Best places to visit in Rishikesh: Adventure and Hills

10 best places to visit in Rishikesh

There are multiple places to add in the list but here are some of the places that you should add in the itinerary: 

Laxman Jhula

This is a very spot and should enter your list of best places in rishikesh to visit. This is a suspension bridge above the ganga river that is 450 feets. This Jhula is believed to be stand nearby the place where lord Lakshman crossed via jute rope. While walking on the bridge you will get to see rivers, hills, temples and markets bustling. Near by there are multiple cafe, yoga centres and local handicraft shop. 

There is no entry fees and the bridge is open complete year. You can enjoy this place in 2 hours. You must explore the place in evening or early morning to avoid crowd. 

Triveni Ghat

Thai si a scared site that holds religious importance visiting Uttarakhand. It is believed that river ganga, jamuna and sarasswati meet here spiritually making this a sport for holy dip. In evening you will get to see ganga aarti, which attracts hundreds of visitors. 

The spiritual atmosphere in the evening by floating diyas and sunset view make this place magical. 

No entry charges are applied for ghat and you can explore this place in 2 hours maximum. During winter season the weather is very comfortable. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the aarti to get a good spot. 

Ram Jhula

This is on a very short distance from laxman Jhula, this is an iconic bridge connecting two ganga banks with temples and ashrams. This is an major attraction giving views of the riverside and best for evening walks. You can do photography here. This is the busiest part of the city because it has Parmarth Niketan, Swarg Ashram, and Geeta Bhawan. 

You can explore this place in 2 hours no fees just exploring the spiritual area, and exploring the local place with traditional food. Explore in winter or spring for ideally best experience. 

Beatles Ashram

This is also known as Chaurasi Kutia, a unique attraction place that got recognition while the british band The Beatles stayed here in 1968 to learn Transcendental Meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. 

Now this is a meditation hall, that has old cottage, colorful graffiti, and peaceful walking trails covered with forest. This attracts photographers, history lovers, artists and travelers looking for peaceful escapes. The visitors can explore this place in 3 hours maximum and there is no entry fees. 

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

This temple is 30 kms far from rishikesh, on the way you will get to see beautiful hills and dense forest. This one is dedicated to shiva and as per mythology lord shiva consumed poison while the manthan and his throat turned blue which earned him the neelkanth name. 

The surroundings of this temple is beautiful and the colorful architecture enhances the beauty, this place also has a spiritual significance. On the way travelers get to see breathtaking views. There are no fee for visitor, you can explore the temple in 3 hours. Travel while weekdays to avoid long lines. 

Neer Garh Waterfall 

This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls and also a wonderful attraction of rishikesh, a perfect spot for spending time with nature. This is a multi level waterfall that can be reached by short trek crossing the lush greenery, small streams and the local trails. The pools created by the clear water provides freshness and makes the environment cool while the warmer months. Travelers who like adventures can trek to waterfall. Fees is charged to enter the site and travelers can explore this place in 2 to 3 hours maximum, wear trek shows and take water bottles for better experience. 

Patna Waterfall

This waterfall is in the way for neelkanth temple and surrounded with dense forests, this is a peaceful landscape. The visitors have to trek a shorter rocky path before visiting the waterfall, making this a perfect nature exploration and photography sites. The flow increases very much while the monsoon and post monsoon period, and the waterfalls becomes spectacular. 

There are no entry charges, and you can explore the whole place in about 2 hours. Just be sure your footwear is sturdy , because the trail can feel uneven and a little unpredictable.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram

This one is often viewed as the largest and also one of the most respected ashrams in rishikesh, it attracts yoga and spirituality lovers. Its located along the bank of the Ganga river, pretty close to Ram Jhula. It is famous for the serenity, daily yoga practises, spiritual discourses and meditation programs. 

If visiting in the evening, capture the ganga aarti with devotional music and player. The greenery, cleanliness and riverside enhances the beauty of this place. Preferable spot for rejuvenation and connecting with nature. The entry is free, but the yoga or wellness program have charges if you join them. You can explore this place in 3 hours very calmly. 

Rajaji National Park

It is located in the outskirts of rishikesh, it is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and is the best destination for the families looking for natural places. This is spread in the Shivalik ranges, you can get to see over 300 species of birds, different reptiles and animals including, elephant, leopard, tiger, deer, and wild boars. 

You can also enjoy jeep safari and explore the dense forest and himalayan foothills. The birdwatchers and photographers. Please enter the park in early morning as the sightseeing is very frequent. Charges of safari vary based on the routes and vehicle selected, the visitors can explore the park in 4 hours. 

Places to Visit in Rishikesh for Friends

Shivpuri

Honestly, this is the most exciting place if you are traveling with your friends group, it’s 16 kms away from the city, and somehow everything feels unreal. You can try activities like rafting, plus other adventure sports such as cliff jumping, kayaking, zipline rides, trekking, and even camping. There are also bonfire nights. The beautiful surroundings, and those cool breezes, make each experience feel extra beautiful, like you’re dreaming a little. The lively camps makes this place a perfect spot for college students and adventure lovers. 

