01
Kanatal (79 km from Rishikesh)
If you are looking for a place to lose yourself in and cut off from the fast-paced world for a bit, then this small village not very far from Rishikesh is the place for you. Kanatal offers several adventure activities like hiking, camping, paragliding, valley crossing, etc. which you can partake in when in the region.
Not only does Kanatal provides the perfect backdrop for some stunning pictures but also offers peace and tranquillity. The place has several ancient temples dotting its landscape which make it an ideal escape if you are looking for tranquility and a spiritual escape. It's one of those hidden gems you might miss while listing things to do in Rishikesh, but it definitely deserves a spot on your list. If you're planning a trip, there are plenty of scenic places to visit in Kanatal that will add charm to your itinerary.
Not only does Kanatal provides the perfect backdrop for some stunning pictures but also offers peace and tranquillity. The place has several ancient temples dotting its landscape which make it an ideal escape if you are looking for tranquility and a spiritual escape. It's one of those hidden gems you might miss while listing things to do in Rishikesh, but it definitely deserves a spot on your list. If you're planning a trip, there are plenty of scenic places to visit in Kanatal that will add charm to your itinerary.
Distance: Approx. 79 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Sleep under the stars by pitching a camp in the middle of the jungle
- Go hiking and trekking in the Kadai Jungle area and experience the wild side of the mountains
- Try your hand at adventure sports like rock climbing, rappelling and valley crossing
- Go on a jungle safari in Kadai and come face-to-face with deer, boars, nilgai, etc.
- Stay with the locals at a homestay
02
Dodi Tal (94 km from Rishikesh)
Dodital is an important destination of trekking in Uttarakhand and is frequented by hiking and trekking enthusiasts almost all through the year. The area gets its name from an emerald lake by the same name which is found in the hamlet.
It is arguably one of the most scenic lakes found in the entire northern part of the country. The lake is home to Himalayan trout and also has a historic Hindu temple nestled on its banks. The Dodital trek is popular among nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike, offering a mix of adventure and serenity.
Distance: Approx. 94 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- You can camp near the Dodital lake and enjoy stargazing
- Trek the 22-kilometer long scenic route from Dodi Tal to Sangam Chatti
- Pay your respects at the Ganesha Temple situated on the lakeside
- Hike from Dodital to the Darwa Pass to enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks.
- Go fishing for trout at the Dodital lake
03
Landour (94 km from Rishikesh)
Landour is one of the better-known holiday destinations near Rishikesh and is known as a cantonment town dating back to the British Era. Situated not very far from the famous hill station of Mussoorie, you can easily walk to Landour from Mussourie’s Bazaar within an hour. If you're looking for a peaceful hill station near Rishikesh that blends colonial charm with natural beauty, Landour is a perfect choice.
Landour is home to the world-renowned author, Ruskin Bond and to several Victorian buildings including churches, cathedrals, etc. You can spend your time discovering the different cafes and eateries of this quiet town or go for a walk in the woods that are never far away in Landour. Many travelers also choose bike rent in Rishikesh to explore nearby hill towns like Landour at their own pace.
Landour is home to the world-renowned author, Ruskin Bond and to several Victorian buildings including churches, cathedrals, etc. You can spend your time discovering the different cafes and eateries of this quiet town or go for a walk in the woods that are never far away in Landour. Many travelers also choose bike rent in Rishikesh to explore nearby hill towns like Landour at their own pace.
Distance: Approx. 94 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Sample the local produce like jams, marmalades, peanut butter, etc. being sold in the stores and farms
- Visit the gothic-styled Kellog’s church nestled in the midst of tall trees
- Discover the architecture of St. Paul’s church which was built in 1839
- Enjoy glimpses of the famous ‘Ivy Cottage’, home to Ruskin Bond
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04
Chakrata (135 km from Rishikesh)
Chakrata is a cantonment town in the Dehradun district of Garhwal. The town has a rich cultural history but is majorly known for its natural beauty. While here, you can spend your days exploring the best that nature has to offer in the form of beautiful waterfall near Rishikesh, charming meadows, tranquil forest trails and scenic mountain passes. When here, you can also enjoy a glimpse into the simplistic lives of mountain towns. There are several scenic places to visit in Chakrata that make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and peace seekers alike.
