A travel Guide to Rishikesh

Rishikesh Tourism

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand is often called the ‘Yoga capital of the world’ and is the ultimate hub for spirituality and peace. Rishikesh tours are filled with devotion and scenic beauty. The eternal Ganga flowing through the hills and leaving for the northern plains provides nourishment for the inhabitants of this lively little town.

Rishikesh tourist attractions are of a wide variety. Some spots are the perfect destinations to find one’s inner self and bask in the sacred environment, while some satisfy the tourist inside you with picturesque scenery and awe-inspiring structures. The place also offers many adventurous activities to make your stay exciting and fun. The city of Rishikesh is famous worldwide and has seen celebrities like the Beatles and Kate Winslet take a dip into the Ganges in the hope of attaining salvation.

To explore holiness and natural beauty at their best, Rishikesh India must be visited. Prior planning and booking hotels in Rishikesh are advisable.

Places to visit in Rishikesh

1. Laxman Jhula

The Laxman Jhula is one of the most popular hanging bridges found in Rishikesh. It is right at the top of the list of Rishikesh attractions. The significance of this 450 metres long bridge lies in the pages of Hindu Mythology. According to mythology, Lord Ram and Laxman had crossed the Ganga river through this junction with the help of two ropes. To praise this act of bravery and valour, the Laxman Jhula was built. People from all walks of life come here, walking through the narrow bridge to reach the other side. You will see a wide number of monkeys in the area.

2. Triveni Ghat

At the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarawati lies the Triveni Ghat. It is one of the most sacred bathing spots in the city and an important part of Rishikesh tourism. Throughout the year, the ghat is swarming with people, longing to take a dip in the holy waters in the hope of washing away sins. The ceremony of ‘Maha-Art’ is performed twice everyday where people attend with much devotion and enthusiasm. The devotees also release oil lamps on small boats, made with big leaves, out on the water, which makes for a picturesque view. These have made it one of the most desirable Rishikesh tourist places. The ambience around the Ghat, created by faithful devotees, smell the fresh flowers and the chants and mantras, is surreal.

3. Beatles Ashram

The world-famous rock band Beatles came to Rishikesh in 1968 and stayed in what is now called the Beatles Ashram. It has become one of the most famous Rishikesh attractions, especially amongst the fans of the iconic band. Locals, as well as people from all around, who are art lovers, history fanatics, or photography enthusiasts, visit this place religiously. The interior of the ashram is strikingly beautiful and it also houses a painting of the band members on one of the interior walls. With the overall refreshing environment and other attractions surrounding the structure, it is a must-visit.

4. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

One of the famous Rishikesh tourist places is the magnificent Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. This sacred pilgrim spot devoted to Lord Shiva is located at the height of 1330 meters amidst the green valleys and is surrounded by dense forests and mountains. The architecture is astounding, which is cause enough for the huge footfall around the temple. During the months of Shivratri, thousands of people come here to offer prayers to the lord. You can trek over to this splendid piece of architecture, with a side of picturesque views of valleys and mountains.

5. Tera Manzil Temple

Closeby to the Laxman Jhula, the Tera Manzil Temple is another architectural marvel that adorns Rishikesh tourism to a great extent. While other temples in the city have one big area with a particular god being worshipped, there are 13 different floors of sanctity with innumerable gods to worship. As you climb up each floor, your body will be filled with peace and calm in the sacred atmosphere. On the topmost floor, the grandiose views of the landscape make the trip worth it.

Things to do in Rishikesh

While the city is replete with religious and pilgrimage spots, it also offers tourists a variety of adventurous activities that are as good as you can find. Some of the many things to do in Rishikesh are:

Enrol in Yoga classes

Indulging in yoga is a must while being in the ‘Yoga Capital’ of the world. Yoga is one of those activities that make you stronger, physically and mentally. It provides the ultimate peace of mind and relaxation. Doing yoga under some of the best trainers is an integral part of Rishikesh tourism. There are some world-renowned yoga centres and places where you disconnect from the outside world and connect with your inner self.

Camp along the Ganges

Many people refer to Rishikesh as the ‘Camper’s delight’. There are several camping spots along the bank of the river Ganges. You get an opportunity to mix with nature while having a jolly good time with your friends and family. There are many other camping spots in the city. Some of the well-known operators in the area provide tourists with all the necessary gear and equipment to experience camping properly. So, any Rishikesh travel guide is incomplete without camping.

Freefall with the Giant Swing

Out of all the adventure sports and activities, the Giant Swing is one of the most sought-after Rishikesh attractions. The process involves tying oneself to a harness, jumping from a height and swinging in the air like a pendulum. This is perfect for all the thrill-seekers and those who thirst for an adrenaline rush. Note that the freefall is done under proper guidance and ensuring all safety measures.

Ride on a Hot-Air Balloon

In Rishikesh, you get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to float across the sky on a Hot-Air Balloon. This has become a very popular activity amongst adventure-seekers. Your Rishikesh travel guide will know the best places from where you can avail yourself of this great chance. Once afloat and at a height, you can treat your eyes to the heavenly scenery of the mountains and valleys below. It is a perfect opportunity to get away from all the noise in the city and just relish the skies of Rishikesh.

Best time to visit Rishikesh

The city has well-defined seasons that announce themselves quite clearly. During summer, the areas are quite warm and stuffy, the monsoon sees a significant amount of rainfall and while winter fills the landscape with snow and frost. Therefore the best time to visit Rishikesh depends on you and your motivation behind travelling. Decide the experience you want to have and plan your trip accordingly. Similarly, The best season to visit Rishikesh depends on the desired experience.

How to reach Rishikesh

Here are some tips and options that will answer your question, ‘How to reach Rishikesh’, in the easiest way possible.

By Air

The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun, which is approximately 35 km away from Rishikesh. While you might not get a direct flight to Rishikesh, you can take a flight to Dehradun and then take a bus or taxi to the city.

By Rail

Despite there being a station here, it is best advised to go to Haridwar as it is connected to most major cities. From here you can take a bus or a taxi that will take you to several in Rishikesh.

By Road

Rishikesh is very well-connected to all the major cities and parts of the country by the network of national highways. People tend to go for bus services while travelling on the road, as they are known to be comfortable and stress-free.