Rishikesh is famous for spirituality, ghats, and cafes. But that’s not all about it. For people who love adventures and want to try some thrilling activities, the city has a lot more to offer. One moment you could be walking through the forest to a waterfall, and the next, you could be trying bungee jumping or flying across the river. And if you want something simpler, there is always yoga, meditation, camping, and so much more.

So trekkers, this is a fun place to spend some extra time before or after a trek. Try something completely new, or just take a day to relax before heading into the mountains. Get out there and experience it!

Here are some of the best things to do in Rishikesh.

For the Adventure Seekers

1. Try Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping near Rishikesh offers you a new kind of adrenaline rush. At Mohanchatti, adventure enthusiasts can take a leap from a high platform and experience a few seconds of free fall before the cord brings them back up. Now, it is not an activity for the faint-hearted, but for those who enjoy pushing their limits, it can be a memorable part of their Rishikesh trip. You do not need prior bungee-jumping experience to try it.

Eligibility:
To do this activity, participants must be at least 12 years old and fit into a strict weight bracket of 40 kg to 110 kg.

Note: You must compare the price online for different operators. Also, check the current eligibility criteria and booking availability before you go.

2. Zipline Across the Ganga

If you want something different, try ziplining over the Ganga. In this, you float on a cable over the river while enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape. It is a unique way to explore Rishikesh with a thrilling experience while enjoying a grand view of the region.

This is a good option for those who want an adventure activity without committing to a longer excursion. The route, height, and duration of the experience will vary based on the operator and location, so please check these before booking.

Eligibility:
You must be at least 10 years old and fall within a weight limit of 30 kg to 100 kg.

3. Take a Giant Swing

If you like the thrill of swings, Rishikesh has a much more adventurous version waiting for you. A giant swing that involves stepping off a high platform while secured to a harness, followed by a wide, pendulum-like swing through the air. The initial drop gives you the adrenaline rush, and the swing lets you take in the surrounding landscape altogether. It is a good choice for travellers who enjoy height-based adventures but want something different from a traditional bungee jump.

Now, different operators offer the activity as solo, tandem (couples), or triple swings (Shivpuri only), so you can choose the option best suitable for you. And don’t worry; the activity is professionally supervised, and participants are secured with safety equipment before the jump.

Eligibility:
To participate in the 83-metre giant swing, jumpers must meet a strict set of safety criteria. The activity requires a minimum age of 12 years and a weight range between 35 kg and 120 kg.

Note: Different operators might offer different packages, so you must confirm before booking.

4. River Rafting

River rafting on the Ganga is on the to-do list for almost every person visiting Rishikesh. And why not! It takes you through the stretches of the river, surrounded by the hills, making the experience truly one-of-a-kind. The best thing is that since the rapids range from relatively gentle to challenging, you can choose the route you want based on your experience, fitness, and the operator’s recommendations. Thus, you are comfortable, and the ride becomes even more memorable. Also, first-timers can enjoy the thrill too, provided they follow the required safety instructions and choose a suitable stretch. Shivpuri, around 16 km from Rishikesh, is one of the popular starting points for rafting trips.

Eligibility:
To raft, the minimum age is 14 years (12 for very mild stretches), with a weight limit of 35 kg to 100 kg, and the life jacket must fit securely.

Note: Rafting is seasonal and may be suspended due to weather, water levels, or official restrictions. The best time to go rafting is from late September to early July. Book with a registered operator, wear the safety gear provided, and follow your guide’s instructions throughout the trip.

5. Go Kayaking

If you want to spend more time on the Ganga but prefer to do it solo, kayaking is a great option. Unlike rafting, where you navigate the river as a group with a guide, kayaking lets you paddle your way through the water. Depending on the route and conditions, you can work your way through gentle stretches or take on sections with stronger currents. And this is also a good way to experience the river at a slower pace! You get time to look around and enjoy the changing landscape between the more active sections of the river. Beginners can start with calmer stretches and basic instruction before attempting more challenging water.