Distance: Approx. 135 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Spend a day at the Tiger Falls, India’s highest direct waterfalls at an elevation of 312 feet
- Enjoy a picnic at Kanasar, in the midst of magnificent forests and charming meadows
- Visit the ancient limestone caves at Budher
- Soak in the panoramic views at various viewpoints like Chilmiri, Deoban, Bairat Khai, etc.
- Pay your respects at the ancient, local temples like Massu Devta, Lakhamandal, etc.
05
Khirsu (135 km from Rishikesh)
Khirsu is a scenic hill station nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The place is known for its truly spectacular views which include uninterrupted scenery comprising of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, Nandkot and Panchchuli peaks.
This quaint town is known for its natural beauty and apple orchards. If you are respectful to the locals, they will also allow you to go apple picking in their farms! Apart from its natural beauty, Khirsu also offers a glimpse into India’s primitive religious history and is home to several small Hindu temples.
The temple dedicated to Ghandiyal Devi is the most famous amongst all of them. When here, you can rejuvenate by following unexplored nature trails through the surrounding Oak, Pine and Deodar forests, enjoy bird watching or just soak in the view from your cottage room!
This quaint town is known for its natural beauty and apple orchards. If you are respectful to the locals, they will also allow you to go apple picking in their farms! Apart from its natural beauty, Khirsu also offers a glimpse into India’s primitive religious history and is home to several small Hindu temples.
The temple dedicated to Ghandiyal Devi is the most famous amongst all of them. When here, you can rejuvenate by following unexplored nature trails through the surrounding Oak, Pine and Deodar forests, enjoy bird watching or just soak in the view from your cottage room!
Distance: Approx. 135 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Unparalleled views of the mountains
- Unexplored nature trails and hikes
- A small, sleepy town ambience
- A plethora of bird species
06
Chopta (164 km from Rishikesh)
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Known by the name of ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand’, Chopta is one of the most scenic unexplored places near Rishikesh. This hamlet receives generous snow during the winters, making it a white paradise but since it is relatively hushed as a holiday destination, you will not find blaring horns, thronged public spaces and packed hotels here.
It also acts as the base camp for several treks and hikes into the surrounding mountains of Tungnath and Chandrashilla. The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the highlights for both adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas along with a deeply spiritual experience. Apart from nature lovers, mostly pilgrims undertake these hikes as they lead to some of the holiest Hindu temples in the country.
It also acts as the base camp for several treks and hikes into the surrounding mountains of Tungnath and Chandrashilla. The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is one of the highlights for both adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas along with a deeply spiritual experience. Apart from nature lovers, mostly pilgrims undertake these hikes as they lead to some of the holiest Hindu temples in the country.
Distance: Approx.164 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Enjoy easy access to the rich biodiversity of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
- Begin your pilgrimage to the holy temples of Chandrashilla and Tungnath
- Take in views of the snow-clad mountains and forests
- Go for nature hikes, bird watching or a quiet picnic in a meadow
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07
Bhimtal ( 229 km from Rishikesh)
Bhimtal is a charming, small city situated in Nainital district of Uttarakhand and is one of the more offbeat places near Rishikesh. This city is known for its abundance of natural lakes which form a major part of its landscape. The major lake, known by the name of Bhimtal lake, is even larger than the more popular Nainital lake.
Sitting at an altitude of 1,370 meters above sea level, Bhimtal is particularly well-connected to the surrounding major cities like Nainital, making it a favourite day-trip destination. If you're planning an escape to this serene location, there are plenty of scenic places to visit in Bhimtal that will make your trip memorable.
Sitting at an altitude of 1,370 meters above sea level, Bhimtal is particularly well-connected to the surrounding major cities like Nainital, making it a favourite day-trip destination. If you're planning an escape to this serene location, there are plenty of scenic places to visit in Bhimtal that will make your trip memorable.
