Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, is renowned as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and a hub for spiritual seekers. This picturesque city along the sacred Ganges River offers a unique blend of ancient temples, bustling ashrams, and serene yoga retreats. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti, indulge in adventurous activities like white water rafting and trekking, and explore the famous Beatles Ashram. Rishikesh is a gateway to the Himalayas, providing both tranquil wellness experiences and thrilling outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for both the spiritually inclined and the adventure enthusiast.
It highlights Rishikesh’s role as a starting point for journeys into the Himalayas, while also evoking a sense of adventure and exploration. It suggests that your vlog will cover not only the spiritual and cultural aspects of Rishikesh but also its connection to the majestic Himalayan range.
1. Triveni Ghat
It is one of the most famous ghats and places to visit in Rishikesh and makes for a beautiful destination to watch the evening Ganga Aarti. The sanctity of the Ghat comes from the legend that it sees the confluence of three major rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
The ghat is considered sacred and if Hindu mythology is to be believed, it is said that a dip in the holy water of Ganga near the ghat can purge all your sins. After all, this ghat has been mentioned in both our epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is one of the best Rishikesh places to visit to just sit by the ghat in the evening and soak in the splendour of the Aarti.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (2.5 km)
- Time Required: 2 to 3 hours
- Best for: The Ganga Aarti makes it one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh in the evening.
- Tip: Reach the Ghat before time to get the seats in the front-row seats.
- Nearby Attractions: Rishi Kund, Laxman Jhula, Bharat Mandir, Ram Jhula
2. Ram Jhula
A few miles downstream from Laxman Jhula is the Ram Jhula in Rishikesh. Almost similar in its structure and construction, this suspension bridge was built in 1980, a little later than Laxman Jhula. It is one of the must-visit places to visit in Rishikesh for its scenic views.
As you cross this bridge, you will witness the Himalayas peeking out of clouds on clear days and the Ganga River gushing down in full flow. It does make for a scenic vista which you don’t want to miss when in Rishikesh.
The bridge is also renowned for linking two popular ashrams of the town – Swarg Ashram on one end and the Sivananda Ashram on the other. About 450 feet long, this bridge offers breathtaking views of valleys and the temples around making it among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. Walk slowly if you want to take it all in.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.7 km)
- Time Required: 1 hour
- Best for: It is among the best places to visit in Rishikesh with family.
- Tip: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Nearby Attractions: Patna Waterfalls, Ganga Beach, Beatles Ashram, Lakshman Temple
3. River Rafting
No trip to Rishikesh is complete without trying the adrenaline-spiking water sport – river rafting. And the best place to indulge in one of the most exciting adventure activities in Rishikesh is Shivpuri. A hub for river rafting, the place is crowded with people who want to try this adventure sport. It is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh for adventure sports whether you want to go for the short 9-km or the long 21-km expedition.
There are many things to do in Rishikesh like bungee jumping, zipling, and Giant Swing, and if you want to do it all, we recommend you book a 1N/2D camp. After river rafting, you can unwind in the tents and spend your evenings around a bonfire. It is advised to plan your trip according to the weather, as during monsoon season or heavy rainfall the level of the river rises and rafting gets risky during that period. If you are looking for places to visit in Rishikesh in 2 days, you can plan the water activities in the morning and explore other best places to visit in Rishikesh in the evening.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (14.8 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (16.1 km)
- Time Required: 4-5 hours
- Best for: For adventure seekers.
- Tip: Read and follow all the instructions carefully.
- Nearby Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Parmarth Niketan
4. Laxman Jhula
One of the most prominent places to visit in Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is a 450-foot long suspension bridge at a height of 70 feet from the river. Built in the year 1939, the bridge is an important attraction as it is believed that it is the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River on a jute rope.
Laxman Jhula is among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. While you will find plenty of cafes on both sides of the bridge, the famous places you should visit are Laxman Temple and Tera Manzil Mandir situated close by. When crossing the bridge, stop in the middle and just soak in the view of the hills all around you. Nothing is more surreal than this!
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (5.2 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (5.9 km)
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
- Best for: It is a great place for photography.
- Tip: Be careful about the monkeys oin Lakshman Jhula.
