Things to Do in Rishikesh
Visit Lakshman Jhula, Visit Ram Jhula, Rafting, Camping, Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, See Neer Garh Waterfall, Explore Beatles Ashram, Visit Gita Bhavan, Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and many more.
If you are one of those people who enjoy exploring places with a mountainous backdrop, Rishikesh is the ideal place for you to visit. The beautiful tranquil city of Rishikesh is located in southwest Uttarakhand and is termed as the “Gateway to the Garhwal Mountains”. Be it Bungee Jumping or Kayaking, this place has it all. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there is the Beatles Ashram to visit or attend a Yoga class.
After all, Rishikesh is termed as the “Yoga capital of the world”. So saddle up and have a fun time discovering the things to do in Rishikesh, a place that should be on your bucket list. The glistening Ganges is a charmer, the chants of Hindu prayers touch the soul, the scenic backdrop refreshes the senses and the adrenaline-pumping adventures wrecks the nerves the way it should. This list will get you in acquaintance with activities in Rishikesh. Pack your bags now and leave for a vacation to try the listed activities in Rishikesh.
Here are some of the best things to do in Rishikesh:
1. River Rafting:
River Rafting in Rishikesh is an activity that involves sailing on rapids on a rubber boat. It’s an adventure filled activity that has gained a popular momentum in the Indian adventure sports scene. Rishikesh’s proximity to the upper Himalayas along with the passing of the Ganges through this city makes it a very popular spot for River Rafting in Rishikesh.
People flock to Rishikesh for this activity due to the virtue of its location. If you are visiting and want to go on an adrenaline-pumping activity, do put river rafting on your bucket list of things to do in Rishikesh.
Best Season: Summers and monsoon are the best time for this activity because the stream is stronger.
Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 1500 to 3000 Rs.
Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.
2. Camping:
The beautiful mountain scenery along with the old world feeling of Rishikesh makes it a camper’s delight. Rishikesh is one of those places which seems to be stuck in a time limbo, not overly modern but not completely dwelling in the past.
A place such as this has a lot of stories to be discovered making it the perfect spot to camp under the stars and marvel at the sight and sounds of the surroundings and the city. Camping in Rishikesh will have a transcendental effect and is sure to delight you. Make your trip a memorable one at some of these best camps of Rishikesh.
Best Season: Summers and spring are the best time because of the pleasant weather.
Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 1000 to 6000 Rs.
3. Giant Swing:
Much like Bungee Jumping, giant swing works on the same principle. But unlike Bungee Jumping which is a free fall, on a giant swing, a person’s rope harness is connected to a holding point from where he swings. To put it simply, imagine the person being a pendulum ball and swinging from one end to another.
It is usually conducted at the same spot as Bungee Jumping because of the similarity between the activities. The distance covered in a Giant Swing adventure ranges between 1 - 1.5 km. It’s a thrilling activity that is sure to tickle your adventure bone.
Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.
Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 2000 to 6000 Rs.
Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone who meets general physical fitness levels. For those who have heart conditions, blood pressure or diabetic, consult a doctor before participating in this activity.
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4. Bungee Jumping:
Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh is a fun activity that involves jumping from a tall structure like a vertical rail, building or cliff while suspended from a rope harness. The fun lies in the jump and the recoil one encounters when they are bounced back and the rope is completely stretched out.
It’s a very unique activity in India, having been introduced to Rishikesh a few years previously. For those who enjoy an adrenaline-filled activity, this is one should be on your list of things to do in Rishikesh.
Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.
Approximate Cost: Between 2000 to 4000 Rs.
Difficulty Level: It’s a slightly demanding activity as physical fitness is an absolute requisite for this activity. People with conditions such as blood pressure or diabetes should consult a doctor before indulging in this activity.
5. Flying Fox:
Rishikesh Flying Fox is basically another name for zip lining. Zip lining is an activity that involves sliding through a horizontal rope while attached to the rope through a harness. The starting point is generally located at a higher altitude than the ending point in order to allow one to slide through the rope.
The speed of sliding through a valley or between two cliffs is reason enough to try this at least once. It is an activity for all ages and is a lot of fun to participate in. You can also check here the list of thrilling & adventurous activities in Rishikesh.
Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.
Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 2000 to 5500 Rs.
Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone who meets general physical fitness levels. For those who have heart conditions, blood pressure or diabetic, consult a doctor before participating in this activity.
