Rishikesh

Known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh is a serene Himalayan town nestled on the banks of River Ganges. It is famous for its ancient temples, hippie cafes and dare-devil adventure sports.

Rishikesh_tv_destination_img_55
Rishikesh_tv_destination_img_55
Rishikesh_tv_destination_img_6
Rishikesh_tv_destination_img_7
Rishikesh_tv_destination_img_8
Rishikesh Landscape Image
Rishikesh_adventure

Things To See & Do

Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula

A 450-Feet Iron-Suspension Bridge
An iconic landmark in Rishikesh, this is where Lakshman is believed to have crossed the River Ganges on a jute rope.

30 Minutes to 1 ...

Suggested Time

Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park

Home to Rare Animals
Named after C.Rajagopalachari, this is the second tiger reserve of Uttarakhand made by the merger of three erstwhile sanctuaries — The Chilla, Motichur and Rajaji.

1 Day

Suggested Time

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat

A Sacred Bathing Spot
The meeting point of the three holy rivers – The Ganga, the Yamuna and the Saraswati, this site is considered auspicious for taking a holy dip in the Ganges.

1 to 2 Hours

Suggested Time

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

A Famous Shiva Temple
A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed to be the same place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out of Samudra manthan.

30 Minutes to 1 ...

Suggested Time

Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan

The Largest Ashram in Rishikesh.
Sharing the divine knowledge of Yoga and Ayurveda with the world since more than 70 years, Parmarth Niketan is known for its Hawan on Parmarth Ghat and Maha Aarti at dawn and dusk.

1 Hour

Suggested Time

Vashishtha Guha Temple

Vashishtha Guha Temple

Sage Vashishtha’s Meditation Spot
About an hour away from Rishikesh, the legendary cave is believed to be the meditation spot of Sage Vashishtha, and is a mecca for peace seekers.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

The Beatles Ashram

The Beatles Ashram

A Legendary Ashram
Fondly known as Chaurasi Kutia, the Beatles came here to practice transcendental meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, and gifted the world some of their best compositions.

30 Minutes to 1 ...

Suggested Time

Tera Manzil

Tera Manzil

A 13 Storey Shrine Temple
Also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, this spiritual abode is home to many famous Hindu deities and is located on the banks of the Ganges.

1 to 2 Hours

Suggested Time

Little Buddha Cafe

Little Buddha Cafe

A Tree House Cafe
Offering delectable food with fantastic views of the Ganges, Little Buddha Café is close to the Laxman Jhula, and has an inviting tree house style setting.
Kaudiyala

Kaudiyala

The Best River Rafting Site
About 1.5 hours from Rishikesh, Kaudiyala is the capital of nautical activities in the country and offers many exhilarating experiences for adventure lovers.

1 to 2 days

Suggested Time

Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula

Yoga Capital’s Architectural Marvel
Ram Jhula is an important landmark and one of the most sought-after sights in Rishikesh. The 450ft long suspension bridge is located over the holy Ganges river and connect Shivananda Nagar in the west to Swargashram in the east. It was constructed in the year 1986 by PWD.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Neergarh Waterfall

Neergarh Waterfall

The Mesmeric Waterfall of Rishikesh
The Neergarh Waterfalls are a hidden gem seated amid the mountain valleys. It makes for a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Its located only five km from the Lakshman Jhula and represents a collection of three waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffs into blue pools.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Vashistha Cave

Vashistha Cave

The Holy Abode of Sage Vashistha
Vashistha Cave is an ancient cave renowned for it is believed that Sage Vashistha and his wife meditated here for many years. According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vashista was the human son of Lord Brahma and one of the great seven sages.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Kunjapuri Devi Temple

One of the 52 Shakti Peeths
Dedicated to Goddess Sati, this hill-top shrine temple is about an hour away from Rishikesh and offers panoramic views of Garhwal Himalayas.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Rishikesh

All year round destination

  • OCT-FEB

    Peak Season

  • MAR-MAY

    Moderate Season

  • JUN-SEP

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant and sunny days with comparatively colder evenings.
  • You Will Love:Adventure activities and camping.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

