From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, India is a spellbinding mosaic of culture, tradition, diverse landforms and an extraordinarily mingling civilization. You may be captivated bybewildering Flora and Fauna throughout the stretch of this bewildering country. Rishikesh is the seventh largest town in the northern state of Uttarakhand sobriquet as “land of gods”. Nestled in foothills of Himalayas, the town is also called “Gateway to the Garwal Himalayas”.

Rishikesh: epitome of beauty

Tour to Rishikesh is the perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, peace, religion, music, food and much more. The city boosts of lush green plains and the perennial Ganges flowing through it. One can engage in adventure sports, sight-seeing or religious practices in this divine city. The “yoga capital of the world” gives you an opportunity to attain peace by meditation in its tranquil environment. Located at an altitude of 1,220ft, Rishikesh is a prime religious centre in India. With the glorious Ganga flowing through it and bestowed with innumerable temples, the city is epitome of beauty.

Hindu pilgrims come here in large numbers with a desire to attain ‘moksha’ by taking a holy dip in pious Ganges and further proceeding to Char Dham Yatra. Rishikesh also boosts of amazing ayurvedic treatment which is famous worldwide. How can one forget the evening aarti on the bank of river Ganga. Ohh..That is one enthralling and soul satisfying moment.

Plan Your Trip to Rishikesh

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 35 km away. From there, taxis are readily available.

By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station links the town to major cities in India. Haridwar Junction, 25 km away, provides wider connectivity.

By Road: NH-7 nicely connects Rishikesh, a scenic drive from cities like Delhi 240 km and Dehradun 45 km. There are regular buses, and the use of private taxis makes it convenient for travel.

Best Time to Visit

October to March: Comfortable weather, and this season is apt for all adventure activities.

April to June: Apt time for river rafting as well as spiritual vibrations.

July to September: Off season. Monsoon time, many adventure activities are restricted.

Places for tourists to stay

The city has amazing affordable architecture to assist its travellers. With hundreds of ashrams, guesthouses and hotels, the place is extremely hospitable and friendly to tourists. To name a few: Nirmal ashram, vashisth gest house, Tripti hotel and many government operated lodges like Bharat Bhumi and Sisham Jhari among others. The accommodations are well furnished and equipped with modern facilities. The services in these accommodations make you feel at home and cater to all your needs.

Places to visit

1) Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

The temple has great significance for Hindu mythology and cultural heritage of Rishikesh. Situated at a height of 1675ft, it is believed that the temple stands at exactly the same position where Lord Shiva drank venom that originated after churning the sea. Sounds interesting!! For adventure junkies: you can participate in Jumping Heights near the temple provinces.

2) Lakshman and Ram Jhula

These ancient bridges also have great religious significance for Rishikesh pilgrimage tourism. These suspension bridges are architecture marvel with a length of about 450ft and situated at a height of 70ft from the river. Make it a point of visit the Ram and Lakshman temple and also Trayambakeshwar temple which is situated nearby. The bridge is a great observation site for gazing playful Ganga waves.

3) Rajaji National Park

Witness the diverse Flora and Fauna of great land of Rishikesh by taking a trip to Rajaji National Park. Sandwiched between Shivalik ranges and Indo-Gangetic plains, houses a plethora of animals and plants ranging from fascinating Royal Bengal Tiger to Sloth Bears among others.

4) Triveni Ghat

The ghat is the hub of pilgrimage tourism in Rishikesh. Flocked with hundreds of pilgrims, the ghat makes a busy destination. The ghat is the confluence of three rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. One can witness the true devotion of the worshipers of devi Ganga at this mesmerising ghat. Get dazzled by the sight of evening aarti here. Also the sight to behold is thousands of brightly lit lamps floating on pious water of Ganga.

5) The Beatles Ashram

Ever since The Beatles stepped here, the place got placed on world map as most sought international spiritual destination. This ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi was where The Beatles produced the most amazing music of all times while attending transcendental meditation sessions.

6) Neer garh waterfall

A perfect destination for adventure seeking people. The beauty of Neer Garh Waterfall is enthralling and the aura of the place is refreshing. If you really strive for nature beauty then trek to the top of waterfall and witness the panoramic view.

7) Swarg Asram

This is the oldest asram in India. Nestled between Ram and Lakshman jhula, was built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanad. If peace and tranquillity is what you seek then this is the perfect place for you to have eternal happiness. Sit in padmasana position and meditate while witnessing the beauty of sunrise and sunset of this enthralling asram in Rishikesh.

One matter what sort of traveller you are, Rishikesh has all the perfect destinations for you to enjoy. Whether you seek the thrill of adventure sports, peace of asram atmosphere, beauty of nature or your only desire is moksha; Rishikesh fulfils every demand of its tourists.

Rishikesh: Top 10 Adventure Activities

Why Visit Rishikesh?

1. A Spiritual Haven

Rishikesh is a soul’s haven. It is a place to seek solace in ancient ashrams, chanting by the holy river, or meditating in serene silence. This city is the epitome of spiritual energy. Imagine walking barefoot on the sacred ghats, feeling the cool breeze of the Ganges whispering ancient tales to your spirit.

2. Yoga Capital of the World

Rishikesh is not a destination, it is a journey. It is known as the Yoga Capital, and there are numerous retreats and schools where travelers go to learn ancient practices under the soothing hymns of nature. Imagine waking up with temple bells ringing and stretching by the rising sun on the bank of the river.

3. Adventure Activities for Thrill Seekers

If your heart beats for adventure, Rishikesh will not disappoint. This serene city turns into a playground for thrill-seekers, with activities such as river rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking. Here, your adrenaline finds a home amidst the rugged landscapes.

4. The Famous Ganga Aarti

Every evening, Ganges riverside comes to life under a magical show of ethereal lights because of Ganga Aarti performed by the priests. The sight of thousands of lamps floating over the river, rhythmic chants, and fragrant incense makes it an unforgettable memory.

5. Gateway to the Himalayas

For trekkers and mountain lovers, Rishikesh is a gateway to the grand Himalayas. The treks take you through fabulous landscapes, secret villages, and wonder that only mountains can afford.

6. Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Rishikesh is a feast for the senses, with emerald-green forests, azure Ganges, and towering mountains surrounding it. Whether it’s the golden hues of sunrise or the star-studded skies at night, nature paints breathtaking scenes here every day.