- Nearby Attractions: Triveni Ghat, Rishikund, Lakshman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, Tera Manzil Temple, Ram Jhula
5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Located around 30 km from Rishikesh, this holy temple is considered one of the most important pilgrimage places to visit in Rishikesh for all the devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the temple was built at the same spot where Lord Shiva drank the venom ‘Halahala’ that was extracted after churning the ocean to obtain the elixir of life.
Not only this, the temple also has a freshwater spring where devotees take a holy dip. It is considered among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh for a spiritual and religious experience.
- Location: Kotdwar – Pauri Road
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Best time to visit: September to June
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (25.5 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (26.8 km)
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: One of the best places to visit in Rishikesh with family.
- Tip: Plan a trip here at the time of Maha Shivratri to witness the grand celebration.
- Nearby Attractions: The Beatles Ashram, Triveni Ghat, Patna Waterfall, Parmarth Niketan Ashram
6. The Beatles Ashram
Located at a distance of around 18 km from the city centre, The Beatles Ashram is among the best places to visit in Rishikesh. After the Beatles visited the ashram to do transcendental meditation, the outlook on Indian spirituality changed the world over and it became one of the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh.
The time the Beatles spent at the ashram is touted as one of their most productive periods where they wrote plenty of songs. If you are a Beatles fan, you have to visit the ashram and soak in its tranquillity. The place is not maintained properly but still, the ruins look beautiful. Just find a spot inside the ashram and spend some hours meditating.
- Location: Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
- Timings: Open on all days till sunset
- Entry Fee: 100-150 rupees per person
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.8 km)
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is a good place for meditation.
- Nearby Attractions: Chaukhamba Viewpoint, Jharipani Falls, Camel’s Back Road
7. Tera Manzil Mandir
Also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, this is one of the most renowned temples and among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. Perched on the banks of River Ganga, the temple (as its name suggests) has 13 storeys and strikingly beautiful architecture. It can be easily distinguished from afar thanks to its colourful facade. There are many hotels in Rishikesh at this prime location near Laxman Jhula with a view of the beautiful Ghats and the Ganga.
- Location: Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (5.3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (6 km)
- Time Required: 2 hours
- Best for: Beautiful views and peaceful environment
8. Shri Bharat Mandir
One of the oldest and the most revered temples in the entire city, Shri Bharat Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. This glorious temple has several mythological stories behind it, making it one of the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. For instance, it is believed that the Pandavas, on their way to heaven, stayed at this temple and worshipped Lord Hrishikesh. It is also believed that at one point when Lord Buddha visited the temple, it was converted into a monastery for a few years. Fascinating, isn’t it? All these interesting stories make this temple among the best Rishikesh temples to visit.
- Location: Ghat Road, Mayakund, Rishikesh
- Timing: 5 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 9 PM; All Days
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.4 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (2.3 km)
- Time Required: 2 hours
9. Parmarth Niketan
Parmarth Niketan is among the top places to visit in Rishikesh if you are an ardent Yoga follower. Established in the year 1942, this ashram has grown into one of the biggest spiritual places in the country.
- Location: Swargashram, Rishikesh
- Timing: 9 AM – 8 PM, All Days
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.9 km)
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
- Best for: Watching evening Aarti.
- Tip: Maintain a dress code suitable for a place of worship.
- Nearby Attractions: Rajaji National Park, Triveni Ghat, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Vashishtha Guha Temple
- Nearest Restaurants: Rock Flour, Panorama, Riverside, Pebble Beach
10. Byasi
Byasi is a small village and among the best places to visit near Rishikesh. If you are an adventure lover, this is the place for you. Camping, river rafting, and boating are some activities that happen here all through the year. The village has lots of restaurants and homestays too. Byasi is mostly famous for the spot for camping in Rishikesh.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (30.5 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (31.3 km)
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
- Best for: Camping and boating
- Nearby Attractions: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Kaudiyala, Shivpuri
11. Muni ki Reti
In the list of tourist attractions in Rishikesh, this town is a popular choice. Filled with innumerable Hindu temples and ashrams, the place will keep you grounded and calm. The town is just 6 km from the main Rishikesh city. The Ganges is less crowded here and you can enjoy a stroll through its banks. It is among the most unique places to visit in Rishikesh.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
- Time Required: 2 hours
- Best for: It is a popular spot for couples to enjoy some quality time
12. Kaudiyala
For adventure seekers, Kaudiyala is one of the best tourist places in Rishikesh. Located 40 km away from the centre of the holy city, this place is located on the banks of the Ganga and has turned into a camping and adventure activity zone. The white sands add beauty to the town.