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports in Rishikesh for an Exciting Vacay
6. Hot Air Ballooning:
There is still one big thing left out for all those of you, adventure seekers and thrill lovers. And that thing is Hot Air Ballooning over the skies of Rishikesh. It should be at no.1 on your list of things to do in Rishikesh as the kind experience and excitement it brings with it, is comparable to none.
You will get to sit in an air balloon, which will be tied to, lifted up, and floated by a light aircraft to get you to the required heights. Once you have reached the correct altitude, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the valley and mountains, with birds chirping close to you in the sky and it is one of the best activities to do in Rishikesh.
You will feel like flying, free from all the hullabaloo of the world that dwells below. This ride is counted as Air Safari, one of the best ways to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of Rishikesh.
Best Season: Summer- because of the pleasant weather.
Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 6000 to 15,000 Rs.
Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.
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7. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat:
Not a lot of places in Rishikesh can boast the peace and calm that one experiences at Triveni Ghat and that is saying a lot. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a tranquil and peaceful experience that is sure to fill you with a sense of calm and quiet introspection.
The Ganga Aarti is performed as a mark of respect and devotion to Goddess Ganga and is attended by hundreds and thousands of locals and tourists every day. After sunset, the ghat lights up with the light from the lamps that are set afloat on leaf boats after the Aarti.
It is truly a sight to behold and the power of spirituality can be truly understood and experienced making it a must things to see in Rishikesh . And also there are many beautiful places to visit in Rishikesh near the Triveni Ghat.
Best Season: The Aarti is performed throughout the year.
Approximate Cost: Free of cost.
Must Read: Best Trekking Sites in Rishikesh
8. Visit Lakshman Jhula:
Another one of the things to do in Rishikesh at night is taking a walk on LakshmanJhula and enjoying the soft breeze of air that gushes past you, giving you a much refreshing fresh air, which is hard to get these days in cities, due to pollution. Just stand in the middle of the bridge and enjoy the majestic view o the massive river Ganga that flows below.
LakshmanJhula is an iron bridge made on suspension across the Ganges. The bridge is of great importance as it connects ‘Tapovan’ village of Tehri Garhwal on the western side, with ‘Jonk’ village of Pauri Garhwal on the eastern side.
According to the legend of Ramayana, Lakshman crossed the Ganges using a bridge made of the rope during his exile with elder brother Lord Ram and his wife Sita. Later an iron bridge was constructed at the same place from 1927-1929, which today is known as LakshmanJhula.
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9. Visit The Beatles Ashram:
What do Beatles have in common with India? It’s The Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh. The Beatles are most renowned for their universal appeal and their flare but they are also popular for their travels to Rishikesh.
The Beatles Ashram is a beautiful testament to the grandeur that was John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo and George Harrison’s Beatles and has a lot of memoirs and artefacts that give information about their time in India and their interaction with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
It was also the spot where they formulated a lot of their songs and some albums were even created there. For Beatles fans or fan of their genre of music, this is a definite place to add to their list of things to do in Rishikesh.
Best Season: The Aashram can be visited throughout the year.
Approximate Cost: Free of cost.
10. Visit Shivpuri:
As the name suggests, Shivpuri, literally means home of Lord Shiva and this place is renowned for the Shiva temple. When you are visiting Rishikesh, do not miss this lovely locale. There are so many things to do in Shivpuri that you will be spoiled for choice.
From camping to river rafting, rock climbing and cliff jumping, you can experience everything right here. You can enjoy the mesmerising sunrise and sunset from the various camping sites at Shivpuri. If you’re seeking some adventure, then head to this place that boasts of up-to-date equipment, trained guides and impeccable safety standards to suit the needs of every tourist and it is the best things to do in Rishikesh at night.
Location: Located 19 km away from Rishikesh
Rishikesh is not only about religious beliefs, ghats or temples; within this ancient city, you can also witness some of the architectural marvels and structures as well! One such structure, the Lakshman Jhula, which is also one of the not to be missed places to visit in Rishikesh, is a suspension bridge that connects Tehri and Pauri districts of Uttarakhand.
The existence of this bridge dates back to the age of Ramayana. According to the legends, Lakshman; brother of Lord Rama, crossed the holy Ganga River at this spot over a jute bridge. Centuries after this pious incident, a 284ft hanging bridge was built in the same spot by Rai Bahadur Surajmal Jhunjhunwala.
