Top 14 Places to Visit in Rishikesh to Seek Harmony & Solace

Rishikesh is a blend of two completely different worlds, combining tranquil beauty with amazing architectural feats, enormous temples, and an endless list of adventure sports. There are many attractions in Rishikesh for everyone, including revitalizing meditation session, the crowded but magnificent Ganga aarti, and the thrilling river rafting. Picking places to visit around here is never an easy task because of the diversity. Check out the best 10 places to visit in Rishikesh that will aid in your travel planning from among all the wonders it has.

Top 14 Places to Visit in Rishikesh: The Ideal Fusion of Nature, Adventure, and Spirituality

Rishikesh offers breathtaking views of hills covered in vegetation. The mighty river Ganges, which rushes past the city of Rishikesh, is the city's most magnificent attraction. Rishikesh is a sacred city with numerous ashrams and is well-known for its yoga all over the world. Today, Rishikesh is known across the world as the “Yoga Capital”.

Triveni Ghat
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Laxman Jhula
Shiv Puri
Neer Garh Waterfall
Ram Jhula
Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Trayambakeshwar Temple
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Beatles Ashram
Rishikund
Byasi
Muni Ki Reti
Kaudiyala

1. Triveni Ghat: Nature’s Unparallel Beauty

The largest ghat in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat. This ghat is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh, which is close to the main market, and offers stunning views of the river and mountains. The name comes from the idea that three rivers the Yamuna, the fabled Saraswati, and the Ganges are converging here. Ghat is a set of steps that allows people to access the river for sacred bathing. At the ghat, in the evening a daily Ganges ceremony (Ganga Aarti) is held. This is a lovely location to relax on the riverbank and must place to visit in November for the perfect ambience.

Famous for: Spiritual Ganga aarti, meditation on the riverbank, sacred bath in holy Ganga

Timings: 9m to 8 pm

Best Time to Visit: October to April

How to Reach: Only 1.5 kilometers separate Triveni Ghat from the Rishikesh railway station. It would take about 30 minutes to walk, or you can hire a taxi or auto to reach Ghat

2. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: The Sacred Epitome of Salvation

The temple, which honors Lord Shiva, is a well-known Hindu pilgrimage destination which is considered as a main attraction in India, located 31 kilometers from Rishikesh. The most important festival observed in the temple is Maha Shivaratri, when many worshippers visit here. One of the most well-known temples dedicated to Lord Shiva is Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, which is located above Swarga ashram and next to the Nar Narayan Mountain range.

Famous for: Devotional offerings to lord shiva

Best Time to Visit: mid-July to mid-August

Timings: 5am to 6pm

How to Reach: Nearest station Rishikesh railway station from there you can hire a car/ taxi to reach this mystical temple

3. Laxman Jhula: The Iconic Landmark of Rishikesh

Rishikesh is not just about religious beliefs, ghats, or temples. This old city also has some amazing architectural wonders! One such bridge is the Lakshman Jhula, which is another among the must-see attractions and another best place to visit in Rishikesh. Lakshman Jhula is a renowned iron bridge with suspensions that crosses the Ganga within Rishikesh. The 450-foot-long bridge joins the Pauri and Tehri districts. A panoramic view of temple-filled city and the Ganges River can be seen from Lakshman Jhula .Since Lord Lakshman is thought to have crossed the Ganga at this location, it is well-known among tourists.

Famous for: Witnessing the fascinating waves of Ganga

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year but October to April is suggested as best time

Timings: Any time during the day as per your convenience

How to Reach: Nearest railway station to reach Laxman jhula is Rishikesh railway station. You can also take direct buses or can reach Rishikesh by road

4. Shiv Puri: The Core of River Rafting

The home of Lord Shiva, Shivpuri and one of the most popular tourist attractions, is situated on the Ganges riverbank 17 kilometers from Rishikesh. It is a picturesque town in Uttarakhand, well-known for its adventurous pursuits. The most popular activities in Shivpuri are river rafting, jungle walks, mountaineering, jungle hiking, and camping. which has some of the Ganges River's most picturesque. One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is enjoying shiv puri river rafting activities with breathtaking surroundings of Himalayan range. River rafting in Shiv puri is one of the best things to do in India.

