Rishikesh, the gateway to the Himalayas in India is often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” It is a blend of spiritual serenity and adventure. The city, along the banks of the infamous Ganges River attracts pilgrims, adventure enthusiasts, and curious travelers seeking tranquility.
Here’s a guide to some of the most awesome places in Rishikesh and its vicinity, how to get there (Delhi Rishikesh train is a good option), where to camp at Rishikesh, the best cafes and what to do while here.
Terminology to Understand the Best Places in Rishikesh
There are a few Hindu terms that may be foreign to you, so let us explain what each one means so that you can understand the differences between some of the names of the best places in Rishikesh to visit.
We will be talking about places in Rishikesh called Ghats. This term refers to the series of steps that lead down to a body of water or wharf, such as a bathing or cremation place along the banks of a river or a pond. Places in Rishikesh that are on the Ganges river are the most famous ghats in India.
And what is an Ashram? An Ashram (in Hindu religion) is a spiritual place like a monastery usually located in a secluded place in the mountains or gardens. They are places devoted to spiritual activities like yoga, meditation or learning.
Ganga Aarti is a term that is used a lot in the Hindu religion. So, what is it? Ganga Aarti, is a ceremony performed every morning and evening at Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Triveni Ghat (to name just a few).
As the sun sets, priests offer prayers and light candles to the sacred Ganges River. The evening ceremony starts at sunset and we highly recommend going to at least one.
Top Places in Rishikesh and Vicinity
There are tons of places in Rishikesh to visit and wander through. Nooks and crannies to find, especially cafes and shops dotted along the rivers where you can sit and enjoy a coffee or a cold pressed juice and watch everyday life float by.
In addition, places in Rishikesh vicinity also have a lot to offer, so we share many waterfalls and additional sacred places to visit along the way.
1. Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is the most famous ghat in Rishikesh, located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. It is a significant site for ritual baths and evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies, which draw both pilgrims and tourists.
Folks were holding on to chains (to not get swept away by the river) and lowering themselves into the water to purify their bodies and their souls. Sometimes this was a family event with even the beloved Golden Retriever participating in the festivities.
2. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
The Parmarth Niketan Ashram is the biggest ashram in Rishikesh offering 1000 rooms. It is located in a pretty garden right on the Ganges and is approximately 2 km away from the city centre (5 minutes via Dehradun Road).
Here you can stay for a period of time, visit a yoga class, meditate on the river or in the garden or witness one of the ashram’s famous Ganga Aarti rituals.
3. Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is a famous pedestrian suspension bridge which was built in 1986 to span the 2 sides of the Ganges River, connecting the Sivananda Ashram with Swarg Ashram. It is one of the top Rishikesh places to visit to watch the river float by – especially at sunset.
4. Janki Setu Bridge
Janki Setu, also known as the Lakshman Jhula, is another pedestrian suspension bridge that spans the sacred Ganges River. This vibrant yellow bridge, has great views of the surrounding landscapes and temples.
It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists who enjoy the gentle sway of the bridge and the serene atmosphere. The bridge is named after Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, also known as Janki, and is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama crossed the river with the help of his brother Lakshman.
5. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya)
Located near Ram Jhula, the Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutiya, gained fame when The Beatles visited in 1968. They stayed here to study meditation, and the ashram has since become famous for fans and spiritual seekers.
However, in our opinion, this is not one of the top Rishikesh places to visit unless you are a die hard Beatles fan. You see, the site was abandoned through the years and is just coming back to life. The cost is pretty hefty as well (about $7 USD per person).
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Situated about 12 km from Rishikesh, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is set amidst dense forest and is a significant pilgrimage site. It is believed that this is the spot where the Hindu deity Shiva consumed poison from the sea to save the world (that is why her throat is blue).
7. Vashishta Gufa
Vashishta Gufa (gufa means cave in HIndi) is a cave located on the banks of the Ganges River, approximately 25 km from Rishikesh. It is believed to be the meditation spot of Sage Vashishta. It is a quiet place where you can come and meditate and just relax.
This is one of the holiest of places in Rishikesh, so if you are into that kind of thing and like to meditate on a river bank in a cave, then you will not be disappointed.
8. Laxman Jhula Bridge
You may have heard about the Laxman Jhula, which is another famous 450-foot-long iron suspension bridge spanning the Ganges River. It used to connect the Tapovan area in the Tehri Garhwal district with the Jonk area in the Pauri Garhwal district.
Unfortunately in 2025, some structural issues are being repaired and it is closed. A new pedestrian bridge is being built next to the Laxman Jhula which should open sometime in 2026.
You can still see the older legacy bridge from the rooftops of the nearby cafes.
