best travel guide for rishikesh

The Complete Guide to Rishikesh, India: the Birthplace of Yoga

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Best time to visit, things to do, where to eat and drink, where to stay, things to do nearby.

Rishikesh, as the birthplace of yoga, attracts spiritual-seekers who come to meditate, do yoga, and learn about other aspects of Hinduism. The whole town is considered sacred, and it’s believed that meditation there leads to salvation. Despite the growing number of visitors, the town’s lanes and alleys retain an old-world charm, and it remains a wonderful place to relax and unwind among nature. It has a distinctively peaceful, uplifting, and international feel. Rishikesh is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides, not far from Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Plan your trip with this Rishikesh travel guide.

Rishikesh is situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides, not far from Haridwar in Uttarakhand.

The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, 35 kilometers (22 miles away). The airport is actually closer to Rishikesh than it is to Dehradun! Expect to pay 1,500 rupees (around $19) for a taxi to Rishikesh from the airport. Shubh Yatra Travels offers a reliable service. However, it's cheaper to travel to Rishikesh by road from Haridwar if you're on a budget.

As Rishikesh is at the foothills of the Himalayas, it provides a fantastic escape during the hotter months. Therefore, the best time to visit is between March and April and September to October. Temperatures soar in May. Rishikesh is best avoided during the monsoon months from July to August, as it receives heavy rainfall. Rafting is also closed during this time. Winter, from November until February, is cold but generally pleasant. So, bring woolens. Many people consider the couple of months after the monsoon to be the best time to visit, as the landscape is alive, green, and soothing.

Those interested in yoga shouldn't miss the International Yoga Festival , held in Rishikesh in March each year. The week-long festival is one of the biggest annual yoga gatherings in the world. Attendees participate in a comprehensive program of yoga classes and evening discussions with some of India's leading spiritual leaders. There are also vegetarian cooking classes and the Yoga Aid Challenge charity fundraiser.

Rishikesh is one of the most popular destinations for yoga in India. There are numerous ashrams and styles of yoga and meditation to choose from. Hence, it's crucial to investigate which best meets your needs. Check out these top Rishikesh ashrams for yoga and meditation to get an idea of what's available. The main spiritual district is known as Swarg Ashram, and you'll also find plenty of ashrams there. Plus, food stalls and shops.

Rishikesh is an ideal place to wander around and explore on foot, although auto-rickshaws are readily available for transport. Make sure you watch out for the plentiful monkeys that are quite a menace, particularly on the bridges. Unfortunately, the iconic Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge was closed in 2019 because it had become old and unsafe. There are plans to build a new glass-floored bridge next to it. Venture down to the ghats lining the river and relax amid the daily goings-on. You can also take a boat across the river near Ram Jhula as an alternative to walking across the bridge.

People gather at Parmarth Niketan ashram (in the Swag Ashram area) to experience the Ganga Aarti (worship ritual with fire) every evening.

If you're interested in learning about Indian cuisine and how to make it, don't miss the classes offered by Cooking Masala.

You may have heard that the famous English band The Beatles visited the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1960s to learn meditation. They also wrote about 40 songs there. The ashram is located within Rajaji National Park, and it recently re-opened for tourists after three decades. Its remaining walls have been decorated with amazing graffiti artwork by artists worldwide under The Beatles Cathedral Gallery community project. The entry cost is 150 rupees for Indians and 600 rupees for foreigners. Students pay 50 rupees.

Ayurveda is popular in Rishikesh. You'll be able to feast on delicious Ayurvedic, organic, and healthy food. Head to Ayurpak (which also provides homestay accommodations and these jungle cottages ), Ramana's Organic Cafe, or Pure Soul Organic Cafe & Kitchen. In addition, Nature Care Village is a wonderful organic farm specializing in raw food, yoga, and meditation retreats. You can learn about the properties of various medicinal plants and their uses from experts there too. (Read reviews of Nature Care Village and book on Tripadvisor ). If you're keen on getting professional Ayurvedic treatment, Hemadri Ayurveda Center is recommended. Vedic Ayurved also gives some of the best Ayurvedic massages in Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is a great place to shop for religious items, books, clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. The main market areas are around Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula.

Because Rishikesh is a holy town, eggs, meat, and alcohol are difficult to find there.

However, Rishikesh does have some groovy cafes to hang out in. The Little Buddha Cafe is a delightfully laid-back tree-house cafe at Lakshman Jhula, providing views of the Ganges River and fabulous international food. Cafe de Goa , near Lakshman Jhula bridge, also looks out over the Ganges River and serves various dishes, including Continental cuisine. The 60's cafe (Beatles Cafe) in the Laxman Jhula area has a Beatles theme and music to go with it. Bistro Nirvana is recommended for its rustic setting featuring bamboo and clay furnishings. Head to The Sitting Elephant on the rooftop of Hotel EllBee or Jal & Jalebi at Hotel Ganga Kinare for upmarket and fine dining. On the other side of the river, Chatsang Cafe ("where food meets the soul") offers healthy and contemporary food with a twist.

Substantial discounts are usually possible at hotels during non-peak times, so do ask! For smaller hotels, it's best to just turn up. If you prefer to book in advance and stay somewhere reputable, here are the best Rishikesh hotels and guesthouses for all budgets. The article also contains information about the various areas in Rishikesh to help you choose where will suit you best. If you're looking for inexpensive accommodations, several groovy backpacker hostels have opened up in the area. Zostel and Bunk Stay are popular.

Shivpuri is a highly recommended side trip, especially if you're into adventure. Located 22 kilometers (14 miles) upstream, it's a place of mesmerizing natural beauty. You'll find excellent white water rafting with Grade 3 and 4 rapids. Tented accommodations with attached bathrooms, such as those provided by Camp AquaForest and Camp Ganga Riviera , add to the uniqueness of the setting in the middle of white sand beach and jungle. There's also an excellent bungee jump zone and Asia's longest zip-line on the road to Neelkanth at Mohanchatti village (about 20 minutes from Rishikesh). Mini-bus transport is provided from Rishikesh.

A side trip to Haridwar is also worthwhile to experience the very different atmosphere and evening Ganga Aarti there.

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How to Get from Haridwar to Rishikesh

A Travel Guide to Rishikesh – Yoga, Cafes, Accommodation, Things To Do in 2024!

Categories Asia , India

Rishikesh, the home of Yoga in India . The Place where the Ganges River runs through brighter than you could ever imagine. A Spiritual Town made famous with foreigners by The Beatles back in the ’60s & ’70s .

Rishikesh is like no other place in India and it has to be visited by travellers to India, whether you visit for 3 days or 30!

I loved my week there, I met the most amazing group of women , enjoyed the sunshine, the cafes, the river, the yoga classes and seeing and listening to like-minded travellers live out their dream there too.

Rishikesh Travel Guide

If you are going to Rishikesh, here is my full guide to help you have the best time, whether you’re looking for yoga, ashrams and spirituality, or hostels and adventure activities as it’s definitely one of the most beautiful places in India !

SIM CARD FOR INDIA

I really recommend having a sim card in India as it makes travel in India so much easier! You may have heard that it’s hard to get a sim card in India but you can get a sim card in Delhi Airport, read this post to see how to buy a sim card in Delhi Airport or if you fly in elsewhere 3 ways to buy a sim card in India and you’ll be connected in just a few hours!

WHAT TO WEAR IN INDIA

If you are a woman, here’s what I recommend you pack and wear in India . Technically you can wear what you like in India in most places but to get fewer stares and feel more comfortable, read my post!

DON’T GET SCAMMED IN DELHI

Most people arrive for the first time into Delhi and get scammed within a few hours! Read my Delhi Travel Tips to help you enjoy Delhi, and the best places to stay in Delhi which is so important!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

How to Get to Rishikesh ?

Rishikesh by train.

The first thing you need to know is that Rishikesh does not have its own train station but that’s ok because Haridwar train station is a 40-minute car drive from Rishikesh and an hour’s tuk-tuk ride.

Each side you will need to add on the taxi or tuk-tuk price. A tuk tuk from Haridwar to Rishikesh is about 600Rs . There is also a public bus that leaves Haridwar to Rishikesh but it goes to Rishikesh Bus station and this is still some distance from the ‘touristy’ part of Rishikesh.

Other popular places to arrive into Rishikesh from or leave to are Agra, Varanasi, Manali, Dharamshala . There are trains from Haridwar to Agra and Haridwar to Varanasi , and if you can’t find a train to Agra like I couldn’t, just say the night in New Delhi in between.

Haridwar is not really a tourist city so there aren’t places to see in Haridwar hence why most people just use it for its train station as connecting City rather than staying there.

Search for trains to Haridwar here which can be booked in an easy way!

Rishikesh by Bus

Places like Manali and Dharamshala are accessed via bus. I got an overnight bus from Dharamshala to Rishikesh. It wasn’t that nice because of the windy roads but it was the only option really.

There is also a bus from Rishikesh to Delhi which cuts out the need for transport to Haridwar, just to Rishikesh Bus station and this costs around 700-1000Rs depending on the quality.

Search for buses to Rishikesh on 12GO Asia here which you can book online.

Rishikesh by Air

The closest airport is Dehradun Airport which is 25km from Rishikesh. If you are coming from Delhi to Rishikesh there isn’t much point getting an internal flight here but if you are coming from elsewhere in India it would be a good idea to look at flights on Skyscanner as some internal flights in India can be really cheap! To arrange a transfer from Dehradun Airport to Rishikesh for a good price, have a look at this offer on Viator and this cheap option on Get Your Guide !

Where to Stay in Rishikesh ?

If there’s one thing you need to know about Rishikesh and it’s accommodation, it’s that there are 2 parts of the town with the river separating them , tourists generally stay in the Northern part of Rishikesh close to Laxman Jhula Bridge . The Eastern Side is the ‘busier side’ and the Western side is the ‘Yoga side’ although they are both busy in their own way and both have yoga on offer.

Both sides are where you’ll find the most accommodation as well as cafes, restaurants, yoga classes etc! Note that during the day the popular bridge of Laxman Jhula does get very busy and it can take 10-15 minutes to cross it because of all the people, mopeds and cows! Also, the Eastern side of Rishikesh is not accessible by tuk-tuk so you will get dropped off on the other side from the bus station or Haridwar and will have to walk over the bridge with your bags, this may help you decide which side to stay on if you have heavy bags!

Hotels in Rishikesh

Hotels are abundant in Rishikesh, I only went into Kunwar Residency  as I worked from their lovely restaurant balcony overlooking the Ganga River so if you want somewhere fancier but still at a great price, in a good location, this would be a good choice!

Alternatively, have a look for the best hotels in Rishikesh on Booking.com here ! I always use Booking.com as they offer flexible choices and really good discounts once you’ve used them a few times!

Hostels in Rishikesh

There are a lot of hostels and guest houses in Rishikesh. I stayed in Shiv Shakti Hostel and whilst I wasn’t a huge fan of the hostel because I thought their private rooms were overpriced for their quality, others that stayed in the dorms seemed to like it and the dorms are cheap, it’s also in a really good location.

I heard good things about Live Free Hostel and The Hosteller from other travellers. Also Zostel Rishikesh however it is a bit out of the way on the main road. I heard bad things about Moustache and Bunk Stay.

In regards to the guest houses, after speaking to a few people who had decided to stay in Rishikesh for a few weeks it became apparent that a good number of the guest houses are not bookable online and therefore are a lot cheaper (I know, there are still places out there not online!!).

If you plan to stay in Rishikesh for more than a few days and want your own room over a dorm room but at a cheaper price I would recommend booking a few nights online first and then asking around the guesthouses once you are there. For example, there is a guesthouse behind Shiv Shakti Hostel offering private double rooms from 400, 600, 700, 800Rs which is much cheaper than anything you’ll get online!

This also applies to the Ashrams.

Ashrams in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has a lot of Ashrams thanks to it being such a holy and spiritual place. A number of these are still used by Indians which I really liked seeing but they are very popular with foreigners too!

A lot of the Ashrams in Rishikesh offer a package where you stay for usually 7 nights, have daily activities and meals and you are pretty confined to staying within the Ashram, which is fine as that is what a lot of people want. A week of silence, meditating, yoga, eating well and disconnecting to the outside world.

I met a group that went to Phoolchatti for 1 week. They really liked it and liked that it’s a bit further from the town so they could totally disconnect. They run 1-week courses all Spring and Summer, you can view their site here and their TripAdvisor here . I would definitely consider going here if/when I go back to Rishikesh and visit an Ashram!

Visiting Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh is also recommended if you want a really good ashram experience in India!

What I didn’t realise until the end of my stay in Rishikesh is that some of the Ashram’s in town offer just accommodation with yoga classes on top if needed and again, the accommodation is much cheaper than hotels offered online and are usually private rooms.

My friend found out about  The Omkarananda Ashram which is just at the end of Laxman Jhula Bridge and I went in with her to look around and it was really great! It was basic but very clean and the man who runs it is very nice.

No strict schedule needs to be adhered to in terms of going to classes and to start with she just paid for accommodation and got a private room cheaper than most dorm rooms in Rishikesh so again, if you are planning to stay for a while, book a few nights to start with and then ask around in the Ashrams for accommodation!

How to get the best flights??

I use Skyscanner to book all of my flights! I’m a huge fan of Skyscanner because I love how easy it is to compare different destinations and different dates for the best price and route!

For example, I type in ‘everywhere’ in the destination if I have fixed dates and want to find the best flights on those dates on Skyscanner .

And if I have a set destination I’ll look at the ‘month view’ to check the cheapest days to fly in that month!

How long to stay in Rishikesh ?

3-7 days in rishikesh.

Well, how long do you have and how much of a break do you need from India?? I stayed in Rishikesh for one week and for me that was enough, but perhaps because before that, I stayed in Dharamshala for one week too.

Generally, 3-5 days in Rishikesh is a good amount of time if you want to mix being active and doing a lot and also chilling in Rishikesh. However, if you have more time and you feel like Rishikesh is the kind of place you’ll like, you want to do daily yoga, sip tea in cafes, listen to live music in the evenings, go out for walks and meet amazing people, I recommend you stay a bit longer.

Travellers tend to get stuck in Rishikesh turning into expats there, especially for yoga, meditation and people who work online, so be warned!

Things to do in Rishikesh

There’s a lot of things to do in Rishikesh but you can also not do a lot and still enjoy it! Here are some of the best things to do in Rishikesh !

Yoga in Rishikesh

Let’s start with the obvious, shall we? Yoga in Rishikesh is a big thing and there is so much on offer! In fact, I’ll be awkward and say that there’s actually too much choice! Every other hotel has a sign outside it offering 3-4 Yoga classes a day and so do all of the Ashrams in town too. Hatha Yoga is the most popular yoga type in Rishikesh it seems but there are Kundalini and Vinyasa on offer too. I would ask around and get some recommendations when you arrive or at least go to one class and if you don’t like it, go elsewhere the next day.

I did yoga at TAT Cafe and really liked it. His Vinyasa morning class was hard work but the guy who does the classes and runs TAT is a great teacher. After you can get breakfast overlooking The Ganga River !

The classes and locations vary too. I found that some of them are not the best locations aka in the back of the reception of a hostel and the mats can be quite dirty so take your own or take a towel to put on top. Generally, classes are between 200-300Rs for 90 minutes and it can vary on the day as to whether you are there in a group or you are the only one there!

Classes & Courses in Rishikesh

If you want to learn about Yoga, Meditation, Chakra’s, Tantra, Singing, Music, Ayurveda, Cooking , you can do all of this in Rishikesh, plus more! I love that it still has the vibe of using posters around town to advertise what is on and most of the time the classes are run by young locals or foreigners who are trained in their profession or have a real passion for it. You can look online but I’d say the best way to find out what to do in Rishikesh classes and courses wise is to wait until you get there and look at the signboards !

Sound Healing in Rishikesh

I went to a Sound Healing Session on Sunday at Devi Music Ashram by Yoga Svarupe which was soo good! It’s on from 5:00-7:00 pm but get there at 4:30 to get a good place, take some layers, cover-up and lie down and listen to the most incredible Sound Healing! It’s by donation basis too!

Neergarh Waterfall in Rishikesh

Neergarh waterfall is a great place to visit near Rishikesh ! It’s walkable from Rishikesh, it’s along a busy road to start with but has amazing views of the Ganges below and lots of monkeys along the way! You then turn and the road is less busy, although it does start to get steep then!

It costs 50Rs to enter the waterfall and you can climb really high! Along the way are tea stalls with seating in the waterfalls and right at the top is Aqua Cafe which is further up from the waterfall and also a steep climb up steps but it’s well worth it as it’s so quiet and the owner is so nice. It offers freshly made food and drinks, complete with a valley full of prayer flags, and they also offer camping so if you want to go camping in Rishikesh , this is a good place to check out!

The Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh

This is a big tourist place in Rishikesh by both foreign visitors and Indian visitors. To read more about the Ashram including The History of when The Beatles arrived , what effect this had on Rishikesh and Tips for visiting, read my post here !

Camping in Rishikesh

It seems that Camping in Rishikesh and near Rishikesh is a popular thing to do! Again, if you have time, I would say it is best to wait until you are in Rishikesh and have a look at the posters around the town as companies will advertise when they are holding camping trips this way. Alternatively, if you want to book something in advance, this 1 Night 2 Day Camping and Trekking Adventure offering a real camping experience in the mountains near Rishikesh  on Viator looks good !

Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh

Who is brave enough?? I wasn’t! Maybe I would have been 5 years ago but not now! Jumping Heights, India’s first highest Bungee Jumping platform at a height of 83 metres is located just outside Rishikesh increasing Rishikesh Tourism even more! You will need to prebook this as a jump and transfer package  and you’ll be out for about 4-5 hours. This must be one of the most unique and fun things to do in Rishikesh if you’re brave enough!

White Water Rafting in Rishikesh

Well, except for Rishikesh Rafting that is! All-day people are rafting down the Ganga River right through the town of Rishikesh and although I didn’t do it because it’s not quite my thing, it does look fun! This seemed especially popular with Indian Tourists who I guess don’t have many chances to go white water rafting in India, therefore Rishikesh is a great place. The water may be a bit dirty in reality but it looks so nice and blue and great to swim in from afar!

Jungle Safari in Rajaji National Park in Rishikesh

If you fancy trying to spot some wildlife including Tigers whilst in Rishikesh then get booked onto a Jungle Safari! Rajaji National Park is a popular place to visit in Rishikesh and is surprisingly near by! Jump into a Jeep and look out for Elephants, Tigers, Panthers, Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Wild Boar, Barking deer, Goral, Himalayan Black Bear and Sloth Bear!

If you want a full day experience including sunrise and a nice air-conditioned car I’d recommend this full tour . If you just want to be out for a few hours and go in a jeep at a cheaper price, this 3-hour tour is for you !

Ganga Evening Aarti Ceremony in Rishikesh

I’m so bad, I didn’t even do this despite being in Rishikesh for one week, however, I thought the Rishikesh Aarti Ceremony would be closer to the tourist end of town but it’s not. The Aarti happens at Parmarth Niketan Ashram after the Ram Jhula Bridge, aka about a 20-30 minute walk away from the Laxman Jhula Bridge.

If you are not visiting Varanasi and then you must not miss seeing an Evening Aarti in Rishikesh , if you are, like me, I feel like it’s ok to miss it if you do.

Village Trek in Rishikesh

There are not that many places to visit near Rishikesh that are accessible on your own I found. A tour is needed, and a great place to visit with a guide is the Patho Villages . A guide can give you an insight into these  Himalayan villages as well as showing you incredible views. If you are yet to visit a local village in India, booking a Village Trek would be a great thing to do in Rishikesh!

Sunrise at Kunjapuri Temple in Rishikesh

If you want to witness an incredible sunrise and you are happy to wake up early, you must go to  Kunjapuri Temple! The hostel I stayed at was offering group trips there leaving at 5:30 with transport . It is walkable but you’ll need to leave at 4:00 am and walk 28km uphill! However once at the top- 1645 meters high to be exact you will be rewarded with not only the sunrise but a view of the Ganga River below where you walked from and the Himalayan Peaks! I feel like I’ll do this next time I visit Rishikesh! What an experience! If you want to visit as part of a tour and do a Village Trek after, have a look into this option on Viator !

Shopping in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a really good place to shop , it might even be one of the best places to shop in India! This is because it’s a good size and all of the shops are easy to walk around, the shop owners are nice and there is just so much stuff! Especially health and wellness related like essential oils, natural beauty products, as well as bags, clothes, jewellery and so much more!

Walk to some Temples in Rishikesh

There are a few different temples around Rishikesh that are walkable too, whether you want a fairy easy walk or a much challenging up hill walk!

Cafes in Rishikesh

If you’d rather just chill the F out in Rishikesh, you can! It’s so easy to spend your day into evening Cafe and Restaurant hopping, chatting to new people, drinking tea and eating good food! See my recommendations on the best places to eat in Rishikesh below!

Go to the Beach in Rishikesh

Another way to chill out in Rishikesh is going to the beach as the river does have beaches along it complete with soft shimmering sand! It can get busy on some of them with Indian visitors getting in the River but it’s also easy to climb some rocks and find some quiet parts!

This should give you plenty of things to do in Rishikesh!

BOOKING TRAINS IN INDIA

India is best travelled by train because its the quickest, cheapest and best way of getting to know the country. For an EASY option of booking trains in India use 12GO to search and book trains really easily. If you’ll be in India for awhile, you can use the local booking system, it’s a bit tricker but possible, here’s my post on how to book trains in India as a tourist .

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN INDIA

I always use Booking.com to book my hotels in India and Hostelworld to book my hostels . India has a great range of accommodation with brilliant hostel chains like Moustache, Zostel and Backpacker Panda as well as homestays to luxury hotels.

GUIDED TOURS IN INDIA

Many cities in India are best seen with a guide , even if it’s just a half day tour on your first day . Cities in India are chaotic and complex and what better way to taste the food and get to know the city than with a local. I recommend Get Your Guide & Viator for the best tours in India!

Best Places to Eat in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is abundant in cafes and restaurants offering good, healthy food with plenty of Vegetarian and Vegan options at a great price! Here are my favourite places:

• Little Buddha Cafe – Great for Western Food and Vegan Food, especially breakfast with a view of the Ganga!
• Ganga View Cafe – A modern cafe straight outta Melbourne or London, this is good for something a bit different!
• Tat Cafe  – I loved going to Yoga here and then sitting in the sun eating breakfast on the balcony watching the River.
• Shambala  – Good for Dinner because of the regular Live Music.
• The Beatles Cafe – I mean, its The Beatles Cafe, you have to go!
• Cafe De Goa – An amazing view of the River and Laxman Jhula bridge, perfect for people and monkey watching.
• The Bakeries – There are so many bakeries selling cakes and pastries, including Vegan cake which are really good!

However there are plenty more, I just kept going back to the same places so I’m sure you’ll find your favourite spot too!

HELP WITH YOUR INDIA ITINERARY

I’ve spent many months travelling India in the last few years visiting over 50 places around the country, here are my recommended itinerary posts for India to help you plan your trip!

2 WEEK INDIA ITINERARY, PERFECT FOR YOUR FIRST TRIP!

2 WEEK SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY – GOA & KERELA

1 MONTH NORTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

1 MONTH SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY IDEAS!

2 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY IN THE NORTH & SOUTH

MY 4 MONTH INDIA ITINERARY!

24 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN INDIA!

I hope this Rishikesh Travel Guide helps you plan your trip there! I really loved it, as I said at the start, don’t get me wrong, it is still very busy but it has a great vibe and attracts such good people, I’m sure you will enjoy it too!

For more of my posts on India see:

All India Posts

Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj Travel Guide for Travellers!

Tips for Visiting Amritsar’s Golden Temple and the Wagah Border Ceremony!

The Best Way To See Jaipur aka The Pink City of India!

