Yoga capital of the World, Rishikesh is a beautiful town in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. The serene Rishikesh is a pilgrimage town and is counted as one of the holiest places for Hindus. Lying on the sacred banks of the river Ganga, Rishikesh is a hub of Sadhus and holds several ashrams teaching spirituality, yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. Since it is a holy town non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Rishikesh is a paradise for adventure seekers too who visit this place for
Yoga capital of the World, Rishikesh is a beautiful town in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. The serene Rishikesh is a pilgrimage town and is counted as one of the holiest places for Hindus. Lying on the sacred banks of the river Ganga, Rishikesh is a hub of Sadhus and holds several ashrams teaching spirituality, yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. Since it is a holy town non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Rishikesh is a paradise for adventure seekers too who visit this place for enjoying white water rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, mountain biking and camping. Add some amazing places like Beatles Ashram, Neer Garh Waterfall, Vashishta Guga, Lakshman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan, Ram Jhula, and Janki Setu to your tour itinerary to visit in Rishikesh for a memorable vacation.
Key Highlights
Nestled in the serene Uttarakhand, Hrishikesh is the 7th largest city in India. Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, this sacred place is a prominent spot for the Hindus. Add the major key highlights of Rishikesh to your Rishikesh tour itinerary for a bewitching experience-
Laxman Jhula
The suspension bridge, Laxman Jhula was built in the year 1939. It is an iron suspension bridge over the holy river Ganga in Rishikesh. As per Hindu mythology, this is the place where lord Lakshmana once crossed the river Ganges on a jute rope. Lakshman Jhula is a 450 ft length that connects Pauri district with Tehri district. Catch a glimpse of the gorgeous view of river Ganga and Rishikesh from here. Pay a visit to Trayambakeshwar temple, Sachha Akhileshwar Mahadev temple, Lakshman temple and Sri Raghunathji’s temple located near Lakshman Jhula. Our Rishikesh tour packages offer to visit such places which are worth a visit.
Ram Jhula
Another masterpiece is the Ram Jhula which is a famous landmark place in Rishikesh. It is an iron suspension bridge over the sacred river Ganga. It was built by PWD with the help of Shivananda Ashram in the year 1980. Ram Jhula is a 450ft Jhula which connects Shivananda Ashram with Swargashram. This Jhula offers fantastic views of the river Ganga and Rishikesh. Visit several attractions near Ram Jhula like- Shivananda ashram, Swargashram, Beatles Ashram, Yog Niketan, Parmarth Niketan, and Geeta Bhawan.
Janki Setu
Janki Setu has been launched by former Uttarakhand Chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat. This bridge is built on the river Ganga and has a length of 274m. The major highlight of this bridge is that it’s a three-lane bridge in Uttarakhand. A foot lane is built on both sides of the bridge with one lane coming in and the other going. The middle space is for two-wheelers and carts. Pay a visit to the Beatles ashram which is located near Janki Setu bridge.
Ganga Aarti
Your Rishikesh tour is incomplete without attending the Ganga Aarti. Ganga aarti is a ritual of worshipping Ganga. The sight of floating diyas in the Ganga is mesmerizing. The sacred river Ganga is worshipped at various ghats in Rishikesh. In the evening time, one can find many priests offering aarti to the Ganges, but the most famous place for Ganga aarti is Parmarth Niketan and Triveni Ghat.
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
The Ganga aarti at Parmarth Niketan starts at 6 pm and continues till 7 pm. It is such a beautiful thing to watch the diyas floating in the river Ganga. Parmarth Niketan ashram is renowned for its Ganga aarti at dusk among the devotees. The aarti starts with the chanting of mantras, singing of bhajans prayers, and sacred ritual which takes place around a fire.
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is yet another ghat famous for its Maha Aarti. The aarti starts with the chanting of bhajans, beating drums, bells and diyas offering to the Ganga. The priest holds large fire bowls in their hands. Triveni ghat is lighted up every evening at the time of Maha aarti. Timings for Maha aarti are conducted from 6 pm to 7 pm.
Prominent Places to explore in Rishikesh
One of the most favoured destinations located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is a fantastic getaway among vacationers. Be it a rejuvenating session of meditation, peaceful Ganga aarti at Triveni ghat, beautiful ashrams, bustling markets, ravishing places,or thrilling adventures, Rishikesh has it all. Check out some of the fantastic places in Rishikesh for your next vacation in Rishikesh-
1. Shivpuri
Shivpuri is one of the amazing places located 19kms from Rishikesh. This place is nestled on the banks of river Ganga. Shivpuri is a paradise for adventure seekers and is quite famous for camping. The key highlight of Shivpuri is camping, trekking and river rafting. Enjoy overnight jungle camping, and pay a visit to Sakhya Sagar lake and the exotic Bird sanctuary.
2. The Beatles Ashram
If you are a Beatles fan then this place is for you. This place got globally acclaimed after the Beatles visited this Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram. Visit this place and feel the calmness and tranquillity of this place which is surely going to leave you awestruck. Do a good quiet session of meditation here. Make sure to check out the hall where the Beatles band meditated. Add this very place to your itinerary which is also a great location for pre-wedding shoots.
