Rishikesh

India, Asia

Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, is renowned for its serene riverside setting along the Ganges, lush green hills, and spiritual ashrams. It's a hub for adventure seekers and spiritual seekers alike, offering thrilling activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping, alongside yoga retreats and meditation workshops. Its stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture make it a perfect blend of peace and adventure, appealing to both the spiritual traveler and the thrill-seeker.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Dehradun

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Rishikesh

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend Ganga Aarti

Witness a mesmerizing evening prayer ritual at the Ganges.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

White-water Rafting

Experience thrilling rapids on the Ganges river.

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Yoga Retreat

Join serene classes overlooking the sacred river.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Laxman Jhula

Explore the iconic suspension bridge over Ganges.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Neer Garh Waterfall

Hike to a picturesque waterfall for a refreshing dip.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Paragliding in Rishikesh

Soar above the hills and river for breathtaking views.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Beatles Ashram

Discover the tranquil site where the Beatles meditated.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Cooking Class

Learn to make delicious Indian dishes with local chefs.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Tera Manzil Temple

Explore the unique 13-story temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Bicycle Tour

Cycle through scenic paths along the Ganges and hills.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Swarg Ashram

Experience the spiritual vibes in this peaceful ashram.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Meditation Session

Enhance your peace of mind with guided meditation.

No booking required
13

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Ram Jhula

Cross this iconic bridge and enjoy stunning views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~7-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Indian Rupee

Majority religion

Hindu

Language

Hindi

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Khichdi

VE

A comforting rice and lentil dish. (National dish)

Biryani

A fragrant rice dish with meat or vegetables.

Butter Chicken

Creamy tomato curry with marinated chicken.

Masala Dosa

V

Crispy rice crepe filled with spiced potatoes.

Chaat

VE

Savory snacks with various toppings and chutneys.

Phrases to learn

English

Hindi

Hello

Namaste

(Nah-mah-stay)

Yes/No

Haan / Nahin

(Haan / Na-heen)

Thank you

Dhanyavaad

(Dahn-yah-vaad)

Excuse me

Maaf kijiye

(Mahf kee-jee-yeh)

How much?

Kitna?

(Keet-na)