Rishikesh Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Rishikesh

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga Rivers, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh (also called Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, and popular cafes and is the “Yoga Capital of the World.” 

To connect with God and delve into spirituality, visit Rishikesh. It is ideal for spending time with your loved ones with a spectacular view of the gushing water of the river Ganga and the hills. This city is also known as the “Adventure Hub in India.” Rishikesh offers many adventure activities like kayaking, trekking, flying foxes, and bungee jumping. Among them, river rafting is what Rishikesh is most famous for.

Places to visit in Rishikesh

Be it a rejuvenating meditation session, an overcrowded yet glorious Ganga aarti, or an adventurous river rafting– there are plenty of places to visit in Rishikesh. With such diversity, selecting locations one should stay here is never easy. So, from all this city’s marvels, check out the best of them that will help you plan your Rishikesh trip.

• Laxman Jhula And Ram Jhula
• The Beatles Ashram
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
• Triveni Ghat
• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Swarg Ashram
• Vashishta Gufa

Things to do in Rishikesh

There are numerous things to do in Rishikesh for people of all ages. So check out our top picks for something to do. This list will familiarize you with the top adventure activities in Rishikesh. So pack your bags now and leave for a vacation to try the below-listed Rishikesh attractions for blissful relaxation amidst serene surroundings.

• Get de-stressed with ayurvedic massage and therapies.
• Witness the world from up high with parasailing and paragliding.
• Embrace the peace with yoga and meditation.
• Relish the cuisines in cafe hopping.
• Do shopping and bring souvenir home. 

Best time to visit Rishikesh

The best time to visit Rishikesh for white water rafting is September through June and November. Another good time to visit Rishikesh is from February to early May. The International Yoga Festival is organized in Rishikesh in the first week of March. Visiting Rishikesh in the summer (May–June) is unfavorable as the temperature during these months gets exceptionally high, making it unbearable for sightseeing. But water rafting, a leading adventure sport here, is best experienced during this season.

How to reach Rishikesh 

The city is well-connected. The Jolly Grant airport is the closest airport at Dehradun, 35 km from Rishikesh. Alternatively, the nearest railway station, Haridwar, is 25 km from Rishikesh. Haridwar is linked to the country’s major cities via regular express and superfast trains. The other option is by road, as  Rishikesh has regular bus services from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Therefore, one can opt for buses or hire cabs from these places to reach Rishikesh. Know more about how to reach Rishikesh.

Accommodations in Rishikesh 

Rishikesh provides diverse accommodation choices for travelers, catering to different budgets. These include economical guesthouses, ashrams and high-end resorts, many offering picturesque vistas of the Ganges River and the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil setting for relaxation and revitalization. In addition, Rishikesh is renowned for its spiritual and yoga retreats, and numerous accommodations also provide facilities for yoga and meditation. So whether you’re looking for a serene retreat or an adventurous escape, Rishikesh has many lodging options to suit your preferences.

Where to eat in Rishikesh? 

Rishikesh boasts a vibrant food scene with many dining options to satisfy various taste buds. From local eateries serving traditional Indian cuisine to global restaurants offering international flavors, there is something for everyone. The town also has numerous cafes and bakeries for those seeking a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Many eateries offer vegetarian and vegan options in line with the town’s spiritual and holistic vibe. Make sure to try out the local street food, a highlight of Rishikesh’s culinary offerings.

How to get around Rishikesh 

You can travel around Rishikesh in taxis, autorickshaws, or on foot. There are hotels and taxis (on a per-seat basis) available. Traveling by auto rickshaw is the most pocket-friendly way. The best way to explore Rishikesh is on foot.

Rishikesh Travel tips

• Remember to visit Shri Bharat Mandir in Jhanda Chowk, dedicated to the city’s deity, Lord Hrishikesh Narayan.
• If you don’t like the crowd, avoid visiting in peak season, from March to June.
• Make sure you pack proper woolen clothes from November to February.
• It would be best to stay near Laxman Jhula or Ram Jhula, as most attractions surround these iconic landmarks.
• Check the official site to know the status if you’re going rafting. Also, do remember that rafting is closed in extreme winters and the rainy season.