5 Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh – The Yoga Capital of the World
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is one of India’s most spiritual and adventurous destinations. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, it attracts travelers looking for peace, adventure, and spirituality. The city is home to ancient temples, breathtaking river views, thrilling adventure sports, and vibrant markets.
Here are the 5 best places to visit in Rishikesh for an unforgettable experience.
1. Laxman Jhula – The Iconic Suspension Bridge

Laxman Jhula is a 450-foot-long iron suspension bridge that stretches across the Ganges River. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Laxman (brother of Lord Rama) crossed the river on a jute rope, and later, this bridge was constructed in his honor.
Distance and Travel Time:
- From Rishikesh Railway Station: 4 km
-
- By Car: 10-15 minutes
- By Bus: No direct buses, auto-rickshaws are an alternative
- From Delhi: 250 km
-
- By Car: 6-7 hours
- By Train: 5 hours (Dehradun Shatabdi) + 30-minute cab ride
- By Bus: 7-8 hours (direct buses available)
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March offers the best weather for sightseeing and photography.
Food Facilities:
- Little Buddha Café: Best for continental and Indian cuisine with river views.
- Ganga View Café: Serves delicious pancakes, pasta, and herbal teas.
Activities:
- Walk across the bridge for stunning panoramic views of the Ganges.
- Visit Tera Manzil Temple, a 13-story Hindu temple nearby.
- Feed the fish in the river below.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Aloha on the Ganges, Taj Rishikesh Resort
- Mid-Range: Hotel Ganga Kinare, Divine Resort
- Budget: Zostel Rishikesh, Moustache Hostel
Time to Spend:
- 1-2 hours to explore the bridge, nearby cafes, and temples.
Shopping:
- Buy handmade jewelry, rudraksha beads, books on yoga, and spiritual souvenirs from local markets near the bridge.
Photography:
- Capture the sunrise and sunset over the Ganges.
- Get amazing aerial shots of the bridge from surrounding viewpoints.
- Take long-exposure shots of the flowing river at night for a mystical effect.
Stay Duration:
- A 2-day stay is ideal to explore Laxman Jhula, nearby temples, and markets.
Pro Tip:
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk.
2. Triveni Ghat – The Spiritual Heart of Rishikesh

Triveni Ghat is the most sacred bathing ghat in Rishikesh, where the Ganga Aarti (evening prayer ceremony) is performed daily. Pilgrims believe that taking a holy dip here cleanses them of sins.
Distance and Travel Time:
- From Laxman Jhula: 5 km
- By Car: 15 minutes
- By Auto-Rickshaw: 20 minutes
Best Time to Visit:
- Sunrise and sunset for the Ganga Aarti experience.
Food Facilities:
- Chotiwala Restaurant: Famous for North Indian thalis and sweets.
- Rajasthani Sweets: Best place for local desserts like Malpua and Jalebi.
Activities:
- Witness the Ganga Aarti at sunset.
- Feed the fish and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
- Meditate by the river in a peaceful setting.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Ananda in the Himalayas
- Mid-Range: Ganga Kinare Boutique Hotel
- Budget: Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Time to Spend:
- A 2-hour visit is enough to experience the evening Aarti and explore the ghat.
Shopping:
- Triveni Ghat’s market offers prayer beads, incense sticks, and spiritual books at affordable prices.
Photography:
- Capture the floating diyas (lamps) on the river during the Aarti.
- Take long-exposure shots of the fire rituals.
Stay Duration:
- A 2-hour visit is enough to experience the ghat.
Pro Tip:
- Arrive 30 minutes early to find a good spot for the Aarti.
3. Neer Garh Waterfall – A Hidden Gem

Neer Garh Waterfall is a serene natural waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Distance and Travel Time:
- From Laxman Jhula: 6 km
- By Car: 20 minutes
- By Trek: 30-40 minutes
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March when the water flow is strong.
Food Facilities:
- Small cafes near the waterfall serve Maggi, chai, and sandwiches.
Activities:
- Trekking through the lush green forest.
- Take a dip in the waterfall pools.
Accommodation:
- Best option is to stay near Laxman Jhula or Tapovan.
Time to Spend:
- Half-day trip for trekking and relaxation.
Shopping:
- No shopping options nearby, but markets in Rishikesh sell organic skincare and handmade crafts.
Photography:
- Capture the water cascading down the rocks.
- Get wide-angle shots of the surrounding hills.
Stay Duration:
- Half-day visit for trekking and swimming.
Pro Tip:
- Wear good trekking shoes, as the trail can be slippery.
4. Shivpuri – The Adventure Hub of Rishikesh