However, the bridge got washed away during the epidemic flood of 1924, and later, a pillar-less suspension bridge was erected at the same spot. The architecture brilliance of Lakshman Jhula and its proximity to several sacred places make it one of the most visited tourist places in Rishikesh.
Also known as the 'Shivananda Jhula', this magnificent bridge was built during the late 80s by the regional government; the contribution of Shivananda Ashram Divine Life Society is very significant in the construction of Ram Jhula. Like the Lakshman Jhula, it was also once a jute bridge and serves as an important name in the list of places to visit in Rishikesh.
While crossing the bridge, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Ganges and for the nature photographers, it serves as an ideal destination to click some amazing pictures!
According to the legends, the water of this ghat has the magical power of purifying one's heart and soul, and make it free from all the sins. Devotes from every corner of the country throngs Triveni Ghat and takes a dip with utmost devotion and faith. Come morning, you can witness them offering milk to the river, performing 'Surya Namaskar' and feeding the fishes around the ghat. By evening, this auspicious ghat turns into a riot of colours as it is time of the 'Maha Aarti' or the aarti to Mother Ganga.
Priest and the devotees perform several rituals during this sacred event, and offers lamps clad with flowers and incense stick to the Goddess as mark of their gratitude and devotion. The melodious hymns of the temple bells and the shanks can be heard everywhere, and the entire vicinity turns into a plethora of colour during this time. The peace and devotion that exists during the aarti makes Triveni Ghar one of the must visit Rishikesh tourist places.
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The institute offers free food, stay and education to the pilgrims. People living within the bhawan participates in daily prayers and sadhana along with mediation and other necessary activities. Visitors to Gita Bhawan can also participate in all the activities and can also enjoy pure-vegetarian meals and other facilities at a minimal price.
It also offers free boat rides and has a dispensary that offers free ayurvedic treatments and medicines made according to the religious scriptures with the holy water from the Ganges. With ample of meditation places and bathing ghats, it offers a pleasant and soothing ambience to indulge in Ganga dip and other religious activities.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram, located in the lap of the verdant Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganges, is one of the most popular ashrams in Rishikesh. The ashram specialises in traditional ayurvedic practice treatment, yoga, meditation and various other natural healing techniques. The ashram was founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanandji Maharaj. With over 1000 rooms, lush gardens, clean and pure ambience, the ashram provides a calm and serene refuge to devotees and patients alike.
The ashram keeps its doors open for people of all religions, gender, caste, class and nationalities. The ashram is the home to a 14-feet statue of Lord Shiva that has been placed along the river bank. The divine or holy tree, Kalpavriksha, also boosts the sense of spirituality on the ashram campus.
Various activities of the ashram include different healing yogas, universal prayers and meditation classes, kirtan, daily satsang, spiritual talks and seminars among other events. The ashram with its various activities aims to help people connect with their inner self and rejuvenate their senses. During your stay at the ashram, you can feel being associated with the peaceful surrounding of the ashram as well as nature.
Location: Rishikesh, Pauri district, Uttarakhand, India
Timings: The ashram remains open every day from 7am to 8pm.
Price: Entry is free to the ashram. Rs 800 for basic rooms. Rs 1200 or Rs 1500 for rooms with air conditioning and a view of mountains and rivers
Most of your teenage or college days might have passes admiring the songs of the favourite band called 'Beatles', but do you know your favourite band once visited a quaint ashram in Rishikesh to attend a special meditation programme? Yes, it was in the year 1968, the entire group of Beatle flew down to India to meet a saint called Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and practice some advanced meditation programme under his flagship.
One of the not to be missed places to visit near Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is around 32km from the city limits and is located at a height of 1,330m above the sea level in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Among all the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple holds a major prominence among the devotees. Tucked between the pictorial valleys of Manikot, Brahmakot and Vishnukot.
Shivpuri
This “Abode of Lord Shiva”, so pristine, serene and filled with adventure, is a mecca for river rafting in India. Located 20kms from Rishikesh on the banks of River Ganga, the tranquil town of Shivpuri beams with life, laughter, adventure and nature’s bountiful thrills.
The yoga classes provided at the Ashram makes it popular among natives as well as foreigners who visit Rishikesh. Iyengar is the specialization here and there are separate classes for men and women. One point never to be missed out is the presence of the holy Ganga on the side of the Ashram, it flows so quietly to extend all its purity and blessings to the surroundings of this beautiful Ashram.