- Location: Badrinath Road
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (36 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (36.8 km)
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: It is a famous place for river rafting.
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes.
- Nearby Attractions: Devprayag, Byasi, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Shivpuri, Mohanchatti
13. Rishikund
Rishikund is called the ‘pond for rishis’ and is a holy water body located near the Ragunath Temple. The pond reflects the entrance tower of the Raghunath Temple and is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Rishikesh to have a peaceful time. The pond is said to have been blessed by the River Goddess Yamuna.
- Location: Mayakund, Rishikesh
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.8 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is a great place for a peaceful time.
- Tip: Try the street food nearby
14. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Situated on the top of a small hill, you will have to climb 80 steps to reach the famous Kunjapuri Devi Temple. It is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peets, hence quite crowded on weekends. It is considered one of the best places near Rishikesh to visit. Sunrise at this temple is a delight for tourists. If you are looking for places to visit in Rishikesh in one day or 2 days, you should visit this place for the stunning sunrise.
- Location: Hindolakhal Rd, Rishikesh
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best time to visit: September to June
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (26.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (29 km)
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
15. Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh is a stunning natural attraction known for its cascading waters and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as trekking along the nearby trails, capturing stunning photographs, enjoying a picnic amidst nature’s embrace, or simply taking a leisurely walk to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Rishikesh.
- Timings: No timings
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- Things to do: Trekking, Picnic, Nature walk, Photography
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (8.9 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (9.7 km)
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
16. Patna Waterfalls
Patna waterfall is located in the Patna colony and is among the best places to visit near Rishikesh. It drops down from a height of around 40 feet surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery. This is a great spot in the hidden places to visit in Rishikesh for those seeking a quiet and peaceful experience. The surroundings of the waterfall are mostly untouched allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Swimming, Photography, Nature walks
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (9.3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (12.2 km)
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is a popular place for photography.
- Tip: Wear shoes with a good grip
famous market in rishikesh
1. Lakshman Jhula Market
There is no better place to begin your shopping escapade in Rishikesh than at the Laxman Jhula Market. Home to many local stores, at this market expect to find many pooja essentials and religious items. From beautiful idols of Indian Gods to agarbattis, oils and authentic rudrakshas, you can get them all in Rishikesh.
There are a few shops selling jewellery and unique wood items as well. Take your bargaining skills along.
Location: Lakshman Jhula
2. Rishikesh Main Market
A top shopping place for tourists and locals, the shops at the Rishikesh Main Market offer products and good at reasonable prices. Its best to visit in the morning or early evening to get a feel of what shopping in Rishikesh feels like. At this market, you can shop for clothes, spices, perfumes and a lot more.
Location: Near Jhanda Chowk
3. Gole Market
The Gole Market comes to life in the evenings when locals come in to shop for clothes and accessories. On the weekend, the market is absolutely buzzing with activity. The market is a great place to get yourself a few traditional Indian clothing. During the months of October to January, you will find a variety of winter wear being sold at the market.
Location: Triveni Ghat
4. Ram Jhula Market
One of the unique places to shop in Rishikesh is the Ram Jhula market. Home to many stores and street stalls, the Ram Jhula market is always crowded with locals and tourists who come to explore and buy local products. From clothes to jewellery and local spices, you can find it all at the market in Ram Jhula
Location: Ram Jhula
5. Music For Soul
This music store in Rishikesh is popular for its spiritual and trance music CDs and DVDs. The store has a large collection of CDS with chalisas and prayers from the Bhagavad Gita. The friendly staff at this store are always willing to go that extra mile to make customers happy, if they don’t have a title you’re looking for, they will try and order it for you.
Location: Swarg Ashram
6. Garhwal Wool and Craft Shop
This store in Rishikesh is where you should go to buy the finest selection of woollen clothes. On offer here is a variety of winter wear made using high-quality Garhwali wool.
The staff and owner are extremely jovial, they’ll not only let you in on some local tourist tips but will also offer you a refreshing cup of tea or a soft drink.