Top Waterfalls & Safaris Near Rishikesh
1. Neer Garh Waterfall
Located around 6 km from Rishikesh, Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the best places in Rishikesh to be when it is hot. It requires a short (yet very steep) trek, making it a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and there are numerous pools where you can stop to take a dip before continuing to the higher levels of the waterfall. As you continue to climb higher and higher, the trail gets steeper and steeper and narrower.
The cool water in the pools make up for the climb. Just keep in mind that this area is already at elevation, so if you are coming from zero altitude, climbing here does become a bit more difficult. As I was recovering from food poisoning, every step was painful!
2. Rajaji National Park – Kunjapuri Waterfalls & Wildlife Safari
Rajaji National Park, located about 10 km from Rishikesh, is home to several small but beautiful waterfalls, including the famous Kunjapuri Waterfall. The park itself is known for its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife including tigers, elephants, lepard, peacock, jacals and deer. You may be lucky to see some of these animals during a Jungle Jeep Safari in the Rajaji National Park.
The waterfalls are located in the middle of dense greenery, adding to the overall charm of the area. Visitors can explore the park, spot wildlife, and take in the natural beauty surrounding the waterfalls. It is also a popular spot for trekking, so if you’re into outdoor activities, this is a great option.
To get to the waterfalls, visitors can either drive or trek. The journey starts in Rishikesh with a drive to the village of Hindolakhal. The closest major landmark is Kunjapuri Temple, which is easily accessible by road.
From Hindolakhal, it’s a moderately challenging 1.5 to 2 kilometer trek through thick forest, beautiful trails, and rough terrain. As you trek you will have some good views of the Himalayan foothills, the Ganges River, and the surrounding valleys – making the journey itself just as enjoyable as the waterfall.
3. Garud Chatti Waterfall
One of the best off the beaten path Rishikesh places to visit is just 5 km from town. Garud Chatti Waterfall is a tranquil spot that requires a short walk to get to. There is a refreshing pool of water to dip into and cool off.
4. Patna Waterfall
Patna Waterfalls is located 12 km east of town and is one of the best places in Rishikesh to visit, especially if you want to cool off. The falls are 12 meters (40 ft) tall and come down in tiers into a pool below. The trek up is a bit of a slippery grind and does take about 30 minutes to get there.
Adventure Activities Near Rishikesh
Rishikesh is also known for its adventure activities, particularly white-water rafting and bungee jumping. For the white-water rafting piece – yes please for me! However, for those who know me, know that I stay far away from things like bungee jumping!
Therefore our recommendation for the bungee jumping operator is well researched and is based on reviews from our friends, fellow travelers and good ole Mr. Google! Because safety is of utmost importance when it comes to these kinds of activities.
In addition, we include river rafting and bungee jumping in Rishikesh price below.
White-Water Rafting in Rishikesh Price (included)
The Ganges River offers moderate rapids suitable for anyone who wants to participate. Thankfully, there is minimal risk at Rishikesh as most rapids are less than grade 3. The only one that is ranked a 4 is “The Wall” and is at Koudiyala, about 35 Kms from Rishikesh.
The best stretch for river rafting on the Ganges is from Marine Drive untill Laxman Jhula. The rafting season typically runs from September to June. Below are some quality operators in the region:
River Rain Adventure is a company that provides river rafting along the Ganges through famous places in Rishikesh in a fun way. 9 km of rafting is about $7 USD and 26 km is about $14 USD.
Rishikesh River Rafting & Camping – LG Adventure is another organization that provides quality river rafting that is fun and safe showing off places in Rishikesh along the Ganges river.
Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh Price (included)
For adrenaline seekers, Rishikesh offers bungee jumping experiences. One of the prominent operators with a good safety record is Jumpin Heights, located in Mohan Chatti, about 22 km from Rishikesh. The bungee jumping in Rishikesh price is included below.
They offer jumps from a platform at a height of 83 meters (272 feet). The cost of a single bungee jump is approximately $43 USD per person, which includes basic amenities. There is also the option of a Giant Swing for the same price of about $43 USD per person. In addition, you can do a combo of a Bungee jump + Giant Swing for about $75 USD per person.
Top Camping Accommodations – Camp at Rishikesh
There are so many different options for accommodations in the area, but you can also camp at Rishikesh in luxury glamping style tents all the way to the most basic budget ones.
Camping along the Ganges offers a really unique experience, but with so many options it is confusing to choose where to camp at Rishikesh. Here are some top-rated recommendations:
Camp Brook – Luxury Camp at Rishikesh: Offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities (like air conditioning and wifi). Personally I would not call this luxury accommodations, however the tents are clean and comfortable. They are set iin a serene lush area with great staff.
Adventure Guru- 3 star Camp at Rishikesh: This is a moderate/3 star accommodation that has 3 levels of camping. They are also a good white water rafting tour operator, so you can combine your stay with a ride down the Ganges as well.