12 Things Perfect For Backpacker To Do in Pushkar, India!

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Thursday 26th of March 2020

Amazing blog thanks for sharing, if you are in Rishikesh visit; https://samadhiyogaashram.com/ For yoga and mediation and Satsang classes

The Last Rishikesh Travel Guide You’ll Need

• January 17, 2022
• February 10, 2024
• Uttarakhand , India

Do you know that you can’t consume non-vegetarian foods in Yog Nagari Rishikesh? It is banned to maintain the divinity and significance of Rishikesh.

In this Rishikesh travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know and take care of before traveling to Rishikesh. That includes places and attractions, activities, local foods, souvenirs, public toilets and hygiene, accommodation, and more.

Whether you’re traveling to Rishikesh because you’re a Yoga-serious person or want to taste the adventure activities the city has to offer, it won’t disappoint you. Rishikesh is an amalgamation of old age practices like Yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and young age adventure activities like rafting, rock climbing, kayaking, and more. 

Rishikesh also got in the world’s spotlight when the famous English band The Beatles came to the Chaurasi Kutiya ( the Beatles Ashram ) here.

Let’s roll.

Table of Contents

Notice: This post may contain a few links which might earn us financial support when you buy or make any reservations through them. They’re in no way affect our opinion or the information presented here.

Video Guide

If you’re not into much reading, you can quickly watch this video instead. It’s concise but gives you all the necessary information.

Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh

1. laxman jhula.

Laxman Jhula is a suspension bridge for pedestrians over the Ganges connecting the Tapovan and Jonk villages of Rishikesh. Legend has it that Hindu deity Bhagwaan Laxman once crossed the river using a jute rope, and the present-day iron bridge Laxman Jhula is present at the same spot.

As you walk over this historic bridge, you get magnificent views of the gushing Ganges. If you fear heights, make sure you don’t look down for too long. 

2. Trimbakeshwar Temple

Trimbakeshwar Temple is a 13-story temple situated at the Jonk-end of the Laxman Jhula. The main deity is Lord Shiva sitting on the top floor. You go in spirals to climb up the 13th floor, and as you go, you’ll find many temples and “Pooja” shops.

They might force you to buy some things, remember to stay calm and politely deny if you’re not interested.

3. Ram Jhula

Named after Lord Ram, this bridge is similar to Laxman Jhula, whose only difference is its size. Pedestrians as well as motorbikes – both are allowed. It connects the Sivananda Nagar area to Swarg Ashram of Rishikesh.

Like Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula also offers splendid views of Ganges backdropped by mountains and city-life hues. Since it’s an iconic landmark in Rishikesh, don’t miss taking a stroll over this bridge.

4. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan is the largest ashram in Rishikesh that offers clean rooms and religious activities and an atmosphere with lush green gardens to pilgrims worldwide. You’ll see their gardens have various religious paintings and sculptures of many Hindu deities.

You can also attend Yoga sessions or sermons going on individually.

Don’t forget to attend the Ganga Aarti, which happens around sunset – it offers majestic sights and an opportunity to devote yourself to the prayers of the almighty. You’ll see, from young priests to the spiritual head Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji Maharaj, singing the hymns for God.

5. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya)

Chaurasi Kutiya, or more prominently the Beatles Ashram, is an abandoned ashram and, at present, under local authorities. The complex offers what reminiscent of history remains, beautiful wall arts, stories about the Beatles Band stay, and of course, mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.

Today, you’ll find it mainly visited by youths and followers of Mahesh Yogi Ji. It’s a big complex with over 100 meditation caves. No one practices here, but you can try to imagine the stay of the Beatles and how yoga or meditation would’ve been like here. 

6. Neelkanth Mahadev

Neelkanth Mahadev is a Dravidian style-influenced temple with the main deity as the Neelkanth facet of Lord Shiva. 

Legend has it that it’s the same place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out of the great churning of the ocean ( Samudra Manthan ).

The temple sits around 34 km outside of Rishikesh, and there are several ways to reach there. 

The easiest way to reach is to hire a scooter and drive yourself. You can also take a shared vehicle available in Jonk, a few steps from Laxman Jhula. As of October 2021, the price is 100 INR per person. You can also hire a private car or jeep.

When you reach the temple, shopkeepers might force you to leave your footwear and take “Prasada” for the temple. Don’t bother them until you see the temple’s building, as you can do the same just outside the temple.

7. Marine Drive & Ganga Beach

Marine Drive or the Aastha Path is a 2.5 km walkway along with the enchanting Ganges. It has one end at Ram Jhula and goes further until Triveni Ghat. There are benches at regular intervals along the path to sit and contemplate with Ganges and Himalayas at the backdrop.

You can see the Ganges entering into plains here. Next to Ram Jhula, you’ll see a sand beach. March down the few steps from Aastha Path, and you’ll be able to reach Ganga Beach. You might see families enjoying their time, youths capturing their next best Instagram photo, and yoga practitioners along the beach.

8. Shri Bharat Mandir

The city of Rishikesh got its name after the presiding deity at this temple — Shri Hrishikesh Narayan. It is the most sacred and ancient temple situated at the heart of Rishikesh in Jhanda Chowk. You can quickly get a shared Tempo to get here.

As history tells us, Raibhya Rishi (sage) once did hard penance to please Lord Vishnu. When Lord Vishnu appeared, he showed illusions (Maya) on sage’s insistence and told that this place would be known as Hrishikesh in Kalyug as Raibhya has done penance controlling all his senses. And Lord’s incarnation will have the name Bharat.

Lord Hrishikesh, also known as Shri Bharat Ji Maharaj, is a different form of Bharat, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu himself.

The temple offers a peaceful environment on most days. You’ll find a sacred tree and a museum inside the temple complex.

9. Waterfalls

There are about five waterfalls well-hidden from the public’s eyes that you should experience in your Rishikesh travel. Neer Garh, Patna, Himshail, Garud Chatti, and Phool Chatti waterfall.

Every waterfall requires a few kilometers of hiking. So if you’re staying in the city center, it might be a good idea to hire a scooter and take a local guide with you for a smooth experience. 

Local Foods & Cafes in Rishikesh

So, is there any exceptional food or place that you should try in Rishikesh? Yes, there are some worth your time.

For example, we found an exciting restaurant near Ram Jhula called Chotiwala Restaurant. Chotiwala means a male with a ponytail. And so, you’ll see an uncle with a colossal ponytail, straight-up like a stick, sitting at the entrance of the restaurant. And yes, you can take selfies with him:

The confusing thing is that there were two Chotiwala restaurants (next to each other), and we can’t say which one’s authentic because their representation is identical.

Next, believing the words of Internet gurus, we went to Little Buddha Cafe — a few meters ahead of Laxman Jhula. The front entrance is tiny, and you might not even see it if you pass by in an instant. 

However, once you’re inside, you’ll love it for the presentation, arrangement, and mesmerizing views of the Ganges with a mountain backdrop. The food seemed pretty okay — we ate a Paratha and tea. I felt the place was expensive for a lower-middle-class guy like me.

There are many cafes like this in Rishikesh, but I strongly feel you won’t get the city’s true essence in these cafes. For that, you’ve to become a local and travel like it.

Furthermore, if you come around October, you’ll see a fruit named after Lord Rama in the streets of Rishikesh. It is called Ram Fal, and you can taste it from any of the numerous vendors near Ram Jhula and Parmarth Niketan.

There might be more foods in Rishikesh, and if you know any of them, you think we should include, please tell us in the comments.

Here’s a list of foods and places to eat in Rishikesh:

Activities To Do in Rishikesh

Most of the adventure activities in Rishikesh are available on the outskirts of the city. For example, Shivpuri is where the white water river rafting starts, Mohan Chatti for bungee jumping (conducted by Jumpin Heights), and Air Safari runs most air expeditions.

Note that, though these activities happen in the outskirts, the agencies conducting them have offices at different locations inside Rishikesh. So, even a simple Google search will get you a number to contact them.

Here’s a list of activities you can do and places where you can do them (with helpful links):

Souvenirs to Buy in Rishikesh

Souvenirs are the best way to capture a place’s essence and take it to your home. They act as a lock to the box of memories you created at that place.

Rishikesh has some of the significant objects that you can buy as souvenirs. Here’s the list of the top souvenirs you can buy in your Rishikesh travel:

• “राम राम” and “ॐ” printed T-Shirts and Kurtas
• Religious Books
• Puja Items – bells, plates, and other objects.

For a more in-depth guide on souvenirs, you can read IndiTales’ post .

Hygiene & Public Toilets

How is the cleanliness and availability of public toilets in Rishikesh?

Team Misfit spent around 3-4 days in Rishikesh, and most of the time, we were out in the street. We had to use public toilets frequently, and we are glad to inform you that they are available near most of the attractions. Some are by Ashram authorities, and some are by the city’s administration – the Sulabh Complex.

Mode of Transport & Distance Between Attractions

Most of the attractions are near the city center and landmarks ⏤ Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. However, adventure activities mostly happen on the outskirts, typically 16-18 km away from Tapovan and Jonk. Also, most waterfalls lie on the outskirts too. Further, Neelkanth Mahadev temple is around 34 km from Rishikesh.

Please interact with the following map to get a clear understanding or open this map on your Google Maps application .

How to Get to Rishikesh India?

Here are the ways about how to get to Rishikesh India:

Rishikesh has its railway station, Yog Nagari Rishikesh. Trains are available from the most major stations of India. It’s the most beautiful station we’ve seen. The city is around 2-4 km from the station. See the pics:

You can get a direct bus of Uttarakhand Parivahan Nigam from Delhi’s Kashmiri Gate ISBT to Rishikesh or Haridwar (which is ~35 km from Rishikesh). If you arrive at Haridwar, there are frequent buses and local transport to Rishikesh.

Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, about 21 km away from Rishikesh. Regular flights from the national capital Delhi land here. You will readily get taxis to reach Rishikesh.

Best Time to Visit

Although Rishikesh gets visitors every month of the year, the best time to visit in Rishikesh is highly subjective. It depends on various factors and your preferences, such as weather, activities, crowd, and more.

Please see this table to determine the best time for your Rishikesh travel:

Workation, Number of Days Required, and Budget

Workation .

The last time we visited Rishikesh, there were some pretty good options for doing Workation — work + vacation. It’s a new trend in the industry, and many youths have implemented it successfully in the harsh times of the pandemic 2020.

Workation stays typically start at INR 4,000 per month, including your stay and WiFi expenses. 

Like the best time to do Rishikesh travel, the budget is highly subjective. It depends a lot on what type of person you’re, your preferences and what time of the year it is.

Number of Days

How many days is good for Rishikesh travel? 

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, you don’t have more than three days. If you can afford a few more days, you can explore every facet of Rishikesh. With that said, it’s safe to say three to five days are enough to explore Rishikesh, enjoy adventure activities, and enjoy some time in solitude near a bank of the Ganges.

Budget, again, is highly subjective and depends upon various economic factors. An introductory tour that includes sightseeing and local foods will cost much less than a tour with adventure activities.

Here’s the table with an estimated cost of travel depending upon the type of tour you take:

Other Expenses:

• INR 500 starting price for scooter rent (excluding fuel price).
• INR 2000 starting price for camping and rafting.
• INR 4000 starting price for bungee jumping.

Accommodation & Options for Stay

From luxurious resorts to free stays, Rishikesh has everything in between. Most lodges, restaurants, and hostels are available in and around Tapovan, Rishikesh.

You can even stay for free in Geeta Bhawan of Swargashram (near Ram Jhula), encompassing about 1000 rooms.

Travel Tips

• Don’t forget to visit Shri Bharat Mandir in Jhanda Chowk, dedicated to the deity from which the city gets its name, Lord Hrishikesh Narayan.
• If you don’t like the crowd, avoid visiting in peak season, from March to June.
• Make sure you pack proper woolen clothes from November to February.
• You should stay near Laxman Jhula or Ram Jhula, as most attractions are around these iconic landmarks.
• If you’re coming for rafting, make sure you check the official site for knowing the status. Rafting is closed in extreme winters and the rainy season.
• Post your stories and Reels (or Shorts) tagging us @MisfitWanderers ( @misfit.wanderers on IG ), and we’ll repost them on our handles.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rishikesh

How did rishikesh get its name.

Rishikesh gets its name after Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, known as Shri Bharat Ji Maharaj, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu himself. Shri Bharat Mandir is a temple dedicated to the deity and lies in the city center.

Why is Rishikesh famous?

Rishikesh is famous worldwide as the Yoga Capital because it has many yoga and meditation centers. Apart from that, Rishikesh is also known as the adventure capital of India as it offers rafting, cliff jumping, bungee jumping, and many other adventure activities.

How many days are enough for Rishikesh?

Three to five days are enough to explore Rishikesh, enjoy adventure activities, and enjoy some time in solitude near a bank of the Ganges.

How to get to Rishikesh India?

Yoga Nagari Rishikesh (YNRK) is the nearest railway station connected to major train stations in India. The nearest airport, Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, sits about 21 km away. And you can get regular government buses to Rishikesh from the national capital Delhi’s Kashmiri Gate ISBT.

When to visit Rishikesh?

You can visit anytime from December to June. Please note that avoid visiting in December, January, and February if you can’t bear the cold environment.

Rishikesh is the gateway to Char Dham. Therefore devotees visit in masses when the yatra remains open. Besides that, Rishikesh has nature’s blessings, adventure activities for that adrenaline rush, and yoga and meditation to calm your senses.

We have tried to show every facet of Rishikesh via this trip and covered every topic we can think of; however, if you think we missed something, we’d insist on your help. Use the comment box.

And if you have done Rishikesh travel already, tell us about your experience and rate this travel guide? Your efforts are a privilege for us, and your feedback — truly matters a lot.

An appeal:   Please do not throw litter around. Use a dustbin and if you can’t find one, take the trash with you and throw it when you find one. Your small steps like this one can make the world clean and green.

Vipin is a techie, traveler, and entrepreneur. He has done engineering in computer science and is an Apple Fan Boy. He is behind all the tech and content management of this website. Often, he shares his entrepreneurial learnings and thoughts on his Twitter .

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thanks for providing us infromatino about rishikesh and i am planing to visit rishikesh in upcoming few days

I am glad that our blog helped you. Your words means alot to us. Have a great trip to Rishikesh

Amazing blog thanks for sharing, if you are in Rishikesh visit; https://ghumakkadi.in/

Thank you, Sourabh 🙂

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Rishikesh Travel Guide 2024 – 10 Reasons to Visit the Birthplace of Yoga!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories RISHIKESH , INDIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

There’s no doubt about it, I fell in love with Rishikesh as soon as I arrived.

The beautiful hills which fall into each other, the clean, green flowing mother Ganga, and the peaceful vibes that seem to be all over the place are infectious. I was hooked.

Rishikesh is the birthplace of yoga and came into international fame after the Beatles stopped here to stay at an Ashram in the 60s.

Today, people from all over the world visit to learn how to become yogi instructors, attend the annual yoga festival and learn how to better their meditation from the gurus.

Although in the peak seasons of winter it can get pretty crowded, I’ve never felt anything but great as I’ve been wandering around.

People are friendly, it’s incredibly cheap and it’s generally an awesome place to be! There are plenty of things to do here that don’t involve yoga if that isn’t your thing too.

Here is my ultimate Rishikesh travel guide with 10 reasons to visit the birthplace of yoga!

My Rishikesh travel guide & 10 reasons to visit Rishikesh

1. it’s the birthplace of yoga.

Notably, the main thing that draws people here, aside from the fact it’s on the foothills of the Himalayas, is that it provides lessons in Yoga and meditation.

You can learn from some of the best yogi instructors in the world and what better place than where yoga was born?!

It’s a pilgrimage of the spirit and mind and some say it will change your life. You can get involved in many yoga retreats and intense courses if this is what you would like to do.

Most travellers stay at an Ashram while they’re here. There are so many to choose from, it’s best to just go with your gut feel and/or budget.

I stayed at Yog Niketan by Sanskriti which is a hotel ‘ashram’ not far from Ram Jhula. Every morning, you could wake up to fantastic views of the mountains and the Ganges river.

My friend and I, who are totally NOT yoga bunnies, decided we would try a yoga session here. It was complimentary each morning so we thought why not.

It was a pretty painful experience and I definitely learned that I need to do a lot of work on my flexibility!

The yoga instructors here are pretty intense and they will definitely correct you if you’re going wrong.

Which is part of why they’re so good! So many times I was in the A-frame or “mountain” and the instructor kept saying “keep your back straight, straight, STRAIGHT” lol.

I definitely didn’t find my calling. We essentially did a lot of sun salutations for around an hour and by the end of it, I had a good workout.

It felt really good to get up at sunrise and do something positive to start the day. I would highly recommend it.

2. You can take a dip in the Ganges river

The river Ganges snakes through the middle of Rishikesh and it adds such a colourful addition to the foothills around it.

Although the Ganges in Varanasi is extremely dirty and polluted, the source of the river is only 40 kilometres away from here and making it extremely clean.

You will see Sadhu and Hindu pilgrims bathing in the Ganges here each morning and throughout the day. You may also see little empty bottles and jugs for sale as you walk around with ‘Ganga Jal’ on the side.

This is for those who have visited to take some of the Ganges homes with them!

If you would also like to do this, the bottles will cost you around 10 rupees. It’s just making sure it doesn’t leak in your luggage!

You should definitely take a dip in Mother Ganga while you’re here. As a woman, I didn’t feel comfortable stripping off as the boys do. So I just dipped my tootsies in. It was Indian winter time and so the water was freezing!

3. You can visit the abandoned Beatles Ashram

Possibly the coolest attraction in Rishikesh is the fact you can visit the abandoned Beatles Ashram.

This ashram became famous after the band visited here in the 60s.

Along with their strict meditation instructions from their guru, this ashram inspired the Beatles to write many songs on the White Album.

Although it does have a hefty price tag of 500 rupees for a foreigner, it’s worth having a peek inside and is a must for any Beatles fan.

To read more about it see my article: Exploring the abandoned ashram in Rishikesh.

4. You can witness the famous Aarti at Triveni Ghat

My favourite part of visiting Rishikesh was witnessing the amazing Aarti at Triveni Ghat.

Hindus make a pilgrimage here as it’s a sacred site and a meeting of the three holy rivers; the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswathy.

It is said that if you bathe in the waters of this holy Ghat, your sins will leave you.

The Aarti here is something you simply cannot miss on your visit. It is an amazing feeling watching the flames, hearing the Bhajans, and feeling the energy.

It starts around 6.30 pm each evening so get there early to guarantee a seat in peak season.

5. Feel some shanti vibes at The Little Buddha Café

This is my all-time favourite Shanti, Shanti café in Rishikesh and possibly India so far! You can just relax here, away from the streets and feel-good vibes.

The café provides panoramic views of the hills, Lakshman Jhula, and the Ganges river from their open viewpoint.

They serve up the most amazing lemon, ginger, and honey tea (which I’m obsessed with) and a great menu of Indian and International cuisine.

I love the ‘Falafel all’ platter on their menu. I could literally sit here all day, listen to their awesome music and just watch the world go by. You have to visit it.

6. Walk over the suspension bridges, Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula

The two suspension bridges which allow for an easy crossing over the Ganges should be a bit of an eyesore.

But, they actually complement and even improve the setting as you walk around the town.

Although the bridges are relatively narrow, you’ll find the traffic is busy at all times of day!

Bikes, cows, selfie-takers, luggage carriers, and monkeys are among those that use the bridge so be prepared to make way. They also move quite a lot with the wind, so it may be pretty shaky if the winds are high.

Lakshman Jhula is the bigger and more picturesque of the two and is where many of the hotels and restaurants are including the German Bakery. To get to Ram Jhula it’s an easy 2/3km walk.

Read more – The most Instagrammable places in Delhi!

7. It has an amazing white sand beach on the banks of the Ganges

A really beautiful, peaceful place to visit and to dip in the Ganges is the white sand beach.

Located around 500m from Ram Jhula, it’s a great place to sit and relax, meditate or meet some locals.

I’ve visited Rishikesh twice now. Once in Indian winter, when the water levels were low and the sand was white.

Most recently, I visited in monsoon season where the water levels were high and the beach was almost black due to the muddy waters from the mountains! During this time, you need to be careful of the flowing river.

You shouldn’t swim when the tide is high as you could be pulled away by the current.

As the water levels were getting to a dangerous level, a security officer ushered everyone off the beach, including the cows. So, tread carefully unless you want a ride down the river of course!

8. Go white water rafting, zip-lining, or on an adventure

Although since the 60s this has been a location of peace and tranquillity, nowadays a lot of people visit to get involved in the many adrenalin activities which are on offer.

All over the town, you’ll see shops advertising boating/rafting, ziplining, speedboating, treks into the mountain, and more.

There is so much to choose from, making it the home of adventure!

Personally, I didn’t go white water rafting when I was here last time but it’s definitely on my list.

The second time I visited, the water levels were too high during the monsoon. So, I’m determined to come back and do it another time. Always ensure you book a safe, reputable company for the rafting.

9. Visit the amazing temples

As Rishikesh literally sits on the banks of the Ganges, there are dozens of temples and ghats here.

In the evening time, you will see many temples performing the nightly aarti.

You’ll see flaming candles and the sound of chanting fill the air. The most striking Hindu temple to visit here is next to the Lakshman Jhula.

The Tera Manzil temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is fascinating to walk around.

As you make your way to the top, there are hundreds of shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities.

When you reach the top, a priest will bless you with a Tilak (vermillion blessing or red dot) of Lord Shiva’s trident.

You can also take home some blessed Ganga Jal in one of the brass pots they have there.

Not only is this temple great for some spiritual awareness and learning about Hindu culture, it provides awesome views of the Ganges and Rishikesh.

10. Feel refreshed in body and mind

A lot of travellers, Indians, and people from all over the world escape to Rishikesh to help their inner peace.

Meditation and Yoga are tried and tested natural ways to help stress and calm the mind. So, where better to come than here?!

I definitely feel that if I felt lost in my life or needed some direction, this is going to be the first place I call on.

Although I didn’t personally visit for a spiritual calling, there’s no doubt that the energies here made me feel at peace.

If you haven’t thought about visiting Rishikesh, I would change that now! Put it on your list and allow yourself a few days of peaceful vibes.

Heading to the North of India? Read more of my posts!

Manali to Leh by road, all you need to know

What it’s like to travel to Leh, the land of high passes

Off the beaten track Ladakh, Thiksay, She, and more

A guide to Manali, the hippie town in Himachal

Why you need to visit Shimla

Top things to do in Mcleodganj

A complete Bhagsunag waterfall guide

Mussoorie Hill Station guide

Things to do in Amritsar

Wagah Border Ceremony Guide

Kedar Singh

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Rishikesh has the full spectrum of the Best tourist attractions places in Rishikesh that lures in the young and wild, the holidaying family, and the elderly pilgrims.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 16th of February 2023

Totally agree Kedar! Thanks for reading! Sophie x

Kamlesh Chauhan

Wednesday 25th of January 2023

Oh, What a wonderful way to explain the spiritual Rishikesh, I love the way you have highlighted it. It is really mesmerizing to read such words. Appreciate your work.

Thanks Kamlesh!

Thursday 3rd of February 2022

Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info with us. It is so appreciated.

Hi Shivani, thanks so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

Hi, Nice article indeed! The image selection and the Wonderful way to explain the holy place of Rishikesh, Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is famous across the world cannot miss it. It is a good place for holy temples, adventure activities and Ashrams. Rishikesh is a thought year destinations to plan to visit here. I am planning this year in December

Hi Akansha, I totally agree! Rishikesh is the best! Have a wonderful time. Thanks, Sophie x

rakesh Shah

Wednesday 29th of September 2021

River Rafting in Rishikesh is the most popular adventure activity in India in which a small group of people uses an inflatable raft with paddles to navigate the Ganga river. Cliff jumping, body surfing or swimming are the common activities performed during a rafting trip. It is the adventure which fits every traveller or tourist budget. For the safety of peoples life jackets, helmet, paddle & river guide is provided. 