The charges of activities may vary based on different things meanwhile there are various camping options based on the budget. You have to give full day for all activities. 

Kaudiyala

These are situated 40 kms away from rishikesh and is the favourite spot for travelers and nature lovers. Covered with dense forest, here you will get to see emerald green ganga river, this place has the longest and the most thrilling rafting stretch of india. Other than that you can camp, trek, watch landscapes, do photography or enjoy birdwatching. 

Kaudiyala is peaceful, no charges of entry but there is fees for activities. You can enjoy this place in one day, winters are the best for visiting.

 Places to Visit in Rishikesh for Families

Vashishta Gufa

This is located 25 kms away from rishikesh, this is a meditation cave that is also residence of sage vashishta. It is covered with forests and you will get a beautiful view of the Ganga river with peace. The families going to rishikesh add this destination in the itinerary for better atmosphere. Travelers can meditate inside the cave, or sit beside the river or just enjoy the attractive surrounding. 

There are no charges for entry or exploration you can spend 2 hours here. Make sure you are maintaining silence while meditation for peaceful environment. 

Tera Manzil Temple

This is the tallest temple and is also known as Trayambakeshwar Temple this temple is placed near the lakshman Jhula of rishikesh. This is a 13 story large temple dedicated to the hindu deities. The travelers can explore different deities here and from the temple you will get the views of ganga covered with mountains. The fantastic architecture and the peaceful hall for prayer attracts both pilgrims and tourists continuously. 

The photographers also love this place due to the views of temple. The entry is free and visitors can explore this place in 3 hours exploring various floor. 

Places to Visit in Rishikesh for Couples

Swarg Ashram

This is the ebay place for partners, looking for calm and quality time. The riverside area is free from traffic. Making this a perfect for slow walk while enjoying the views of ganga river. They can also visit the temples, explore the local handicraft shop, get delicious meals at the riverside cafes or just simply sit at the ghats admiring the beautiful views of hills. 

The atmosphere becomes very cozy while sunset and sunrise and offer plenty opportunity of photography. This is one of the perfect places to visit in rishikesh for couples. You can explore this place in 2 or maximum 3 hours. 

Ganga Beach

This is hidden beside the bank of ganga river. The sandy beaches give partners a good movement. The natural beach is best for relaxing, enjoying views like scenery, watching the river and spending movement surrounding nature. Here the explorers can enjoy river side picnic, doing photography, attending yoga sessions or just enjoy the cold water while admiring the enchanting views of himalayas. 

Doing swimming is not permitted in sections due to strong current, but you can enjoy on the beaches. No entry fees is imposed, you can spend 3 to 4 hours here. Winter days are the best time to explore this place. 

Couple Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh

Most of the newly married partners prefer rishikesh due to the activities, that makes the trip memorable. Bungee jumping is the most thrilling experience of this city. Meanwhile there are no couple bungee jumping option in rishikesh, the travelers can try consecutive jumping and get it shooted by professionals. 

There are multiple certified operators that offer bungee jumping from 80 meters, there are different activities for adrenaline rush. Safety equipment and professional instructor provided before jumping, making this comfortable for first time travelers. The slots book quickly in weekends and holiday, please book in advance during that time. 

How to explore Rishikesh in one day? 

If you have only one day to explore rishikesh that you must plan your itinerary like this to avoid missing the major spots and also without being rushed. 

• Start your day with the Triveni Ghat- there you will get to enjoy a pleasant atmosphere and watch the ganga river prayer. 
• Then leave for laxman Jhula, from there head to tera manzil temple. 
• Next go for breakfast at any nearby cafe. 
• After that visit to beatles ashram, there are multiple meditation halls, artistic graffiti and green surrounding. 
• By afternoon head to ram Jhula, then paramarth nekatan and then go to the nearby shopping area. 
• Then conclude the day with ganga arti at triveni ghat or head to paramarth niketan. 
• The itinerary lets you experience spirituality, history and culture. 
• You can also experience the nature and spend time in shopping in one day. 
• Make sure you are planning and shifting as per your news but these are best option. 

Plan to visit rishikesh in 2 days

Traveling to rishikesh but you have only two days to explore the place worry not here is a perfect itinerary so you can explore without being hurried. 

First Day 

Start the day by visiting triveni ghat and then head to lakshman Jhula, next stop will be the tera Manjil temple and last will be parmarth niketan. Then take some rest and in afternoon start exploring Beatles Ashram then enjoy lunch riverside cafes. Shop for gifts in the local markets and end the day with attending ganga aarti. 

Second Day

Spend the day adventuring and with nature, start by reaching shivpuri and enjoy river rafting and camping. Then next you can try bungee jumping, flying fix or enjoy giant swing near mohan chatti. Must visit neer ghat waterfall, and patna waterfall, by the end of the day visit the neelkanth mahadev mandir before getting back in the evening.

This itinerary gives a perfect balance of spirituality and adventure with sightseeing. 

