Rishikesh Tourist Places

Known for its magnificent temples, rituals, architectural wonders, and yoga ashrams, Rishikesh is a place of spiritual significance. The city is home to numerous ashrams that offer spiritual practices such as ancient forms of yoga, meditation, and vipasana to help individuals cleanse their souls and unwind.

In addition to its spiritual essence, places of interest in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand offers a range of offbeat and adventurous activities. From the thrill of white water rafting to engaging in activities like cliff jumping, kayaking, and body surfing, there is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping experiences. 

Where is Rishikesh Located in India

Rishikesh, situated in Uttarakhand, India, lies on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. The city’s breathtaking scenery is enhanced by its location at the base of the majestic Garhwal Himalayas, with the Ganges flowing through it. Rishikesh appears as if it is suspended amidst the beautiful riverside promenades, vast forests, verdant mountains, and clear blue skies, giving it a surreal charm.

Highlights

Best time to visit	February – May; October – November
Ideal vacation duration	2 – 3 days
Average expense	Rs 3,100 for 2 Nights/ 3 Days per person
Rishikesh Tourist Places	Lakshman Jhula Bridge, Triveni Ghat, Neer Garh Waterfall, Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Things to Do	Yoga, meditation, watching Ganga Aarti, bungee jumping, riverside camping

How to Reach Rishikesh, India?

Rishikesh is well connected to various parts of the country through different modes of transportation. 

• By Plane- The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 34 km away, provides air connectivity to the city. Taxis can be easily found at the airport for travel to Rishikesh. The airport has daily flights to Delhi, ensuring good connectivity. 
• By Train- There are direct trains from Delhi to Rishikesh. It generally takes 4 to 5 hours to reach Rishikesh from Delhi by different modes of transport. Some of the trains on this route are DDN Janshtbdi Express (12055), Yoga Express (19031) and Siddhabli Jan Shatabdi (12038)
• By Road- Rishikesh has excellent connectivity through motorable roads with key destinations in Uttarakhand and the northern states of India. You can easily find luxury and regular buses to Rishikesh from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate. Regular bus services operate from Kashmere Gate in New Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

Rishikesh Weather- Best time to visit

The summer season (March-June) in this region is characterized by scorching heat and high humidity, with Rishikesh temperatures soaring to 36°C. On the other hand, the winter months (October-February) are chilly and clear, with Rishikesh weather dropping to as low as 6°C. The monsoon season (June-September) brings heavy rainfall along with increased humidity. The best time to visit Rishikesh is between March to May.

• Rishikesh Peak Season – March to May
• Rishikesh Shoulder Season – October to February 
• Rishikesh Low Season – June to September 

Things to do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, known as a haven for Yogis, is a revered destination that entices countless individuals in search of spiritual awakening. However, Rishikesh also offers a vibrant side filled with amusement, exhilaration, and adventure. Also, Rishikesh is absolutely safe for girls solo travelers and you can see so many solo travelers here. 

Here is Rishikesh tourist places and attraction of Rishikesh?

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat, situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, is the largest ghat in Rishikesh. The ‘Maha Aarti’ takes place every evening at Triveni Ghat. Triveni Ghat holds significant importance in Hindu Mythology and is referenced in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharat. It is also the site where the chattri of Lord Krishna was built, serving as his cremation ground. Devotees not only take holy dips in the river but also offer milk and feed the fishes in the Ghat. The Maha Aarti, also known as the evening aarti, is held daily from 6 pm to 7 pm. 

• Temperature : 28 – 44°C
• Timings : 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Time Required : 1-2 hrs
• Entry Fee : No Entry Fee

The Beatles Ashram

Within the ashram complex, visitors can explore a former temple, library, kitchen, Maharishi Yogi’s residence, and meditation huts. While many of the structures are in a state of disrepair, the walls are adorned with vibrant graffiti. Additionally, there is a small gallery and a cafe on the premises. Originally established as the training center for Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the Beatles Ashram remained abandoned until 2015 when it was reopened to the public. Presently, the ashram is managed by the Rajaji National Park in Rishikesh, situated just beyond its boundary wall. To access the Beatles Ashram, visitors can park their vehicles at the new parking area at Janki Setu, located on the western bank of the Ganges, and proceed to walk a distance of 1 km.