Eligibility:
The minimum age is 15 years for rapids (7 for flat water), with a strict maximum weight of 95 kg to fit safely inside the cockpit. Unlike rafting, you must be comfortable in deep water and not panic during a capsize.

Note: Choose a professional operator and make sure you receive proper safety instructions and equipment before getting on the water. River conditions can change quickly, so follow your instructor’s advice about the route and difficulty level.

6. Rock Climbing

Rishikesh is not only about adventures on the Ganga. Its rocky terrain also makes it a popular setting for rock climbing, where the challenge comes from finding your route up the rock face rather than simply reaching the top. You will need a mix of strength, balance, concentration, and careful footwork as you work your way upward. But still, even as a beginner, you can start with guided sessions on suitable routes, where instructors explain the basics and help with the climbing equipment. For experienced climbers, more demanding routes can make the activity considerably more challenging.

Note: Choose a professional climbing operator and make sure the equipment is properly maintained. Follow the instructor's directions on harnesses, ropes, and climbing. Avoid climbing during rain or when the rock surface is wet, as it can become slippery and unsafe.

Medical Contraindications & Safety Precautions

For your safety, participation in all six adventure activities is strictly prohibited if you have any of the following pre-existing medical conditions:

• Cardiac Health: Heart conditions, history of heart attacks, or pacemaker dependence.
• Vascular Issues: Severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or a history of unprovoked seizures.
• Respiratory Disorders: Severe asthma or chronic respiratory distress (especially relevant for rapid-water activities).
• Physical & Spinal Health: Chronic back, neck, or spinal injuries, as well as recent surgeries or unhealed bone fractures.
• Pregnancy: Expecting mothers are completely barred from participating in all activities due to impact risks.

Note: Do not rely on standard slip-ons, sandals, or flip-flops; secure, closed-toe sports shoes are mandatory for all land and air activities.

For a Slow-Paced Adventure

7. Camping by the Ganga

After spending the day rafting, hiking, or exploring Rishikesh, camping by the Ganga gives you a chance to slow things down. At the campsites, you can spend an evening surrounded by the sound of flowing water, with the hills and forests adding to the setting. Depending on the campsite, you can also enjoy activities such as bonfires, outdoor games, short walks, or simply sit by the river and enjoy the quieter side of Rishikesh. There are options ranging from basic camps to more comfortable setups, so you can choose according to the kind of experience you want.

Note: Choose an authorised campsite and check how close it is to the river before booking. River levels can rise quickly during heavy rain, so camping restrictions and designated areas should always be followed.

8. Take a Short Waterfall Trek

For those who wish to get out for a couple of hours without going on a long excursion, a short hike to one of the waterfalls in the vicinity of the city is a good choice. The trail goes through forests and rocks and then leads to a waterfall, where you can relax. Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the famous ones and has multiple sections, allowing you to decide how far you want to go. The walk itself is part of the experience, with small streams, rocks, and greenery along the way.

Note: Wear proper shoes with good grip, as the trail can become slippery. Avoid entering the water during or immediately after heavy rainfall, when currents can become unpredictable. Carry drinking water and keep the area clean by taking your waste back with you.

9. Try Yoga or Meditation

Rishikesh is known for its yoga and meditation traditions, and spending some quiet time near the Ganga is a simple way to experience this side of the city. After all these high-intensity, exciting activities, you might want to do something that slows your pace down and helps you relax. You can join a yoga class, attend a guided meditation session, or simply find a peaceful spot by the river and spend some time away from the usual sightseeing. Several ashrams and yoga centres in the city offer sessions for beginners as well as those who already practise regularly.

Note: Check the timings in advance, as some sessions begin early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and carry a light layer if you are attending an outdoor session. If you are visiting an ashram, follow its dress code and other guidelines.

If you want to find out the “Best places to visit in Rishikesh”, check this article.

Conclusion

So, it’s time to make time for your experience now! With so many things to do, it can be tempting to fit as much as possible into a single day. But leaving some breathing room between activities will make the experience much more enjoyable. Plan your timings realistically, account for travel time, and avoid rushing from one booking to the next. After all, a good day is not about how much you manage to tick off, but how well you enjoy the time you have.