If you are still swooning over how stunning actress Tripti Dimri looks in Karan Aujla's newest hit, "Tauba Tauba," then we've got more reasons why you should love her: she's a true wanderlust at heart. The actress recently visited Rishikesh to fulfil her love for mountains. She took a break from her busy schedule and explored this spiritual hill station. Dimri documented her journey on social media, where we saw her immersing herself in nature, trekking through lush greenery, dense forests, and thick bushes. She found peace by the banks of the Ganga River, enjoying the surrounding hills and sky while embarking on small adventures, such as balancing on rocks and dipping her feet in the water.
Rishikesh is situated in Uttarakhand and is renowned for its tranquil beauty, spiritual significance, and range of adventure sports. It's a favoured spot for yoga enthusiasts, boasting numerous ashrams and yoga centres nestled amid its landscape. The town is also known for its ancient temples, such as the iconic Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges, which span the majestic Ganges River.
As a gateway to the Himalayas, Rishikesh attracts trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike. To help those who want to explore this hill station in a short timeframe—just like Dimri—we've crafted a two-day itinerary highlighting the must-visit spots in Rishikesh.
Begin your journey into the heart of Rishikesh by immersing yourself in its spiritual ambience. On your first day, head to Ram Jhula, one of the iconic suspension bridges over the Ganges. Wander through the bustling streets lined with shops selling religious artefacts, clothing, and local handicrafts. Next, head to Swarg Ashram, a serene township on the left bank of the Ganges river, and explore its numerous ashrams, yoga centres, and temples, including the famous Beatles Ashram, adorned with vibrant graffiti art.
Don't miss the opportunity to attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan or Triveni Ghat, where priests perform rituals accompanied by rhythmic chants and the flickering light of oil lamps, creating an atmosphere of spiritual reverence. Finally, end your day with a delectable dinner at a riverside café. Savour the flavours of authentic North Indian cuisine while soaking in the tranquil ambience of the Ganges.
On your second day in Rishikesh, you can enjoy some thrilling outdoor activities and embrace adventure. Start your day with a refreshing yoga or meditation session to harness the energy of this famous yoga hub. After breakfast, head to Neer Garh Waterfall for a scenic trek amidst lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature or return to Rishikesh for a meal at a local eatery.
To get your heart pumping, you can try white-water rafting in the rapids of the Ganges or experience the excitement of bungee jumping or zip-lining against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. As the day comes to an end, you can explore the bustling markets of Rishikesh for souvenirs and handicrafts or unwind by the riverbank, basking in the golden hues of the sunset. Finally, conclude your Rishikesh adventure with a farewell dinner as you reflect on the spiritual serenity and adventurous spirit that makes this destination truly unique. Do not forget to get souvenirs.
Rishikesh provides a wide variety of accommodation options that cater to the preferences and budgets of all types of travellers. From cost-friendly hostels (like Shalom Backpackers Rishikesh or Madpackers Rishikesh) and guesthouses to luxurious resorts and boutique hotels (like Anand Kashi by Ganges Rishikesh or Lemon Tree Premier), this spiritual destination nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas has something for everyone. Many ashrams also offer accommodation for those seeking a more immersive spiritual experience.
Whether you prefer to stay in the bustling town centre or seek tranquillity along the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh has numerous lodging choices to suit your needs. Many accommodations offer stunning views of the river or the surrounding hills (like Aloha on the Ganges or Sanskriti Vedic Retreat), allowing guests to immerse themselves in the area's natural beauty. Moreover, several establishments offer yoga and meditation retreats (like Outdoor Yoga Retreat or Rishikesh Yoga Sthal), allowing visitors to rejuvenate their minds, bodies, and souls amidst the serene surroundings of Rishikesh.
Rishikesh isn't just about finding inner peace through yoga and meditation; it's also a haven for adventurous foodies. Whether you crave panoramic views with your North Indian fare at The Sitting Elephant, innovative vegetarian delights at the luxurious Jal & Jalebi, or cosy comfort food with Israeli and Tibetan flavours at Little Buddha Cafe, Rishikesh caters to all tastes. For a local experience, delve into hearty thali and samosas at Chotiwala, or opt for healthy and organic options with stunning river views at Freedom Cafe. This is just a glimpse into the city's diverse culinary scene, so get ready to tantalise your taste buds and embark on a delicious journey through Rishikesh.
Air: Fly to Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport for the nearest airport to Rishikesh. Daily flights from Delhi and other cities by airlines such as Air India, Spice Jet, and IndiGo.
Rail: To reach Rishikesh by train, go to Haridwar, which is 25 km away and well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
Road: Buses connect Rishikesh to Delhi and other pilgrimage sites, like Haridwar. Morning and late evening buses from the Kashmiri Gate ISBT depart daily to Rishikesh.