Swing - Highest Swing in India
Giant Swing is a must-try adventure activity if you are in Rishikesh. In this sport, people swing through the air and witness the scenic lush green valleys of Rishikesh from above. The height of the swing is 83 m which makes it the highest swing in India.
River Rafting - Dive into Adventure
You will get the ultimate river rafting experience in the white-water rapids of the river Ganges. The level of excitement increases as you navigate its thrilling rapids. It's one of the most favorite activities of every adventurer in Rishikesh. With the help of professional trainers all grades of rafting are welcome. September to June is the perfect time to do river rafting in Rishikesh.
Zipline - Thrill Across the Skies
Rishikesh is the best place to delight your soul with the thrill of zip lining. You will glide along wires from 70 meters above the river and then go down at a speed of approximately 60 km/h. It's an experience of a lifetime which you never forget.
Rafting in Rishikesh - Stretch-wise Guide
Rishikesh has multiple rafting stretches on the Ganga, each suited to different experience levels:
| Stretch | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brahmpuri to Rishikesh | 9 km | Grade 1-2 | Beginners, families, first-timers |
| Shivpuri to Rishikesh | 16 km | Grade 3 | Intermediate - most popular stretch |
| Marine Drive to Rishikesh | 24 km | Grade 3-4 | Experienced rafters, longer trip |
| Kaudiyala to Rishikesh | 36 km | Grade 4-5 | Advanced/expert only |
- Season: September to June. Rafting is suspended July-August due to high Ganga water levels.
- Duration: Brahmpuri stretch takes 1-1.5 hours; Kaudiyala stretch takes 4-5 hours with lunch break.
- Booking: Book at least a day in advance during October-November and March-May peak season.
Some Offbeat Activities to Do in Rishikesh
Rishikund Hot Water Springs
Continuously running hot water springs surrounding the Raghunath temple is refreshing. This place holds a sacred charm. It is said that Lord Rama took a holy dip in these consecrating waters during his exile.
Neer Garh / Neer Gaddu Waterfall
The Neer Gharh Waterfall which is just 5 km away from Lakshman Jhula is a lovely wonder that makes this trek even more inviting. Step up for a poignant hike of beautiful scenery to appreciate the wondrous waterfall, the ultimate reward for your endeavor!
Jhilmil Gufa
Enclosed by Manikut Parvat in the middle is Jhilmil Gufa, a group of three caves that are famous only because of mystical stories. Situated about 4 kilometers from the Neelkanth Temple, visiting these caves involves one hour of awe-inspiring jungle trek.
Yoga and Ashrams in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital of the World - a title earned over decades as yoga teachers and spiritual seekers from across the globe have settled here. Whether you want a single drop-in yoga class or a 200-hour certified teacher training, you'll find it here.
- Parmarth Niketan: One of the largest ashrams on the Ganga bank, famous for its evening Ganga Aarti. Offers yoga classes, meditation, and Ayurveda programs. Open to all visitors.
- Sivananda Ashram: Founded by Swami Sivananda in 1936, one of the oldest and most respected spiritual institutions in Rishikesh. Evening satsang open to visitors.
- Phool Chatti Ashram: Located 9 km from Rishikesh on the Ganga bank, this is a well-run ashram with structured yoga and meditation programs in a quieter setting than the main town.
- Rishikesh Yoga Week: Every year in the first week of March, the International Yoga Festival is held at Parmarth Niketan - one of the largest yoga gatherings in the world, open to participants from all countries.
Places to Visit in Rishikesh
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a popular temple of Lord Shiva. You will get the best views of the Himalayan Peaks and three valleys Manikoot, Brahmakoot, and Vishnukoot.
Jumpin Heights:
Jumpin Heights is a must-visit place for adventure lovers in Rishikesh. At Jumpin Heights, you will enjoy amazing adventure sports like Bungee Jumping, Giant Swing, and Flying Fox. It has Asia's longest flying fox of 1km.
Triveni Ghat:
The sacred Ghat of Rishikesh is renowned for its ethereal Ganga Aarti. You can also enjoy boating with your loved ones at Triveni Ghat. Also, visit the Laxminarayan Temple and Geeta Temple located near Triveni Ghat.