Shivpuri, located 16 km from Rishikesh, is the ultimate destination for adventure lovers. Famous for white-water rafting, camping, bungee jumping, and trekking, it is a paradise for thrill-seekers. Nestled along the banks of the Ganges, Shivpuri is the best place to experience the natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities Rishikesh has to offer.
Distance and Travel Time:
- From Rishikesh: 16 km
-
- By Car: 30 minutes
- By Bus: 40 minutes (buses are available but not frequent)
- By Train: Not directly accessible; nearest railway station is Rishikesh
- From Delhi: 265 km
-
- By Car: 6-7 hours
- By Train: 5 hours (Dehradun Shatabdi) + 45-minute drive
- By Bus: 7-8 hours (direct buses available)
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June is the best time for adventure sports.
- Avoid monsoon season (July to September) as rafting and trekking can be dangerous due to high water levels.
Food Facilities:
- Shivpuri Camping Resorts serve simple and delicious North Indian meals.
- Small cafes and food stalls offer Maggi, tea, parathas, and snacks.
- Organic food cafes serve fresh juices and vegetarian meals.
Activities:
- River Rafting: Experience Grade I to IV rapids on the Ganges.
- Bungee Jumping: India’s highest bungee jump (83m).
- Camping & Bonfire: Stay overnight in nature with live music.
- Kayaking & Cliff Jumping: Ideal for adventure seekers.
- Trekking: Explore nearby waterfalls and forest trails.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Ganga Beach Camp, Atali Ganga
- Mid-Range: Camp Wildex
- Budget: Tents and eco-lodges by the riverside
Time to Spend:
- A 1-2 day stay is recommended for a complete adventure experience.
Shopping:
- Limited shopping options, but nearby Rishikesh markets offer outdoor gear, yoga mats, and trekking essentials.
Photography:
- Capture action shots of river rafting and bungee jumping.
- Take slow shutter speed shots of flowing rapids for a cinematic effect.
- Sunrise and sunset over the campsites by the Ganges make stunning pictures.
- Drone shots (where permitted) of the white-water rafting experience look breathtaking.
Stay Duration:
- A 1-2 day stay is ideal to experience multiple adventure activities.
Pro Tip:
- Book rafting and bungee jumping in advance, as slots fill up quickly in peak season.
- Carry waterproof gear for rafting and adventure activities.
5. Beatles Ashram – A Must-Visit for Music Lovers

The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is an abandoned meditation retreat where The Beatles stayed in 1968 and composed many of their famous songs. This ashram, surrounded by nature, is now a graffiti-covered, artistic wonderland, making it a must-visit for music lovers, history buffs, and photographers.
Distance and Travel Time:
- From Laxman Jhula: 3 km
-
- By Car: 10 minutes
- By Auto-Rickshaw: 15 minutes
- By Foot: 30-40 minutes walk through scenic trails
- From Delhi: 250 km
-
- By Car: 6-7 hours
- By Train: 5 hours (Dehradun Shatabdi) + 30-minute cab ride
- By Bus: 7-8 hours (direct buses available)
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March for the best weather and a peaceful experience.
Food Facilities:
- The 60’s Café: A Beatles-themed café serving delicious Italian and Indian dishes.
- Ramana’s Garden Organic Café: Famous for organic vegetarian meals.
- Small vendors outside the ashram sell tea, coffee, and snacks.
Activities:
- Explore abandoned meditation huts covered in colorful graffiti.
- Visit the meditation domes and old yoga halls.
- Listen to The Beatles’ music while soaking in the history of the place.
- Attend meditation or yoga workshops (held occasionally).
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Glasshouse on the Ganges, Aloha on the Ganges
- Mid-Range: Green Hills Cottage, Divine Ganga Cottage
- Budget: Backpacker hostels and guesthouses near the ashram
Time to Spend:
- A 2-3 hour visit is enough to explore the ashram, take photos, and relax in its peaceful surroundings.
Shopping:
- The ashram itself doesn’t have a shopping area, but nearby Rishikesh markets offer Beatles-themed souvenirs, T-shirts, and books.
Photography:
- The graffiti art on the meditation domes makes for unique pictures.
- Capture wide-angle shots of the abandoned huts surrounded by nature.
- Creative street photography opportunities with colorful walls and Beatles-themed artwork.
- Aerial shots (with permission) provide breathtaking perspectives of the ashram ruins in the jungle.
Stay Duration:
- A half-day visit is ideal to explore the ashram and its surroundings.
Pro Tip:
- Carry a sketchbook or journal—many visitors find this place inspiring for art and creativity.
- Bring a flashlight if visiting later in the day, as some parts of the ashram are dimly lit.
Conclusion
Rishikesh is a perfect combination of spiritualty, experience, and nature. Whether you’re seeking peace, yoga, trekking, or thrilling water sports, this city has it all. A 3-4 day trip is ideal for experiencing the best of Rishikesh.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
October to March is the best season for sightseeing and adventure activities.
2. How many days are enough for Rishikesh?
A 3-4 day trip is ideal for covering temples, adventure, and meditation retreats.
3. Can beginners try river rafting in Rishikesh?
Yes! Rafting in Rishikesh is available for beginners with expert guides.
4. Is Rishikesh safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Rishikesh is one of the safest cities for solo travelers.
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