Things to Do in Rishikesh

Located on the banks of the Ganges, Triveni Ghat is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Rishikesh. It’s best known for its serene riverfront, where pilgrims gather for early morning dips and evening aartis. The Triveni Ghat marks the convergence of three sacred rivers Ganges(Ganga), the Yamuna, and the Saraswati, which is believed to wash away all sins and bring peace. 

Whether you’re just passing through or spending the evening by the river, this ghat offers a glimpse into the soul of Rishikesh in the most authentic way. The sound of temple bells, devotional songs, and the sight of floating diyas make a soothing experience.

Laxman Jhula, a 450-foot suspension bridge in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, spans the Ganges River at a height of 70 feet, connecting the villages of Tapovan and Jonk. Originally built in 1929 and rebuilt in 1939 after the 1924 floods, the bridge holds deep mythological significance, as it is believed to be the spot where Lord Lakshman crossed the river using jute ropes.

However, it has been closed to the public since July 12, 2019, due to safety concerns. A new glass suspension bridge is currently under construction to accommodate traffic and ensure better connectivity.

The peaceful Ganga Aarti, the 13-storey Tera Manzil Temple, and the vibrant market with boho wear, handmade jewelry, and Ayurvedic goods add to its charm. The local flavours like chaat, samosas, and aloo puri make the experience even more delightful.

Trayambakeshwar Temple, also known as Tera Manzil Temple, is a significant and one of the most beautiful places to see in Rishikesh. Built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 12th century, it is located near the banks of the Ganges and is a 13-storey temple that houses multiple shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. 

Each floor offers a peaceful spiritual vibe along with scenic views of the river and hills. It’s not just a place of worship, but also a calm spot to unwind and enjoy Rishikesh’s spiritual atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking blessings or just admiring the views, this temple is a must-visit.

Surrounded by dense forests, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a sacred Shiva temple just near Rishikesh. It’s believed that Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison here, turning his throat blue, due to which it is named Neelkanth. In addition to being surrounded by mountains and surrounded by nature, the temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year, especially during Maha Shivratri and Shravan Month, which are holy months in the Hindu calendar. 

Apart from its spiritual value, the peaceful location and scenic drive make it one of the most serene places to visit in Rishikesh. It’s perfect for those looking to mix spirituality with a bit of offbeat travel in nature.

Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is a picturesque two-tiered cascade known for its serene environment and crystal-clear waters. Easily accessible via a short trek through lush forests, the first tier forms a peaceful pool, while the second tier offers a more dramatic view with a larger pool.

The trek covers 3 kilometers in total, with a 1-kilometer hike to the first tier and an additional 2 kilometers to reach the second. Visitors can relax by the pools, take a refreshing dip, and enjoy the stunning views. It’s also a great spot for photography, capturing the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Gita Bhavan, founded by Swami Sivananda in 1936, is a sacred ashram on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh. The walls of the ashram are adorned with shlokas and depictions from the Bhagavad Gita, offering a serene space for meditation, devotion, and spiritual learning.

It radiates spiritual energy through daily bhajans, kirtans, satsangs, and Gita discourses. The serene Laxmi Narayan Temple and an ancient prayer-wrapped Banyan tree enrich the peaceful vibe. Its library, a valuable collection of Gita Press and rare manuscripts reflects 88 years of spiritual and literary heritage.

It offers over 1,000 , clean rooms with shared baths and nourishing sattvic meals, creating a serene and budget-friendly spiritual retreat. It also houses a free Ayurvedic dispensary, providing herbal remedies crafted from natural ingredients like amla and aloe vera and sacred Ganga water for all visitors.

Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple in Rishikesh, is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan and was reinstalled by Adi Shankaracharya in 789 AD. Every year on Basant Panchami, this historic event is commemorated with a vibrant ritual procession. The temple is home to 250-year-old sacred trees representing the Tridev- The Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh and also houses a museum displaying excavated artifacts and Shaligram stone idols of Tirupati, Badrinath, and Hrishikesh Narayan.

This temple in Rishikesh is believed to be the very spot where Lord Vishnu appeared before Sage Raibhya and chose to reside as Hrishikesh Narayan, giving the city its name. It is also said that King Bharat and the Pandavas once worshiped at this sacred site, adding to its spiritual significance. Once a Buddhist monastery during Ashoka’s reign, the temple is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures like Ramayana and Mahabharat. On Akshaya Tritiya, 108 circumambulations and darshan of the Lord’s uncovered feet are believed to grant all wishes.

Vashistha Cave, located in Rishikesh, is a sacred meditation site where Sage Vashistha is believed to have meditated. Surrounded by nature, the cave houses a Shivlinga and can accommodate around 12 people on white mats. The gentle glow of oil lamps and the scent of incense create a serene space ideal for deep meditation and spiritual retreat.