Beatles Ashram:
Earlier, this Ashram was known as Chaurasi Kutia Ashram or Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. The most famous band 'The Beatles' composed over 50 songs amidst serene Himalayan forests, under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's guidance in 1968. Since then, it is known as Beatles Ashram. The Ashram is a cultural landmark in Rishikesh.
Ram Jhula:
Ram Jhula is located over the holy river Ganges in Rishikesh. This iron suspension bridge offers stunning views of Ganges and numerous divine temples.
Laxman Jhula:
Laxman Jhula is one of Rishikesh's most iconic landmarks. The original iron suspension bridge (built 1929) was closed to pedestrians in 2019 by the Uttarakhand PWD due to structural safety concerns. A new pedestrian bridge has been constructed at the same location and is now open to visitors. The surrounding area - with temples, cafes, guesthouses, and Ganga views - remains as vibrant as ever. It is said this bridge marks the spot where Lord Laxman once crossed the Ganga on a jute rope.
Places to Visit nearby Rishikesh
If you have some time left after exploring Rishikesh then you must visit some nearby attractions for wholesome experience. There are some amazing places such as Shivpuri, Byasi, Panch Prayag Etc which offers diverse experience to elevate your holidays delightfully in Rishikesh. So, Don't miss the opportunity to explore these places. Here is a list of places to enjoy after exploring Rishikesh.
Shivpuri
Shivpuri is a divine abode of Lord Shiva. Devotees from all over India visit Shivpuri as there are numerous Shiva temples. The mighty river Ganges flows through Shivpuri which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy camping and river rafting.
Kaudiayala
Kaudiayala is located within 50 km of Rishikesh. It is one of the offbeat places to visit in Rishikesh. If you love peace and fewer crowds then you can surely visit Kaudiayala to embrace scenic Himalayan views, enjoy leisure nature walks and enjoying hotel views from balcony for hours.
Byasi
Located 30 km from Rishikesh, Byasi is a very famous place to enjoy water sports such as river rafting, kayaking etc. You can also enjoy camping with your loved ones.
Panch Prayag
Panch Prayag is a renowned pilgrimage circuit you must visit near Rishikesh. It is a cluster of five sacred sites where the holy river Alaknanda merges with other rivers like Dhauliganga (Vishnuprayag), Nandakini (Nandaprayag), Pindar (Karnaprayag), Mandakini (Rudraprayag) and Bhagirathi river (Devprayag). It is said that holy dip in these rivers will cleanse the sins of the devotees and leads to spiritual purification.
The treasure of nearby attractions in Rishikesh adds thrill, soul nourishing cultural immersion and tranquility in your journey. After visiting these places you will realize that Rishikesh and surrounding areas serves as a gateway to fine your spirit, body and mind.
Food of Rishikesh
The food of Rishikesh is shaped by its religious and spiritual essence. Rishikesh is vegetarian by tradition - no non-vegetarian food or alcohol is served within the main city limits.
Chaat
Chaat is one the most loved savory snack of Rishikesh. It is comprehensive mixture of chickpeas and potatoes with many other components blended in with the tamarind chutney and yoghurt for sweetness and an acidic touch. It tastes incredibly great when you prepare it by adding on top crispy fried noodles and pomegranate seeds as seasoning.
Lassi
Lassi is a traditional Indian treated yogurt drink which is loved by everybody ranging from the young to the old. It is a nice, healthy beverage, and you can get it in many flavors. It comes as the ideal beverage on warm summer days, usually presented with a meal or dessert.
Momos
No need to skip on this beautiful dumpling dish of Rishikesh called Momos. The momo is a dumpling dish with a filling made with cabbage, onions, carrots or other vegetables. It also has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options such as chicken and mutton momos.
Aloo Puri
This dish is unique to Rishikesh and most people eat it for breakfast in Rishikesh. It is a fried snack made by frying poori-unleavened dough, and is eaten with aloo Sabzi, which is a potato curry. Mostly the potato curry is a spicy and flavorful dish, and its toughness is achieved by boiling the potatoes with an array of herbs, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
Nightlife in Rishikesh
Whereas big cities may have bars and nightclubs, Rishikesh instead provides its visitors with the blissfulness of nightlife in which spirituality, culture, and the recreation of the mind, body, and soul are all intertwined. The city guide is all about spirituality and introspection whereas; the usual urban nightlife is about party scenes. People come here to seek peace of mind and participate in ceremonies that put their connection with nature and identification with their tradition and culture in the forefront. Therefore, as opposed to urban nightlife which is characterized by hustle and bustle, the nightlife in Rishikesh is quite calm.