Sunday 10th of October 2021

Thanks for the suggestion! Sophie x

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Rishikesh - Yoga Capital of the World

The celestial city of Rishikesh is a hermit’s hermitage, a sage’s abode and an adventure lover’s hub. This lively city is among the holiest places of Hindus. The tranquil and sometimes raging river of Ganges flows in eternity in this holy city, providing nourishment and life to many the earthly beings. 

The word Rishikesh literally suggests the ‘ locks or hairs of a sage ’. The city is famously known as the ‘ Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas ' and the ‘ Yoga Capital of the World ’. Many locals, as well as foreign tourists, visit this place in the quest for spirituality and peace. Rishikesh is also a commercial as well as a communication hub that lavishly sprawls over the suburban area of Muni ki Reti or the ‘sands of the sages’.

• Rishikesh Tour Packages

• Places to See
• Tour Packages
• How to Reach
• Distance Chart

Rishikesh is the only destination in the world that is equally popular for pilgrimage, Yoga, and Adventure Sports . It is situated in the foothills of the Shivalik range on the banks of the river Ganga in Northern India. Rishikesh has also become a popular destination for white water rafting and kayaking , attracting tourists from both India and abroad. It is also a center for hiking , backpacking, camping, rock climbing, rappelling, kayaking, and bungee jumping.

• Rishikesh Travel Guide

Rishikesh is a small serene town famous for meditation and yoga. It is Gateway to the Himalayas and being on the bank of the river Ganges it is an ideal destination for adventure activities like rafting , trekking, rock climbing, kayaking, etc.

Rishikesh is situated 25 km ahead of Haridwar at an elevation of 356 meters above sea level and consists of three distinct areas known as Rishikesh, Swargashram , and Muni-ki-Reti .

The town of Rishikesh is such strategically located at the Himalayan foothills that it has easy access by road to the entire Himalayan region in India, and is famous to be the ideal starting point for your exploring expedition in the Himalayan region.

Why visit Rishikesh?

Rishikesh known for its holiness has a lot to offer to its visitant as the city has an alter ego which sometimes becomes holy, sometimes adventuresome, sometimes surreal and comely. The travelers can go for temple-hopping to the nearby shrines such as Shri Neelkanth Mahadev , Vashishtha Gufa , or pamper themselves with an exotic Ayurveda treatment. 

Either pay a short visit to the several assorted ashrams around Swargashram or relish the timeless beauty of the ancient temples such as Shatrughna Mandir, Bharat Mandir , and  Lakshman Mandir that were enshrined by Guru Adi Shankaracharya.

One can stroll around the Sivananda Nagar, the home of Sivananda Ashram, or visit the Divine Life Society established by the great Hindu philosopher, Swami Vivekananda. You can also admire the construction of the two mammoth suspension bridges of Rishikesh, the Ram Jhula , and the Lakshman Jhula that are known for their exquisiteness.

 If you are a hardcore Beatles fan, then head to the Beatles Ashram where the fab five attended a session of transcendental meditation. Also, don't miss the blissful Ganga Arti performed on the Triveni Ghat during dusk.

• Places to See in Rishikesh

Activities in Rishikesh

• Pilgrimage :  Rishikesh is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Hinduism and attracts large number of devotees and pilgrims who visit this spiritual abode and take a dip in the holy Ganges to cleanse their soul.
• Yoga and Meditation : Rishikesh is considered the ‘ Yoga capital of the world  ’. Tourists and spiritual seekers from all over the world visit Rishikesh to learn the ancient techniques of yoga and meditation and find inner peace.  Every year in March, International Yog Festival is organized in Rishikesh .
• Rafting :  Rafting in Rishikesh is popular all over the country and the turbulent waves of river Ganges makes it a popular adventure activity at Rishikesh. Adventure seekers flock at Rishikesh in large numbers post-monsoon to enjoy the thrill of rafting. Book your rafting tour here .
• Adventure Sports :  Apart from rafting, there are many adventure activities that will appeal to the adventure seekers. Some activities tourists can try at Rishikesh are bungee jumping, Flying Fox, Cliff Jumping, Body Surfing, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, rappelling, and zip lining.

Staying in Rishikesh

Accommodation is not a problem at Rishikesh as the place is flooded with numerous guesthouses, hotels and resorts. Also, being a religious place, there are many ashrams and dharamshalas in Rishikesh where one can stay.

Rishikesh Food Guide

Due to the high influx of tourists and pilgrims to Rishikesh respectively, there are plenty of restaurants and roadside food stalls mushroomed at Rishikesh where chiefly Indian vegetarian food is served along with Punjabi and Garhwali dishes. Being a revered place of religious importance, non-vegetarian food and alcohol is strictly prohibited in Rishikesh.

Mythology about Rishikesh

Widely known as one of the holiest towns of India, Rishikesh is associated with several legends and mythological tales. The first one states that a sage by the name of Raibhya Rishi performed a strict penance on the banks of river Ganga. Impressed by his utmost devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared in front of him as ' Hrishikesh ' meaning ‘Lord of the Senses’ in Sanskrit. Therefore, the place became popular by the name of Hrishikesh, another name for Lord Vishnu and was later re-named as Rishikesh. The 'Kedar Khand' of Skanda Purana, also mentions the existence of Indrakund at this very point.

While the other legend states that Lord Rama indulged in deep meditation here for annihilating Ravana and it was here that Lakshmana, the younger brother of Rama crossed the mighty river using a jute rope bridge. However, the original bridge was later replaced by an iron rope suspension bridge in 1889 and a similar bridge called Ram Jhula was made in 1986. Also, there are several ancient  temples in Rishikesh that were enshrined by Adi Shankaracharya.

There are several ancient temples and ashrams in Rishikesh which are associated with our mythological and historical background. A dip in the holy water of Ganges flowing from the river beaches of Rishikesh is capable of washing all the sins of a person.

Rishikesh Yoga and Meditation Destination

Thousand of years ago saint came to this place in order to attain peace and spirituality. As their study and practice flourished here, Rishikesh soon established itself as the birthplace of the Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation, Spirituality and Spa Therapies, and it became famous world-over as a perfect place to study, learn and practice the Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation, Spiritually and Spa Therapies . It is believed that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to attainment of moksha, as does a dip in the holy river that flows through it.

Rishikesh at a Glance

Rishikesh is a city, a municipal council and a tehsil in  the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand . It is the seventh most populous city of Uttarakhand and the largest municipal council of Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is the starting point for travelling to the Char Dham Yatra sites namely Badrinath , Kedarnath , Gangotri and Yamunotri .

People in Rishikesh

The locals of Rishikesh are found to be mostly peaceful with friendly demeanor, speak local language, with good Hindi and some workable English.

Rishikesh Photo Gallery

Tourist Map of Rishikesh

Map for representation only. Map NOT TO SCALE.

• Rishikesh Weather

Check out the Rishikesh weather report for April

Rishikesh Weather in April

The minimun and maximum temperature in April in Rishikesh is 18 ° C and 35 ° C respectively. The weather is generally sunny and clear in April and you would feel pleasant throughout the day. Summer Clothes clothes are recommended for Rishikesh in April.

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What is Rishikesh famous for?

Rishikesh is famous among tourist as Yoga, Pilgrimage, Rafting, Kayaking, Adventure Tourism, Temples, Ashrams, Weekend Getaway.

Rishikesh is recommended destination for Corporates, Couples, Family and Kids, Foreigners, Groups, Solo.

Rishikesh is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Adventure , Biking , Camping , Char Dham Route , Christmas and New Year , Hiking , Kayaking , Leisure , Pilgrimage , Rafting , Religious , Shopping , Temples , Weekend Getaway , Yoga and Meditation .

Plan your Trip

Rishikesh highlights.

• Yoga capital of India
• Rishikesh Rafting is best in India
• Various adventure activities for all ages
• Beautiful temples all around
• Enjoy evening Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh

Uttarakhand Travel Update

Char Dham yatra will start from 10 May 2024, Bookings Now Open! Check Char Dham Tour Packages - Hotels in Badrinath - Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter - Kedarnath Helicopter Booking Guide  - Char Dham hotels

Char Dham Closing Dates:  Gangotri , Yamunotri and Kedarnath dhams are closed now. Badrinath temple will be closed 19 Nov. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Traveling to Uttarakhand?  Check out Uttarakhand Covid Stats , Uttarakhand Travel Guidelines  and Uttarakhand Travel News

Char Dham Update:  Gangotri , Yamunotri , Kedarnath and Badrinath are open for pilgrims. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Last Updated: 12 Apr 2024

Rishikesh overview

• Temperature in Apr 35 /18 °C
• Best time to visit Rishikesh Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
• Located in Dehradun, Garhwal
• Recommended stay 3 days
• Railway Station Haridwar
• Nearest Airport Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun, 21 kms
• Famous for Yoga, Pilgrimage, Rafting, Kayaking, Adventure Tourism, Temples, Ashrams, Weekend Getaway

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Global Gallivanting

My rishikesh travel guide: the yoga capital of the world.

Rishikesh is one of the most spiritual places in India, nestled along the banks of the holy river Ganges in the foothills of the Himalayas this holy city has a special energy that’s hard to describe in words.

Rishikesh is most famous for being the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ but it’s not just yogis that will find a lot to love about this beautiful, spiritual town surrounded by nature.

As well as staying in an ashram or learning yoga and meditation, you can also enjoy nature adventures like white water rafting and trekking, or just relax along the shore of the River Ganga at one of the many cosy cafes.

My Rishikesh Travel Guide: The Best Places to Visit, Eat and Stay in The Yoga Capital of the World

I live in India and have visited Rishikesh many times, even if you’re not really into yoga (yet!) it’s still an essential stop on any Indian adventure.

So I put together my Rishikesh travel guide to give you a quick lowdown on the best things to do, places to eat and stay in Rishikesh to help you plan your own trip to this special place.

Why I Love Rishikesh

India is the birthplace of yoga and Rishikesh has been a spiritual place for yoga and meditation since ancient times. There’s a huge number of temples and yoga ashrams here, especially along the banks of the Ganges river. This spiritual vibe, combining with the stunning mountain scenery, creates a soul stirring atmosphere that you just have to experience if you are interested in spiritualty and yoga.

In the 1960’s, The Beatles visited India and stayed at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh. Since then the town has become famous worldwide as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ and attracts yogis and spiritual seekers from across the globe.

If you’re looking to learn yoga Rishikesh is one of the cheapest and best places to do an authentic yoga teacher training course. There are so many opportunities to explore things you may have always wanted to, like Ayurvedic massage therapy, chakra balancing, and astrology readings.

If you’re interested in yoga and spirituality, you must make the pilgrimage to Rishikesh at least once in your life. And even if you’re not, the surrounding nature and adventure activities on offer are another reason to visit Rishikesh.

Best Places to Visit and Things to do in Rishikesh

Yoga and meditation.

As the Yoga Capital of the World of course learning yoga and meditation is one of the very best things to do in Rishikesh.

Even if you’ve never done any yoga before why not take a drop in yoga class to try out yoga for yourself. India is the birthplace of yoga and you never know – it might just change your life! There are posters all over for yoga classes, you could try a few different styles and teachers and see what you prefer.

If you’re a more experienced yogi wanting to train to become a yoga teacher there’s hundreds of yoga schools and ashrams in Rishikesh offering everything from yoga retreats and yoga teacher training programs.  

Yoga in India is a lot different from the West – in India it’s not just an exercise its a complex ancient spiritual practice. There is something for everyone when it comes to experiencing yoga in Rishikesh, from luxury Ayurveda and yoga retreats to traditional yoga ashrams if you want a really authentic and spiritual experience.

One of the best ashrams in Rishikesh is Parmath Niketan Ashram. This is one of the top ashrams in India with over 1000 rooms and when you stay there you’ll get three meals and two yoga classes per day.  

You can also learn more about yoga in Rishikesh in my dedicated post on the best yoga retreats in Rishikesh here , top Rishikesh ashrams here and my guide to yoga teacher training in Rishikesh here. 

Explore the Temples and Ghats

Once of the best ways to experience Rishikesh is simply to walk around and soak it all up. Ancient temples line the holy river Ganges and come to life at sunrise and sunset with chanting and temple bells and the smell of flowers and incense used for the pujas and ceremonies.

One of my favourite temples in Rishikesh is Shri Trayambakeshwar, a striking 13 story Hindu Temple located by Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge. With it’s bright orange colour and wedding cake like structure on the banks of the Ganges it has become one of the iconic sights of the city and the climb to the top offers amazing views.

If you’re staying in Tapovan or Lakshman Jhula, you can easily walk over Ram Jhula bridge to an interesting area called Swarg Ashram. This is where a lot of the yoga and meditation ashrams are located, including Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

There’s also lots of little shops selling stickers, trinkets, devotional music and spiritual books and a bustling, spiritual atmosphere with sadhus (holy men) and bathing ghats. (If you take a dip don’t go in your bikini! – this is a religious place and a conversative country.)

If you want something a bit less touristy Triveni Ghat is an auspicious and popular bathing ghat and place of prayer with plenty of spiritual activities going on. It’s a good place to visit to experience the local religious traditions in Rishikesh.

Visit The Beatles Ashram

The Beatles came to Rishikesh in the late 1960s and basically made Rishikesh world famous. They stayed at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram and wrote most of The White Album.

The ashram, now known as The Beatles Ashram , is now abandoned but you can still visit. It’s just south of the Swarg Ashram area and it’s really interesting to roam around the jungly abandoned ashram and explore and see the art and graffiti. It costs 600 rupees for foreigners and 150 rupees for Indians.

Watch the Ganga Aarti

Every evening at the ghats outside the Parmath Niketan Ashram at around 6:30 PM, people gather to give offerings to the river and to the Goddess Ganga. It’s a beautiful ritual with music, fire and prayers.

Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s something you shouldn’t miss the chance to experience when visiting Rishikesh. You can also light a diya, a small pot with flowers and a candle, to float down the River Ganga.

Get an Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurevda is an ancient life science that, like yoga, also originated in India. A perfect way to dip your toes into the world of Ayruveda is with a relaxing Ayurveda massage, perfect to soothe any sore muscles if you’ve done a bit too much yoga! They use certain natural oils and pressure points that make these massages different from other ones you may have gotten, and they’re extremely affordable!

Go White Water Rafting

One of the most fun and thrilling ways to see Rishikesh and the surrounding nature is on the river itself! Rafting is a really popular activity in Rishikesh, you can choose between Grade 1-5, depending on the difficulty you want, and can even go for a multi day trip which includes camping in nature by the riverside. The rafting season is mid September and the end of June and trips cost around 2000 ruppees.

You can also go kayaking, or if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can try bungee jumping!

Trek to Temples and Waterfalls

Rishikesh is also a great start point for multi day treks into the Himalayas but a short trek is still soothing for the soul. For a nice short trek you can walk along the river and you’ll find some sandy beaches where you can relax and take a refreshing dip.

You could also trek through the forest to Neer Garh Waterfall and Neelkantha Mahadev Temple , which is about a 3 hour trek from Swarg Ashram. If you don’t fancy walking but still want to visit these sites you could also rent a motorbike or take a taxi and drive there.

Day Trips from Rishikesh

The spiritual town of Hardiwar is only about 30 mins from Rishikesh. It’s much more important spiritually to Indian’s than Rishikesh and worth the short trip.

Haridwar is an ancient city and important Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of the sites of the Kumbh Mela – the world’s largest ever religious gathering.

Hindu pilgrims arrive here in droves to take a dip in the holy River Ganges and every night the river comes alive with flickering candle flames as offerings are released and float down the river.

Kanjapuri Devi Temple

This is one of the best viewpoints and day trips from Rishikesh. You can rent a motorbike and drive to the temple yourself. The road winds through the mountains, where halfway up you’ll get a gorgeous view of Rishikesh and the River Ganga. Once at the top, you’ll have an aerial view of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The Valley of Flowers

While this is actually a few days trip from Rishikesh, the Valley of Flowers is something not to be missed if you’re in the area in July and August as you’ll witness a spectacular array of endemic alpine flowers in bloom in a lush green valley.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is quite spread out along the river so you’ll want to do a bit of research into where to stay in Rishikesh to have the best experience – you probably won’t see what all the fuss is about if you stay in the centre of Rishikesh city.

The best area to stay in Rishikesh is in Lakshman Jhula and Tapovan. This popular area has plenty of cafes, hostels, guesthouses and an abundance of yoga schools, on both sides of the river, which make it a great place to practice yoga, hang out and meet other travellers.

The other side of the river is more peaceful than the main Tapovan side which can get busy and noisy, especially on national holiday weekends.

There are two famous hanging bridges – Ram Jhula and Laksham Jhula suspension bridge that you’ll need to use to cross over to the other side of the river. Just be warned they can get pretty overcrowded and it’s not just pedestrians – you’ll also witness motorbikes, cows and monkeys crossing the river too! It’s an experience in itself!

Swarg Ashram is a peaceful place to stay but there are not so many options here, unless you stay in an ashram. There are also budget options in the High Bank area, where you can sometimes find meat on the menu. The area of Muni-Ki-Reti is also a good option.

Traditionally, accommodation in Rishikesh was mainly budget hotels and guesthouses but in recent years more upmarket options have opened along the river.

Here’s a few recommendations for the best places to stay in Rishikesh, depending on your budget.

The Best Backpacker Hostels and Budget Guesthouses in Rishikesh

Shiv shakti guesthouse.

This hostel has comfortable air-conditioned rooms, an awesome rooftop to chill on, and free chai and water all day long. The staff are so friendly and always happy.

They have Bollywood dance nights, family dinners on Thursdays, and do sunrise and trekking tours. You’ll feel right at home the second you step in this hostel.

It’s such a great place to meet other travellers if you’re traveling by yourself. It’s in one of the best areas of Rishikesh in Lakshman Jhula.

Sonu Guesthouse :

This characterful guesthouse is located across the bridge in the Laxman Jhula area. It’s close to the main road but far enough away that you still get a quiet and calm atmosphere. They offer cold filtered water and tours to various attractions, which is great especially if you’re travelling solo!

There’s a gorgeous terrace and rooftop that’s a great place for relaxing and socializing and a yoga studio. There’s a communal kitchen too so you can cook your own meals. The staff are genuine and helpful, you’ll feel right at home in this guesthouse popular with budget travellers and solo female travellers.

The Best Mid Range Hotels in Rishikesh

Hotel peepal tree:.

Stay here for comfortable and spacious rooms with great views. They have a rooftop restaurant that serves delicious food, air-conditioned rooms, and free Wi-Fi. It’s in a great location, only 900 meters from Lakshman Jhula and 800 meters from Ram Jhula. There’s a terrace and a homey, comfortable atmosphere.

Seventh Heaven Inn:

A newish boutique hotel in the Tapovan area that has already become super popular because of it’s fab location, high service standards and beautiful rooms. The spacious rooms have plenty of natural light and balconies with views over the forest and mountains. The decor is a blend of Indian and European styles and the hotel is run by an Indian and English partnership. There’s a fabulous rooftop restaurant as well.

Ganga Kinare:

A beautiful riverside boutique hotel with it’s own garden and ghat. The hotel is a lovely peaceful riverside retreat as its located down the river from the busier parts of Rishikesh.  Most of the comfortable and well equipped rooms have views of the river.

The hotel also offers complimentary yoga, pranayama, and meditation sessions, an Ayurvedic spa and outside jacuzzi. A Ganga aarti is also performed each morning and evening at the hotel’s private ghat.

The Best Luxury and Heritage Hotels in Rishikesh

Aloha on the ganges:.

With an outdoor pool and wellness centre, this luxurious hotel has amazing views of the River Ganga, nature walks, yoga classes, and amazing staff that will make you feel right at home. Rooms are spacious and clean, and feature private bathrooms and some rooms have a mini bar. It’s in a great location, only 2 km from Lakshman Jhula.

Neemrana’s Glasshouse on The Ganges:

This heritage hotel is about 20 km from Lakshman Jhula. It’s located right next to the River Ganges in a serene setting. It offers you peace and tranquillity, since it’s just outside of Rishikesh. There’s a garden and game room on site, and a restaurant serving healthy and filling food.

Where to eat and drink in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a hippie haven with tons of cafes and restaurants serving reasonably priced local and international dishes as well as plenty of vegan and vegetarian food perfect for yogis.

Chilling out at a cafe with views over the River Ganges is one of the most relaxing and pleasant ways to spend an afternoon and you’ll probably meet some interesting people.

Be aware that as Rishikesh is a holy city no alcohol or non-veg/ meat dishes (including egg) are served. Lakshman Jhula and Tapovan are two areas of Rishikesh known for its plethora of good restaurants and cafes.

You’ll find anything from the local northern Indian style dishes like Chana Masala and Kadai Paneer, as well as healthy salads, sandwiches, espresso coffee, pizza, pasta, and platters.

Some of the best restaurants in Rishikesh Include :

Little Buddha: This restaurant serves vegan and vegetarian food in a large open café with beautiful views of the Ganga. Their portions are huge and affordable, and their food is some of the best in all of Rishikesh.

Free Spirit Cafe:  a small place near to Laksham Jula with river facing tables, relaxed atmosphere, lovely staff and reasonably priced but great quality food cooked with love. Try the falafel burger and pancakes.

Beatles Café: Playing music from the 60s and 70s all day long, some of their specialties include lasagne and burgers. It’s the place to visit after exploring the Beatles Ashram.

Royal Café: This café has delicious vegan smoothie breakfast bowls, coffee, and a comfortable seating area on a balcony overlooking the Ganga River.

Pumpernickel Bakery : Some of the best desserts in all of Rishikesh with a lot of places to sit and relax. Make sure you try their vegan Reese’s Balls and vegan chocolate banana pie!

Ramana’s Organic Garden Cafe: Everything here is fresh, healthy, organic and super tasty. It’s a chilled out place with awesome views plus you’ll be helping out the kids at the school next door as well as having a delicious meal!

Pure Soul: Lovely, modern, clean, Western cafe and organic kitchen with plenty of gluten free and vegan options. There’s a great juice and smoothie menu and decent wifi so its a good place to get some work done. As well as delicious food and great views Pure Soul is eco friendly and supports local farmers and sustainable agriculture.

How to get to Rishikesh

Rishikesh has a train station but Haridwar train station, half an hour taxi or rickshaw ride away from Rishikesh, has many more connections to other places in India such as Delhi and Varanasi.

The nearest international airport to Rishikesh is Delhi Airport (DEL) From Delhi the fastest trains take about 4 and a half hours to Haridwar. You can also take a bus but it takes longer (about 8 and a half hours)

You can also fly from Delhi to Dehra Dun Jolly Grant Airport which is only 20 mins away from Rishikesh by taxi. You can take an overnight bus from Dharamshala to reach Rishikesh, which takes about 14 hours. You can use Rome to Rio to check the details and don’t forget to get your Indian visa before traveling!

Best time to visit Rishikesh and how long to stay

Rishikesh is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas so the town is cooler than other places in India like Delhi. but it does get a bit chilly in the winter.

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from September to November, or March to April, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The monsoon, or rainy season, falls between July and September.

The Rishikesh International Yoga Festival is held in March making it a great, but busy, time to visit so make sure you book your travel and accommodation in advance.

You should spend around 3-5 days in Rishikesh if you just want to check it out but you’ll need to stay much longer if you want to take a yoga or meditation course, most last about 1 month.

Where Next:

Dharamkot , the hippie village in the Himalayas, above Dharmashala and McCleod Ganj

Manali, the most popular mountain hangout

• The Ideal Indian Mountains Itinerary 
• Top Yoga and Meditation Centers in India 
• Top Rishikesh Yoga Retreats
• Best Places to do Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
• Best Yoga Retreats and Yoga Teacher Training in Goa 

Digital Nomad Interviews: My Experience Teaching English Online with Say ABC

My pick of the 5 best yoga retreats in rishikesh, india (2024).

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Nice ! Very deep and very informative blog … we hope you continue to post such info !!

I glad to be here see this great blog,This is very interesting article. The pictures are really beautiful and the way you explained about the places to visit. Thank for share with us.

Thank you for sharing peaceful information, I acknowledge to blogger for awesome travel blogs. for more information visit on the website.

