- Best time
- Feb–May, Sep–Nov
- How long
- 2–3 days
- Stay a night
- ₹700–6,500
- Food a day
- ₹350–1,500
- Nearest railhead
- 5 km away
- Nearest airport
- 20 km away
Plan Rishikesh in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Rishikesh
Yoga capital on the Ganga — white-water rafting at Shivpuri, suspension bridges, cafes in Tapovan and the evening aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Things to do in Rishikesh
River Rafting from Shivpuri
River rafting from Shivpuri in Rishikesh takes you through a 16 km stretch featuring grade III rapids on the Ganga river. It is a popular water adventure activity located in Uttarakhand, India.
Tip: Wear quick-drying clothes and secure footwear suitable for water sports
Laxman Jhula
Laxman Jhula is an iconic iron suspension bridge located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. It connects two villages across the Ganges river and is surrounded by several prominent temples and ashrams.
Tip: Watch out for two-wheelers that sometimes cross the pedestrian bridge
Ram Jhula & Parmarth Niketan
Ram Jhula is a famous iron suspension bridge over the Ganges, connecting bustling ashrams and markets. Right by the river stands Parmarth Niketan, a large ashram known for its peaceful surroundings and spiritual gatherings.
Tip: Dress modestly as these are active spiritual grounds
Triveni Ghat Ganga Aarti
Triveni Ghat Ganga Aarti is the big evening aarti with lamps on the river in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. It is a major spiritual experience where devotees gather by the water to offer prayers as floating lamps are set adrift.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the steps near the water.
Beatles Ashram
Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is located on the eastern bank of the Ganges river in Rishikesh. It is the former training centre of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi where the English rock band the Beatles stayed in 1968. The graffiti-covered ruins are now a popular site featuring dome-shaped meditation huts and art exhibitions.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site is overgrown and covers a large area
Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh is a series of tiered waterfalls reached by a short uphill walk. Visitors can enjoy the natural pools and peaceful surroundings along the trail.
Kunjapuri Temple
Kunjapuri Temple is a hilltop viewpoint located near Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. It is a peaceful religious site offering an expansive view of the surrounding Himalayan mountain range.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site involves a climb up steps to reach the main shrine.
Bungee at Mohan Chatti
Bungee at Mohan Chatti is located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. It features India’s highest fixed-platform bungee at eighty-three meters.
Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and securely tied shoes
Where to stay in Rishikesh
Tapovan
Cafes, yoga schools and a young crowd.
Laxman Jhula
Walk to the bridges, temples and riverside cafes.
Shivpuri
Riverside camps right at the rafting start point.
Ram Jhula ashrams
Simple ashram stays with yoga sessions.
What to eat
Chotiwala
Institution near Ram Jhula — thali and lassi.
Little Buddha Cafe
Treehouse cafe with Ganga views.
The Beatles Cafe
Laid-back river-view cafe in Laxman Jhula.
Aloo puri & jalebi
Breakfast at the stalls near the ghats.
How to reach Rishikesh by bus
Delhi to Rishikesh bus
Board at: ISBT Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar ISBT
Run by: Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, private Volvo, private AC sleeper
When: Through the day, overnight too
Buses usually stop once for a meal along the highway before reaching Rishikesh
Ready-made Rishikesh itineraries
Good to know
- Rishikesh is a vegetarian, alcohol-free town.
- Rafting operators need to be government-licensed — ask for the permit.
Going to Rishikesh? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
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