Famous for: River rafting, jungle trekking, kayaking, bonfire camping, zip lining etc.

Best Time to Visit: February to April months and from mid-September to mid-November

Timings: Morning and afternoon shift

How to Reach: Nearest railway station to reach Shivpuri is Rishikesh railway station

5. Neer Garh Waterfall: Melody with Pace of Nature

This beautiful waterfall has two bridges and a few resting places with numerous varieties of butterflies that flit among the wildflowers make it very lovely. This waterfall is one of the hidden places to visit in Rishikesh and close to a short walk. The water's naturally occurring jagged cliffs is considered as soothing. It involves a combination of ascending treks and trails along the Ganges riverbank to reach Neer Garh waterfall. Additionally, you can interact with the locals by having tea with them. Neer Garh waterfalls is one of the particular places to visit in India in the summer to take baths in the stream's refreshing water.

Famous for: Trek to the waterfall, bird watching, Picnicking

Best Time to Visit: Post monsoon for amazing view of waterfall

Timings: 8am to 6pm

How to Reach: You can either hire a car to drop you off at the waterfall entrance point and hike the final 1 km through the forest, or you can trek the entire 5 km from Laxman Bridge in Rishikesh town.

6. Ram Jhula: Soak a Panoromic View of Holy River Ganga

Ram Jhula, another architectural wonder in the nation's capital of yoga, is a significant monument and a popular tourist destination in Rishikesh. This 450-foot suspension bridge, which connects the Ganges Riverbanks with the Shivananda and Swarga ashrams at both ends, is just 3 kilometers from the city's center. Viewing the holy city of Rishikesh from the bridge itself while it is surrounded by the river and towering mountains is one of the most unforgettable experiences you may have at the Ram Jhula.

Famous for: Views and activities around the bridge

Best Time to Visit: Between February to May

Timings: open 24 hours

How to Reach: Nearest domestic airport is jolly Grant

7. Kunjapuri Devi Temple: Seek the Blessings of Goddess Sati

One of the most cherished Shakti Peeths of Goddess Shakti in the Garhwal Himalayas is Kunjapuri Devi Temple. This historic temple is situated at a height of roughly 1600 meters. The beauty of this location is that from the same hill, you can view both the Ganges River and the snow-covered Himalayas. This location is well-known for its stunning sunrise views, which feature the Sun rising from behind the Himalayan peaks. This scene is ideal for solitary retreats, yoga, and meditation.

Famous for: Religious observations and worshipping

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Timings: 6am to 6pm

How to Reach: The nearest railway station to reach this temple is Rishikesh. From there book a cab to reach this ancient temple.

8. Trayambakeshwar Temple: Majestic Temple with Architectural Grandeur

Tera Manzil Temple is a well-known landmark and a multi-Storey temple situated on the banks of the Ganga near Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh. The Rishikesh Shiva temple, sometimes referred to as the Tera Manzil Temple and another top attractions in India, was built as Lord Shiva's residence and is regarded as one of the numerous Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Inside this 13-story Trayambakeshwar temple, one can see the exquisite patterns and architectural brilliance on the walls and idols. It is one of the Rishikesh temples that you must visit as it is thought to be older than 400 years.

Famous for: Precious gemstones, handicraft items, sunset view

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Timings: 6am to 7pm

How to Reach: Located near Laxman jhula, you can reach temple by walking from jhula.To reach Laxman jhula the nearest railway station is Rishikesh

9. Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Seek Rejuvenation at the Bank of Ganges

A wonderful spiritual retreat and a must place to visit in Uttarakhand, Parmarth Niketan is located on the revered banks of Mother Ganga in the beautiful Himalayas. It is the largest ashram in Rishikesh and provides the hundreds of pilgrims that visit with a clean, pure, and religious environment as well as an abundance of stunning flora. Near the banks of the revered Ganges River at Swargashram is where you'll find Parmarth Niketan.