Places to explore near rishikesh within 1 day

If you have a little extra timing then you can choose any of the neighborhood beautiful destination and explore it within a day from rishikesh. Here is a list of best places to visit in rishikesh in one day: 

• Haridwar: you’ve got a bunch of well known spots like Har ki Pauri, the evening ganga aarti, a few revered temple areas and yes, the lively markets too.
• Devprayag: Here you can actually witness the sacred coming together of the Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi rivers, it’s where from the holy ganga starts moving on.
• Shivpuri: This feels like a great hub for rafting, camping, and a bit of adventure sports, not just the casual kind.
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: This is a major pilgrim place in Uttarakhand, and it’s basically wrapped in hills, you know, like the whole area is embraced. 
• Kaudiyala: this is ideal for rafting and camping, you can also do photography and get peaceful experience from riverside. 
• Rajaji National Park: This is the perfect spot for wildlife safari travelers can also enjoy birdwatching and spending time with the family.

• Vashishta Gufa: If you like meditating than you must put this place on list.

• Byasi: This is a spot on the riverside known for rafting and camping beside the scenic spot and spending a relaxed weekend. 

Things beyond sightseeing 

There are multiple things in rishikesh that you can do and explore beyond sightseeing:

• Raft in the ganga river this is a thrilling experience. 
• You can also do bungee jumping, flying Fox, going on giant swings and ziplining. 
• You can also join yoga or meditation session around the world famous ashram. 
• You can camp at the corners of river under the stars. 
• You can trek beside the scenic waterfalls and hidden view points. 
• Explore the cafes nearby that give international and organic cuisine. 
• You can shop of handmade crafts, gemstones and spiritual items like rudrakash and gemstones. 
• Relax yourself at the ayurvedic massages and wellness therapies. 
• Enjoy the most beautiful thing of rishikesh the ganga arti. 
• Make sure you are capturing the beautiful sunrise and sunset photographs beside the riverbank. 

Best time to explore Rishilkesh 

The season to explore Thai place is usually decided based on our preferences. The travelers can explore the city between oct to march if you like cold places that has snow and this will be a unique experience you can do sightseeing or experience new things like outdoor activities. 

If you like activities of river and adventures, then you should choose the time between june and september. You can do multiple activities during this time. If you are traveling in the rainfall season that has heavy rainfall than the activities may stop for safety issues than make sure to check the weather reports while July and August. 

Weather condition of rishikesh

Ways to reach rishikesh via delhi 

With Road 

Rishikesh is almost 240 kms far from Delhi by roads, they are connected with national highway 334. There are multiple daily buses from Kashmere Gate ISBT. mean while taxis, self drive cars offers a very comfortable trip you can cover the distance within 5 to 7 hours depending on the traffic. 

By Train

Meanwhile, Rishikesh has a railway station but most of the trains that come from long distance stop at Haridwar, which is 25 kms away from Rishikesh. From Haridwar you can cover the distance via taxi, buses or cab with sharing that are easily available and will take 45 minutes. 

Through air 

The most bear airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun this is placed 20 kms away from rishikesh. There are multiple flights from Delhi that connect to Dehradun airport. You can take taxi or cab service for airport transfer. 

Stay options from Rishikesh 

Travelers can choose the stay option baked on the level of comfort they need and the budget travelers have. Here are all the options of stays:

Affordable Stays

If you are a travelers on low budget but wanna enjoy, you can choose to stay in hostels and guesthouses, you can also choose homestays that are found near known stops. In these accommodation you will get comfortable rooms, shared workspaces and cafes. 

Mid Ranged Travelers

These travellers also have multiple options for example, boutique hotel, resorts placed on riverside, comfortable 3 star properties offering modern amenities like scenic views and convenient locations close to the popular attractive places. 

Luxury Hotels

Travelers who are not restricted with budget can choose beautiful riverside resorts, hotels with luxury spas and hotels that have wellness retreat sessions, ayurvedic treatments, meditation programs, fine dinings and stunning views of himalaya.

How many days are best to explore 

The best time period to explore rishikesh easily is 2 to 3 days, in this period you can explore the beauty of this place in relaxed way, you can also do adventure in this period. We have also given the must visit places in the list you can make the itinerary based on that plan a perfect trip. 

If you are joining a yoga program of retreat, program for meditation or wellness therapies, then you may have to stay 4 to 7 days based on the requirement. Travelers planning to travel to nearby states like Haridwar, Devprayag or Rajaji National Park can have a log stay. 

Important safety majors and local tips 

The travelers taking a trip should ensure these things before traveling: 

• You can do river rafting, camp on the hills and enjoy bungee jumping, make sure the operators are certified. 
• While adventure make sure that you are wearing life jacket and follow safety instructions. 
• Traveling to religious places make sure you are dressing up modestly. 
• Carry a shoes that is comfy and water proof. 
• Please keep a tube of sunscreen, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle while traveling to hill. 
• For small shops and local stalls make sure that you have some cash. 
• Early morning the sights look more beautiful it is the best time to explore. 
• Respect and follow the local custom, make sure that you are not creating dirt and avoid throwing garbage nearby ganga river. 
• In the monsoon season the temperature goes down, please carry light weight jacket. 
• Please plan activities after checking the weather forecast conditions. 
• Please avoid swimming in the strong current areas or areas that are marked as dangerous. 

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