Wow what a nice blog , thanks for sharing , Rishikesh is beautiful part in india .

Impressive article and pics！Thanks for the post. Keep doing the good work.

Thanks for sharing the informative post…

Haridwar and rishikesh are a great place to visit. The truely Himalayan range has a lot of places worth a visit. Ganges , Meditation , Yoga and White water rafting are some of the great excursions. The Well Explained article from you is kind of virtual visit to these places. thank you for such information.

great great article. I came across this just when I needed it the most. It just make me want to come to rishikesh more and more. thanks for this write up.

[…] along the coast of the Arabian Sea, plus everything in between. The world capital of yoga – Rishikesh is located in India, the Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya, India and the tropical South […]

[…] places for yoga retreats and yoga teacher training in India include; Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world in the foothills of the Himalayas, and the sandy beaches of […]

[…] Rishikesh – This holy city in the northern state of Uttarakhand sits on the bank of the sacred Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas. This river plays an essential role in Hindu philosophy as it is believed to be the personification of the Goddess Ganga. Indian pilgrims come to this river to wash away their sins and advance their spiritual practice. The town has numerous temples and is considered the yoga capital of the world – more on that later. […]

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Getty Images/Flickr RF

Ever since the Beatles visited the ashram of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the late '60s, Rishikesh has been a magnet for spiritual seekers. Today it styles itself as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, with masses of ashrams and all kinds of yoga and meditation classes. The action is mostly north of the main town, where the exquisite setting on the fast-flowing Ganges River, surrounded by forested hills, is conducive to meditation and mind expansion. In the evening, an almost supernatural breeze blows down the valley, setting temple bells ringing as sadhus ('holy' men), pilgrims and tourists prepare for the nightly ganga aarti (river worship ceremony). You can learn to play the sitar or tabla; try Hasya yoga (laughter therapy), practise meditation or take a punt on crystal healing.

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Experience the real Rishikesh. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram

Just south of Swarg Ashram is what’s left of the original Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles stayed and wrote much of the White Album (and a…

Swarg Niwas & Shri Trayanbakshwar Temple

Rishikesh's most iconic landmark is this 13-storey wedding cake of a temple, which dominates the east bank of Lakshman Jhula. There are dozens of shrines…

Neelkantha Mahadev Temple

Follow the dedicated pilgrims who take water from the Ganges to offer at this temple, a 7km, three-hour walk along a forest path from Swarg Ashram…

Neer Garh Waterfall

A lovely multitiered waterfall at the end of a 20-minute hike that starts 2km north of Lakshman Jhula. However it's blighted by its touristy setup,…

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Apr 27, 2020 • 2 min read

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Your perfect 3-day Rishikesh itinerary

by middha on March 28, 2022

Planning a trip to the north this summer? Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, famous as the world’s Yoga Capital, is the perfect destination to calm your nerves and chill your brains out. Doesn’t matter if you’re an adventure junkie or someone who prefers tranquility; Rishikesh has activities and attractions to keep you enthralled for a good number of days! Here’s a splendid 3-day-long Rishikesh itinerary that includes bits for every mood and promises a trip the traveler will cherish forever! The best part- this trip won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Reaching Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is a breathtaking tehsil in Uttarakhand that lies in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. There’s hardly a person who hasn’t heard of this adventure seeker’s heaven. Thanks to its massive popularity, the small town is well connected by roads, trains, and airplanes. 

Road: Rishikesh stands at a distance of 20 km from Haridwar, 45 km from Dehradun, 223 km from Chandigarh, and 238 km from Delhi. It takes less time to reach the town in one’s own car. However, if it isn’t available, one can easily find and hop onto UTC buses or private cabs for Rishikesh. 

Train: Haridwar’s railway station falls closest to Rishikesh. The second closest is Dehradun’s. Cabs and buses directed to Rishikesh are easily available at these railway stations. 

Air: If one’s traveling by air, they’ll have to get off at Dehradun’s airport and find a bus or taxi that’ll take them to Rishikesh. 

Day 1 in Rishikesh

Lakshman Jhula: Begin your trip with Rishikesh’s poster boy, the Lakshman Jhula. Did you know that close to the Lakshman Jhula hangs its twin named Ram Jhula? Well, now you do. 

According to the folklore, Ramayana’s Lakshman crossed the Holy Ganga at this very spot using two jute ropes. The 450 ft long iron suspension bridge was built in 1929 to honor the same. It connects Pauri to Tehri.

Ram Jhula: As you move about 2 km ahead, you’ll come across a replica of Lakshman Jhula, only a little bigger in size. This bridge was built by Uttar Pradesh’s Public Works Department, with the help of the folks at Sivanand Ashram . 

Lakshman Mandir: This ancient temple was built by Kashmir’s King a few centuries ago. The temple still stands intact in a pretty impressive shape. 

Kailash Niketan Temple: This temple is popular by the name Terah Manzil Mandir (a 13-story temple in Hindi). The premises hold numerous temples dedicated to different deities. The temple is also decorated with attractive murals and sculptures. 

Triveni Ghat: Proceed towards this tranquil ghat once the sun begins to set. Reserve the evening to participate in the very famous Ganga Aarti.

Thousands of tourists gather to witness this grand event; hence it’s advisable to reach a little early and reserve the best spot for yourselves.

Day 2 at Rishikesh

Wake up as early as you can and throw on your activewear. Today, you’re headed for some exhilarating adventures. 

Yoga by the Ganga Ghat: For many, Rishikesh is synonymous with yoga. It’s an absolute must to indulge in a session of yoga with a captivating view of the holy river when in town. There are numerous camps and classes taking place by the river early in the morning. 

Remember not to snooze your alarms, okay? 

Bungee Jumping: This is when you’ll find out why Rishikesh also happens to be famous as the adventure capital of India. Bungee jumping would cost you around INR 3550. This excludes the INR 100, which you’ll have to pay as an entry fee. Some very important things to make a note of before you enroll yourselves for the plunge are- 

• You won’t be allowed to jump if you’re wearing a skirt, a saree, a lungi, or similar other things. It’s mandatory to wear jeans, tights, shorts, or other similar bottoms, and comfortable shoes in order to perform this activity. 
• The activity might be postponed if the weather is unfavorable. 
• You won’t be allowed to participate if you aren’t carrying your photo ID. Also, PAN cards are not considered acceptable proof of identity.
• The area is closed on Tuesdays. Hence, no bungee jumping on that day of the week. 

The list of other similar activities includes the Flying Fox ride. Anyone above the age of 12 can enroll. It costs around INR 1800 per person. 

You can book your slots online on Jumpin Heights ’ official website. PS, they also provide Dare to Jump certificates! 😀 😀 

Neelkanth Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva sits at the altitude of 4363 ft. If vibrance is your aesthetic, you’ll surely be captivated by the colorful entry to this temple. The gate also showcases a number of tiny sculptures that you’d love to capture on your camera. 

Indian folklore tells that this is the spot where Lord Shiva consumed the poison that emanated from the sea. 

His throat turned blue as a consequence, and thus, he got the name Neelkanth. 

Day 3 at Rishikesh

River Rafting in Rishikesh : Who visits Rishikesh and doesn’t go for river rafting? That’s like having pizza without cheese. Rafting in this tehsil starts from INR 600 (9 km), and goes up till INR 2500 (35 km), depending upon the distance and route you choose. The best months to go for river rafting are from February to June. It closes down in the monsoon season and resumes sometime in the middle of September. 

For those who’re concerned, it’s very safe if you follow the instructor’s instructions carefully. 

Click here to book your river rafting package online. 

Neer Garh Waterfall : Looking for a view untouched by civilization? Put visiting this waterfall on top of your bucket list. Neer Garh Waterfall is situated amid the lush green woods in the Shivpuri area, almost 6 km away from the main city. A trek from the Lakshman Jhula to the falls shouldn’t take more than 1 hour. The entry ticket to the falls costs around INR 40 per person. Do carry a set of spare clothes. The water may invite you inside. One can also enjoy a piping hot bowl of Maggi along with some chai by the breathtaking view. 

Beatles Ashram, a.k.a. Chaurasi Kutia : How old were you when you discovered that an Indian yogi inspired THE BEATLES to study yoga and meditation in his ashram? Yeah, right! The legendary Beatles stayed at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in Rishikesh, away from the paparazzi for three long months, to find inner peace. 

We deem this stay very productive as the Beatles composed around 40 brilliant songs in these three months. Upon entering, one can find several quotes and lyrics painted on the walls. 

Locals have to pay INR 150-200 to enter this hard-to-find attraction. The premises has around a hundred meditation rooms, decorated with vibrant graffiti, and 84 huts, where the disciples must have stayed once upon a time. 

Where to eat in Rishikesh?

Considering the town’s popularity, numerous *good* eateries have opened in Rishikesh. Here, we’ve compiled a few restaurants in Rishikesh that experience the maximum footfall.

The Little Buddha Cafe, Tapovan : Enjoy the sound of whooshing waters while you’re eating? How about the charm of rustic interiors? Little Buddha Cafe offers it all. The eatery boasts of an extra-large vegetarian menu, and almost everything served is finger-licking good. It’s a must-visit restaurant in Rishikesh!

60’s Beatles Cafe, Tapovan : Beyond-amazing dishes and beverages, and furniture that’ll remind you of a doll’s house – this is how we’d describe this very famous eatery of Rishikesh. Some of the highly recommended dishes are kinds of pasta, sandwiches, and pizzas.

OM Freedom Cafe : Tourists on a budget can find the best food at OM Freedom Cafe. You shouldn’t expect very fancy interiors, but the eatery does boast a mesmerizing view. From crepes to paranthas, pizzas to falafels, there’s nothing that this famous cafe in Rishikesh doesn’t serve.

Ganga View Cafe : Ganga View Cafe is another great eatery in the Tapovan area where you can enjoy a breathtaking view, along with an array of dishes. The low-kept prices will leave you tempted to order a lot more than you can finish.

Ira’s Kitchen and Tea Room : Looking for a place where you can click artsy pictures to post with intellectual captions? Well, this is the place to be. The food is obviously delicious, and the portion size is good, claim some starving bellies. 

A Tavola Con Te : This restaurant specializes in freshly made pizzas straight out of the wood fire oven. The whole experience at this restaurant can qualify as a connoisseur’s delight.

Some other great places that you can totally grab a bite at are Jal Jalebi & Beyond, and Bistro Nirvana. 

Treebo’s Rishikesh Hotels

Rishikesh has a number of aesthetically pleasing, couple-friendly Treebo hotels that promise a comfortable and absolutely safe stay. They’re beautifully furnished and packed with the choicest amenities to cater to all your needs.

Our list of awesome offerings includes a wholesome complimentary breakfast and free access to the hotel’s wifi. 

Sounds nice, doesn’t it? Explore the town without a worry in the world. Book yourself a comfy and super-safe room at Treebo’s Rishikesh Hotels today!

More attractions on your mind? We’re all ears! Tell us about your fave spots and restaurants in Rishikesh in the comments section!

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Rishikesh Travel Guide: Yoga, Nature + The Beatles!

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Welcome to my Rishikesh travel guide! I just spent 3 weeks in Rishikesh and it’s now a firm favourite. After seeing a lot of stunning photos online before visiting, I had a feeling I was going to really like Rishikesh especially since it’s known as one of the best places in India for solo female travel . I didn’t want to overhype it as that’s how places fall short but I was hoping it would be as pretty as I’d pictured. I had a work project to finish and knew there was a good cafe scene in Rishikesh so decided to spend 2 weeks there. In the end, I was sick and ended up staying closer to 3. I’d say I got to know Rishikesh pretty well during that time which has enabled me to put together this detailed Rishikesh t ravel guide. Hopefully I’ll be back again to India someday and come back to Rishikesh!

RISHIKESH ESSENTIALS India Lonely Planet Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Activities: Klook Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) / bus / train ( 12Go ) Airport transfer Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Rishikesh background

Let’s begin this Rishikesh travel guide with a little background. Rishikesh is one of the places to visit in Uttarakhand state in Northern India. As a holy city, it’s been known for its spiritual importance for some time and even attracted a visit from The Beatles in the ’60s. This really put it on the map with Westerners and in recent years, it’s become a hotspot for Eat, Pray, Love types doing a little soul-searching and a lot of yoga.

Read next: tips for a solo trip to India

Getting to Rishikesh

Bus: I arrived into Rishikesh by overnight bus from Dharamsala but it’s more common to arrive by bus from Delhi (both journeys take 13 hours). The bus station isn’t far from t he centre of Rishikesh so it’s easy to jump into a tuk-tuk once you arrive. Train: there are two railway stations, Rishikesh and Yog Nagri. There’s also one an hour’s drive away in Haridwar which better connects other destinations. Arranging taxi journeys in India is easy and affordable; just ask staff at your accommodation to help.

Use 12go to book your India trains & buses .

By air: The closest airport is Dehradun Airport, a 40-minute drive from Rishikesh. You can fly from Delhi to Dehradun from £20 if you don’t fancy the overnight bus ride. Book your Dehradun airport transfer in advance.

Where to stay in Rishikesh

It’s worth noting that there are two areas of Rishikesh: the tourist part around Laxman Jhula bridge and the local heart a 30-minute drive away. While I’d recommend checking out both, the really scenic and relaxing part of Rishikesh is the tourist area by the bridge. I stayed at an amazing hostel, Shiv Shakti , which had so much atmosphere and really wonderful, caring staff. Half of them took me to hospital during my stay so I would know! They also put on Bollywood dance nights, a free hostel dinner on a Thursday and trips to the beach, ghats and sunrise temple when enough people sign up. Highly recommended! Staying in an ashram: Many visitors stay in ashrams in Rishikesh which are spiritual hermitages, sometimes with monasteries attached. Staying in one usually involves veggie meals, yoga classes and following a daily schedule. I believe they vary a lot: some are strict and spiritual, others just include food and board and you can do whatever you want during the day. Alternatively, get a feel during an ashram tour .

Rishikesh travel guide – things to do

Despite being pretty laid back , I found that there are actually a lot of things to do in Rishikesh. It’s not really one for city types but it’s fantastic if you like nature, outdoor adventures, anything spiritual or just kicking back in a cafe with a good book. During my three weeks, I did these things around my schedule of work, coffee and returning to hospital (in case I haven’t harped on about it enough).

The Beatles Ashram

Probably the most famous thing to do in Rishikesh, the Beatles Ashram is most definitely for tourists. Entrance is 600 rupees for foreigners, something that enraged many of the hippie yoga types I met in Rishikesh. While they skipped it, deeming it ‘too touristy’, I’m well aware I AM a tourist and I have to say I loved my visit! I liked that the Beatles Ashram has been kept as it was rather than polished and restored like many of Asia’s sights. In case you don’t know, this is where the Beatles lived in the 1960s while taking a meditation retreat in India. It’s said they wrote their best material post-meditation here, something that doesn’t surprise me.

The only new addition to the Beatles Ashram is the colourful collection of urban murals. The site is otherwise kept as it was 50 years ago, including the dilapidated Beatles bungalow where they actually lived. Seeing the bath the Beatles would have used felt very surreal!

Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat

While Rishikesh doesn’t always feel like the ‘real India’, there are a few ways to get stuck into the culture. Riverside ghats date back centuries, acting as holy places to wash, pray and give offerings to the Ganges. Triveni Ghat is the point where the river splits into three forks, putting Rishikesh on the map as one of India’s holiest places. Each night, the ceremony at Triveni Ghat attracts hundreds of locals, as well as a handful of tourists. You’ll be in the minority which personally I think is a great way to experience India. After the atmospheric show, you can purchase flowers and other offerings to release into the river, and a big dance party follows. The locals were so friendly and welcoming, encouraging us to join in. How could we say no?

The ceremony is free and starts daily at 6pm. To get there, grab a tuk-tuk from this rank . Whatever they initially quote you, haggle for half.

Do some yoga

No Rishikesh guide would be complete without yoga! India is the birthplace of yoga and Rishikesh is one of the most popular places to try it. You won’t find many better backdrops than the peaceful Ganges. While there are so many places to try yoga in Rishikesh with options for all abilities, I liked Swami Vivekananda near to Little Buddha Cafe. This is a yoga and meditation school with beginners classes every day at 8am . You can buy classes in bulk which makes it cheaper: I had a 10-class pack and really enjoyed starting my days with an hour of yoga before breakfast. I believe it’s 2,000 rupees for this pack. Yoga teacher training in Rishikesh : Another popular thing to do in Rishikesh is take the 200-hour yoga teacher training course. Plenty of schools offer this for under £1,000 a month including all your food, accommodation and some activities. It sounds like an incredible month and people come away with friends for life.

Have a beach day

A beach day miles from the ocean? Yup! Rishikesh is known for its white sandy riverbanks which double up as beautiful beaches. The easiest one to visit near Rishikesh is Riverside Beach , just a 15-minute walk from Laxman Jhula bridge. It’s not your traditional beach day since you can’t swim in the current or strip off in this religious area, but I still enjoyed relaxing on the white sand with my book.

Better yet, find Secret Beach

My best day in Rishikesh was finding Secret Beach with the staff at Shiv Shakti hostel. In classic ‘The Beach’ style, the locals never disclose the location in an effort to preserve it. I don’t want to be the person to post it all over the internet so I’d advise asking a local – for example the staff at Shiv Shakti Hostel who run weekly trips there. Once you find the orange bridge connecting the main road with the white sandy beach on the other side, you’ll know you’ve nearly made it. A few locals were relaxing on the first beach but we continued further, up and over the hill and had this piece of paradise to ourselves! The beach is almost an hour’s scooter drive from Rishikesh and there’s nowhere to buy water or snacks onsite so make sure you bring enough.

Get spiritual: meditation or sound healing!

The meditation class I tried at Swami Vivekanand was great. I didn’t expect to feel so peaceful or moved during my first experience of meditation; I really got into it. Would recommend! I also tried sound healing at World Peace Yoga School which is apparently world-renowned with studios as far away as Holland and Mexico. I have to say it didn’t do anything for me. The vibration from the bowls so close to me was uncomfortable and made me feel ticklish. I couldn’t clear my mind and relax although that’s not the fault of the class. The friend I went with loved it!

Personally, I didn’t try rafting in Rishikesh. I had a bad experience in South America and since I’ve ticked it off my bucket list, I’m not bothered about doing it again. But you might want to give it a try. I hear there are white rapids as well as peaceful sections where you just float past the Rishikesh scenery. Most hostels and tour operators offer rafting packages .

Well, it wouldn’t be a Rishikesh travel guide without food! Rishikesh is famed for its cafe scene and for good reason. Most of them serve Indian food but it’s more catered to Western tastes and served alongside a host of Israeli, Mexican and Italian dishes. Oh, and a lot of veggie burgers! The Rishikesh cafe menus are insanely long and the food is great but the highlight is the gorgeous views. You could while away whole days watching the roaring Ganges with a good book (believe me, I did).

Read next: 16 cute and hippie Rishikesh cafes

Of course, you could eat the food they serve at home so I’d recommend you to…

Eat real Indian food

It’s not hard to ditch the veggie burgers and find authentic North Indian food in Rishikesh, as well as some decent South Indian food, too. My favourite meal was this delicious spread at Rajasthani Restaurant which is a popular local spot near Triveni Ghat. For desserts, try the Indian sweets (they take up whole counters so you can’t miss them). I also had some amazing stuffed dosas at  Madras Hotel , a South Indian Restaurant near Rajasthani. Both these eateries are a tuk-tuk ride from the tourist area but you can also walk to the north side of Laxman Jhula and try real Indian food at Mamta Restaurant and its neighbours.

Related activity: Rishikesh food crawl

Sunrise at Kunjapuri Devi Mandir Temple

Of all the things to do in Rishikesh, this wasn’t my absolute favourite. After a 4am wake-up, we climbed a set of concrete stairs and watched sunrise from another concrete platform which was packed out with people. I’d been expecting something a bit more natural but at least we had clear weather and saw some gorgeous views.

How to reach the temple for sunrise: Jeep taxis up the mountain are very expensive so it’s best to organise it with a tour group. One option is the sunrise trekking tour that starts by driving you up to the temple for sunrise then treks back down to Rishikesh through the countryside, stopping at Neer Garh Waterfall. The whole trip takes 8 hours and costs around 800 rupees per person if there’s a group of you. Seeing the countryside and rural homes was worth it. I booked at my hostel but plenty of local tour operators who run the same trip.

Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall

This set of three waterfalls in the forest is a good way to escape the city for a few hours. It was included on the journey down from the temple mentioned above, however if you don’t fancy the 4am start you can trek up to it from Rishikesh any time of day.

Other options for getting to Neer Garh Waterfall include hiking, hiring a scooter (definitely only if you’re a confident driver!) or getting a taxi. The last option is pretty pricey and we got charged 800 rupees on the way down so it was a good thing there were 8 of us. Hiking to Neer Garh Waterfall will take 1.5 hours each way from Rishikesh and hiring scooter will cost around 300 rupees per day. Entrance to Neer Gahr Waterfall is free.

Patna Waterfall

For a nicer waterfall even closer to Rishikesh, seek out this hidden gem. Patna Waterfall is a 10-minute drive from Laxman Jhula bridge but for some reason, it’s not well known by tourists. We hopped on bikes with the Shiv Shakti hostel staff but you could hire your own, get a taxi or walk in just under an hour. Once you arrive from the main road, there’s a 15-minute uphill hike to reach the waterfall. Here you’ll find Indian tourists on the weekend but hardly anyone if you visit on a weekday. As it’s India, you should be mindful about stripping off into swimwear but we did this as part of a group and felt perfectly safe. It’s not possible to swim in Patna Waterfall but you can walk into and behind the refreshing cascade.

Hire scooters & explore

As part of the trip mentioned above, a group of us from the hostel explored the countryside around Rishikesh, stopping at bridges, beaches and waterfalls. If you feel confident riding a scooter, you should do this too. It’s a gorgeous way to spend a day and a great way of getting to know Rishikesh beyond the tourist spots. Drive to Patna Waterfall then continue onwards. Scooter hire is about 300 rupees for the day, not including gas. The police will fine you if they see you without a helmet and – for safety reasons too – insist on getting one when you hire your bike. Lots of vendors don’t even offer them as so few Indians wear them, but you have to remember that most locals have been driving a scooter since they were and 10 and you haven’t!

Check for festivals & events

Finally in my Rishikesh travel guide… How to experience a party in a dry city! The best thing to do in Rishikesh is to experience a festival. During my visit, I experienced Holi festival in Rishikesh (literally the highlight of my year) and an expat-style reggae festival. Basically, there’s always something going on, from local celebrations to events put on by Westerners who base themselves in Rishikesh. Ask your hostel and keep an ear out for things going on; many of them like Holi you won’t be able to miss!

Ps – as I mentioned, Rishikesh is a dry city so you won’t find alcohol sold here. Your liver will thank you! Phew – what a list! That should give you some things to do in Rishikesh for now!

Thanks for reading my Rishikesh travel guide!

Check out my other India blogs:

• Rajasthan travel route and itinerary
• The cost of travelling in India & spending tips
• Places for solo female travel in India
• India packing list for women
• The ultimate Jaipur itinerary
• The top Jaipur Instagram destinations
• Where to eat and drink in Pushkar
• 9 reasons you should visit Pushkar
• What to do and see in Pushkar
• Amristar things to do & travel guide
• Dharamsala and Mcleod Ganj guide
• Auroville day trip from Pondicherry
• Pondicherry things to do & travel guide
• The best cafes in Pondicherry
• Female travel tips for Holi festival

See you next time for more adventures,

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VISITING INDIA?  These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner and search by whole month to find the best value dates. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. Use 12Go to book . Trains – these are a good option for long journeys because you have a bed rather than a seat. Use 12Go to book . For hotels , I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food experiences with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Pack the latest copy of India Lonely Planet . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .  Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ Rishikesh Travel Guide: Yoga, Nature + The Beatles! ”

I recently started writing travel blogs just when I came across yours, loved how you put your experience in words and pictures perfectly.