International Yoga Festival1st to 7th March

Ganga Kayak FestivalFebruary or March

Book Your Trip to Rishikesh

From

Travel Options to reach Rishikesh

Our Recommendations

Car to Rishikesh

5h 43m . One way

Booking Price

₹3,328

BOOK NOW

Bus to Rishikesh

5h 45m . One way

Booking Price

₹454

BOOK NOW

Stay in Rishikesh

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹2,545

EXPLORE
Perfectstayz Hills

Perfectstayz Hills

Tapovan

₹1,310

Onwards

Clarks Inn Express Rishikesh

Clarks Inn Express Rishikesh

Ashutosh Nagar

₹3,964

Onwards

Hotel Nirvana Bliss (Behind Parmarth Niketan)

Hotel Nirvana Bliss (Behind Parmarth Niketan)

Swarg Ashram

₹2,362

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹5,369

EXPLORE
Lemon Tree Hotel Tapovan Rishikesh

Lemon Tree Hotel Tapovan Rishikesh

Tapovan

₹8,392

Onwards

Perfectstayz Premium Laxmi Heritage

Perfectstayz Premium Laxmi Heritage

Tapovan

₹1,976

Onwards

EllBee Ganga View

EllBee Ganga View

Palika Nagar

₹5,741

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹16,860

EXPLORE
Aloha on the Ganges By Leisure Hotels

Aloha on the Ganges By Leisure Hotels

Tapovan

₹11,878

Onwards

Lemon Tree Premier, Rishikesh

Lemon Tree Premier, Rishikesh

Tapovan

₹12,078

Onwards

The Roseate Ganges

The Roseate Ganges

Rishikesh

₹26,625

Onwards

Rishikesh : A Place Where the Sacred Ganges Meets Adventure


Some places exist in the way they make you feel. Rishikesh is one of them. It is where the Ganges flows wild and free. Some come searching for peace and others for adventure. Rishikesh has a way of giving back what you did not know you needed. If you are planning to visit, here is everything you should know.


The Suitable Time to Visit Rishikesh


October through March is the best time to go Rishikesh. The temperatures stay comfortable, and the skies remain clear. Skip July to September as the monsoon makes rafting dangerous and trails too slippery.


The Best Destinations in Rishikesh


Let us explore the remarkable Rishikesh places to visit that make it a treasure trove of several wonders.

  • Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula
    These legendary bridges sway gently as you walk across. They offer breathtaking views of the Ganges.
  • Triveni Ghat
    The riverside ghat comes alive at sunset with the glow of lamps as well as the sound of prayers floating through the air.
  • The Beatles Ashram
    Once a retreat for the famous band, now a quiet sanctuary of art, music, and forgotten stories.
  • Neer Garh Waterfall
    A hidden oasis just outside town, where icy mountain water cascades over smooth rocks.
  • Rajaji National Park
    The national park is the wilder side of Rishikesh. Take a safari and spot wildlife.

Activities to Pursue in Rishikesh


Listed are the things to do in Rishikesh.

  • White Water Rafting
    Tackle grade 3 and 4 rapids on the mighty Ganges. Professional guides make it thrilling yet safe.
  • Bungee Jumping
    India's highest bungee platform (83 meters) gives you views of the valley before your epic plunge.
  • Cliff Jumping
    Test your courage at Ram Jhula's famous spots. Local guides know the safest points.

Local Food Secrets – The Top Things to Know


Rishikesh is famous for its local food scene. Tiny street-side stalls serve the most amazing parathas as well as chai. Do not miss the chocolate cake at the German Bakery – it is famous among travellers. The local cafes offer amazing fusion food. The local delicacies feature a combination of Western favourites with Indian spices.


How to Reach Rishikesh?


You can travel to Rishikesh by –

  • Air
    You can fly into the Dehradun Airport. A short drive brings you into town from there.
  • By Train
    Haridwar Junction (25 km away) is the closest major station, with plenty of trains connecting to big cities.
  • By Road
    Rishikesh is connected by national highways seven and thirty-four. You will discover buses along with taxis plying on the route.