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Located within a close proximity to the Triveni Ghat, the most commonly believed story behind this holy pond narrates that it was once a havan kund. During the ancient times, as the holy Ganges was not flowing nearby, it created a havoc among the people. To please Mother Ganges, few pious devotees performed yagna at this place and at their request, Goddess Yamuna appeared and stayed here forever.
Other stories also says that it was once the bathing place of Lord Rama; dedicated to the lord and his wife Sita, Ragunath Temple was built beside Rishikund. On a clear day, you can witness the reflection of the temple on the surface of the pond. Devotees from various parts of the world flocks this Rishikesh tourist place and offer their prayers to the Goddess Yamuna and seek blessings of the other Gods as well.
Even till date, devotees flocks this temple on the same day of the Hindu calendar and attend a grand procession wherein the idol of Lord Hrishikesh is taken out for a dip in the holy water and reinstalled in the temple. Believed to be named after 'Bharat', brother of Lord Ram, the main deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, and has an idol carved from a single piece of black stone.
Legends also has it that after the battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandava brothers while on their way to heaven, took shelter and also offered their prayers to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan in this temple.
If basking in the air of spirituality is one of the reasons why you are visiting Rishikesh, Muni Ki Reti is an important entry on your checklist. It is a religious spot of Hindus located on the banks of River Ganga in the outskirts of Rishikesh. Muni Ki Reti is literally translated to ‘Sands of Sages’ and it is believed that King Bharat performed penance here. The area is replete with a number of Hindu temples, yoga centres, and ashrams.
For culture vultures looking forward to capturing the essence of Hinduism, this is definitely one of the best places to see in Rishikesh. Since it is a highly revered pilgrimage, hordes of devotees in addition to tourists can be seen participating in rituals, taking dips into the holy waters of River Ganga.
Location: 5.6 km from Rishikesh city centre
Timings: Always open
Entry Fee: Free entry
If you are dealing with stress and anxiety, your search for peace ends at Osho Gangadham – a popular ashram founded by the spiritual leader, Osho. Make Osho Gangadham your abode for a few days to experience peace of mind in the enriching atmosphere of Rishikesh. The ashram features a unique selection of clinically proven therapies and sessions that will effectively make you aware of your body, mind, and soul to give you maximum relaxation.
Located on the bank of River Ganga, the ashram encompasses beautiful rooms with all basic facilities, spacious meditation halls, and natural surroundings that enhance the aura. Spending some days here, consuming healthy food, following holistic schedule, and breathing in the untainted air will surely fill your life with an unshakable positivity.
Location: Jaanaki Cottage, Lease No-52, Badrinath Road, Brahmpuri, Rishikesh
Timings: 6:30 am to 9 pm
Entry Fee: No information
Rishikesh is dotted with some of the most popular ashrams in the country, and Omkarananda Ashram is one of them. In the year 1967, Paramahamsa Omkarananda Saraswati, a great philosopher and saint founded the ashram and it has earned a great reputation since. The ashram hosts thousands of people who stay here for days, seeking peace and spirituality through meditation, yoga, and other activities.
The scenic riverside location with pristine nature all around, you are bound to feel refreshed after spending a couple of hours here. Participate in religious activities, meditate to calm your soul, and try yoga to heal yourself therapeutically. If you come for a visit, you can take a tour of the temple and get some insights into the Hindu culture. For the most rewarding experience, be here to witness evening aarti because that is a spectacle you will remember for a long time.
Location: Swami Omkarananda Saraswati Road, Ganga Vatika, Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh
Timings: 6 am to 9:3 pm
Entry Fee: Free entry
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Rishikesh Things To Do FAQs
What are the best things to do in Rishikesh on weekends?
1. Cafe Hopping: Try loads of scrumptious and authentic food while hopping from one cafe to another. A weekend doing this will fill your hearts as well as tummies.
2. Take Ayurvedic Massages and Therapies: Known for its calming vibes, Rishikesh offers a list of places providing solace to your mind, body and soul. A weekend having me time in ayurvedic centers will offer you with many natural massages and spas.
3. Trekking: Ascending towards the high hills, traversing the rocky terrains and steep slopes, this is all which explains a trekking session in Rishikesh. A weekend doing so will provide you with the much needed adrenaline.
4. Visit Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: Admire the Ganga flowing with huge flow below your feed and experience the cool breeze. These extension bridges offer some of the best backdrops for your pictures and snaps.