Thanks Sudhir!

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Rishikesh, 238km northeast of Delhi and just 24 km north of Haridwar, huddles along the steep wooded banks of the fast-flowing Ganges as it exits the mountains of Garwhal to crash onto the plains. The centre for all manner of New Age and Hindu activity, its many ashrams continue to draw devotees and followers, with the large Shivananda Ashram in particular renowned as a yoga centre. Rishikesh is also emerging as an adventure-sports centre with rafting, trekking, mountaineering, zip-lining and bungee-jumping on offer.

The best travel tips for visiting Rishikesh

Best things to do in rishikesh, best areas to stay in rishikesh, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, what is the best time to visit rishikesh, how many days do you need in rishikesh, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for india, created by local experts.

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Rishikesh, nestled in Uttarakhand , has one or two ancient shrines, but its main role has always been as a waystation for sannyasis, yogis and travellers heading for the high Himalayas. The arrival of the Beatles, who came here to meet the Maharishi in 1968, triggered the lucrative expansion of the yatra pilgrimage circuit; these days it’s easy to see why Ringo thought it was “just like Butlin’s”.

The best times to visit are in winter and spring, when the mountain temples are shut by the snows – without the yatra razzmatazz, you get a sense of the tranquillity that was the original appeal of the place.

At other times, a walk upriver leads easily away from the bustle to secluded spots among giant rocks ideally suited for yoga, meditation or an invigorating dip in the icy waters (though swimming is not advised owing to the fast currents). The name Rishikesh applies to a loose association of distinct areas, encompassing several scattered hamlets on both sides of the river. The town of Rishikesh itself sprawls to the south of the Chandrabagha riverbed, home to Triveni Ghat, the train station, bus stand and the commercial and communications hubs.

Planning a trip to India ? Perhaps our l ocal experts in India can help you!

Rishikesh, India © Shutterstock

From rafting to yoga, these are the best things to do in Rishikesh.

#1 Try some yoga

Rishikesh is India’s yoga capital. There are many reputable ashrams (spiritual centres) welcoming students of yoga with courses of varying cost and duration – from one day to several months.

Guests must be respectful of ashrams’ strict rules governing conduct. Be warned that complaints of theft and harassment in ashrams are surprisingly common. Phool Chatti Ashram, 5km north of Lakshman Jhula, is a peaceful ashram with lush gardens far from the noise of town. They run seven-day yoga and meditation retreats mostly aimed towards beginners and intermediate level.

#2 Get adventurous

Adventure activities have become one of Rishikesh’s top draws, most notably rafting. Numerous river camps on the Ganges above Rishikesh operate from late September to June, with excursions ranging from half-day runs to extended camping/rafting expeditions.

Other adrenaline-fuelled activities include an 83m bungee jump, canyon swing and flying fox at Jumpin Heights’ Jump Zone in Mohanchatti village, 16km from Tapovan.

Most activities of this ilk only run outside the monsoon period (July–Sept). It is worth noting the dramatic rise of unregulated tour and travel operators with no insurance cover. Ask for recommended travel agents at your hotel or at the tourist office.

#3 Take a dip at Triveni Ghat

Most pilgrims passing through Rishikesh en route to the Himalayan shrines of the Char Dham pause for a dip and puja (worship) at Triveni Ghat, at the southern end of Ghat Road, near the centre of town. The river looks especially divine during evening aarti, when diya lights float on the water.

#4 Visit Rishikesh’s oldest temple, Bharat Mandir

Rishikesh’s oldest temple, Bharat Mandir, features a black stone image of the deity Vishnu, believed to have been consecrated by the great ninth-century Hindu revivalist Shankara; the event is commemorated during Basant Panchami, the first day of spring. A sacred trio of entangled trees near the entrance represents the Hindu Trinity.

#5 Explore Swarg Ashram

The dense-knit complex of cafés, shops and ashrams collectively known as Swarg Ashram, opposite Shivananda Ashram, leans back on to the forest-covered hills where caves are still inhabited by sadhus - holy individuals who have given up worldly life.

The most conspicuous of the area’s many ashram-temples is Parmarth Niketan, whose large courtyard is crammed with brightly clad gods and goddesses.

Next door is Gita Bhavan, which runs a free Ayurvedic dispensary; they also sell books, saris and khadi handloom cloth. The river can be crossed at this point either by the Ram Jhula footbridge or the nearby ferry.

#6 Follow in the footsteps of the Beatles

Set on a forested bluff above the river, the abandoned ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi – locally known as Chaurasi Kutiya – is also known as the Beatles’ Ashram, for it was here that the band and its entourage came to learn Transcendental Meditation from the enterprising guru in 1968, and penning over forty songs.

Fringed by Rajaji National Park, the tranquil, ruined site was kept under lock and key by the Forest Department until 2015, and there isn’t much too see except the Beatles Cathedral Gallery, with murals from when it reopened, and curious ovoid meditation huts clad with smooth river pebbles.

Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) in Rishikesh, Northern India © Shutterstock

#7 Visit Lakshman Jhula

Most travellers find Lakshman Jhula, a pair of lively settlements straddling the footbridge of the same name, to be the most appealing part of Rishikesh.

The east bank is also linked by a 2km path from Swarg Ashram that skirts the river, passing beautiful sandy beaches sheltered by large boulders.

Most striking on the east bank is the enormous, gaudy, thirteen-storey Kailash Niketan Temple, just north of the bridge. The dramatic landscape and turquoise river (brown during the monsoon) are best appreciated from one of the cafés that line its banks.

#8 Take a nature walk

Plenty of paths wind through the forests around Rishikesh, offering walkers a welcome escape from the bustle of town.

There’s a chance of encountering wildlife along the way; keep a safe distance from wild elephants. Do enlist a guide or take a walking partner as there have been incidents of robbery along the trails.

#9 Swim at Neergarh Waterfall

Just 3 km north of High Bank along the Badrinath road, a left detour on a gravel path leads to the popular Neergarh waterfall. The moderately steep walk to the top is dotted with laidback cafés and numerous cascades and little pools, great for a swim.

#10 Trek to Neelkanth Mahadev

Winding steeply through the forests from Swarg Ashram is an old, 10km pilgrim trail to the small Shiva shrine of Neelkanth Mahadev. It marks the spot where Lord Shiva once swallowed the poison that turned his throat blue, earning himself the nickname of Neelkanth, “the blue-throated one”.

The road that takes a long detour through the forest has made the small settlement a less peaceful retreat during yatra (pilgrimage) season. The trail offers some stunning vantage points, crossing a spur before the final descent to Neelkanth.

One or both legs are often done by shared jeep, departing from the stand south of Ram Jhula Bridge.

#11 See the sunrise ay Kunjapuri

The small white Shakti temple of Kunjapuri, 10 km north of town, stands at the sharp point of a conical hill 1645m high, with panoramic views of the high Himalayas to the north and Rishikesh and Haridwar to the south.

A popular sunrise and sunset spot, it gets most traffic during the Navratri (April & Oct) and Dussehra (Oct) festivals. It’s a 3–4hr hike from Lakshman Jhula, passing through pleasant countryside, or a short bus ride to Hindola Khal, followed by a 3km (45min) walk uphill.

#12 Kick back on a beach

The motorable track running north of Lakshman Jhula passes several secluded beaches before arriving at the beautiful ashram of Phool Chatti (5km upstream), set at a bend in the river with sandy beaches including the famous Goa Beach. Giant boulders add drama, but swimming is hazardous due to strong undercurrents.

Shri Bharat Mandir, Rishikesh, India © Shutterstock

Yes, you can stay in Rishikesh but there are better areas to stay.

Rishikesh town has plenty of hotels , but also an excess of noise and air pollution; the only reason to stay here is to be near the bus station. While backpackers head for the cheap little guesthouses of Lakshman Jhula or the huddle of hotels on High Bank.

Spiritual travellers tend to prefer Swarg Ashram and the east bank of the river, away from the noise, near the ashrams.

From numerous vegetarian and vegan eateries to rooftop cafes, here’s where to eat in Rishikesh.

Located on the eastern bank of the Ganges, Tapovan is a vibrant neighbourhood brimming with healthy food options. Numerous vegetarian and vegan eateries blend ancient Ayurvedic principles with contemporary culinary innovation. Indulge in fresh organic produce, revitalising smoothies and delectable raw desserts.

Laxman Jhula

Crossing the iconic Laxman Jhula, you'll find yourself in a bustling neighbourhood filled with a fusion of flavours and captivating riverside ambiance. Here, you can savour a diverse range of cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Israeli, Tibetan, and more.

Choose from rooftop cafes that offer panoramic views of the Ganges, or unwind in a charming restaurant nestled amidst lush greenery. Don't miss the opportunity to try the lip-smacking Israeli delicacies or the traditional Indian thalis that exemplify the essence of Rishikesh's culinary fusion.

Swarg Ashram

Located downstream from the main town, Swarg Ashram is a tranquil haven that harmoniously blends spirituality with gastronomy.

Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings as you explore the ashram's quaint streets dotted with vegetarian cafes, rooftop eateries, and organic food stores. Indulge in farm-to-table delights, sip on herbal teas, and relish the divine flavours of Ayurvedic cuisine. Swarg Ashram offers a unique dining experience where you can nourish both your body and soul.

Crossing the iconic Ram Jhula, you'll enter a bustling area known for its vibrant street food and lively nightlife. As dusk settles in, the streets come alive with an array of food stalls and local eateries serving tantalising snacks.

Sample the delicious chaats, savoury pakoras, and piping hot samosas while mingling with locals and fellow travellers. For those seeking evening entertainment, Ram Jhula offers a range of charming rooftop cafes and bars where you can unwind, enjoy live music, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere

Triveni Ghat lights © Shutterstock

Most will travel around Rishikesh by Vikram (auto-rickshaw) and jeep but taxis are a good alternative too. Here’s how to get around.

By Vikram and jeep

Vikrams (auto-rickshaws) to Lakshman Jhula can be hired from Rishikesh’s bus station. On the east bank of the river, jeeps from the northern edge of Swarg Ashram connect to the centre of Lakshman Jhula.

Ferries cross the Ganges near Ram Jhula outside monsoon season.

There’s a taxi booking office run by the Garhwal Mandal Taxi Owners Association not far from the Ram Jhula bridge on the west bank. Reliable agencies include Ajay Travels at Hotel Neelkanth, Haridwar Rd, and Mahayama Travels at the Urvasi Complex on Dehradun Rd.

With its pleasant weather and clear skies, Autumn (September to November) is often considered the best time to visit Rishikesh. The temperature during this season ranges from comfortable to slightly cool, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions, embarking on adventurous activities, and indulging in meditation and yoga retreats. Witnessing the autumnal colours that envelop the Himalayan landscape adds an extra touch of magic to your Rishikesh experience.

Spring (February to April) is another excellent time to visit Rishikesh, as the weather remains mild and enjoyable. The temperature gradually rises, but it is still pleasant for outdoor explorations and activities. The city bursts into life with vibrant flowers and blossoms, enhancing the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple at Rishikesh, India © Shutterstock

Time your visit during the autumn or spring, and allocate a minimum of three to five days. Upon arrival in Rishikesh, take some time to acclimate to the serene surroundings and get acquainted with the city. Explore the banks of the Ganges, witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Dedicate a day to spiritual exploration by visiting the ashrams and temples that have made Rishikesh a global spiritual hub. Participate in yoga and meditation sessions, visit the iconic Beatles Ashram and soak in the tranquillity of the sacred spaces.

Engage in thrilling outdoor activities that Rishikesh is renowned for, such as white water rafting in the Ganges, trekking to nearby waterfalls or scenic viewpoints, and experiencing the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping or zip-lining.

Need help planning your trip? Perhaps our l ocal experts in India can help you!

Although it has a train station, it’s often quicker (and easier) to arrive at by bus or private jeep. Here’s how to get to Rishikesh.

Rishikesh lies at the end of a small branch railway line from Haridwar, linked by one daily train at 7.25am (1hr 10min). The daily #54472 train connects Delhi, but is painfully slow (7am; 11hr); there are plenty of faster services from Haridwar.

There are two important bus stands in Rishikesh: the ISBT (for lowland destinations) and the Yatra or Tehri Bus Stand (April–Oct; for mountain destinations), both of which have recently been combined off Dehradun Rd to the north of Rishikesh town.

Mountain roads are treacherous and tedious, landslides are not uncommon during the monsoon period, and only early departures reach the Char Dham in a day.

Plenty of private bus companies have offices around Lakshman Jhula and Swarg Ashram. Destinations Agra (6pm; 12hr); Badrinath (4 daily; 12hr); Dehradun (hourly; 1hr 30min); Delhi (12 daily; 7hr); Gangotri (5.30am; 11–12hr); Haridwar (every 30min; 30min); Kedarnath (4.30am; 10hr); Nainital (9am; 8–9hr); Uttarkashi (8 daily; 7–8hr).

Jeeps depart when full from the jeep stand (daily 4–8am) by the main GMVN office on Haridwar Bypass Rd, to the west of town. Although slightly more expensive than buses, they are much faster.

When booked in advance through agencies, such as Sharma Travels, you may be able to arrange to be picked up from west-bank hotels.

Vikrams to Haridwar depart from Dehradun Rd.

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13 best places you must visit on your next rishikesh trip in uttarakhand.

Rishikesh comes with many tags. It’s the “Yoga Capital of the World,” “the spiritual hub of India,” and “the place of sagas.” The place is also known as “Hrishikesh” and the story behind the name is: God appeared in the form of “Hrishikesh” when Rishi or Muni Raibhya (a character from the epic Mahabharata) undertook a rigorous penance. In Sanskrit, the meaning of the word ‘Hrishikesh’ is ‘Lord of the senses’ and it truly implies what it says. The revered tourist attraction of India, a place of utmost religious importance, the ambiance, culture, activities, markets and many more aspects of Rishikesh surely incite all five senses of a tourist.

Located in the Tehri Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand and bordered by the Shivalik Range (the lower Himalayan range) Rishikesh is called “the gateway of Garhwal Himalayas.” It is also the starting point of Hindu Chota Char Dham Yatra, a famous pilgrimage to the four abodes of different Gods: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Gangotri.

For time immemorial, Rishikesh is famed for its temple and adventure tourism. Flourished by the River Ganges, Rishikesh is home to several old and new temples, which are situated on both sides of the river. If you visit Rishikesh at any point of the year, you will always see the place is full of crowds, because the temples and the ashrams in Rishikesh are considered the spiritual hubs attracting devotees from all over the world. Another attraction, adventure tourism in Rishikesh comes with several kinds of thrilling activities like rafting, cliff jumping, trekking, camping and many more.

Another important aspect of tourism in Rishikesh is that the place is renowned as the yoga hub of the world. Since 1989, the city has been hosting the International Yoga Festival in the first week of March, which is organised by the Parmarth Niketan. Needless to say, every year thousands of tourists from different countries gather here to celebrate the festival.

Let’s check out our Rishikesh Tour Plan with the details of must-see places.

• Laxman Jhula
• Triveni Ghat
• Swarg Ashram
• Raghunath Temple
• Tera Manzil Mandir
• Shri Bharat Mandir
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
• The Beatles Ashram
• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Jumpin Heights
• Rajaji National Park

Have a Look at Quick Rishikesh Travel & Tourism Info Guide Table

Popular Rishikesh Tour Packages

• Haridwar Rishikesh Sightseeing Tour Package
• Hills & Ganges Tour Uttarakhand
• Rishikesh Tour Package with Mussoorie
• Mussoorie Chamba Rishikesh Tour

Laxman Jhula, The Starting-Point of Rishikesh Trip!

The must-visit attraction of the town without which a Rishikesh Trip cannot be started off, Laxman Jhula is a pedestrian bridge related to Hindu mythology. The suspension bridge over the Ganga River is 137 metres long and connects two Garhwal villages, Tapovan and Jonk.

It is to be believed that Laxman Jhula was previously made of jute ropes and it was crossed by the Hindu deity Lakhsmana himself. The bridge was finally transformed into a 137 metres long suspension bridge in 1929. Situated on the outskirts of the city, Laxman Jhula is one of the best places in Rishikesh to get an unobstructed view of the city along with the flowing Ganga.

Things to do:

• Photography
• Sightseeing
• Watching Ganga Aarti
• Nearby Temple Visits

Timings: 24 Hours

Special Tips: To avoid crowds and to get the best views of the nightlife, visit the place at night. When the colourful lights of the nearby architecture create a mesmerising reflection on the water of Ganga and the tunes of devotional songs fill up the air, you will feel content.

Also Check Out: Haridwar Travel & Tourism Guide

Ram Jhula, Another Landmark of Rishikesh!

After Laxman Jhula, there is also a Ram Jhula in Rishikesh , which was built in 1986 by the Public Works Department with the help of Sivananda Ashram. Design wise, both the bridges look the same, but according to size, Ram Jhula is bigger than Laxman Jhula with a length of 229 metres.

Ram Jhula connects the Sivananda Nagar area with Swargashram in the east. Similar to Laxman Jhula, it also offers an amazing panoramic view of Rishikesh City along with the river. Some of the must-visit places in Rishikesh such as Parmarth Niketan, Geeta Bhawan, Swargashram etc. are located near Ram Jhula.

• Visit Yoga Festival in Parmarth Niketan
• Explore nightlife

Special Tips: It’s a thrilling experience to walk over the hanging suspension bridge which sways with the wind. To experience this and avoid crowds and motorbikes, visit it at night.

Also Check Out: Mussoorie Travel & Tourism Guide

Triveni Ghat, For Watching A Mesmerising Ganga-Aarti!

The most sacrosanct ghat or bathing spot in Rishikesh, as well as in India, Triveni Ghat is one of the top tourist places in Rishikesh. It is named Triveni as it is the confluence of three major rivers of India, which are Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. Moreover, Triveni Ghat is also considered the cremation place of Lord Krishna. It is to be believed that when you take a dip here, you’ll become a pure soul as all your sins will wash away.

Every day, maha-aarti is performed in Triveni Ghat in the morning and night. Rishikesh Ganga aarti attracts both the locals and tourists in a huge number as it is believed to hold a special significance to people who attend it. You can also offer milk, food for fish and oil lamps in the water to honour the rivers.

• Attending Maha-aarti
• Feeding the fish
• Offering oil lamps in water
• Morning aarti: 5:45 AM to 6:30 AM
• Evening aarti: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Special Tips: Reach the ghat beforehand to get a front place for capturing breathtaking pictures of Ganga aarti without any obstructions. Another tip is, the evening aarti looks more amazing than the morning one. Choose yours according to your trip plan.

Also Check Out: Dehradun Travel & Tourism Guide

Swarg Ashram, The Central Attraction of Rishikesh!

Located in the centre of Rishikesh, Swarg Ashram is considered a small township with numerous temples, cottages (ashrams) and caves inside. A religious site dedicated to Swami Vishudhanand, who is also known as Kali Kamli Wala, Swarg Ashram attracts foreigners as well as saints who are searching for the actual meaning of life.

You can stay in Swarg Ashram upon advance booking. You can also attend numerous ceremonies like aarti, chanting and other religious processions which happen here every day. The peaceful life of the saints and their minimalistic approach to living will undoubtedly inspire you to lead a healthy life.

• Visit nearby places

Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM

Special Tips: It is recommended to stay in Swarg Ashram for a few days to get the best experience of a peaceful life and to rejuvenate yourself completely.

Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Uttarakhand

Raghunath Temple, Seek Blessings From Lord Rama!

The must-visit temple, Raghunath Temple is one of the popular points of tourist interest in Rishikesh. Dedicated to Lord Rama and his wife Sita, Raghunath Temple is located near Triveni Ghat, one of the famous ghats in Rishikesh.

You can also find a kund or a small pond on the premises of Raghunath Temple, which is believed to be used by Lord Rama for bathing. It is also believed that this hot water pond, which is known as Rishikund, is the meeting place of the Ganga and Yamuna. Watching a beautiful reflection of the temple on the water after seeking blessings from the deity is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh.

• Seek blessings
• Dipping hand in the hot water
• Shopping Eating
• Watching maha-aarti on Triveni Ghat

Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM

Special Tips: Try to visit this place in the late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Also Read: Famous Hindu Temples in Uttarakhand

Tera Manzil Mandir, 13 Storeys of Stories!

Also known as Trayambakeshwar Temple , Tera Manzil Mandir is a 13-storey temple located in Rishikesh. One of the famous Rishikesh tourist places, Tera Manzil Mandir attracts people from all over the world for its astonishing symmetrical architecture.

Located near the Laxman Jhula, Tera Manzil or Trayambakeshwar Temple or Kailash Niketan is one of the temples in Rishikesh, which was built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 9th century AD. Unlike other temples, it is not dedicated to one God, so you will find numerous Hindu Gods and Goddesses on each floor of the temple.

• Explore every floor

Special Tips: Do not miss the panoramic views of the sunset from the top floor of Tera Manzil Mandir.

Also Read: Popular Rivers in Uttarakhand

Shri Bharat Mandir, Another Sacred Spot In Rishikesh!

One of the oldest temples and the most sacred places in Rishikesh, Bharat Mandir is located in the heart of the city. It is to be believed one of the places where Pandavas (characters from the epic Mahabharata) stayed and worshipped Lord Hrishikesh Narayana. Also, as per history, the temple was converted into a Buddhist Monastery during the reign of Ashoka where Lord Buddha visited it himself.

Apart from its historical and mythological influences, the temple is considered one of the top tourism places of Rishikesh. People come here to do rounds of Lord Hrishikesh 108 times and seek blessings from him to get their wishes fulfilled. The present deity in the temple was reinstalled by Adi Sankaracharya on Basant Panchami in 789 AD, so every year on this day a special ritual of reinstallation is held.

• Take parikramas (rounds)
• Learn about its history
• 5 AM to 12 PM
• 4 PM to 9 PM

Special Tips: Try to plan a visit to this temple during the time of Akshaya Tritiya to seek blessings at the uncovered feet of Lord Hrishikesh, if you want one of your wishes to be fulfilled.

Also Check Out: Madhyamaheshwar Travel & Tourism Guide

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Must-Visit Religious Place!

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is 12 kilometres from the town of Rishikesh and is situated at 1,670 metres in the middle of a sylvan forest. It is among the holiest Shiva shrines in India and one of the best places to see in Rishikesh. According to Hindu mythology, the sacred location of the temple is where Lord Shiva consumed poison during Samudramanthan by the Gods and Demons.

One of the main attractions of the temple is its inside tomb where the Samudramanthan tale is depicted. The temple also features a freshwater spring that draws a lot of worshippers to take a bath.

• Seek Blessings
• Explore the architecture

Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM

Special Tips: Seek blessings from Lord Shiva during the month of Shravan (July and August) and on the eve of Shivratri (February).

Also Read: Info About Parmarth Niketan Ashram

The Beatles Ashram, For the Love of Beatles!

After the world-famous musical band visited the tranquil location opposite Muni ki Reti, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram gained international recognition. It was previously known as the International Academy of Meditation where the students of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi learned meditation. In 1968, the English rock band Beatles came here to learn meditation along with other eminent personalities.

Once abandoned, the Beatles Ashram or Chaurasia Kutia was reopened in December 2015. Apart from the peaceful and serene environment, the paintings on the wall attract several tourists in addition to the Beatles fans.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

Special Tips: Besides being one of the best places to explore in Rishikesh, it is also a perfect place to shoot couple pictures with a great background. So, click as much as you can.

Also Read: Popular Fairs & Festivals in Uttarakhand

Neer Garh Waterfall, Away From The Hustle-Bustle!

Five kilometres from Laxman Jhula, Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the places in Rishikesh where you can spend hours away from the chaos of the city. One of the best places to explore, the waterfall and its surroundings are the perfect setup for a picnic or relaxing amidst the unspoilt form of nature.

A combination of three waterfalls, Neer Garh Waterfall is a two-tier stream falling from 25 feet. One of the main attractions of this spot is that the surroundings are yet untouched by civilization and it can give you a raw experience of nature in Rishikesh.