• Weather : 28 – 44°C
• Entry Fees : Indians: INR 150
  Foreigners: Rs 600
• Timings : 10 pm – 4 pm

Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is undoubtedly the ultimate destination for rafting in India. With its stunning natural surroundings and expert guidance, it offers the best experience possible. The certified operators ensure safety measures are strictly followed, and there are tailored packages available for camping and rafting in Rishikesh. Operators take care of all your needs, including food, water, and rafting equipment, for a hassle-free trip. It’s important to note that places of interest in Rishikesh can get quite crowded during peak season, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.

Lakshman jhula

The Lakshman Jhula, a renowned suspension bridge spanning the Ganga River, links Tapovan in the Tehri Garhwal district to Jonk in the Pauri Garhwal district. Situated in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, this iron bridge stretches 450 feet and stands 70 feet above the river.

Tourists are drawn to the Lakshman Jhula as it is believed that Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, crossed the Ganga at this very spot.

Note : The bridge is currently only open to pedestrians, with both ends blocked off to prohibit vehicle access. Construction of a new bridge is underway beside the existing one, as it is in poor condition.

• Weather : 28 – 44°C
• Timings : 5 am – 10 pm
• Time Required : Less than 1 hour
• Entry Fee : No entry fee

Neelkantha Mahadeva Temple, Rishikesh 

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the most revered Hindu sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Pauri Garhwal region, the temple is around 7 km from Swarg Ashram. It is one of the most popular Shiva temples and is visited by devotees from all over the world and one the places to explore in Rishikesh.

A taxi might also take you there for a reasonable price. Pilgrims offer water from Ganga to this temple.

Cliff jumping

Cliff Jumping is an exhilarating activity that can be enjoyed in Rishikesh. This thrilling experience takes place while you are in the river, either swimming, rafting, or simply taking a dip. It involves jumping from a high cliff into the river, adding an element of excitement to your adventure. Regarded as one of the most thrilling water sports, cliff jumping is definitely one of the top attractions in places to visit in Rishikesh Uttarakhand.

• Weather : 28 – 44°C
• Tags : Adventure Sport
• Time Required : 1 – 1:30 hrs

Rishikesh Camping

Rishikesh is renowned for its luxurious Himalayan surroundings, pristine Ganges waters, and captivating forests, making it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts seeking camping and rafting activities. This hill-town offers top-notch camping experiences, with numerous Rishikesh camping and rafting services to choose from in the vicinity.

• Weather: 28 – 44°C
• Ideal duration: 2-3 days
• Best Time: Throughout the year

Flying Fox, Rishikesh

Flying Fox is an exhilarating adventure activity and one of the most thrilling experiences to partake in Rishikesh. This sport involves being securely fastened to a rope and propelled through the air on a cable, giving you the sensation of flying. The speed can be controlled using machinery, allowing you to accelerate or decelerate as desired. As you soar through the sky, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayas and the magnificent Ganges, with stunning views both ahead and below you.

• Weather : 28 – 44°C
• Time Required : 2 – 4 hrs

Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh, Rishikesh

Rishikesh is widely known as the “Adventure Capital of India” due to the wide range of adventure activities available. Among the most thrilling adventure sports in the area is Bungee Jumping. During this activity, the participant leaps from a high structure (typically a building), experiencing a moment of free fall before being stopped and lifted back up. The individual is secured with a lengthy elastic cord connected to the building or another stable structure. In some cases, for those seeking an even greater thrill, this activity can be done from hot air balloons or helicopters.