Present below are some of the things to do at night in Rishikesh that gives a completely different taste and respite from the routine and typical nightlife of the big cities.
Camping in Rishikesh
Spending a night in the midst of Rishikesh forests at night is an adventure that adheres to your senses of calmness and the sublime beauty of the foothills of the Himalayas.
Peaceful Walk at Laxman Jhula
Laxman Jhula exudes life with the charms of a market circle populated by enthusiastic tourists and sellers during a daytime but you will feel out of the ordinary with the night's calming atmosphere and mystical setting.
An excursion of eating out in the Rishikesh at night
Rishikesh nightlife would not be a pleasant experience until you have a taste of a multiple street foods.
Temple hopping at Rishikesh
At night, temple hopping becomes an ideal activity for tourists or pilgrims who want to be spellbound and religiously influenced by the mystery and spirituality of this holy city. It is also the best time for such people to explore this place since under the soft moonlight they can uncover the depths of its everlasting beauty. The most interesting places include the Triveni Ghat, where you can observe the splendid Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is a traditional ritual paying tribute to the holy Ganga River.
Markets of Rishikesh
A visit to the Rishikesh markets at night is no doubt a breathtaking and magical experience as the hectic paths are illuminated by different kinds of lights and activities. Night life starts with walking into the markets that is in the middle of residential areas.
How to Reach
By Road - Rishikesh is well-connected by road. NH 7 connects it to Dehradun (45 km), Chandigarh (209 km), Delhi (258 km), and Shimla (269 km). Book a cab to these cities for a trouble-free ride.
Via Air - Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is exactly 20 km away from Rishikesh and the drive will take you roughly 30 minutes. Flights are operated regularly to and from the Dehradun Airport. On arrival, you can book a taxi to Rishikesh from the airport quite easily.
By Train - The closest railway station to Rishikesh is Yog Nagari Rishikesh (6 km) India, which is well-connected with the rest of the country. You can book a taxi service in Rishikesh for transportation purposes to places around the destination once you arrive.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh
The period between the months of September and April in Rishikesh is an ideal time to visit if you wish to indulge in a variety of experiences that are religious, spiritual, cultural, historical, recreational or adventurous in nature.
Hotels and Resorts in Rishikesh
In Rishikesh there is no dearth of resorts and hotels for comfortable stay. You will get every type of accommodation according to your budget and preferences. Here are some popular hotels and Resorts in Rishikesh to plan your stay hassle free-
- Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa: Taj Rishikesh Resort and Spa is an amazing stay option if you are looking for luxury, scenic views and value for money. You will get the views of lovely deciduous trees, the Shivalik Himalayan Mountains and the majestic Ganges in the Singthali village. The exquisite dining option, well maintained rooms and rejuvenating spa makes the stay unforgettable.
- Aloha on the Ganges: Close to Laxman Jhula at the banks of the holy river Ganges, Aloha on the Ganges offers pleasant stay to tourists. Well maintained rooms, scenic views, yoga sessions and Ayurveda treatments makes this place a heaven for relaxation.
- The Glasshouse on the Ganges: The serene jungle setting of this resort will blow your heart away. Here cloud drifts in and out from the window, the pleasant views of Garhwal Himalayas and the soothing melodies of the Ganges flow seduce the senses forever. Guests can relax in spacious cottages which offer scenic river views and gourmet dining experiences.
- Ganga Kinare: The Ganga Kinare is a renowned boutique hotel located on the banks of serene Ganges. The traditional decor equipped with modern amenities will make you feel at home. The hotel also organizes yoga sessions, biking, bird watching, Ganga Spa, spiritual walk, private Ganga Ghat Aarti, nature walks and cultural performances for guests to provide soul nourishing experience and soothing stay.
- Ananda in the Himalayas: Bliss of the Himalayas, Ananda is one of the most popular luxury wellness retreats to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. It's a great place to stay as it offers wellness therapies, spa, yoga and meditation sessions for the guests. The serene views of this award winning resort will compel you to stay here forever.
We hope that this blog post helps in planning your Rishikesh Itinerary. If you have any other query regarding Rishikesh Travel Planning, feel free to contact us. We are eagerly waiting to listen to your Rishikesh trip experience.
