Located on the right bank of the holy Ganges river in the state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is renowned for being the "Yoga Capital of the World" and "Gateway to Garhwal Himalayas." The city is a revered spiritual and religious hub among Hindus, especially for Sadhus, who come here to meditate and search for the higher self beside numerous temples and ashrams built alongside the Ganges River. However, apart from being a major hub of spirituality, Rishikesh is also a popular spot amongst tourists who come here to immerse themselves in its scenic beauty and tranquil surroundings. Join us as we journey through some of the best places to visit in Rishikesh to ensure you have a memorable and worthwhile trip in this divine land.
The Triveni Ghat is the most sacred ghat or bathing spot in Rishikesh and is its top tourist attraction. It is named Triveni as it is the point of convergence of the three rivers, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. A holy dip in this spot is said to wash away all one’s sins and purify the soul.
Arguably, the highlight of a trip to Triveni Ghat is the maha-aarti, which is held every day in the morning and night. The sound of the bells and hymns and the glow of the many lamps floating in the waters is a sight to behold. The Rishikesh Ganga Aarti is a popular event for locals and tourists alike since it is believed to have special significance for those who attend. One can offer milk, food for fish, and oil lamps in the water. Even those who do not have a religious bent of mind can enjoy the tranquillity and serenity of the ghat.
Timings:
Morning aarti: 5:45 am to 6:30 pm
Evening aarti: 6 pm to 7 pm
At a height of 70 feet above the river, Laxman Jhula is a 450-foot suspension bridge and one of the most prominent places to visit in Rishikesh. Constructed in 1929, the bridge holds great significance as it is thought to be the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River using a jute rope.
The Laxman Jhula stands amid several ashrams, temples and spiritual centres, making it a hub for devotees across India. There are plenty of nice cafes on both sides of this bridge. While crossing the bridge, stop for a moment and take in the vistas of the surrounding hills and the river gushing by. There’s nothing more spectacular than this!
Shivpuri, a beautiful town located 12 kilometres from the main city of Rishikesh, is among the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The serene surroundings of this tranquil town and the lush greenery that surrounds it provide an ideal getaway for those serenity and rejuvenation.
Shivpuri is the best destination to try river rafting in Rishikesh. For thrill-seekers, this place offers a wide variety of adventurous activities, such as Cliff Jumping, Body Surfing, Rock Climbing, Jungle Walks, Beach Camping, etc.
The region offers excellent camping sites along the river banks. Additionally, Shivpuri serves as the base point for embarking on trekking and hiking adventures in the nearby hills.
Neer Garh Waterfall, situated near Rishikesh, is a breathtaking natural wonder and a popular site among tourists. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and lush green surroundings, the Neer Garh Waterfall provides a much-needed reprieve from urban city life.
A one-day hiking adventure to this beautiful waterfall in Shivpuri is an activity that every tourist must undertake. The waterfall forms a natural rock pool at the base where travellers can take a refreshing dip in its waters. Spending quality time in the lap of nature with your friends is a fun experience indeed.
Location: Neer Garh Waterfall Road, Rishikesh
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: INR 30 per person
The Beatles Ashram, also known as the Chaurasi Kutiya or the Ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, gained acclaim following a visit by the internationally renowned musical band - The Beatles. In 1968, The Beatles, along with other musicians, came to the ashram to learn yoga from the Maharishi. They stayed here for some months, composing music and immersing themselves in the spiritual ways of the yogis.
The Ashram walls are adorned with graffiti and colourful murals. Some sections of the Ashram still host yoga and meditation sessions. After being abandoned, the Beatles Ashram was reopened in December 2015. Apart from Beatles fans, this site attracts several art enthusiasts as well.
Location: Swarg Ashram
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: INR 150 per person
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 12 kilometres from the town of Rishikesh, at an elevation of 1330 m, amidst the wooded forests of Manikoot, Bramhakoot, and Vishnukoot valleys. It is believed to be the sacred spot where Lord Shiva consumed the venom that emerged from the Samudra Manthan, turning his throat blue.
Thousands of pilgrims visit this temple throughout the year. The area is surrounded by freshwater springs known for their medicinal properties. Devotees often take a dip in these waters for purification before heading inside the temple.
Location: Kotdwar - Pauri Road
Timings: 6 am to 7 pm
Jumpin’ Heights is an adventure sports company in Rishikesh. Offering India’s highest bungee jumping platform at 83 metres, Jumpin’ Heights is the thrill-seeker’s paradise. Bungee jumping is not the only adrenaline-pumping activity on offer here. The Giant Swing will have you swinging like a human pendulum 83 feet in the air.
The Flying Fox or zipline here at Jumpin’ Heights is one of the longest in Asia. International safety standards and protocols are followed at this adventure zone. There are weight and height restrictions as well as medical requirements to participate in these activities. Do check those out before you come to avoid disappointment.
Location: Pauri Garhwal, Mohan Chatti, 30 kilometres from Rishikesh
Timings: 9:30 am to 4 pm
Rishikesh boasts an excellent bus network connecting it with all the major cities and towns nearby. Since the city has no airport and a railway station not well connected to major Indian cities, the best option is to take a bus or rent a private vehicle.
You can book your bus tickets from here.