• Weather : 28 – 44°C
• Tags : Adventure Sport
• Timings : Time Slots : 9:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm, 
• Closed on Tuesday
• Time Required : 1 day
• Entry Fee : Entry Fee – INR 100, Bungee Jumping – INR 355

Kuari Pass, Rishikesh

The Kuari Pass, situated in the alpine meadow, has been a popular destination for backpackers from all over the world for many years. Its close proximity to the Nanda Devi biosphere makes it a central location in the stunning Garhwal region, known for its unique and breathtaking beauty.

Below the valley, you can see the entrance to the challenging Rishi Gorge, which was considered impassable until 1934. The picturesque camping grounds of Gulling, Chitrakantha, and Tali are the main highlights of this trek. The trails from Tali Top to Kuari Pass offer a true Himalayan alpine experience, with abundant snow adding to the adventure.

Kaudiyala, Rishikesh

Kaudiyala, situated at an impressive height of 380 meters, is a renowned rock climbing spot enveloped by lush forests. Additionally, this location provides thrilling white river rafting routes, with the sporting activities being expertly organized by the nearby camping facilities.

Tera Manzil Temple, Rishikesh

The Trimbakeshwar Temple, also known as the Tera Manzil Temple, is a magnificent thirteen-story temple located on the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. Positioned directly across from the Lakshman Jhula, this temple houses numerous deities within its walls. Renowned for its impressive architectural design, the temple also provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape from its thirteenth floor.

Neer Garh Waterfall, Rishikesh 

Neer Garh Waterfall is an exquisite slender flow of refreshing water descending over a rugged landscape within a lush green forest. To access the waterfall, one must trek approximately one kilometer through the forest and descend a cliff. The journey is thrilling and serves as an ideal prelude to immersing oneself in the cool, calming waters of the waterfall’s pools.

Geeta Bhawan, Rishikesh 

The Geeta Bhawan, also known as Guru Shri Ram Sukh Daasji, is a vast and spacious complex situated on the banks of the river Ganga in Swargashram, Rishikesh. It is located at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. This ashram is renowned for preserving Hindu literature, particularly the Gita, which represents the Hindu Vedas and epics. Every year, a large number of people visit the Geeta Bhawan to take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges, listen to discourses, and meditate.

Bharat Mandir, Rishikesh 

Established in the 12th century by Adiguru Shankaracharya, this sanctuary is home to a magnificent sculpture of Lord Vishnu, skillfully carved from a single Saligram stone. Within the temple’s inner canopy, one can find the sacred Shree Yanthra. 

Byasi, Rishikesh

Situated 30 kilometers away from Rishikesh India, Byasi is a small village nestled along the banks of the Ganges River in Uttarakhand. This charming village is well-known for its water sports and adventure tourism, thanks to the unique characteristics of the area, such as the sandy white beaches perfect for relaxation and camping, as well as the gentle flow of the river that allows for effortless rafting and camping experiences and provides Rishikesh tourism.

Muni ki Reti, Rishikesh

Muni ki Reti, located near Rishikesh, holds great religious significance as a pilgrimage center and serves as the gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage. This sacred place is home to several ashrams that offer essential amenities to support the spiritual journey of the pilgrims. The name Muni ki Reti translates to ‘sand of the sages’ and is believed to be the site where King Bharat engaged in penance.

Jadh Ganga Trek, Rishikesh

The place is characterized by its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The rushing streams, untouched glaciers, and breathtaking landscape enhance the already stunning beauty of this location and Rishikesh tourism.

If you choose to venture further, another type of adventure awaits you as you continue towards Mana Pass and Saraswati Tal, ultimately concluding the trek at Badrinath Temple. Though it may be tiring, the trek is also exhilarating, and the memories will stay with you for a lifetime.

Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh 

Swarg Ashram stands as a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Swami Vishudhanand, affectionately called Kali Kamli Wala due to his constant attire of a black blanket. Situated amidst the serene beauty of nature, by the banks of the revered Ganges River, this ashram is renowned as a hub for yoga and meditation. Visitors can seek tranquility through various religious practices, spiritual exercises, meditation sessions, holy chants, and arti ceremonies.

Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh

Jumpin Heights is a renowned extreme adventure destination in Rishikesh, offering an ideal experience for thrill-seekers looking to ignite their adrenaline rush. Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, and Giant Swing are among the exhilarating activities available amidst the pristine air and tranquil lush surroundings at the foothills of the majestic Himalayan mountain range.

Rishi Kund, Rishikesh

Rishi Kund, a natural hot spring pond, holds great significance as a sacred water body within the town. According to the belief, the pond was bestowed with water after a sage received blessings from River Yamuna. Additionally, locals hold the belief that Lord Rama himself bathed in this kund during his exile, and that the rivers Ganges and Yamuna converge at this very spot. Regardless of the legends, the pond exudes a tranquil atmosphere that is truly captivating.

Ram Jhula, Rishikesh

Ram Jhula, a renowned structure constructed in 1986, serves as a suspension bridge stretching across the holy River Ganga, linking Shivananda Nagar to Swargashram. This engineering marvel spans 750 feet, connecting the spiritual ashrams on either side of the river, providing a breathtaking aerial perspective of the majestic Ganges and the tranquil surroundings at the base of the Himalayas.

Piran Kaliyar Sharif, Rishikesh

The dargah of Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir, Piran Kaliyar Sharif, serves as the final resting place of the Sufi saint and is situated in Kaliyari village near Haridwar. This renowned shrine is known for its spiritual significance and serves as a symbol of religious harmony, attracting devotees from both Hindu and Muslim communities. Regarded as one of the prominent Muslim shrines in India, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Hindu population residing in the vicinity.

Omkarananda Ashram, Rishikesh

Established in 1993, the Patanjala Yoga Kendra yoga centre is situated in the serene Muni-ki-Reti area of Rishikesh tourist attractions. Nestled alongside the sacred waters of the Ganga, it offers a breathtaking view. The yoga taught at this center is Iyengar Yoga, which is led by the renowned Shri Guruji, B.K.S. Iyengar. Guruji’s approach is rooted in the rich Indian tradition of Yoga, emphasizing strength, stamina, flexibility, balance, concentration, and meditation. 

Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Rishikesh

Situated on the Kunjapuri hill, the Kunjapuri Devi temple is a sacred Hindu site devoted to Goddess Parvathi. In addition to being one of the fifty two Shakti Peeth in Uttarakhand, this sanctuary is renowned for its enchanting surroundings that provide a breathtaking panoramic vista of the Shivalik range and the magnificent peaks of Chaukhamba and Bandarpunch.

Raghunath Temple, Rishikesh

The Raghunath Temple, located close to the Triveni Ghat in the center of sites to visit in Rishikesh city in Uttarakhand, is a sacred Hindu temple. It is devoted to Lord Rama and Mata Sita, and is considered to be of great religious significance. Additionally, within the temple complex, there is a small pond known as Rishikund.

Check other places to visit in Uttarakhand

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rishikesh a hill station?
Rishikesh is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, making it a beautiful place surrounded by mountains . It’s a renowned center for yoga and spirituality and a pilgrimage destination for Hindus.

Is Rishikesh crowded now?
It’s likely Rishikesh visit places is experiencing a good number of visitors currently (June 22, 2024). June falls under the summer season in Rishikesh, which is a popular time for tourists, especially those from North India seeking cooler temperatures.

Is Rishikesh safe?
Yes, Rishikesh tourist spot is a safe destination suitable for all types of travelers, including women and foreign tourists. Visitors can freely explore the city even during late hours, also the locals are known for their warm and hospitable nature.

Is Rishikesh expensive?
Rishikesh and Haridwar differ in terms of cost, with Rishikesh tourist point being more expensive. However, individuals facing budget constraints can opt to stay in ashrams in either Rishikesh or Haridwar, as they are known for being very affordable.