What are the best things to do in Rishikesh for couples?
1. Plan a picnic in Neer Garh Waterfall: Enjoy the thundering sounds of this gushing waterfall while having a quaint time with your beloved. You would need to hike some distance to reach here, but the serenity here will be worth it.
2. Attend Ganga Aarti: Seek blessings at this holy place while admiring thousands of lights flowing in the water. Every evening, a huge number of tourists gather here, just to get a glimpse of this holy sight.
3. Hot Air Ballooning: Take your love to new heights while admiring the panoramic views of the whole Rishikesh. This ride will promise you some of the best quaint and scenic time together.
4. Reiki Healing: A session of rejuvenation, Reiki healing will provide you calmness away from the monotonous life of the city. Here, opt for the couples spa and experience what healing using gems feels like.
What are the best things to do in Rishikesh at night?
1. Admire the Ganga Aarti: As soon as the sun starts setting, the Ghats of Rishikesh start getting filled by the crowd who are just there to get a glimpse of the Aarti. The peaceful surroundings and the hymns provide the best comfort to one's soul.
2. Trekking: What could be the best way to experience adventure other than trekking up a glistening waterfall? Rishikesh gives you a chance to ascend towards Neer Garh waterfall, while admiring the widespread twinkling stars.
3. Camping: Be it along the ghats of ganges or in the lush green nature, camping in rishikesh will surely provide you with a once in lifetime experience. The additional bonfire in the cold breeze will add extra stars to your adventure into the woods.
4. Hot air Ballooning: Admire the charming views of Rishikesh, as you ascend towards the sky. This ride will be bewitching and will let you admire the scenic beauty while feeling the cool breeze.
What are the best things to do in Rishikesh in December?
1. Wildlife Sighting: Being the holiest place in India, Rishikesh manages to cater all kinds of traveller. Those who are looking to spend some time in wilderness, a Jeep safari to Rajaji National park will provide you with enough adventure wild you traverse the forests in the cold breeze of winters.
2. Take a dip in the Ganges: Take a dip in the holy water of Ganga, which originates from himalayas. Doing this in cool waves of December will surely add more thrill to your adventure.
3. Waterfall Rappelling: Providing the right amount of adrenaline rush, a session of ascending these fast paced waterfalls will surely let you enjoy every single second of activity. Trying this extreme sport in the winters will surely let the thrill of adventure seep into your every core.
4. Visit Beatles Ashram: A coolest place in Rishikesh to hangout, this place was once a spot where the world famous band “The Beatles” learned meditation. Around the month of december, less people flock over here thus clearing the area for you to meditate in front of the graffiti and click some beautiful pictures.
5. Seek blessings at Ganga Ghat: Visiting rishikesh and not attending Dev Deepavali in December is never done. The chiming bells and the blissful hymns during this festival will offer a calm and blissful atmosphere around the ghats.
What is the ideal duration for a holiday in Rishikesh to do various activities?
Depends on what activities you want to pursue. This charming city on the foothills of Himalayas, offer adventure lovers a plethora of exciting activities amidst the tranquility and gushing sound of crystal clear waters.
A week would be enough if you want to try most of the adventures activities in Rishikesh like river rafting, cliff jumping, rappelling, kayaking, bungee jumping etc and you’re not hard pressed for time.
However, if you’re in a hurry, one day is enough to touch the most important sites. I’d suggest you should enjoy your stay here for 2-3 days, visiting various temples and ashrams, in this revered religious destination.
What is famous in Rishikesh for shopping?
You can pick up a huge variety of fragrant incense and attars. Since it is the hot spot for many adventure activities, there are a lot of shops selling trekking gear. You can pick up good quality shoes, apparel, and equipment.
What should I pack for Rishikesh?
1. Windcheater
2. Light warm jacket
3. Woollen socks
4. Sunblock
5. Sturdy walking shoes
6. Thermals
7. Cap
8. Gloves
Packing list for summers and rafting:
1. Bathing suit
2. Waterproof shoes
3. Diving glasses
4. Ziplock bags to protect your phone keys, wallet, etc. from water
5. Change of clothes
6. Towels
7. Sunblock
8. A pair of slippers
9. Swimming glasses especially if you wear contact lenses
How far is Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
Is rafting safe in Rishikesh?
Select and wear your lifejacket properly. Make sure you don’t raft after dark or in the peak day time to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion. Work as a team and listen to your guide’s instructions carefully.
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