Location: Main Market
7. Sudha Chandan Mahal
Two popular item to buy in Rishikesh are sandalwood chains and jewellery. One of the best places to get them in the town of Rishikesh is at the Sudha Chandan Mahal. This popular store stocks a good collection of jewellery and pearl decorative items. Whether you are taking back a souvenir or a gift for a friend, you will love the collections on offer at this famous store.
Location: Swarg Ashram
Street Food in Rishikesh
1. Samosa
Samosa is a deep-fried snack that is stuffed with a savory potato filling. Samosa is the staple breakfast for many people in Rishikesh. The snack is best paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It can be found in every nook and cranny of the town.
Some food joints tend to experiment with the fillings so you can try mango-, apple- or even chocolate-filled samosas. We highly recommend that you try these varieties when in Rishikesh.
Where to try: The Rajasthani restaurant near Triveni Ghat
2. Sweets
Rishikesh is known for being a sanctimonious place and for its spirituality. However, the city is also known for the variety of sweets that are made here. The sweets are made of pure ghee and ooze deliciousness with every bite. Besan ki Barfi, Nariyal Barfi and Besan Ladoo are a must-haves while in Rishikesh.
Where to try: Geeta Bhawan Swargashram, Rishikesh
3. Aloo Poori
Aloo Poori is a traditional breakfast that is served across the country and Rishikesh is no different. It consists of potatoes cooked in a savory gravy along with a deep fried bread called a poori. Rishikesh is well known for the aloo poori it serves. This breakfast is usually served in dishes fashioned out of dried leaves, giving you an organic vibe when you eat out of it. Try the Surat Ki Mashoor Aloo at 60’s The Eat Story, it is delicious.
Where to try: 60’s The Eat Story, Tapovan Sarai Badrinath Highway, Green Hills, Rishikesh.
4. Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is a dish that is as Punjabi as it gets. Often eaten as a breakfast item, Chole Bhature consists of a combination of spicy white chickpeas and a fried bread made out of refined flour. The dish is often paired with a glass of lassi and can be consumed as a full meal. There are several outlets in Rishikesh that serve Chole Bhature but the best chole bhature is served at Chotiwala that has been serving the dish since 1958.
Where to try: Chotiwala, Swargashram, Rishikesh
5. Dosa
Dosa is a popular south Indian breakfast that is made from fermented batter and is somewhat similar to a savoury crepe.The fermented batter usually consists of rice and gram. Due to the growing number of South Indian pilgrims in Rishikesh, many restaurants serving South Indian food have popped up all over the town. You can find a good South Indian restaurant in the Tapovan side of the Ram Jhula to satisfy all your dosa cravings.
Where to try: Madras cafe, near Ram Jhula, Rishikesh
6. Pani Puri
Pani Puri are crispy wheat gram pockets filled with spiced water, with a variety of fillings ranging from mashed potatoes to boiled chickpeas. This is one of India’s favourite street foods and can be sampled in almost every part of the country. Rishikesh has a plethora of hawkers as well as restaurants who serve this snack. The special tamarind chutney in Rishikesh is what most pani puri lovers look forward to.
Where to try: The lane next to Ram Jhula is filled with pani puri vendors
7. Ice Cream
Rishikesh serves some very unique flavors of ice cream that you may not have tasted before. There are flavours such as caramelized banana chip cookies and spiced walnut that will have your taste buds tingling with joy. You can enjoy ice cream that is sold by local hawkers or go at the many cafes around Rishikesh.
Where to try: Freedom Cafe, Rishikesh
8. coffee
Every caffeine addict looks out for places to satiate their need for a hot cup of coffee. Rishikesh offers some exotic coffee combinations, such as one with yak milk added to it. People who have tried this variant definitely stand by the coffee’s unique flavor. You can try this coffee at Devraj Cafe, which overlooks the famous Trimbakeshwar Temple.
Where to try: Devraj Coffee corner, Laxman Jhula Bridge, Shivanand Nagar, Rishikesh
9. Lassi
Lassi is a beverage which is a thicker version of buttermilk, served cold. North India is famous for this particular beverage, where you can enjoy a variety of sweet and savoury preparations.
In Rishikesh, you can find this beverage at the Pappu Lassi stall that serves them in an earthen pot, adding to the authentic experience and taste. The shop also serves mango and extra malai lassi that are local favourites.
Where to try: Pappu Lassi, Mayakund, Rishikesh.