According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vashistha who was one of the revered Saptarishis and a mind-born son of Lord Brahma.Chose this cave for deep meditation after being saved by Goddess Ganga from ending his life in sorrow. Enchanted by the area's serene atmosphere, his wife also remained there, and over time, the cave evolved into a spiritually significant and sacred retreat.

Located at an altitude of 5,500 feet above sea level, Kunjapuri Temple trek offers panoramic views of Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the Doon Valley to the south. It also provides breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayan ranges to the north. It is among the most popular one-day treks in Rishikesh, renowned for its stunning sunrise vistas. The trek also offers scenic trails through villages and dense forests, culminating in a refreshing visit to the beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall.

Kunjapuri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, marking the spot where Goddess Sati’s chest fell after her self-immolation. According to Hindu mythology, Sati’s body parts fell across different locations as Lord Shiva mourned her death, and these places became revered pilgrimage sites. The temple was established by Adi Shankaracharya, a great philosopher who revived the worship of Durga in this region.

Reaching the temple at dawn rewards visitors with the mesmerising sight of the first light breaking over the snow-capped peaks. Along this trek, you not only witness nature’s brilliance but also visit a centuries-old temple, blending adventure, serenity, and spiritual reflection in a single journey.

Rishikesh's Rishikund is a beautiful ancient pond located near Raghunath Temple in the city of Rishikesh, which has an important spiritual, mythological, and cultural significance. It is said that the saint Kubz was blessed by the goddess Yamuna, who filled the tank with divine water in the shape of a fish. 

Today, it remains a spiritual site for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. The calm waters mirror the temple structure nearby and offer a peaceful setting for prayer or meditation. It’s a quiet gem that is away from the busier attractions and offers a chance to connect with the deeper, timeless side of Rishikesh.

Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh, is a religious and beautiful spot for visitors to pause and reflect on themselves. Located on the banks of the beautiful Ganges, Muni ki Reti means “Sands of Sages from the tradition of Sages (Munis) performing spiritual practices on its sandy shores. It is believed that King Bharat performed penance here. The area is replete with several Hindu temples, yoga centres, and ashrams. 

For visitors looking forward to capturing the essence of Hinduism, this is one of the best places to see in Rishikesh. Since it is a well-known pilgrimage, several devotees, in addition to tourists, can be seen participating in rituals, taking dips into the holy waters of the River Ganga.

Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh is a serene spiritual center founded by Swami Sivananda in 1957 as an international Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center. Located along the banks of the Ganga, it offers visitors a peaceful space to practice yoga, meditation, and learn about Indian philosophy. The ashram follows a disciplined daily routine and promotes a simple lifestyle focused on inner growth.

The Sivananda Ashram promotes the core wisdom of yoga that can be incorporated into our daily life. This quiet retreat offers daily satsangs, spiritual discourses, and opportunities for inner growth. It is the perfect place for those who want to reconnect with their spiritual side.

Omkarananda Ashram is a serene spiritual retreat situated on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh. Known for its peaceful ambiance and focus on Vedanta, yoga, and classical Indian arts, it attracts visitors seeking a deeper spiritual experience. The ashram hosts daily aarti, meditation sessions, and structured yoga classes through the Patanjala Yoga Kendra. 

The Omkarananda Ashram is also home to the Omkarananda Institute of Music and Dance, offering cultural enrichment. Whether you're a devotee, a student of Indian philosophy, or a traveler in search of calm, the ashram offers a wholesome and enriching environment in the heart of Rishikesh.

Founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in the 1960s, Swami Dayananda Ashram is a prestigious center for the study of Vedanta, Sanskrit, and Vedic chanting. Also known as Arsha Vidya Pitham, it offers a unique blend of traditional teachings and modern techniques. The ashram hosts 3-month and 3-year Vedanta programs, along with family retreats and Swami Dayananda Memorial Retreats.

The ashram is also home to the Lord Sri Gangadharesvar Temple, where daily pujas are performed. The lecture hall, with a scenic view of the Ganga, accommodates up to 250 people for seminars and classes. The well-stocked library houses a vast collection of spiritual texts, while the dining hall provides nutritious, sattvic meals, fostering a nurturing and peaceful environment for all.

Founded in 1966 by Swami Rama, Sadhana Mandir is a tranquil retreat located along the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. Designed as a peaceful sanctuary for spiritual seekers, it offers a quiet, natural setting ideal for deep meditation and inner growth. 

The ashram hosts various transformative retreat programs like 3-4 days, 5-7 days, and 8-16 days retreats. It also includes the Art of Joyful Living program, a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern understanding that nurtures inner peace. Activities include guided meditation, yoga nidra, digestive breathing, and devotional bhajans and kirtans. The accommodation options include both shared and single rooms, all simple and comfortable to support focused practice. Guests are served wholesome, sattvic vegetarian meals daily, prepared according to yogic principles to nourish the body and mind during the retreat experience.