• Birdwatching

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

Special Tips: Carry food, water and mat along with you and spend a beautiful day having a picnic amidst nature.

Also Read: Brief Introduction of Uttarakhand

Shivpuri, Ultimate Spot For Camping and Rafting!

Shivpuri is a small village known for offering various opportunities for adventure tourism. Other than the lofty mountains and friendly people, the main attraction here is the River Ganga, which is the main place to experience boating, kayaking and rafting.

Apart from the ancient temples and ghats of Rishikesh, Shivpuri is one such place which you must add to your Rishikesh sightseeing tour if you also want to taste the adventure part of the state. A weekend stay in a tent or camp here while attempting several activities will undoubtedly offer you some unforgettable memories.

• Jungle Walks

Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM

Special Tips: One of the best places to explore in Rishikesh if you want to stay away from the chaos and want to take part in the adventure tourism Rishikesh offers.

Also Read: Adventure Tourism in Uttarakhand

Jumpin Heights, For A Thrilling Experience!

The ultimate place for a great adventure – Bungee Jumping , which is a free fall from a high place while tied with ropes around the ankles. In Rishikesh, Jumpin Heights provides the best opportunity for this kind of adventure and it is one of the highest in the country (83 metres).

Definitely, one of the best activities to do on your Rishikesh trip is to attempt any of the sports at Jumpin Heights. The centre is located around 25 kilometres from Rishikesh City and you will find several resorts to stay at. Bungee jumping is followed by a long process where you will be briefed on every step. You can also buy your DVD and souvenirs after completing the task.

• Bungee Jumping
• Giant Swing

Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

Special Tips: It is recommended to not visit if you have acrophobia and have problems with heart and blood pressure.

Also Read: Camping in Uttarakhand

Rajaji National Park, To Explore Flora and Fauna of Rishikesh!

Located around 15 kilometres from the Rishikesh city centre, Rajaji National Park is a famous tourist place in Rishikesh. An amalgamation of three sanctuaries such as Rajaji Sanctuary and National Park, Chilla Sanctuary and Motichur Sanctuary, Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 and renamed Rajaji Tiger Reserve in 2015.

The second tiger reserve after Corbett in Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park is a great place for wildlife safaris as it boasts a rich collection of biodiversity including elephants, leopards, tigers and many more. Spread across 820 kilometres, it also attracts birdwatchers across the globe.

• Jungle Safari
• Night Safari
• Morning safari: 6 AM to 11 AM
• Evening safari: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Special Tips: It is suggested to check the website for the details before planning a trip to Rajaji National Park.

Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Uttarakhand

Here is our list of top recommended places to visit in Rishikesh. Hope, this Rishikesh Travel Guide will help you a lot in choosing places to visit on your next Rishikesh trip. We also have several Uttarakhand Tourism packages, which might help you have the best travel experience in the state. Comment here if you need to know anything about Rishikesh as well as any place in Uttarakhand.

Other Important Uttarakhand Tourism Links

• Uttarakhand Complete Tourism Information
• Popular Tour Packages in Uttarakhand
• Top Tourist Destinations of Uttarakhand
• Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand

Other Interesting Uttarakhand Travel Guide Blogs to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Haridwar
• Best Weekend Destinations in Uttarakhand
• Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Best Places to Visit in Kumaon
• Best Places to Explore in Nainital
• Best Places to Visit in Kedarnath

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Disclaimer: This content is written by our team of expert Travel Writers with deep research. In case you find any incorrect information or missing information, please do send your valuable inputs at [email protected]. We will update the content as soon as possible with respect to your inputs.

We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to visit in rishikesh at night.

The best places to visit in Rishikesh at night are:

• Kaudiyala Beach
• Camp Riverside
• Shivpuri Jungle Camp
• German Bakery
• Little Buddha Cafe

What are the top places to visit in Rishikesh for couples?

Some of the popular tourist attractions in Rishikesh for couples are:

• Garud Chatti and Phool Chatti Waterfalls
• Bairaj Lake

Which is the best time to visit Rishikesh for a holiday vacation?

The best time only for a Rishikesh Trip is from September to March. However, being the starting point of Chardham Yatra, tourists and devotees visit Rishikesh all year round, especially from May to October. The charm of Rishikesh can be best explored in winter and spring.

What are the top things to do for tourists in Rishikesh?

Some of the top things to do in Rishikesh for tourists are:

• Jungle Camping
• Cliff Jumping
• Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Ganga Aarti Darshan
• Temple Visits
• Ashram Visits
• Yoga and Meditation Learning
• Cafe Visits

Which are the must visit temples in Rishikesh?

Some of the must-visit temples in Rishikesh are:

• Tera Manzil Temple or Trayambakeshwar Temple
• Parmarth Niketan
• Swarg Niwas
• Shatrughna Temple
• Kunjapuri Devi Temple
• Laxman Temple

Which is the best time for a river rafting adventure in Rishikesh?

The best time for river rafting adventure in Rishikesh is the post-monsoon season. You can also opt for this water sports activity in Rishikesh between mid-September to early-May.

How many days are required to explore the best of Rishikesh sightseeing tourism?

A minimum of three to four days are required to explore the best of the Rishikesh Sightseeing Tour including rafting, cliff jumping or camping. However, if you add other nearby places like Haridwar, Mussoorie and Dehradun to your Rishikesh Tourism package then you will need around seven to eight days to cover.

Published: 20 Aug, 2022

About the author

Nandini Bhattacharya

From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.

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Where To Stay In Rishikesh – The Complete Guide

Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas and caressed by the gentle flow of the sacred Ganges River, Rishikesh beckons as a destination that seamlessly marries spirituality and adventure. But as you embark on your journey to this spiritual haven, a question looms large: “Where to stay in Rishikesh?” Worry not, for we are about to unveil a comprehensive guide that will lead you to the perfect abode, whether you seek tranquil retreats near yoga centers, vibrant spots bustling with activity, or nature-infused sanctuaries that cradle your soul. Join us as we navigate the diverse tapestry of accommodations that Rishikesh unfurls, ensuring that your stay is as enchanting as the land itself.

Things You Need To Know Before Choosing A Ideal Hotel In Rishikesh

Before choosing to stay in Rishikesh let’s find out the answer to few questions –

What is the reason behind visiting Rishikesh?

Rishikesh is mainly famous for 3 main reasons – Yoga, Adventure Sports and Spiritual Vibes. So, if you’re coming here for adventure activities like rafting, bungee jumping, camping, trekking, or rock climbing then Shivpuri, Neelkanth Road would be the best location to stay in Rishikesh. And if you’re someone who loves spending time in temples, yoga center, and ashrams and love to travel slowly then Laxman Jhula, Tapovan, Swarg Ashram and Triveni Ghat will be ideal places to stay in Rishikesh.

How long you’re planning to visit Rishikesh?

The duration of your Rishikesh trip would be crucial to decide while finding the best location to stay in Rishikesh. If you’re planning to visit Rishikesh for an adventurous weekend then Shivpuri would be an ideal place to stay in Rishikesh or if you’re coming here for a long trip of 5 days or 7 days then you can divide time between various locations.

What is your budget?

From 0 INR to 10K Rishikesh has a wide range of accommodations. If you’re a backpacker or love to travel slow then Swarg Aashram, Tapovan, and Neelkanth Road would be the best areas to stay in Rishikesh. And if you’re seeking a luxurious trip then Shivpuri, Laxman Jhula, and Ram Jhula would be the best locations to stay in Rishikesh.

Best Locations To Stay In Rishikesh

Set beside the river Ganges, Tapovan is a scenic region famous for its yoga ashrams, riverside cafes, laid-back lifestyle, adventure activities and amazing resorts. There you can enjoy one of the best coffee in Rishikesh with stunning views of the river Ganges. If you’re looking for a tranquil place to stay in Rishikesh to calm your soul and body then Tapovan is the best place to stay in Rishikesh.

Luxury Stay

Aloha On The Ganges Resort

• Address – NH 58, Tapovan, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.4 based on 12441 reviews
• Price – 19800 INR

Set right on the banks of the river Ganges & surrounded by forested hills, this resort has the perfect location for a serene and peaceful vacation. With all the modern amenities like a swimming pool, free wifi, Spa, wellness center, family rooms and restaurant it is one of the best resorts in Rishikesh.

Mid-Range Stay

Hotel Ishan

• Address – Lakshman Jhula, Chowk, Tapovan, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.4 based on 590 reviews
• Price – 3160 INR

Budget Friendly Stay

The Hosteller

• Address – Tapovan Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.6 based on 1700 Reviews
• Price – 690 INR

Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula is a well-known suspension bridge that connects the 2 famous villages of Rishikesh – Tapovan to Jonk. This bridge has great mythological significance in the Hindu religion. According to the great epic Ramayana, this is the place where Lord Laxman crosses the river Ganges by jute rope bridge. Along with mythology, this place is also known for its amazing hotels, guest houses, restaurants, shops and cafes.

Mid Range Stay

Hotel Manikut

• Address – Opposite royal cafe, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.6 based on 165 reviews
• Price – 3360 INR

Skyard Hostel

• Address – Lane Opposite to Little Buddha Cafe, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.5 based on 678 reviews
• Price – 580 INR

Neelkanth Road

Overlooking the flowing river Ganga and the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Neelkanth road is a great place to stay in Rishikesh. There you can find various activities like camping, rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling.

If you’re someone like me who loves spending time amidst nature overlooking the mountains and river then Shivpuri is the ideal place to stay in Rishikesh. Just 11 KM away from Laxman Jhula, Shivpuri is famous for adventurous activities like camping, rafting, kayaking, boating, trekking, rock climbing and many more.

• Address – Village Kathia, 500 M left from Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Shivpuri
• Rating – 4.3 based on 211 reviews
• Price – 8075 INR

The Grand Shiva Resort and Spa

• Address – Shivpuri – Rishikesh highway, Bawani, on Badrinath Highway, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.0 based on 937 reviews
• Price – 4919 INR

Ubud Riverside Camps

• Address – Haridwar Rishikesh Badrinath Road, Shivpuri
• Price – 1283 INR

Triveni Ghat

Situated on the banks of the river Ganges Triveni Ghat is the most famous and biggest ghat in Rishikesh. The word Triveni is a mix of 2 words – Tri means three and Veni means confluence, which means the ghat is the place where three major rivers meet- Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. This place is famous for its grand evening Ganga Aarti which takes place every day around 7 PM. The ghat is also famous for taking holy dips. So, if you’re someone who loves religious vibes then this is the perfect place to stay in Rishikesh.

Ellbee Ganga View

• Address – Haridwar Road, Palika Nagar, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.4 based on 3282 reviews
• Price – 9449 INR

Just a 7-minute walk from Triveni Ghat and 1.2 KM away from the railway station, this hotel is a sophisticated hotel featuring stunning river & city views.

The Vilana Hotel

• Address – Railway Station Road, near Singh Sabha Gurudwara Bankhandi, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.3 based on 379 reviews
• Price – 4499 INR

Meeram Ganga Homestay

• Address – Asthapath Mayakund, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.4 based on 120 reviews
• Price – 2260 INR

Swarg Ashram

Located on the eastern banks of the Ganges just 3 KM from Laxman Jhula, Swarg Ashram is famous for yoga centers, ashrams, spiritual vibes and budget hotels. This region is quiet and best for someone who loves to spend time away from the crowd. Apart from ashrams, there are many guesthouses, mid-range hotels, restaurants, and cafes.

Hotel Yog Vashishth

• Address – Near Janki Bridge, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.3 based on 384 reviews
• Price – 3150 INR

Hotel Sunrise

• Address – Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.5 based on 50 reviews
• Price – 2250 INR

Hotel Moksha

• Address – Swarg Ashram Road, Rishikesh
• Rating – 4.1 based on 345 reviews
• Price – 2070 INR

Which are the Best Places to Stay in Rishikesh for Couples?

Due to the natural beauty and adventure activities, Rishikesh now become a perfect honeymoon destination. From rafting in the rapids of the Ganges to witnessing the charm of Ganga Aarti and enjoying word class therapy, Rishikesh has all the ingredients for a perfect honeymoon recipe. And the picture perfect accommodation will make your stay more romantic –

Which are the Best Locations to Stay in Rishikesh for Workation?

Apart from Yoga, Spirituality and adventure, Rishikesh is also a perfect destination for workation. Being a budget destination Rishikesh attract many backpackers and working travelers from all around the world. For workation you’ll need a place which offers a peaceful environment, good amenities, and access to co-working spaces or cafes with reliable internet connectivity. So, here are the best locations for workation in Rishikesh –

Tapovan – Tapovan offers very serene and peaceful vibes with the good number of cafes, hostels and hotels. There you can easily find budget hotels and guesthouses with a good internet connection. So, you can easily attend your boring after-noon meeting with exciting views of the Himalayas.

Laxman Jhula Area : Laxman Jhula is a vibrant area with a mix of accommodations, including guesthouses and boutique hotels, along with restaurants and cafes. While it’s livelier and more crowded than some other areas, you can still find spots with a quieter ambiance to focus on your work.

Swarg Ashram – Swarg Ashram offers a peaceful environment that can be conducive to work. Being a spiritual and yoga center there you can easily find guesthouses, cafes and yoga centres at minimal prices.

Where to stay in Rishikesh For Rafting?

If you’re visiting Rishikesh for rafting then you will want to stay in the area which is located close to rafting routes. So, here are the best locations to stay in Rishikesh for rafting –

Shivpuri – Located 16 KM from Rishikesh, Shivpuri is the adventure hub of Rishikesh where you can enjoy thrilling white water rafting. There you’ll number of rafting operators offering different level of rafting.

Brahmpuri  – Brahmpuri is another popular rafting point in Rishikesh. It offers various rafting options, including shorter and less challenging routes, making it suitable for beginners and families.

Tapovan and Laxman Jhula: If you’re looking for a location that is close to Rishikesh and the rafting point then Tapovan & Laxman Jhula will be best for you. You can easily arrange transportation to the rafting sites from these areas.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh with Friends?

The best part about traveling with friends is relief. But reasonable accommodation will make your trip more exciting and memorable. And Rishikesh has plenty of hotels, hostels, homestays, guesthouses and resorts where you can enjoy with friends without being worried.

If you’re a group of adventure friends who loves thrill then you should stay near the rafting points like Shivpuri. And if you all want to just chill and soak the beauty of this place with delicious food then Laxman Jhula & Tapovan will be the best location to stay.

Where to stay in Rishikesh with Family?

Rishikesh has the number of family-friendly hotels. But while selecting accommodations you should take care of few things like choosing an area that offers a safe & comfortable environment, having all family-friendly amenities, such as interconnected rooms, babysitting services, and secure play areas and proximity to family-friendly attractions and activities. Tapovan, Swarg Ashram, Laxman Jhula area and Rishikesh town will best locations for staying in Rishikesh with family.

Our Top Picks

Which are the best budget hotels in Rishikesh?

There are many budget hotels in Rishikesh and some of them are listed below, check out –

Which are the Best Hostels in Rishikesh?

If you’re planning to visit Rishikesh with your group or solo then hostels will be the best accommodation. An array of recreational activities and other groups of minded people like you will make your trip more exciting. And Rishikesh has the best hostel brand like Zostel, The Hosteller, goStops, Madpackers etc.

Best Riverside Camps and Hotels in Rishikesh?

If you’re someone like me who loves staying close to nature then campsites and riverside hotels will be the ideal choice for you. Imagine a morning with a melody of beautiful flowing Ganges and surrounding mountains of the Himalayas.

Your perfect stay awaits – whether it’s the serene ashrams, vibrant town vibes, or riverside tranquility. Embrace the essence of this spiritual haven by booking your ideal abode now. Don’t just dream of Rishikesh, live it. Book your stay with our affiliate links and embark on an enchanting journey that promises memories to last a lifetime. Your Rishikesh adventure starts with where you stay – make it extraordinary!

Hi Guys, My Name is Pursottam Saini, living the life of my dream – From traveling one destination to another and seeing the places I still don’t believe.

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A Little Adventure… Rafting on the Mother Ganges River in Rishikesh

Last updated on August 24, 2023 by Shannon

Is any trip to India complete without a trip to see the sacred Mother Ganges? This famous river winds through the country, giving life to northern towns and accepting life at Varanasi, where the ghats sit on the banks of India’s holy Ganges River.

After nearly two months in India—during which I witnessed the chaos of Mumbai , the beauty of the Taj Mahal , survived a few classic Indian scams , and reveled during the Holi Festival of Colors , it was time to make the pilgrimage and find the sacred waters.

We journeyed to Rishikesh after relaxing in McLeod Ganj to learn about the Tibetan culture . With my flight to Kathmandu just a week away—I knew I was going to hit Rishikesh hard.

I spent a week in Rishikesh, with days dedicated to rafting the Ganges River (which is very clean above Varanasi), bending and twisting in a yoga class, meandering the many ashrams, and enjoying my last week of Indian cuisine.

Table of Contents

What is Rishikesh Like?

Rishikesh is a strange town unlike the other Indian towns I visited during my previous two months of backpacking from south to north. Rishikesh, a spiritual hub in India, is a tourist hotspot, but for foreigners and locals alike.

Indians travel to Rishikesh on vacation, while others see it as a pilgrimage—a chance to stay at an ashram on the holy river and soak in the divinity of temples and religions. Why?

Rishikesh is often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and is renowned for its spiritual significance. It is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the holy River Ganges. The town is brimming full of ashrams, yoga centers, and meditation retreats, making it an ideal place for backpackers seeking spiritual experiences, self-discovery, and inner peace.

Most backpackers pop into Rishikesh to participate in yoga classes, meditation sessions, and spiritual workshops conducted by experienced instructors. My cousin and I were keen to dabble in all of that, but we also wanted a place where travel was just a little easier for a foreigner.

Rishikesh has a vibrant backpacker scene—among the best in Northern India (Goa in the south is hard to compete with)—with a mix of budget accommodations, hostels, and guesthouses catering to backpackers’ needs.

The town is dotted with cafes, restaurants, and shops offering a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian and vegan options. India has both of these anyways—I loved my months of vegetarian food—but I also wanted some flavors from home.

Rishikesh has a lively atmosphere and cultural diversity create a welcoming and inclusive environment for backpackers from around the world. It was fun because I actually recognized and said “hi” to backpackers that I had seen months earlier in Laos and Thailand while backpacking Southeast Asia .

Other reasons Rishikesh is worth a visit? It’s a great spot for adventurous river rafting expeditions on the Ganges, and it’s just stunning. Rishikesh is blessed with scenic surroundings—lush green forests, majestic mountains, and the blue flowing Ganges River.

Why is the Ganges Clean in Rishikesh?

The blue-green waters of the Ganges River greeted me when I exited the train station in Rishikesh. Most stories of the Ganges River are largely negative. And it’s not just the banter around town. Even Indian literature portrays the Ganges River as a festering gray slush with feces, filth, and the ashes of dead bodies clogging the banks of the river.

With those images embedded in my brain, seeing the heart of Rishikesh on the far side sun-glinted blue river surprised me. I crossed the rushing clean river on a large pedestrian bridge and landed in an area of town where motorbikes and push carts are the only transportation options clogging the streets.

The town has tons of places to stay, from ashrams to boutique hotels to hostels. I was on a budget so I went with the Shiv Shakti Hostel —which I recommend for others on a budget.

Rishikesh is essentially the first place that the sacred Ganges River, it’s located in the upper reaches of the Ganges, where the river is sourced from glacial meltwaters in the Himalayas that exit the mountains and enter the plains of India. Coupled with strict local regulations to limit plastic and trash entering the river, and the Ganges at Rishikesh is clean, clear, and worth a trip on the water.

The Ganges at Rishikesh gives no evidence of the grey slush to come. The Ganges’ poor reputation is well deserved once it reaches Varanasi, where riverside cremations and funeral pyres create a thick, polluted river that flows into the rest of the country.

What to Do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has a lot to offer, but for many backpackers, it’s best known for the many types of yoga you can learn and practice. But there’s more besides yoga and rafting (more on that to come).

Attend Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram

One of the most mesmerizing experiences in Rishikesh is witnessing the Ganga Aarti, a daily evening prayer ritual, at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

The ceremony takes place on the banks of the Ganges, where devotees gather to offer prayers and witness the enchanting spectacle. Devotional songs, rhythmic chants, and the rhythmic waving of lamps create a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

To attend the Ganga Aarti, arrive early to secure a good spot along the riverbank and immerse yourself in the profound devotion and tranquility.

Take a (Free) Yoga Class or Join a Retreat

I eased into the yoga scene with a free meditation class offered by the Cultural Center. The class is led by a Yogi guru and assisted by a team of pubescent girls who circle the room like vultures over a kill.

The girls adjust your position and patiently shove your body deeper into the postures. The girls’ flawless execution of the deep bends and twists intimidated me, a newbie. But yoga is about honoring your own pace so I followed the flow and postures as best as possible.

The free class was an excellent way to ensure a gentle evening workout. Plus, it stretched out the kinks from all those hours of buses and trains.

That said, numerous ashrams and yoga centers offer retreats and courses catering to all levels of practitioners. Choose a yoga and meditation class or retreat that fits your skill levels and sign up for at least one session. This will allow you to experience the transformative power of these ancient practices, learn from experienced instructors, and delve deeper into your spiritual journey.

Many retreats include accommodations, meals, and a structured program that combines yoga classes, meditation sessions, philosophy discussions, and spiritual guidance.

Otherwise it’s dead simple to sign up for a single class, or a few classes during your stay. Parmarth Niketan is the largest ashram in town and it would make a good starting point for those serious about yoga.

Explore the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

For music enthusiasts and fans of the legendary band, a visit to the Beatles Ashram is a must. This abandoned ashram gained fame when the Beatles stayed there in 1968 to learn transcendental meditation.

Today, it has become a pilgrimage site for fans and offers a glimpse into the band’s journey. Roam through the graffiti-adorned buildings, meditation chambers, and lush surroundings while soaking up the artistic and historical vibes of the place. Guided tours are available to learn more about the Beatles’ association with the ashram.

Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall

It’s an easy hike to the Neer Garh Waterfall, located about 3 kilometers from Rishikesh. This picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing escape from the bustling town.

The trek to the waterfall involves traversing through rocky paths, dense forests, and crossing a few streams, adding an adventurous element to the experience. Once you reach the waterfall, you can enjoy the pristine surroundings, take a dip in the cool waters, and unwind amidst the tranquil ambiance of nature.

Eat All of the Things

Besides the rafting, yoga, and relaxed pace of it all, Rishikesh was just quietly lovely. I loved this gorgeous fruit salad and curd (you know how I love curd !) served at one of the hippy tourist restaurants. It was the tastiest of the entire trip.

The food in Rishikesh was like India put its best foot forward during my final days in the country. I had some of my favorite meals in Rishikesh—OK, that’s only partially true, I had amazing meals across the entire country! But

Day Trip to Kunjapuri Temple

Situated atop a hill at an elevation of around 1,676 meters, Kunjapuri Temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the surrounding valleys. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti, and visiting it provides a serene and spiritual experience.

To reach the temple, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Rishikesh to Hindolakhal and then trek for approximately 1.5 kilometers uphill. The trek is relatively moderate and takes you through scenic landscapes and lush forests.

Time your visit to the temple for sunrise or sunset, and carry warm clothing—it can get chilly at the hilltop.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Raft the Ganges River’s Grade IV Rapids

The Ganges River at Rishikesh draws adventurists to the area since the this section of the river offers rapids ranging from Grade I to Grade IV. Guided rafting trips are easy to find in Rishikesh—book a half-day rafting trip on Viator , or they even offer overnight rafting/camping trips .

It was pretty budget-friendly to take a morning rafting trip down the river. I’m not one to pinch pennies if it’s a memorable trip—this was both memorable and affordable, so it became a must-do.

The rafting season typically runs from September to June, peaking from March to May, which is when we found ourselves in Rishikesh. No matter how you book the rafting trip, choose a reputable rafting operator, wear appropriate safety gear, and follow the instructions of the experienced guides for a memorable and thrilling rafting experience.