Distance: Approx. 229 km from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Spend time at the beautiful lakes that are spread in and around the town
- Visit the aquarium built on an island in the middle of the lake
- Enjoy boating on one of the several lakes
- Go for nature walks, treks and hikes in the surrounding mountains
- Visit the several holy temples including the 17th-century Bhimeshwar temple
08
Mandal ( 229 km from Rishikesh)
Mandal is one of the most remote, untouched and offbeat places to visit near Rishikesh that you must visit when looking for tranquillity. This remote hamlet lies in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and a place where you can truly witness humans living in total harmony with nature. Apart from its staggering natural beauty, Mandal is also visited by tourists because it works as a base camp for many popular treks in the region, making it a hidden gem for those interested in trekking in Rishikesh and its surrounding areas.
Distance: Approx. 229 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Escape the bustle of city life and experience the slow-paced life of mountain villages
- Begin your trek to Kalpeshwar or Rudranath from here
- Observe the denizens of the forest live in harmony with the villagers
- Soak in the stunning mountain scenery
- Enjoy home-cooked local cuisine at one of the several homestays
09
Gwaldam (240 km from Rishikesh)
Gwaldam can be best described as a sleepy little town which lies on the border of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttarakhand. This is a largely unexplored place near Rishikesh which you can visit for its spectacular views, untamed jungles and beautiful orchards. The town offers views of majestic peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghuti, right out of your bedroom’s window.
Distance: Approx. 240 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Take a stroll in the practically endless apple orchids and go apple-picking
- Go on nature trails that will lead you through unexplored springs, brightly coloured flowers and countless birds
- Pay your respects at the ancient temple of Badhan Garhi which is perched on a narrow ridge
- Join the holy pilgrimage to Nanda Devi which passes through this town
- Trek to the mysterious Roopkund lake Trek
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10
Khurpatal (240 km from Rishikesh)
Although Khurpatal is situated at a distance of a mere 12 kilometers from the city of Nainital, it is remarkably quieter and more peaceful if you are looking for a quiet vacation. Perched at a height of 1,635 metres above sea level, Khurpatal has an emerald-blue lake in the heart of the town which gives the whole settlement a dreamy feeling.
It was a favorite haunt amongst the British soldiers stationed in the area and also had a gun foundry in the area at one point in time.
It was a favorite haunt amongst the British soldiers stationed in the area and also had a gun foundry in the area at one point in time.
Distance: Approx. 240 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Enjoy the scenic views that surround this small settlement
- Pitch a camp on the side of the emerald Khurpatal lake
- Learn more about the colonial past of this sleepy town through the locals
- Enjoy a day trip away from the crowds of Nainital
11
Harsil (245 km from Rishikesh)
Nestled on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, Harsil is a small village and an important army area in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. This is an ideal destination if you are looking for unexplored places near Rishikesh, owing to its scenic settings and rich culture.
Apart from the majestic Himalayas that surround the village on all sides, another noteworthy part of the landscape is the many small temples. When staying at Harsil Valley, you can pay your visit to the sacred temple of Gangotri and also spend a day in Sattal which is known for its seven lakes.
Apart from the majestic Himalayas that surround the village on all sides, another noteworthy part of the landscape is the many small temples. When staying at Harsil Valley, you can pay your visit to the sacred temple of Gangotri and also spend a day in Sattal which is known for its seven lakes.
Distance: Approx. 245 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- See the majestic scenery that surrounds the entire village
- Go on walks and hikes around the region and discover unadulterated beauty on foot
- Visit the neighboring village of Mukhba and pay respects to the idol of Goddess Ganga which is kept in the village throughout the winter months
12
Jeolikot (255 km from Rishikesh)
Also known as the ‘gateway to Naini Lake’, Jeolikot is a hidden travel destination, tucked away in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Its quaint surroundings and peaceful environment have attracted gurus and sages for centuries, including Swami Vivekanand and Aurobindo.
You can spend your time enjoying the natural vistas, going for butterfly spotting and learning more about the local floriculture. It has several well-established accommodation options which make a stay at Jeolikot a pleasant one!