State

Uttarakhand

Tourist Places in Rishikesh

Laxman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rajaji National park,

Things to do in Rishikesh

River Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Rock climbing, Rappelling

Best Time to Visit in Rishikesh

Oct- Feb

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Rishikesh

How is the weather of Rishikesh in peak season?

The weather of Rishikesh in peak season is pleasant and sunny days with comparatively colder evenings. It means you can easily plan a trip in this season for maximum fun during this season.

What are the best places to visit in Rishikesh?

The most loved attractions in Rishikesh are Laxman Jhula, Rajaji National Park and Triveni Ghat.

What are the popular things to explore in Rishikesh?

The most loved tourist places to explore in Rishikesh are Laxman Jhula, Rajaji National Park and Triveni Ghat. You will have an amazing time exploring these places and come back home with a bag full of memories.

What is Rishikesh famous for?

Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital of the World, as it is home to numerous yoga centers and ashrams. Rishikesh is also known for its adventure sports, particularly white water rafting, which is a popular activity on the Ganges River. Other adventure activities in Rishikesh include bungee jumping, zip lining, and rock climbing.

Which month is best for Rishikesh?

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from late September to early November and from early March to mid-May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like river rafting, trekking, and sightseeing

Why is Rishikesh renowned?

Rishikesh is famous for its spiritual vibe thanks to its peaceful environs, slow life and yoga and meditation. Known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, it attracts visitors from around the globe seeking spiritual enlightenment and peace. The city is also famous for its sacred Ganges River, ancient temples, and as a gateway to the Himalayas for adventure sports.

Are two days sufficient to explore Rishikesh?

Two days can provide a good introduction to Rishikesh, allowing you to experience its main attractions, such as the Ganges River, iconic temples, and a yoga session. However, for a deeper experience, including adventure activities like rafting, camping or a mindfulness session, a longer stay is recommended.

Which deity is Rishikesh particularly associated with?

The prime deity worshipped in Rishikesh is Lord Shiva. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is especially famous and is frequented by devotees. Other gods and goddesses that are worshipped in Rishikesh include, Lord Vishnu, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Ganga.

What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from October to April when the weather is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures during this period make it perfect for exploring the area and engaging in yoga and meditation activities.

When should one avoid visiting Rishikesh?

It is advisable to avoid visiting Rishikesh during the monsoon season, which typically occurs from July to September. During this time, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and landslides, making travel and outdoor activities difficult and potentially dangerous.

How can one travel from Delhi to Rishikesh?

Rishikesh can be reached from Delhi by several modes of transport. The most common options include taking a direct bus or taxi or travelling by train to Haridwar and then taking a short taxi or bus ride to Rishikesh. The journey by road typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

What is the estimated cost of a trip to Rishikesh?

The cost of a trip to Rishikesh varies depending on the type of accommodation, mode of transport, and activities planned. On average, a budget trip, including transport, lodging, food, and basic activities, could cost around INR 10,000/- to 16,000/- (on the outer side) per person for a two-day stay. More luxurious experiences would naturally increase the cost.

Is Rishikesh located in a plain or hilly region?

Rishikesh is situated in a hilly region, at the foothills of the Himalayas. Its terrain features a mix of hills and valleys, offering stunning natural landscapes and views.

Can one travel to Rishikesh by train?

Yes, one can travel to Rishikesh by train. The nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction, which is well connected to major cities in India. From Haridwar, Rishikesh is approximately a 30-minute drive, accessible by taxi or bus.

Is Rishikesh free of alcohol?

Yes, Rishikesh is a dry city where the sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited. This aligns with the city's spiritual ethos and cultural traditions.

Does Rishikesh experience snowfall?

Rishikesh does not experience snowfall. The city is located at a lower altitude compared to the higher Himalayan regions where snowfall is common. However, the nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, Chopta Tungnath, Auli, Munsiyari, Dhanualti that are accessible from Rishikesh, may receive snow during the winter months.