3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The revered Neelkanth Mahadev temple is nestled at 1670m amidst the sylvan forest. This sacred temple is situated around 12kms from Rishikesh. Neelkanth Mahadev temple is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India. On visiting this temple, you will find a tomb inside that depicts the saga of Samudramanthan which is a major attraction here. It also holds a freshwater spring where several devotees take a bath. Although you can visit throughout the year, the month of February, March, July and August is the best time as the annual festivals are held during this time. IndiaTripio offers such Rishikesh tour packages that cover all the prominent places in Rishikesh.
4. Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is one of the prominent ghats in Rishikesh which generally remains crowned with devotees and is counted among the most sacred ghats in Rishikesh. You can see the pilgrims bathing around. The ceremonies like mundane, Pindha shraddha for the ancestors are done at Triveni ghat. It is believed that those who take bath at Triveni ghat wash away their sins and purify their souls. The Ganga aarti at Triveni ghat is the key highlight which creates a spiritual aura around this ghat which will surely mesmerize you. Triveni ghat with a congruence of three sacred rivers, Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati is a must-visit. Do not miss the Ganga aarti which will surely give you an insight into the spiritual beauty of Rishikesh. The beautiful sight of floating lamps in Ganga will surely mesmerize you. Timings for Maha aarti are 6 pm to 7 pm daily.
5. Neer Garh Waterfall
The gushing Neer Garh waterfall is only 2kms from the famous Laxman Jhula. It is indeed one of the most visited waterfalls in Rishikesh. Take out some time and head towards this waterfall and have a photography session for your social media handles. Trek to the top of the waterfall and get drenched in the tranquillity of the natural beauty.
6. Swarg Ashram
The Swarg Ashram is situated between Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Swarg ashram is one of the major places to visit in Rishikesh. This ashram is built in remembrance of Swami Vishudhanand. Indulge in meditation here as this place is superb for meditation sessions. Capture the sunset views from this place and admire the natural beauty of this very place.
7. Vashishta Gufa
An ancient cave, Vashishta Gufa is a popular place in Rishikesh. The serene environs and tranquil surroundings make it the most visited and most favoured destination in Rishikesh. It attracts thousands of tourists every year. Vashisthta Gufa is that very place where Sage Vashishta meditated. One can feel the strong energy which is present here. So visit this place and spend some time in tranquillity.
8. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Parmarth Niketan Ashram is located amidst the foothills of the Himalayas and is adorned by lush green surroundings. It is nestled along the banks of the sacred river Ganga. Parmarth Niketan Ashram is renowned for its tranquil environment. And holds 1000 rooms for the devotees. Make your stay at this beautiful ashram which will give you good and positive vibes. Attend the morning universal prayers and meditation classes, yoga-Hatha yoga, and Nidra yoga. One can even attend the Satsang, lecture programs, kirtan, and Ganga aarti at sunset.
9. Muni Ki Reti
Muni ki Reti means sand of the sages. It is situated at a distance of around 5 km from Rishikesh. It is a pilgrimage centre famed for its ashrams. Muni ki Reti is renowned as the gateway for the pilgrimage of Char Dham. This is the reason it has several ashrams which provided basic facilities to the pilgrims to help them in their spiritual journey. History reveals that in this place king Bharat is believed to have performed the act of penance.
10. Garud Chatti Waterfall
The Garud Chatti waterfall is located near the railway station and Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh. It is one of the mesmerizing waterfalls in Rishikesh. One can enjoy a bath in the cold water which is rejuvenating. Several tourists favour this waterfall due to its scenic beauty. Monsoons are the perfect time to explore this gorgeous waterfall.
Major activities to enjoy in Rishikesh
Beautifully nestled in the Uttarakhand state, Rishikesh is a great hotspot for adventurous souls. Rishikesh is a fantastic fusion of piousness and hair-raising thrill. The endless opportunity for thrilling adventures makes it the adventure capital of India. Go through some top picks to enjoy in Rishikesh-
1. River Rafting
This activity is one of the most famous activities among adventure junkies. White water rafting or river rafting is the top choice for travellers and itis done on the river Ganga. Here are some famous river rafting points in Rishikesh- Brahampuri, Shivpuri- situated around18kms from Rishikesh, Marine Drive, Byasi- is situated on NH58 towards Devprayag on Badrinath Highway, and Kaudiyala. Enjoy this very activity from late September to mid-November.
2. Rappelling
Another very famous activity to enjoy is Rappelling. Add this activity to experience the thrill. Head towards the sereneNeer Garh waterfall site that has awe-inspiring environs. In this activity, one climbs down the hills and rocks. The rappelling expeditions for both beginners as well as for skilled adventurers are available. Equipment like- Helmet, Gloves, and Harness is required. An extra rope is also tied to the harness to ensure one’s safety is needed for this activity.