You can spend your time enjoying the natural vistas, going for butterfly spotting and learning more about the local floriculture. It has several well-established accommodation options which make a stay at Jeolikot a pleasant one!
Distance: Approx. 255 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Visit the local bee-keeping centre and learn more about how honey bees are bread in the region
- Go butterfly-spotting in the surrounding meadows
- Learn more about the vibrant floriculture and horticultural practices of the region
- Enjoy quaint walks in the many orchards of Jeolikot
- Stay at one of the vintage English cottages of the village
- Follow in the steps of meditative masters like Swami Vivekanand and Aurobindo
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13
Pangot (260 km from Rishikesh)
One of the most easy-to-reach and relatively unexplored places near Rishikesh is Pangot. After you reach Nainital from Rishikesh, this quaint little hamlet is only 15 kilometres away. You can leave behind all the bustle of cities like Nainital and Rishikesh and enjoy unadulterated nature.
Once here, you can spend your time immersed in nature, looking out for the more than 300 different varieties of birds and other animals. Apart from bird-watching, several tourists visit Pangot to participate in the plethora of adventure activities that it has to offer. Whether you're a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Pangot that make the trip worthwhile.
Once here, you can spend your time immersed in nature, looking out for the more than 300 different varieties of birds and other animals. Apart from bird-watching, several tourists visit Pangot to participate in the plethora of adventure activities that it has to offer. Whether you're a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Pangot that make the trip worthwhile.
Distance: Approx. 260 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Enjoy staying in a quieter, calmer suburb of a bustling city
- Take part in adventure activities like mountain biking, trekking, hiking, etc.
- Indulge in bird-watching with over 300 species of birds living in the area
- Follow the trekking trails to Corbett National Park, Naina Peak and Pangot
14
Bhowali (262 km from Rishikesh)
Bhowali is a small town and can be considered a largely unexplored place near Rishikesh, making it an ideal destination for solitude seekers! Bhowali offers all the creature comforts that you will find in a bigger town, minus the hordes of tourists.
Here, you can enjoy the uninterrupted natural beauty and discover at your own pace. Bhowali is home to several ancient temples, old ashrams, majestic lakes and pristine forests. Apart from natural beauty, you can also spend time admiring its rich culture through food, clothes, music, etc.
Here, you can enjoy the uninterrupted natural beauty and discover at your own pace. Bhowali is home to several ancient temples, old ashrams, majestic lakes and pristine forests. Apart from natural beauty, you can also spend time admiring its rich culture through food, clothes, music, etc.
Distance: Approx. 262 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Pay a visit to the Kainchi Dham temple and ashram and soak in the spiritual ambiance
- Spend time sampling different tea varieties at the ShyamKhet Tea Gardens
- Walk the orchards, go apple picking and buy fresh produce at the orchards in Ramgarh
- Visit the popular fruit market of Bhowali
15
Dharchula (435 km from Rishikesh)
If you are in the city and want to experience some of the truly offbeat places near Rishikesh, then you must consider Dharchula for your holiday! Located near the border of Nepal, this sleepy little town packs quite a few surprises in the form of culture, history and nature.
It is of great historical and cultural importance since it is located near the ancient trade route that weaved throughout the Himalayan range. It is also home to the Mansarovar Lake which is an important pilgrim centre in the region. Apart from this, you can also visit the Narayan Ashram, Chikrila Dam, Kali River and Om Parvat when here.
It is of great historical and cultural importance since it is located near the ancient trade route that weaved throughout the Himalayan range. It is also home to the Mansarovar Lake which is an important pilgrim centre in the region. Apart from this, you can also visit the Narayan Ashram, Chikrila Dam, Kali River and Om Parvat when here.
Distance: Approx. 435 kilometers from Rishikesh
Why visit:
- Visit the historic Narayan Ashram which was established in the year 1936
- Go on a pilgrimage and take a dip in the holy Lake Mansarovar Kora
- Trek alongside the scenic Kali River
- Visit the Indo-Nepal and the Indo-Sino Border
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