Things To Do In Rishikesh

Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, the holy city of Rishikesh is an embodiment of spiritual exploration, natural beauty, and serenity. It welcomes travellers seeking inner peace and thrilling adventures, offering an enchanting blend of tradition and modernity. The city is also deemed as a ‘Gateway to the Himalayas’ as it serves as a base for many adventurous treks and spiritual destinations in Uttarakhand like the Valley of Flowers Trek, Hemkund Sahib,  Kedarkantha Trek, Kedarnath, Badrinath and so much more. Whether you choose to relax by the riverside or indulge in a thrilling adventure, there are so many things that one can participate in Rishikesh.  Discover the essence of Rishikesh as we unveil the myriad of things to do in this magical destination.

Check Out The Iconic Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula are two iconic suspension bridges that the city is famous for. When visiting Rishikesh, one needs to take a walk along these bridges that connects the two sides of the city. While walking on the bridge, you get an expansive view of the river, surrounded by mountains and cradled by ashrams and monuments on the banks.

Note: Laxman Jhula is currently closed owing to construction works, you can, however, watch the bridge from a distance.

Visit The Beatles Ashram and Marvel at Artworks

If you are someone who is into art and culture then Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh is the ideal destination for you. The remnants of the Ashram are now covered in impressive graffiti works and murals by artists all over the world. It used to be a sanctum of meditative and spiritual practices, built by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and in the 1960s, the popular rock band ‘Beatles’ visited the Ashram and wrote a number of their songs. The Beatles Ashram is a beautiful testament to the Beatles’ time in India and there are several artefacts displayed in the museum that showcases their time here in India.

Embrace Nature at Neergarh Waterfall

Neergarh Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in the vicinity of the Tapovan area in Rishikesh. A small hike from the highway will take you to the waterfall where you can find a series of natural pools as you climb up. The small hiking trail takes you through beautiful natural scenery and you can also find numerous refreshment shops along the way. Take a bath in the waterfall, or gorge on a plate of Maggi with beautiful views around.

Enjoy White Water Rafting

White water rafting attracts throngs of adventure lovers to Rishikesh. River rafting in Rishikesh is known to be one of the best in India. There are rapids of varying difficulty levels in the water. There are multiple rafting routes as well that one can choose from. But make sure when booking a rafting trip that the operator is licensed by the Uttrakhand Tourism Development Board. Rafting season in Rishikesh lasts from October to June and closes during the monsoon months.

Get Adrenaline Pumping With Bungee Jumping

If you are someone who always seeks adventure wherever you go, Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh is the ideal option for you. Visit Jumping Heights which is popular for its bungee jumping and other activities like Giant Swing, Flying Fox, etc. As a matter of fact, Jumping Heights has the highest platform for bungee jumping.

Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

The divine essence of Rishikesh can be truly felt when you witness a Ganga Aarti - a tribute to the River that sustains the life of an entire nation. The ritual takes place every evening in many ghats across the city, the most popular one being the Triveni Ghat. The Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is truly a sight to behold. Poojaris clad in maroon and saffron light huge oil lamps and perform the aarti ritual with mantras, chants and bhajans. Whether you are a religious person or not, witnessing the aarti will leave you with a transcendental feeling within yourself.

Drop By A Yoga Class

Rishikesh is known all over the world as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ and it would be fitting that you attend a Yoga class while in the Yoga City. There are many drop-in classes that you attend and enjoy this restorative activity that relaxes the mind, soothes the soul and heals the body.

Indulge in Cafe Hopping

Rishikesh has quite an interesting cafe culture. The banks of the river are dotted by numerous themed cafes where you can witness beautiful river views and indulge in a savoury gastronomic experience. Ranging from Indian, and Tibetan to Continental, the cafes cater to a variety of palettes. Cafes are a great place to dine and socialize and meet travellers from all across the globe.

Relish The Spiritual Essence at Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan is the largest Ashram in Rishikesh situated on the western banks of the River. The ashram offers a clean and peaceful environment to practice yoga and meditation. The Ashram also features the iconic 14 feet statue of Lord Shiva in a meditative position. The ghat at Parmarth Niketan also features a Ganga Aarti in the evening. 

Pay Your Respect at The Tryambakeshwar Temple

The Tryambakeshwar or the Tera Manzil Temple is the renowned temple that you often see in pictures. Located right on the bank of the Ganga, the temple can be clearly seen from the Laxman Jhula Bridge. The 13-storey building houses a number of different gods and the symmetric structure of the building makes it an iconic landmark. 

Offer Your Homage at Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Being a pilgrimage city, Rishikesh hosts a number of temples and shrines dedicated to different gods and goddesses. Neelkanth Mahadev is one such popular temple and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located a few kilometres away from Rishikesh and is nestled within peaceful mountain environs.

Explore Wildlife at Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is one of the most prominent national parks in India. This National Park has three different entry points and one of them is in Rishikesh. If you are a wildlife lover, you can go for a Jeep Safari across the park. Rajaji National Park is home to several wild animals like Elephants, antelopes, barking deer, Sambar deer, Goral, Nilgai, leopards, tigers, and Monkeys. You may also spot several varieties of birds like Rusty Treecreeper, Bush Warbler,  Scaly Thrush, Blue Magpie, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Bush Warbler, Leaf Warbler, and Black-necked Stork.

Get De - Stressed With Ayurvedic Massages and Therapies

After roaming around Rishikesh, you can relax and unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic Massage. It is definitely one of the best experiences you can have in Rishikesh and a great way to end your day. Rishikesh has some of the best Ayurvedic Massage centres that help revitalize both the body and the mind.

Rishikesh very beautifully weaves together spirituality, adventure and natural beauty together in harmony. As you go about exploring the city, you’ll find yourself immersed in a state of bliss and wonder. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, thrilling escapades, or simply a serene retreat, Rishikesh beckons with open arms. So, come, delve into the magic of Rishikesh, and leave with memories that linger in your heart for a lifetime.