3. Bunjee Jumping
Bunjee Jumping is yet another thrilling activity to enjoy in Rishikesh. Head towards Mohan Chatti, one of the oldest Bunjee Jumping spots in Rishikesh with the name Jumpin Heights. The timings for Bunjee jumping are from 10 am to 5 pm. Have a hair-raising experience from jumping from a tall structure while connected to a large elastic cord. When one jumps the cord stretches and the person flies upwards again as the cord recoils. The minimum age for this activity is 18 years but if one is below this age then a parent's presence is required. After you are done do not forget to collect your certificate for successful completion of this thrilling sport. experience.
4. Giant Swing
Quite similar to Bungee jumping, Giant Swing is another famous activity among adventurous souls. Head towards Mohan Chatti to enjoy this activity. The long elastic chord swing one across the valley from a good height of 83m and one is hung in there for a while to enjoy the fun of it. The whole activity is supervised by trained and skilled instructors. After the giant swing, the Jumpers are lowered down to a drop zone in the rivers that have 2ft of water. Make sure to take your jump certificate back home. The time for this thrilling activity is between 10 am to 4 pm. It remains closed on Tuesdays.
5. Zipline
Enjoy ziplining in Rishikesh for another level of experience. Head towards the famous Shivpuri, which is the perfect place for this activity. The zipline is 500m long and offers enchanting views of the dense greenery and the white rapids of the gushing river Ganga below. Children below the age of 12 are not allowed to try this sport. The weight of an individual above 120kg is not allowed for this activity.
6. Camping in Rishikesh
Camping is the perfect activity which offers one to spend some peaceful time amidst lush green mountain ranges. Head towards Brahmpuri which is only a few minutes drives from Rishikesh. It is a fantastic spot for camping by the riverside. The mesmerizing sound of the gushing Ganga, a bonfire and an overnight stay under the stars is truly in itself a lifetime experience. The perfect time for this activity is from September to June.
7. Rock Climbing
Challenge your inner strength and get ready for Rock climbing in Rishikesh. Shivalik hills in Rishikesh is the perfect spot for this activity. One has to reach the top of a rock or the endpoint of a pre-defined route without falling. Timings for rock climbing are from 9 am to 5 pm. During monsoon season one can enjoy this very activity.
8. Cliff Jumping
Yet another interesting and thrilling activity is Cliff jumping. Rishikesh falls in Shivalik regions and thus has cliffs embraced by the sacred Ganga with varied heights. This activity can be done by beginners as well as experts. The best time for this activity is from February to mid-May. Rishikesh has some fantastic peaks which are quite safe and create a thrill for cliff jumping.
Have a scrumptious meal at the famous cafes in Rishikesh
Beautifully nestled amidst a serene atmosphere, Rishikesh holds some good cafes, ready to serve scrumptious cuisines. Have a look at some topmost cafes for a delectable experience-
Little Buddha Café
This café is one of the most visited cafes among travellers. Try a mixed vegetable platter of their’s which is worth trying. Have a hot cup of coffee, and enjoy the soulful music while enjoying the mesmerizing view of the river Ganga. The opening and closing time of this café is 8 am to 11 pm. This café is located in Laxman Jhula.
Freedom Café
Along with lip-smacking food enjoy the enchanting views of the river Ganga from here. Have a plate of delicious cuisine and enjoy the soulful music with a fantastic view of the river Ganga. Make sure to try the Banana Nutella pancake which is a must-try. The timings are 9 am to 10:30 pm. This café is located behind Dr Kothari Clinic, Lakshmana Jhula.
60’s Beatles Café
Enjoy a cosy time sitting and enjoying the delicacies at the 60’s Beatles café. If you are a Beatles fan then you should surely visit this café for an amazing experience. The walls of this café are adorned with beautiful pictures of the Beatles band. Try rice flour crepe which has a filling of onion, tomato, zucchini, and mozzarella cheese.
Café Karma
Visit this amazing café in Rishikesh which offers the most ambrosial food. Have a plate of sandwiches with a hot cup of coffee or pasta for a delectable experience. Make sure to try the Hazelnut cold coffee and Hakka noodles that are a must-try at this café. This café remains open from 9 am to 10 pm and is located at the main Badrinath highway, Tapovan, Rishikesh.
Bistro Nirvana
Head towards this one of the top-rated cafes in Rishikesh which is located in a serene surrounding. The warm service here will surely bring a smile to your face. Try the cheese Cromosque here which is quite famous here. This café remains open from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm and is located at Swami Omkarananda Saraswati road, Tapovan, Jonk.
Best time to visit Rishikesh
If you are planning to visit Rishikesh in the summer season which is from March to May then it is highly recommended to not visit during this season as it is quite warm during this season, but the early summer is perfect for adventure sports and camping. Enjoy water rafting during this season as it is the best time for this sport. The perfect time to explore is from September to June. During this particular time, you can easily enjoy the exploring tours and adventure activities without any hindrances. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season which is not a good time for a visit.