My cousin and I arrived early and met the four other tourists in our raft—a group of Indian twenty-somethings from Delhi who were vacationing in Rishikesh for the weekend. They were jazzed for the weekend vacation from the city and they were a lot of fun, but they were not the best paddlers.

There were times on the river when my cousin and I were the only two paddling in the boat! Two of the others, Deepak and his friend, sat at the helm chatting. Meanwhile, our guide would shout for us to paddle and they wouldn’t even listen. It got to the point where the chubbier guy was relieved of his paddling duties and instead asked to splay himself across the front of the boat to act as a weight as we went through the rapids.

That request incited the others into guffaws because he was traveling face first through the rapids. He must have swallowed bucket-loads of the Ganges River!

My cousin and I are adding to our arsenal of Hindi phrases. In addition to knowing how to say “please dance” in Hindi thanks to our time in Pushkar, we can also say “dude, paddle harder!”  It’s not the handiest of phrases (when could I possible need this in the future?!), but it’s a fun parlor trick now.

This was my first rafting trip and while my arm muscles ached that evening, I’d love to try rafting again. There’s this fun adrenaline high that comes with adventure sports like rafting, climbing , and  diving .  And while I am not an adrenaline junky, rafting is good fun!

Besides rafting—which I highly recommend—this is a hotspot for the adventurous. You can bungee jump, rappel, cliff jump, rock climb, and kayak.

Beyond the rafting and yoga, Rishikesh is a spiritual center where people come for weeks and months to live at an ashram and meditate. This wasn’t my plan for now (I saved the meditation for a ten-day Vipassana meditation course in Nepal ), so my cousin and I enjoyed exploring Rishikesh and we walked the sandy white shoreline of the Ganges River.

Fun and random anecdote: I spotted this black cow and decided to do a mini photo-shoot of the cow on the beach. He stood so tall and proud and he stood out against the white sand. 

Unfortunately, one of the nearby cows was less impressed by my presence and intentions. While I was consumed with the task of framing the perfect picture, my cousin snapped a very brief video of our scramble to avoid the charge of the huge lighter colored cow. How ridiculous is it that neither of us realized the cow was charging us until he was very close!

How to Visit Rishikesh, India

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

Shiv Shakti is the best hostel in town, and it’s in the backpacker area, Lakshman Jhula, so you will find affordable eats nearby. Although many people come for the ashrams, if you’re passing through you can still practice yoga and meditate from the many hotels. Rishikesh Valley Hotel is the eco-friendly option with wooden huts and great sustainable choice. Atali Ganga Cottages has the best views in town, and Ganga Kinare Boutique Hotel is the best all-around mid-range and convenient option.

Getting to Rishikesh

Getting to Rishikesh from McLeod Ganj was brutal. It was a taxi to a bus to an overnight train. And while that’s not uncommon for backpacking India, I had eaten questionable street veggies in Dharamsala and then spent the next 15 hours becoming reacquainted with said veggies. I don’t often get sick on the road , but when I do, it takes a toll. It was a long night. But by morning I was determined to shake off the weak achy feeling and explore this new spot.

Despite that rough trip, getting to Rishikesh is relatively straightforward, and there are multiple transportation options available depending on your starting point.

By Air : The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 20 kilometers away. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Dehradun from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, hire a pre-paid taxi or take a shared cab to reach Rishikesh.

By Train : Rishikesh has its own railway station called Rishikesh Railway Station, but it’s small with limited connectivity. A more convenient option is to take a train to Haridwar, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Haridwar is about 25 kilometers away from Rishikesh, and from there, you can take a taxi, shared auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach Rishikesh.

By Road : Rishikesh is well-connected by road and can be accessed by bus or private vehicle. Several state-run and private buses operate regular services to Rishikesh from major cities in North India. The road journey offers scenic views of the mountains and the Ganges River. If you prefer more flexibility, you can also hire a taxi or drive to Rishikesh, as the town is well-connected by national highways.

Once you reach Rishikesh, you can easily explore the town on foot or hire a bicycle or scooter for local transportation.

What to Read

I can’t imagine backpacking India without the newest Lonely Planet India . Although some of the hotel recommendations and restaurants become lower quality once listed (because of the influx of travelers), the transportation and activity recommendations were spot on.

I wouldn’t have explored half of the neat places without the guidebook there to recommend towns and activities off the beaten path a bit. To keep the weight down, I ripped out the sections that I no longer needed as I traveled.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Reading : The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. This was among my favorite reads so far this year. I am just finishing it up—the narrator’s voice is bizarre, but the story was compelling and it has given me a lot of insight into the Indian culture without reading like a history book. Highly recommend it, and I have a list of other country-based travel reads too . This is one of my favorite ways to learn about the places I am visiting!

Where am I really?  Tuscany, I took a bike ride through the wineries outside of Florence !

5 thoughts on “A Little Adventure… Rafting on the Mother Ganges River in Rishikesh”

This is the part of India that I am most looking forward to going to. I can’t wait, but it will be at least two months into our trip until we get there. I really want to take a yoga course there for a few weeks. Did you see any good places that offered intensive yoga instruction?

That’s a tough one Deb – I went through my journal to see if I wrote anything down to no avail. I was pretty sick at that time so I just went with a gentle class… but there were just tons of other actual classes out there. Wish I could help more! There are several ashrams too that offer some courses :-)

Wow, an amazing experience. More things to add to the bucket list :)

Had no idea the Ganges was clean at any point along its path. Good to know!

I didn’t either until I got to Rishikesh – it still took a bit of mind over matter to let the water splash on me!

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Ultimate Rishikesh Travel Guide 2022 Updated | Best Rishikesh Guide

Rishikesh Travel Guide-  Chances are that you must be aware of the spiritual town of Rishikesh even if you are a visitor, planning your India travel.

Rishikesh is located near the foot of the mighty Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is also known as the “Gateway to the Garhwal.

Table of Contents

Rishikesh – a blend of spirituality and adventure.

Adventure is worthwhile especially in Rishikesh, often claimed as the ‘ Yoga Capital ” of the World.’ A magnet for spiritual seekers, Rishikesh is a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and spirituality.

At first, only Rishikesh comes in your mind when someone talks about River Rafting and pilgrimage sites in a modern way as Yoga, and divine principles are being taught in Rishikesh for long.

Mesmerizing clouds, overlapped mountains, fast-flowing river & a series of amazing temples, it’s Uttarakhand.

WHERE EXACTLY IS RISHIKESH?

Rishikesh is a holy city located in the sacred and heavenly state of Uttarakhand in India. It is around 250km from the National Capital of India and just an hour away from Haridwar.

Rishikesh and Haridwar, both located in Uttarakhand, are called as twin national heritage cities in India.

Rishikesh, a real heaven for adventure seekers which is also known as the Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, most famous among travellers for numerous reasons. The Char Dham Yatra (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) starts from Rishikesh.

ONLY BEST RISHIKESH STAYS

Finding the best stays in Rishikesh at the best price & comfortable stays is what you should look for. If you are looking for a backpacking premium hostel in Rishikesh, I would recommend checking out these great hostels and book your stay.

Check out Thira Rishikesh (Rated 9.1/10) & BackPacker Panda Rishikesh (Rated 9/10) hostel among our favorite. What’s yours?

Looking for the best resorts in Rishikesh? check out my exclusive article on choosing your best resorts in Rishikesh and then decide on selecting one for you.

HOW TO REACH RISHIKESH?

Connected through road networks, Rishikesh can be reached by air and train/bus as well. Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport) is the nearest at just 25km from the city center. Then, you can opt for regular bus service/taxi which may be the right choice from the airport to your beautiful destination, Rishikesh.

Trains are so convenient, and one can reach Rishikesh from anywhere directly via Haridwar which is linked to all the major cities in India, so it is advisable to take one of the good trains till Haridwar and head to Rishikesh by bus or taxi.

Do you love going on road trips? It is worth considering to reach Rishikesh by road and feel a supernatural breeze blows down the valley as enters into the city surroundings. Mostly, the tourists from Delhi and nearby cities prefer their cars or hired taxis for the journey as it would take not more than 6 hours to reach. Do not forget, buckle up before you drive off. Have a safe trip!

ROAD DISTANCE CHART TO RISHIKESH

• Lucknow to Rishikesh: 550km
• Jaipur to Rishikesh: 515km
• Ahmedabad to Rishikesh: 1187km
• Chandigarh to Rishikesh: 222km
• Dehradun to Rishikesh: 45km
• Agra to Rishikesh: 418kms
• Meerut to Rishikesh: 170km
• Roorkee to Rishikesh: 50km
• Nainital to Rishikesh: 250km

MAP TO DESIGN YOUR DAY IN AN ORGANIZED WAY

THE HISTORY OF THE PLACE

The history of Rishikesh is associated with Lord Rama, a primary deity of Hinduism, who performed penance at Rishikesh for killing the demon king of Lanka, Ravana. According to Legends, a great saint Raibhya Rishi did penance on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh, and Lord Vishnu appeared (Lord Hrishikesha or Lord of the Senses) to him and which is why this place has been named to Rishikesh.

LAKSHMAN JHULA: AN ICONIC SYMBOL OF RISHIKESH

Lakshman Jhula is one of the most photographed spots in Uttarakhand. It is built at the point where Laxman (Lakshman), the younger brother of Lord Rama, crossed the river Ganges. Completed in 1929, it is a 137m long suspension bridge that connects the two villages of Tapovan and Jonk.

Another iron suspension bridge which is located 2km from Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula is also the most prominent landmark in Rishikesh. The bridge has been built in the year of 1986 which connects Sivananda Nagar to Swargashram.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

Either March to April or October to November. Neither June to August nor December to January

Rishikesh has great magical views throughout the year. Its pleasant and breezy weather makes the town so enjoyable for every traveler although, it depends on what purpose you choose to head there. One should avoid traveling to Rishikesh from May to August due to hot & humid summers and rafting is closed because of average rainfall during the monsoon months, but you can get substantial discounts on stay everywhere in the city.

The period of late September to mid-November is the best time to travel Rishikesh. The second best time is from early March to the first week of May because of its favorable weather to enjoy rafting, camping, and other adventure sports.

SAY NO TO ALCOHOL AND MEAT

Rishikesh is a holy city, a favorite place for spiritual finders around the world, so the Government has banned alcohol within the municipal limits of Haridwar and Rishikesh. All types of meats have been prohibited in Rishikesh for long. It doesn’t mean there is a shortage of varieties of foods while a large number of North and South Indian dishes are available at every corner in the city center.

INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL BEGINS IN RISHIKESH

“Expect less and accept more. It is our own expectations and our own egos that cause frustration and disappointment in life.” – Pujya Swamiji, President and Spiritual Head of Parmarth Niketan

Many revered saints will be gracing the yoga festival with their presence, their blessings and their teachings of inspiration. In 2019, International Yoga Festival has been scheduled in the month of March as held every year so get your tickets booked in March to hold your breath for the events which will surely energize you and your journey to a greater extent.

FYI: www.internationalyogafestival.org

The annual IYF (International Yoga Festival), organized by Parmarth Niketan, is a gathering of the union. Individuals from all over the world are coming together for a shared experience of connection through yoga.

IN RISHIKESH, YOGA IS OF THE ESSENCE

You cannot always control what goes on outside, but you can always control what goes on inside. Yoga is a light, once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.

Rishikesh is synonymous to Yoga in India and famous for this beautiful reason all around the world. It has one of the largest clusters of authentic ashrams in the world. Truly a life-changing experience, Yoga retreats in Rishikesh are the points of attraction for a vast throng of travellers. Rishikesh is a dreamy yoga destination that offers meditation and yoga classes, training programs and much more if you are interested in self-growth. Here is the list of some best ashrams in Rishikesh –

• Parmarth Niketan – An Abode Dedicated to the Welfare of All
• Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram & Retreats
• Omkarananda Patanjala Yoga Kendra
• Yoga Niketan Ashram
• Swami Dayananda Ashram
• Phool Chatti Ashram
• Patanjali International Yoga Foundation
• Himalayan Yog Ashram
• Shree Mahesh Heritage Meditation School
• Osho Gangadham
• Sadhana Mandir Ashram
• Yoganandham
• Mahatma Yoga Ashram
• Maa Yoga Ashram
• Tattvaa Yogashala

NO MORE RAFTING IN RISHIKESH

You can’t. You’re not allowed. You read that right.

The white river rafting, paragliding, and other water sports were banned in June 2018 by the Uttarakhand High Court in order to formulate a transparent policy for regulating the water activities.

The ban was imposed because of safety, and environmental concerns as the camping sites on the banks of the river pollute the environment and affect the ecology of the river.

People lose their lives every year when a raft capsizes in the river due to the absence of untrained professionals, and there were no predefined fares for water sports as well. We also think that only trained professionals should be allowed to conduct water sports and there is an urge to fix the reasonable charges for the activities in Rishikesh because the games for pleasure cannot be permitted to end in disaster.

RAFTING REOPENED UNDER STRICT GUIDELINES

Hurray! It’s time to be adventurous again. News from local newspaper in Hindi

In September 2018, the Uttarakhand High Court lifted this ban and issued a proper set of guidelines under Uttarakhand River Rafting / Kayaking (Amendment) Rules, 2018.

A copy of the notification by Government of Uttarakhand can be accessible using the link mentioned below –

(River Rafting Rule-2018 Amendment-III English)

RAFTING IS WORTHWHILE IN RISHIKESH

Thank God for making the Ganga a fast flowing river and its amazing rapids in Rishikesh so we are lucky to have a great adventure out there called Rafting / Kayaking and much more. Haha!

There is no better place than Rishikesh in India for rafting and related water sports. The predefined routes are full of exciting rapids, a gamut of options to choose and its availability throughout the year (camping) make your trip a pleasant, memorable and daring one.

Rafting starts from Rs.600 for 8 to 9km either Brahmpuri or Club House to Ram Jhula / Neembeach. The price Rs.1000 for the route of 16km which starts from Shivpuri to Ram Jhula / Neembeach. Rishikesh also offers more thrilling stretches such as Marine Drive to Ram Jhula (24km, Rs.1500), Marine Drive to Shivpuri (12skm, Rs.700), Kaudiyala to Shivpuri (22km, Rs.1500) and Kaudiyala to Ram Jhula / Neembeach (35km, Rs.2500).

CHECK YOUR RAFTING TOUR OPERATOR

As updated on 26 March 2019 by eUttaranchal , a total of 140 authorized river rafting tour operators are available in Rishikesh who ensures about safety and follows all the guidelines issued. Click on the link above to check whether your tour operator is certified or not.

BOOK RAFTING PLUS CAMPING PLUS HAPPINESS

In Rishikesh, more than a hundred tour operators offer several activities including White River Rafting, Cliff Jumping, Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, Giant Swing, Kayaking, Rappelling, Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Camping, Trekking, Body Surfing.

It’s very convenient if you ask your hotel reception where you’re staying, and you’ll get the information, or they would be able to book slots for any of the water activities you are interested in. Otherwise, you go walking. You can book your package from any outlet of the tour operators present almost everywhere in the city center, or book online and here is the list of top tour operators for adventure activities –

• Adventure Nation
• Red Chilli Adventure
• White World Expeditions
• Jumpin Heights
• Snow Leopard Adventures
• Ganga Valley Adventure
• Aquaterra Adventures
• Outbound Adventure
• Mercury Himalayan Explorations
• Himalayan River Runners
• Dream Life Adventure
• Sacred Explorations
• Garhwal Himalayan Explorations
• Thrill Factory
• Love For Mountains

The thrill begins at the ‘Thrill Factory’ and it doesn’t get any better. Get ready to experience the real adrenaline rush brought to you by ‘The Kingdom of Dreams’ a unique live entertainment concept that looks India by storm with their breathtaking performances which are unrivaled to date.

We suggest ‘Love For Mountains’ to a greater extent because it is truly one of the best online booking platforms for activities and tours our travellers are experiencing.

FYI: www.loveformountains.com

WHAT APARNA SAYS ABOUT RISHIKESH

Rishikesh is a journey to self-realization where people find their potential powers of soul and body. Rishikesh reveals the real vision of spirituality and peace. Rishikesh means ‘Lord of the Senses,’ so in that way, it is a soul perceiving place in the world. I lived in Rishikesh for almost two years, and glad to express my feeling about my stupendous days there. It was a period that augmented me from within and made me look at the world from a different perspective.

Despite the growing number of visitors, the town’s lanes and alleys retain an old-world charm and remains a magnificent place to relax. Whether you are an atheist or not, it does not matter for the beauty of nature at its very best in these parts of the world, will make a believer of you.

The good vibes are both relaxed and reverent and consequently attracts genuine Hindu devotees, Yogis, Western Hippies, and spiritual dilettantes.

The Ganga seems to flow like the masterpiece of a moody musician in Rishikesh. The Ganga is instinctive, pure, and ever faithful to the essence of life. That wisdom carried for each of us to drink upon the Ganga waters spring from the source of its existence, which is the source of our own.

When you are in the flow, you become one with the river. With each step of Rishikesh, people are getting closer to Hindu culture, rituals, values and beliefs. At night, when a gentle breeze from the river just across you, words cannot describe the feeling of serenity you experience.

CHOOSE B/W TRUE LOVE OR TRAVELLING TO RISHIKESH

Rishikesh is the city where people find their strength, courage, conviction & peace and left their hearts in return. This city gives you so much more than what it takes back from you. A new perspective, a massive change in the way you view things, Rishikesh offers lesser judgments, more humility and tremendous amounts of joy.

If you had to choose between true love or travelling to Rishikesh, for which thing would you visit the town – Yoga or Adventure?

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

Rishikesh makes you feel alive, and there is a lot to do in and around the city. Undoubtedly, you will enjoy things differently and if you are looking for how to plan a Rishikesh trip or design an itinerary. We at TravelEscape welcomes you on board to customize a sightseeing tour for you.

I recommend you exploring/bookmark the official website of Rishikesh for additional information you will need for your trip.

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BEFORE YOU GO

Your comments are invaluable and sharing the blog motivates hundreds of people so like, share and spread the information. Please rate my article on Rishikesh Travel by clicking 5 stars

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About the author: piyush tripathi.

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Best description ………..

First, let’s say that the choice of the place is fantastic. The text is written super well and very clearly. Second, I love how through words the author encourages us to visit the place and, as I say, what you experienced you explained it wonderfully. I think it is perfectly correct to fight to maintain the place and improve the feeding (without meat and alcohol) which honestly, I am not in favor of them, but at the same time it is good that there are other options. I feel called to know the place and that will surely help me find peace and spirituality in my life through its nature that induces tranquility. Congratulations!

Thank you, Eli, for your honest-to-goodness words and I appreciate your views.

I’d like to add something that Rishikesh is a Hindu pilgrimage destination rather than just a tourist place. It’s a fact that Hinduism does not require a vegetarian diet but they believe that it minimizes hurting other life forms. Vegetarianism is considered SATVIC (pure), that is purifying the body and mind lifestyle in some Hindu texts. I think it would be reason to ban on those.

Very informative blog

Thanks! You motivates me.

Valuable and informative description about Rishikesh. Beautiful pictures, beautifully structured and well described Blog. ?

Thanks for reading!

Informative and full of useful stuff. Beautiful to look at….. Uplifting and inspiring.

Thanks for your words!

I enjoyed every line of the blog. It’s beautiful :) Keep up!!

Thanks Wangmo!

Hey Piyush!! Wonderful and amazing writing..its simple…from the heart…and reaches the heart!! And since i know you a little now… You were able to capture the purity of Rishikesh. This is the Rishikesh I will remember forever. And not to mention the photography. Congratulation!! Way to go.

Thank you so much, Ma’am :)

Wonderful!!

Impressive article and pics！ Thanks for the post. Keep doing the good work.

Thanks, Gaurav!

I glad to be here see this great blog,This is very interesting article. The pictures are really beautiful and the way you explained about the places to visit. Thank for share with us.

Wonderful blog!! A valuable and informative description of Haridwar. Informative and well-explained blog about Haridwar. Thanks for your awesome travel guide and photos are really amazing.

GREAT read , RCT

Very interesting and detailed blog, I would also like share my experience.

Corbett National Park is a forested wildlife sanctuary in northern India’s Uttarakhand State. Rich in flora and fauna, it’s known for its Bengal tigers Brys Caves is one of the most Luxuries Resort in the heart of jungle in Jim Corbett National Park. It is designed on the theme of caves and is the most preferable resort for adventurous / romantic getaway. Kindly contact us for any query,details given below:- https://www.bryscaves.com/contact-us/

Informative.

Are you new in Rishikesh but you don’t know Rishikesh bus timing and schedule so you can visit http://rishibus.in

Nice article.!! useful information thanks for sharing this.

Really a great on guide on rishikesh tourism, looking forward visiting Rishikesh at the end of this year for some adventure sports. I am planning for river rafting and camping there.

How’s weather during the end of december?

Thank you, Ankush!

The weather in December makes it an ideal spot for tourists looking to witness the city at its best. The temperature stays between 28 degrees Celsius to 8 degrees Celsius, which ensures that it is advisable to visit the city in the winter.

If you are planning to visit in December, then try to go in Mid December.

Nice blog, very informative it help me a lot.

I had very great experience with shaantamresort traveler must stay there.

Thanks, Harsh!

Thanks for sharing with great information About Rishikesh this blog is very helpful for me and my website.

Thanks for sharing such an informative blog about Rishikesh.

Thank you! :)

Hello Piyush

Images that you used in this post really awesome. HD Quality. I really impressed with the content and Images.

Thank you so much!

Thanks for sharing the article. you can check my content about campsites in Rishikesh.

Sure, thank you!

Great blog! It provides a valuable and informative overview of Rishikesh and offers a well-explained insight into Haridwar. Your travel guide is fantastic, and the photos are truly stunning. Thank you!

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Discover Rishikesh, a peaceful spot in India by the Ganges River. Check out these 7 must do activities to do while you're there.

18 Apr, 2024

Kumar Utkarsh

Attend Ganga Aarti: Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony held at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan Ashram during sunset.

Yoga and meditation: rishikesh is known as the "yoga capital of the world" for good reason., river rafting: challenge yourself with an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the ganges., trekking: embark on scenic treks in the surrounding himalayan foothills. trails like neer garh waterfall trek and kunjapuri temple trek offer stunning views of the mountains, forests, and the ganges river., bungee jumping and flying fox: get your adrenaline pumping with bungee jumping and flying fox (zip-lining) adventures offered at jumpin heights., visit beatles ashram: explore the abandoned ashram where the beatles stayed in the late 1960s. also known as maharishi mahesh yogi ashram, it's now covered in vibrant graffiti and offers a surreal glimpse into the band's spiritual journey., explore temples and ashrams: delve into the spiritual heritage of rishikesh by visiting ancient temples like neelkanth mahadev temple, bharat mandir, and trayambakeshwar temple..

Thanks For Reading!

Next: Top 7 Must Visit Destinations Near Delhi NCR

Places to Visit Near Rishikesh

Rishikesh : "the yoga capital of world".

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a serene town in the northern state of Uttarakhand , India. Renowned as the “ Yoga Capital of the World ” and a gateway to the  Himalayas , Rishikesh attracts seekers of spiritual enlightenment, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers from around the globe. Rishikesh is steeped in spiritual significance, with the  Ganges River  flowing through its heart. The town is dotted with ashrams, where seekers and yogis engage in meditation, yoga, and self-discovery. Prominent among these is the Parmarth Niketan Ashram , which hosts the grand Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat , a mesmerizing spectacle that draws pilgrims and tourists alike.

Rishikesh is not just a spiritual haven; it’s also an adventure enthusiast’s paradise. The fast-flowing Ganges provides the perfect setting for white-water rafting, a thrilling experience that attracts adrenaline junkies from far and wide.  Shivpuri , a short distance from Rishikesh, is a hotspot for river rafting and camping , allowing visitors to connect with nature in a more adventurous way.