Rishikesh Camp: This woman owned camp is set on the river with great views and sounds of the rushing water. The accommodations are clean and great for someone on a budget. There is also great food offered on site.
Now, if you have some extra night credits or points at a Hyatt, then one of our favorite places in Rishikesh vicinity was the Hyatt Regency Dehradun Resort & Spa. Having Globalist Status with Hyatt may have had something to do with that… However, we were pampered above and beyond – the service was truly over the top. (This was not where I got sick).
Top Cafes in Rishikesh
Boy did we ever get spoiled by the choices of fun cafes in Rishikesh. What we loved most was finding a cafe with a rooftop or a spot overlooking the Ganges. Our recommended places have great coffee, cold pressed juices and an abundance of food choices including many vegan options. Just heaven for me!
Hungry Bird Cafe Rishikesh: This cafe is almost hidden in an unasuming street, but the flavors that it delivers are amazing. The momos are fabulous as is the coffee!
Shivani’s Cafe: Shivani’s is one of the cafes in Rishikesh that we just kept on coming back to! They offer a mix of Indian and continental dishes with a focus on healthy options in an uber zen space. If you haven’t tried the ginger and garlic soup – you have not lived!
The Sitting Elephant – A Rooftop Restaurant Overlooking River Ganga offering everything from traditional Indian dishes to pizzas, coffees and smoothies. A lovely place to kick back and watch life go by below on the Ganga river.
Top Massage Centers in Rishikesh
After a day of exploring or engaging in adventure activities, a relaxing massage can be the perfect way to unwind. Here are some of the top-rated massage places in Rishikesh:
- Ananda in the Himalayas:
This luxury spa is known for its serene environment and exceptional wellness treatments. It’s one of the top wellness centers in India, located just outside Rishikesh in the foothills of the Himalayas. Treatments include Ayurvedic massages, yoga therapy, and spa packages. - Prana Spa & Ayurveda: Located in the heart of Rishikesh, this center specializes in Ayurvedic therapies and massages. It’s perfect for travelers who seek rejuvenation with natural, healing methods. Their signature Ayurvedic massage treatments help with detoxification and relaxation. This one is my top pick!
- Prakriti Vedic Sba: This spa provides Ayurvedic and deep tissue massages. Try the Ayurvedic facial – it provides great results for the face. Prakriti is a good spot to unwind after a long day of adventure.
Traveling from Delhi to Rishikesh Train, Air, Bus and Taxi
Rishikesh is well-connected to Delhi, offering multiple travel options:
By Train: Delhi to Rishikesh Train (and back) has various starting stations in Delhi (such as New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin) that connect to Rishikesh Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours. However, there is an express Delhi to Rishikesh train that only takes 4 hours and 10 minutes. You can find tickets and times here.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km from Rishikesh. Regular flights operate from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Dehradun. From Dehradun, taxis and buses are available to Rishikesh (for around $5 USD). Alliance Air, Indigo and Air India Express all fly in and out of here.
Keep in mind that this airport is in the mountains and can be affected by weather. Our flight on Alliance Air was cancelled. We were not notified and just stumbled on the cancellation. So we booked another ticket on Air India Express. This flight was delayed by 3 hours making us miss our international connection. We wished we had caught a cab, train or bus and arrived on time!
By Bus:
Several private and government buses operate daily from Delhi to Rishikesh, with options ranging from standard to Volvo coaches. The journey typically takes around 6-7 hours. However, there is a bus that only takes 4.5 hours. You can find tickets at redbus.in.
By Taxi:
For a more comfortable and direct route, taxis are available from Delhi to Rishikesh. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic, and provides a more flexible option for folks who prefer a private ride.
Wrap Up – Amazing Places in Rishikesh
Whether you’re visiting Rishikesh for the spiritual journey, adventure activities, or a relaxing retreat, there is something for everyone in this laid back and at times frenetic town. The best places in Rishikesh offer a cool mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and exhilarating activities.
From bungee jumping to yoga retreats, and from beautiful temples to peaceful riverbanks, so many places in Rishikesh offer both adventure and serenity in one destination.
As an aside, the last time that we visited India, we were supposed to come to Rishikesh for a week. However Rob got food poisoning in Delhi and we were grounded there for a full week.
This time we were so careful about where we ate during our month in India. And all the places in Kerala and Rajasthan proved to be safe for me (Rob did get a bit of the poison from a tandoori chicken along the way – but it only lasted a day).
However, coming to one of the 5 star resorts in Rishikesh, I got food poisoning on day 1, which lasted 5 days. Oh well, just proves that we have to be vigilant wherever we go!
Have you been to these parts? What is one of your favorite places in Rishikesh? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
