About Rishikesh,

Rishikesh, also known as the Yoga Capital of the World, is one of the most visited destinations in Uttarakhand. Located on the banks of the sacred Ganga River and surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, it offers a rare combination of spirituality, natural beauty, and adventure.

The town is famous worldwide as a center for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning. Every year, thousands of visitors from across the globe come to join yoga retreats, wellness programs, and meditation sessions at ashrams like Parmarth Niketan. At the same time, Rishikesh is also known as the gateway to adventure sports in India, with activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and trekking attracting thrill-seekers.

For pilgrims and spiritual travelers, Rishikesh holds a special charm. Sacred spots like Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, and Laxman Jhula are not just architectural landmarks but also places where people gather for evening Ganga Aarti, prayers, and meditation. The town also has a rich cultural heritage, with places like The Beatles Ashram connecting India’s spiritual traditions to global music history.

For nature lovers, destinations like the Neer Garh Waterfall and the surrounding hills provide perfect spots for trekking, photography, and relaxation. With its peaceful environment, clean air, and a mix of ancient traditions with modern adventure, Rishikesh is truly a place that offers something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re coming for a spiritual retreat, an adrenaline rush, or a cultural experience, Rishikesh will leave you inspired and refreshed.

Here are the top places to visit in Rishikesh :

1. Triveni Ghat :

Triveni Ghat is the most famous ghat in Rishikesh, where devotees gather to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of the Ganga River. It is believed that a bath here washes away sins and purifies the soul. The ghat is named after the confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati (mythical). Every evening, the Ganga Aarti transforms the ghat into a spiritual spectacle, with lamps floating on the river, priests chanting mantras, and people sitting peacefully along the steps. The atmosphere is magical and deeply moving, making it a must-visit place for both pilgrims and tourists, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: October–April (pleasant weather, 12°C–25°C).
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 1.5 km from Rishikesh bus stand, easily accessible by auto or walk.
• Timings: Open all day; Ganga Aarti starts around 6:00 PM daily.

Things to Do at Triveni Ghat:

• Witness the Ganga Aarti in the evening – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Take a dip in the holy river during sunrise for a peaceful start to the day.
• Sit by the riverbank, meditate, or simply enjoy the soothing flow of the Ganga.
• Shop at nearby stalls selling rudraksha malas, idols, incense, and spiritual books.

2. Ram Jhula & Laxman Jhula :

The twin suspension bridges, Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, are among the most iconic landmarks in Rishikesh. Stretching across the Ganga River, they connect ashrams, temples, and local markets on both sides. Walking across these bridges gives you breathtaking views of the river, mountains, and bustling activity below. According to mythology, Laxman crossed the Ganga using a rope, and the present-day bridge commemorates this legend. These spots are not just pathways but also lively places full of spirituality, culture, and local life, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: All year round (avoid heavy monsoon).
• Distance from City Center: Ram Jhula – 3 km, Laxman Jhula – 5 km from bus stand.
• Timings: Open all day; pedestrian access only.

Things to Do:

• Walk across the bridges and enjoy panoramic views.
• Visit nearby temples and ashrams.
• Stop at cafes with stunning Ganga views.
• Take a boat ride under the bridges.

3. Parmarth Niketan Ashram :

Parmarth Niketan Ashram is the largest ashram in Rishikesh and a major center for yoga, meditation, and spiritual learning. Nestled on the banks of the Ganga, the ashram offers peaceful stays, wellness programs, and yoga classes. It is especially famous for its evening Ganga Aarti, where hundreds of people gather to pray and sing together, creating a soul-stirring atmosphere. Every March, Parmarth Niketan also hosts the International Yoga Festival, attracting participants from around the world, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: February–April & September–November.
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 3 km from Rishikesh bus stand.
• Timings: Open 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Things to Do:

• Join yoga and meditation sessions.
• Attend the Ganga Aarti.
• Stay in the ashram for a retreat.
• Participate in spiritual discourses and satsangs.

4. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya) :

The Beatles Ashram, officially known as Chaurasi Kutiya, is where the famous rock band stayed in 1968 to learn meditation. Today, it is an abandoned site with meditation huts, lecture halls, and walls filled with colorful murals inspired by the Beatles. It blends art, history, and spirituality, attracting music lovers, artists, and travelers seeking something unique. Walking through the ashram feels like stepping back in time and connecting with the global history of Rishikesh, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: October–March.
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 2 km from Rishikesh bus stand.
• Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: ₹150 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners).

Things to Do:

• Explore meditation cells and old buildings.
• Take photos of graffiti and murals.
• Meditate in quiet corners.
• Join a guided heritage walk.

5. Neer Garh Waterfall :

Just 6 km from Rishikesh, Neer Garh Waterfall is a natural paradise hidden in greenery. A short trek leads you to cascading waterfalls and pools of crystal-clear water. Visitors can swim, relax, and enjoy the refreshing beauty of this natural wonder. The waterfall has multiple tiers, and climbing higher rewards you with quieter spots and breathtaking views. It’s a great escape for those who want a break from the town’s spiritual and busy side, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit: October–April (cool weather 10°C–20°C).
• Distance from City Center: Approx. 6 km from Rishikesh bus stand.
• Timings: Sunrise to Sunset.
• Entry Fee: ₹30 approx.

Things to Do:

• Trek to higher levels of the falls.
• Swim in natural pools (avoid during monsoon).
• Enjoy nature photography.
• Relax at small cafes near the falls.

6. Adventure Activities :

Rishikesh is also called the Adventure Capital of India, thanks to its thrilling outdoor activities. From battling the rapids of the Ganga River in white-water rafting to experiencing the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping from 83 meters, this town is a paradise for adventure lovers. You can also enjoy zip-lining, camping by the riverside, cliff jumping, and trekking. Adventure tourism in Rishikesh is well-organized, with certified guides and safety measures, making it suitable even for first-timers, Read more …

• Best Time to Visit for Adventure: October–June (avoid monsoon).
• Distance from City Center: Adventure hubs like Mohan Chatti are around 15–20 km from Rishikesh.

Things to Do:

• White-water rafting on different stretches of the Ganga.
• Bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti.
• Zip-lining across the river.
• Camping and bonfire nights by the Ganga.
• Trekking to nearby hills and waterfalls.

Suggested Itinerary (2–3 Days in Rishikesh):

• Day 1: Triveni Ghat → Ram Jhula & Laxman Jhula → Parmarth Niketan Ashram (evening Aarti).
• Day 2: Adventure activity (rafting/bungee) → Beatles Ashram → Evening at cafes.
• Day 3: Neer Garh Waterfall trek → Return.