Beyond its spiritual and adventure offerings, Rishikesh is embraced by the enchanting beauty of the Himalayan foothills. The town serves as a base for treks to nearby destinations such as  Neelkanth Mahadev Temple , where a scenic trek leads to a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The  Kunjapuri Devi Temple , perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the sunrise over the snow-capped peaks.

17 Best Places to Visit Near Rishikesh

Rishikesh, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a popular destination known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. There are several interesting places to visit near Rishikesh. Here are some places near Rishikesh:

1. Dehradun

Dehradun, with its blend of natural beauty, educational prominence, and cultural heritage, stands as a microcosm of Uttarakhand’s diverse offerings. Whether you’re strolling through its lush parks, exploring historical landmarks, or embarking on a journey to nearby hill stations, Dehradun welcomes visitors with open arms, inviting them to experience the harmonious convergence of nature and culture in this Himalayan gem.

Distance : 47 Kms

2. Haridwar

Haridwar is a city steeped in Hindu mythology and spirituality. Nestled along the banks of the Ganges River, Haridwar is one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism, drawing millions of pilgrims and visitors seeking spiritual solace. The heart of Haridwar lies at Har Ki Pauri. Here, the evening Ganga Aarti is a captivating ritual where priests offer prayers and light lamps, creating a mesmerizing display of lights that dance on the sacred river.

Distance : 20 Kms

3. Shivpuri

Shivpuri beckons adventure seekers with its roaring rapids, scenic beauty, and a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene retreats. Whether conquering the rapids, camping by the riverside, or embarking on nature treks, Shivpuri promises an unforgettable experience in the lap of the Himalayas.

Distance : 19 Kms

4. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayan foothills, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple stands as a sacred testament to Hindu mythology and spirituality. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple not only holds religious significance but also captivates visitors with its natural beauty and the spiritual aura that permeates the entire area. For those seeking a blend of adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.

Distance : 32 Kms

5. Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Perched atop a hill in the vicinity of Rishikesh, the Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a sacred gem that beckons both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike. Dedicated to Goddess Shakti, this ancient temple is not just a spiritual retreat but also a vantage point that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and the Ganges River below.

Distance : 50 Kms

6. Kaudiyala

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Ganges River, Kaudiyala is a quaint village of Uttarakhand. This off-the-beaten-path destination has gained popularity as an adventure hub, drawing thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its exhilarating white-water rafting experiences, Kaudiyala offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and serene natural beauty. 

Distance : 40 Kms

7. Rajaji National Park

Nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik Range in Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park stands as a pristine sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Rajaji National Park is a sanctuary where the melody of rustling leaves and the call of the wild create a symphony of nature. With its vibrant ecosystems and commitment to conservation, this national park stands as a testament to the importance of preserving India’s natural heritage.

Kanatal’s pleasant climate makes it an attractive destination throughout the year. Whether covered in a blanket of snow during the winter or adorned with blooming flowers in the warmer months, Kanatal beckons travelers to experience the simplicity and tranquility of the Himalayan foothills. With its unspoiled beauty and a sense of serenity, Kanatal is a hidden paradise waiting to be explored by those in search of a rejuvenating mountain escape.

Distance : 80 Kms

9. Piran Kaliyar Sharif

Piran Kaliyar Sharif, located near Roorkee in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a revered Sufi shrine that holds profound spiritual significance. This sacred site is dedicated to the 13th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari, commonly known as Sarkar Sabir Pak. Nestled on the banks of the Ganges River, Piran Kaliyar Sharif attracts pilgrims and devotees from diverse backgrounds seeking blessings, solace, and spiritual enlightenment.

Distance : 45 Kms

10. Mussoorie

Perched on the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie is a charming hill station that has earned the moniker “Queen of the Hills.” Located in Uttarakhand, this idyllic town is a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Mussoorie is a haven where nature’s beauty, colonial history, and modern amenities come together to create an enchanting escape.

Distance : 78 Kms

11. Narendra Nagar

Narendra Nagar, a picturesque town in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a hidden gem nestled amidst the majestic Garhwal Himalayas. This serene destination offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Known for its breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, Narendra Nagar boasts a calm and rejuvenating atmosphere. 

Distance : 37 Kms

12. Dhanaulti

Nestled amidst the serene hills of the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand, Dhanaulti is a charming hill station that exudes tranquility and natural beauty. This lesser-known gem offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is adorned with dense forests of deodar, oak, and rhododendron, creating a refreshing and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Distance : 70 Kms

Nestled in the picturesque Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Chamba is a hidden gem that captivates with its serene beauty and cultural charm. Perched at an elevation of over 1,600 meters, Chamba offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Distance : 62 Kms

14. Tehri Dam

Tehri Dam, an engineering marvel nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, stands proudly as one of the tallest dams in the world. Completed in 2006, this colossal structure is situated on the Bhagirathi River, a major tributary of the sacred Ganges.

Distance : 83 Kms

15. Surkanda Devi temple

Surkanda Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine nestled in the serene hills of Uttarakhand, India. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, also known as Surkanda Devi, this temple holds both religious and scenic significance. Surkanda Devi Temple is not only a place of worship but also a destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts seeking a blend of spirituality and adventure.

Distance : 49 Kms

16. Mohan Chatti

Discover tranquility near Rishikesh at Mohan Chatti, a serene village nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayas. Explore adventure activities, visit ancient temples, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

Distance : 25 Kms

17. Vashishta Gufa (Cave)

Explore the spiritual haven of Vashishta Gufa in Rishikesh, a mystical cave nestled along the banks of the Ganges River. This sacred cave is believed to have hosted the meditation of Sage Vashishta, imparting a serene aura. A visit to Vashishta Gufa offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual resonance, making it a tranquil retreat for seekers and nature enthusiasts alike

Distance : 24.7 Kms

In the rhythmic flow of the Ganges, the rustling leaves of ancient forests, and the echoes of hymns from ashrams, Rishikesh stands as a testament to the harmony of spiritualism and adventure. Whether seeking enlightenment, chasing the thrill of the rapids, or simply basking in the natural beauty of the Himalayas, Rishikesh has something to offer every traveler, making it a timeless destination that beckons with the promise of self-discovery and tranquility.

• Rishikesh Travel Map

Frequantly Asked Questions on Places near Rishikesh

Some must-visit attractions include the Triveni Ghat, The Beatles Ashram, Shivpuri River Rafting Point, and the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.

Rishikesh is well-connected by road. You can reach it by bus or taxi from cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

Yes, Rishikesh serves as a gateway to the Himalayas, offering various trekking options. Popular treks include the Valley of Flowers, Kuari Pass, and Chandrashila.

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from September to November and March to April when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall.

Yes, Rishikesh is known as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” There are numerous ashrams and yoga centers offering classes and retreats for all levels of practitioners.

Absolutely! Rishikesh is famous for river rafting, bungee jumping, trekking, and camping. The Shivpuri and Brahmapuri areas are particularly known for thrilling river rafting experiences.

The Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh hosts a famous Ganga Aarti every evening. The Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Swarg Ashram also conduct beautiful Ganga Aartis.

Yes, the Rajaji National Park is located near Rishikesh and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Jeep safaris and elephant safaris are popular ways to explore the park.

Rishikesh offers a variety of dining options. Some popular places include Chotiwala, The 60’s (Cafe Delmar), and Devraj Coffee Corner for their delicious food and serene ambiance.

Yes, hiring a local guide is a great idea to explore Rishikesh and its surroundings. Guides can provide valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and natural aspects of the region. You can find guides through hotels, travel agencies, or online platforms.

• Rishikesh Travel Guide
• Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh
• Things to Do in Rishikesh
• Camping in Rishikesh
• FAQ's on Rishikesh
• How to reach Rishikesh?
• Hotels in Rishikesh

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Table of Contents

What's the best fast food in the US? This travel guide picks a Wisconsin brand.

The best fast food restaurant in the United States , according to Fodor's Travel , has a Wisconsin flavor.

Of course, it's Culver's .

Fodor's Geena Truman wrote that she spent a year "driving around the U.S. on a quest to eat (and experience) the true culture of America."

She ranked 12 fast-food chains, leaving out large corporations like McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King.

And in the top spot as "the most delicious fast food pit stop in America" is Culver's, the restaurant founded in Sauk City in 1984 by George, Ruth, Craig and Lea Culver.

The article said Culver's "gives the outer appearance of fast-food but outperforms all others in taste."

The rest of the list? In order, it's Shake Shack, In-N-Out, Whataburger, Raising Cane's, Five Guys, Chick-fil-A, Dave's Hot Chicken, Kelly's Roast Beef, White Castle, Dick's and Zips (tied) and Jollibee.

More: Yelp reviewers chose their best cheeseburger in Wisconsin. Here's your choice.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

kids department

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The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles

In this article

Best baby bottle overall, best less-expensive baby bottle, best glass baby bottle, best silicone baby bottle, best hybrid baby bottle, best baby bottle for travel.

As soon as you deliver your adorable, squishy newborn , your life is — nearly immediately — ruled by the process of feeding them. There are a number of ways to do that, of course (breastfeeding, formula feeding , pumping, chestfeeding, and any combination thereof), but no matter what path you take, you will, most likely, use a baby bottle at some point. Maybe it’s so you can take a break and your partner can do a feed, maybe it’s months after their birth when you go back to work, or maybe it’s on day one. As a mom of three, I can say there is probably no perfect baby bottle because so much depends on your individual child. With my first child I mostly nursed, and so I gravitated toward a boob-shaped bottle (not out of any real research, more instinct). These bottles were fine, but I never loved them — which was also okay, because I really didn’t use them very often. For my second and third kids, who both received quite a bit of pumped milk , I did more research and landed on the Philips Avent bottles with the anti-colic inserts (these are my best overall pick, more on that, below).

Ultimately, though, the best baby bottle is one that your kid happily takes, but there are still qualities that separate the good from the great. A great baby bottle is one that you can wash in the dishwasher. Newborns eat 8 to 12 times every 24 hours — that’s a lot of time elbow-deep in hot soapy water. All my picks below are dishwasher-safe. (For nipples and other small parts, I definitely recommend getting a dishwasher basket to help keep everything together.) All but one of my picks have gas and colic prevention (and the exception is a bottle suitable for an older baby). And you’ll want your choice to be able to grow with your baby, from newborn weeks up until their first birthday — babies are expensive enough without having to buy a new bottle every few months. So, if you’re looking for a place to start, I spoke to a lactation counselor, feeding experts, and seasoned parents to find out the best baby bottles, from plastic baby bottles to glass baby bottles, and the best baby bottles for pumping too. And for other feeding needs, check out our stories on the best wearable breast pumps and the best nursing pillows .

What we’re looking for

Generally, bottles are made of plastic, silicone, or glass. There’s no perfect material: Glass is eco-conscious and dishwasher-safe, but heavy and breakable. (Even a strong, older baby may struggle to feed themselves with a glass bottle, and parental hands can definitely fatigue holding one.) Silicone bottles are a good choice for parents who worry about plastics but don’t want glass, though they can sometimes absorb food smells in the dishwasher. Plastic bottles are the most common — they’re lightweight and inexpensive — but some folks have concerns about the material breaking down, especially if you’re heating them. If you choose plastic, look for BPA-free.

Gas/Colic Prevention

Babies who drink from a bottle are more likely to deal with gas pains and spit-up than babies who are exclusively breastfed, simply because they take in more air. Some bottles use additional parts and pieces to reduce air intake. However, these extra parts are generally a pain to clean (they usually require a dedicated straw cleaner), so I’ve listed them as the come up.

A newborn’s stomach is itty-bitty, so you don’t need a large bottle when you’re serving one to three ounces at each feed. Meanwhile, a 10-month-old’s stomach can hold two veggie burgers at a time (I’ve seen it), and they may want an eight-ounce bottle to wash it down. If your brand of choice makes bottles in multiple sizes, it’s nice to be able to “graduate” to a bigger one when your baby levels up.

Nipple Flow Range

Similarly, newborns don’t totally understand how to eat, and a fast flow of milk can leave them choking and gagging (and leave you having wasted a precious feed). Your bottle brand should make nipples with a range of “flow” rates — slow ones (usually called stage 1 or even 0) for newborns, up to faster ones that are called stage 3 or 4 for babies closer to age 1. There’s nothing wrong with keeping your baby at the slow-flow newborn nipple, of course, but it can be nice to speed up their feeds when they get a little older and can handle the faster flow.

Material: BPA-free plastic Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via an insert Size: Available in 4oz., 9oz., and 11oz. sizes Nipple Flow Range: Size 1 included, up to level 4 sold separately

When I was looking for a bottle for my kids, I wanted protection from gas and colic, but I wasn’t willing to wash a million tiny parts . The Philips Avent bottles with the anti-colic inserts were the natural conclusion. They work, too: I found that using them meant that my second and third kids spit up way less than my first did. (I know I can’t prove it was the bottles, but I really do think they helped!) As I learned, bottle-fed babies , on the whole, take in more air than their breastfed friends because, well, a bottle has air in it, and the human chest does not. This leads to more air in their bellies, and therefore gas and spit-up are more common. My goal was to minimize this side effect, and the Avent bottles did a great job of it. The insert is a single part that works to draw air away from the nipple itself, meaning the nipple is always full of milk, not air, even when horizontal. The insert lifts right out when you pop a nail under it, and since it’s only one part, it’s pretty easy to scrub clean with a traditional bottle brush.

That’s not the only thing I liked about these bottles, though: They were easy to hold thanks to a curve for your hand, came in multiple sizes for when my hungry baby needed more milk, and stacked neatly in diaper bags because of the flat top on the bottle caps. Amanda Glenn, a certified lactation counselor who runs the popular Instagram account @ exclusive_pumping , polled her community of 107,000 followers and they agreed these are their favorites, too. “The bottles are compatible with Spectra breast pumps — being able to pump into the same bottles your baby takes saves a ton of time and effort,” says Glenn.

Material: BPA-free plastic Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via their internal vent system Size: Available in 2oz., 4oz., and 8oz. sizes Nipple Flow Range: Size 1 included, up to level 4 sold separately

“I almost always recommend Dr. Brown’s,” says Mallory Whitmore, a.k.a. @ theformulamom , who is also the lead educator at Bobbie, a subscription-based formula brand. The biggest reason? The internal vent system, which involves a small, sectioned silicone ring that fits into what looks like a very long, rounded funnel. It’s got a unique ability to reduce gas and reflux due to the way it reduces air inside. “I know that when parents hear and see all the internal parts of this bottle system, they might look to another bottle choice, but it is the gold standard in my practice as a pediatric occupational therapist and feeding specialist,” says Judy Delaware, O.T., one half of the popular feeding resource account @ feedinglittles . “The internal vent system works for both gas and reflux, as this bottle system is designed to eliminate internal pressure in a way that no other bottles can,” she says. Paige Fowler, a mom of four who shares her family’s life on @ ourhomepaige , used them with all of her kids, too. “All four of our babies were bottle fed, and every single time I would try the newest, most popular bottles. And every single time, I ended up using Dr. Brown’s,” she says. “They were always the one our reflux-y babies liked the best and had the fewest issues (like gas and spit-up) with.” One notable downside — one that Whitmore co-signs — is that the vent system leads to a lot of small parts that usually need to be hand-washed, even if you have a dishwasher basket. This is why I didn’t select them as best in class — I think it’s important to be able to easily wash your bottles, and the Avents also offer the anti-gas and colic vents that the experts like in the Dr. Browns. Still, there are some other pluses: They don’t leak, they come in two-, four-, and eight-once sizes, Dr. Brown’s makes a pacifier that is the same shape as the nipple (this is surprisingly handy), and if you have a Medela breast pump, you can screw the bottles directly onto your flanges.

Material: Glass Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via vents in the nipple itself Size: 4oz. or 8oz. Nipple Flow Range: Size 2 included, sizes 1–5 sold separately

Strategist writer Lauren Ro used and loved these bottles. “I love that they’re made of sturdy glass, and even though they’re definitely bulkier and heavier than plastic bottles, they feel more sanitary to me because I can clean them with really hot water,” she told me. “They also feel really nice in hand, and I especially love the natural-flow nipples that I used with them. And because of how thick the glass is, I found — not sure if it’s true! — that it insulated the milk better, keeping it warmer (or cooler) for longer. It also warmed up faster when I dunked it in hot water,” she says.

The nipples on the Philips Natural are also different from those on the anti-colic Avents: “It’s because the baby controls the flow of milk and it doesn’t leak,” says Glenn. “Plus, it’s durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean because there aren’t a ton of parts to wash.”

Material: Silicone Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via vents in the nipple itself Size: 8oz. Nipple Flow Range: Size 1 included, up to level 3 sold separately

My sister-in-law, a mom of four, chose these for when her kids used a bottle. “My favorite thing is that they’re silicone, so they’re dishwasher-safe without leaching plastics,” she told me. “Also, they’re easy for tiny hands to grip when they’re a little older, and they have a good wide nipple so you can go back and forth between breast- and bottle feeding without the kid caring,” she said. Catbird creative director Leigh Plessner also recommends these bottles — she says that “like a Champagne coupe, [it] is shaped awfully like a breast.” Another friend echoed that she chose them because they were “squishy” and “resembled a boob” but did caution that if you ever use European formulas with them, which use a one-to-one water-to-powder ratio, you may find yourself with an extremely full bottle, since these max out at an eight-ounce size.

Material: Polyamide, plastic, and Invinci-Glass Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via vents in the nipple Size: Available in 5oz. and 9oz. sizes Nipple Flow Range: Size 1 included, up to level 4 sold separately

These clever little bottles are a great compromise for parents who want glass bottles but not the weight: They have one superthin layer of glass. “It’s glass on the inside, so the milk will only touch glass, but plastic on the outside, so you don’t have to worry about the bottles breaking,” explains Glenn. “If avoiding plastic is important to you, this bottle is perfect.”

I also like that they come in a nine-ounce size — many bottles max out at eight ounces — and how easy the bottles are to clean. (Although they do note that for stubborn breast-milk residue, you may have to do a quickie hand-wash first with soap that can cut through it . Formula doesn’t stick quite as much.) They’re also comfortable and easy to hold since they’re so lightweight.

Material: Silicone Gas/Colic Prevention: Yes, via vents in the base Size:  5oz. and 9oz. Nipple Flow Range: Medium flow included, fast and slow flow sold separately

Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone raved about these bottles, which are made to be sterilized in just three minutes in the microwave. “We traveled a lot when my daughter was young, and it was a relief to know that wherever we were, her bottles were easy to sterilize,” she says. Malone used both the five-ounce- and nine-ounce-size bottles and still uses the nine-ounce bottles for her toddler’s evening milk. She adds: “The lids were also incredibly secure, we brought filled bottles of milk through airport security, on planes, and on trains — we never once had a spillage.”

Best baby bottles with a straw

Material: BPA-free plastic Gas/Colic Prevention: No Size: 8oz. Nipple Flow Range: N/A

Many pediatricians will want your baby to switch from bottles to cups by age one, so it’s a good idea to have them start practicing with a straw cup around nine months so they can get the hang of it. My friend Amanda, a mom of two, said that while she used the Avent bottles for her kids, she found the straw/bottle hybrid cups Dr. Brown’s offers to be a great tool for helping her babies learn to drink from a straw. “The weight helped them learn the difference between drinking from a nipple and drinking from a straw while still being soft like they were used to,” she says. “Plus the familiar shape made it so I didn’t get screamed at for taking away their bottles!”

Our experts

• Judy Delaware, pediatric occupational therapist and one-half of the feeding resources account @ feedinglittles • Paige Fowler, mom of four and content creator @ ourhomepaige • Amanda Glenn, certified lactation counselor at @ exclusive_pumping • Amanda Miller Kelley, mom of two • Jenna Levy, mom of four • Ailbhe Malone, a senior editor at the Strategist • Lauren Ro, a writer at the Strategist covering home, design, and parenting • Mallory Whitmore, formula educator on Instagram @ theformulamom

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You don’t ‘hike’ Fiery Furnace, Utah’s exclusive maze of slot canyons. You get lost in it

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“Is that the trail?” I asked Steve, my longtime adventuring buddy. Not out of frustration or worry. I was more amazed at how this trail was marked, which is hardly at all. So you know, Steve has led me off trail only once in 10 years along dozens of hikes. He’s that good as a navigator.

“Matt — any idea?” I asked my other friend, who was head down in his GPS app, trying to decipher the snaking mess that was our location against the supposed “trail.”

Before I move on, you need to understand that GPS works only within 10 feet of your actual position, which is pretty amazing for triangulating satellites that are thousands of miles away. But not quite amazing enough for those afraid of getting lost on one of the most exclusive hikes in America: Utah’s Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park. One wrong step here, and you’ll be backtracking, head scratching and disorientingly wondering whether you’ll ever find the trail again in this maze of red rock, slot canyons, towering arches, divisive fins, giant spires and blue skies.

And that’s the fun of it. Here’s what you need to know — what I wish I’d known — before visiting this mostly safe and contained playground for an afternoon or more.

Utah’s Fiery Furnace is a 30-minute drive from Moab, Utah. It’s one of the only protected wilderness areas in the national park system. Open to only 75 people a day (and no reservations longer than seven days out), it’s also one of the hardest park permits to score. Compared to other hikes, Fiery Furnace is more of a moonshot when it comes to crossing its Martian terrain. “Everyone but the park rangers get lost,” our guide told us during a pre-hike orientation. “Not even GPS will save you, so it’s best just to meander and go with the flow.”

She was right about all but one thing: Although GPS tracking in the popular AllTrails app spectacularly failed to keep us on path, it did help us get out eventually so we could make it to our next hike in Arches. But if I could have a redo, I would have accepted the guide’s advice and planed for more time and mindless wandering in this special place among an already special southern Utah.

Speaking of the orientation, it’s mandatory. After picking up your $10 permit, you’re required to enter a small conference room and watch a 10-minute video about what the hike demands in terms of water, following the so-called trails and complying with the strict environmental and preservation regulations. You’ll even be verbally tested on what you watched, and the rangers won’t let you leave until you get the answers right.

After that, you’re on your own. Literally and figuratively.

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During our hike, our party of three encountered just three other groups in the three hours we were inside. We jokingly exchanged pleasantries and accepted that none of us knew where we were going. But we did offer helpful tips of where we had been. “There’s a cool arch back there… Watch out for the giant gap ahead… Stay to the left or you’ll dead-end at a cliff.”

I say Fiery Furnace is mostly safe because I had to jump a gap and nearly tripped into what would have been severe injury some 20 to 30 feet below. Whoops. It’s not necessarily a physically demanding or overly technical experience. But parts of the furnace are tricky, and I wouldn’t advise anyone in poor shape to go inside. But able adults and sure-footed children regularly make their way through. For everyone else, there’s a stunning view of the furnace from the oncoming road and official viewpoint.

The view on a trip to the Fiery Furnace canyon in Arches National Park, Utah. (Blake Snow)

Blue skies and red rocks inside Arches National Park, Utah. (Blake Snow)

While hiking the furnace, you can expect several arches, a sea of balancing rocks and mushroom like toadstools, massive cliff walls, incredibly tight slot canyons, layers upon layers of sandstone fins that divide the landscape and even a few open spaces. There are deep canyons, dead ends, sweeping vistas of distant formations elsewhere in the park, and a deafening amount of silence.

My friends and I lunched in the spring shade of Surprise Arch, a natural stone arch sandwiched between two massive rock walls. I have no idea how it or any of us got here. But there we were, dining al fresco in this otherworldly place.

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If venturing the unknown of Fiery Furnace all alone doesn’t appeal to you, park rangers offer guided tours several times a day to permitted guests.

For the lucky few who enter Fiery Furnace, my advice is this: Get rid of your GPS — at least until you’re ready to leave. Plan for a few extra hours inside, if not an entire day. Meander. Get lost. By all means hike — but don’t expect your average point to point or loop trail. You probably won’t see the whole area, and that’s a good thing. There’s reason to return and have an experience that’s entirely new.

The ranger was right. Just go inside and enjoy the view.

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