Famous for: Hawans and Ganga aarti on ghats of Parmarth and Ayurvedic treatment

Best Time to Visit: Late September to November

Timings: 9am to 8pm

How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Rishikesh auto and rickshaws are available from station. You can also opt for boating to cross the Ganges to reach the ashram

10. Beatles Ashram: Tranquilize Yourself from Within

Beatles Ashram, formerly Chaurasi Kutia, is a well-known ashram situated in Rishikesh, state of Uttarakhand adjacent to the city of Rishikesh in northern India. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas on the Ganges river's eastern bank, across from Rishikesh's Muni Ki Reti. Locals and tourists alike visit the Beatles Ashram, with the majority of visitors being fans of the band is this place is now emerging as one of the popular attractions in India. The area typically draws history historians, adventurers, peace and tranquilly seekers, nature lovers, photography aficionados, and meditation enthusiasts.

Famous for: Photography, meditation paintings

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Timings: 10am to 4pm

How to Reach: It is accessible by road, train, and air all at the same time. The final few km to the Ashram must be travelled on road even if you are travelling by rail or by air.

11. Rishikund

The gorgeous town of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India is home to the sacred and tranquil Rishikund Pond, which is tucked away in the shadow of the mighty Himalayas. Rishikund, which is literally known as "Sage's Pond," is very important to both residents and pilgrims in terms of culture and religion. According to legend, Rishikund was constructed by the touch of the sage Kubz, who came here to carry out extreme penance to obtain the gods' graces. It's believed that taking a dip in Rishikund's pristine blues helps atone for sins and purify the soul. Rishikund, surrounded by towering mountains and abundant flora, is a favorite destination for nature lovers, yoga enthusiasts, and spiritual searchers because of its serene and meditative atmosphere, making it one of the ideal places to visit in Rishikesh.

Famous for: Sacred water, spiritual significance

Best Time to Visit: September to November & February to April

Timings: 24 hours

How to Reach: Since Rishikund is in the heart of Rishikesh, in proximity to Raghunath Temple. It is easily accessible by sharing auto or rickshaw.

12. Byasi

Byasi, which is well-known for its amazing natural beauty and exhilarating outdoor activities, is the ideal getaway spot for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Byasi, which is situated alongside the magnificent Ganges River, enthralls tourists with its tranquil atmosphere and tranquil surroundings. The verdant surroundings, gushing waterfalls, and expansive vistas of the Himalayan peaks provide an amazing setting for life-changing events. Adventure enthusiasts venture around Byasi because of its abundance of heart-pounding activities. There's plenty of thrills to be had here, from white-water rafting and kayaking in the foamy Ganges rapids to cliff leaping and bungee jumping against picturesque backdrops. Trails, camping, and birding are offered in Byasi for anyone looking to get closer to the natural world, making it one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand.

Famous for: Rafting, Camping

Best Time to Visit: September to November & March to May

Timings: N/A

How to Reach: Since Byasi is located 30 kilometers from Rishikesh, the best way to reach the desired destination is either hire a taxi or bus from Rishikesh.

13. Muni Ki Reti

Muni Ki Reti, near Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India, is a calm and spiritually charged place perched on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Muni Ki Reti, well-known for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, provides a pleasant haven from the bustle of the city. The famous Ram Jhula suspension bridge, which crosses the Ganges and provides expansive views of the river and the surrounding hills, is one of Muni Ki Reti's main attractions. This architectural wonder draws pilgrims and visitors alike as a spiritual icon, making it one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh. Muni Ki Reti is a popular destination for spiritual searchers from all over the world since it is also the location of several ashrams, yoga institutes, and meditation retreats. Experience the traditional Hindu traditions in a calm and caring setting, attend spiritual talks, and take part in yoga and meditation workshops.

Famous for: Temples, Yoga centers, Ashrams

Best Time to Visit: February to June & September to December

Timings: 12 a.m. to 11.59 p.m.

How to Reach: Since Muni ki Reti is in the center of the city, one can reach this destination by sharing an auto. You can even directly hire a cab from your hotel to the desired destination.

14. Kaudiyala

The charming Kaudiyala hamlet is located just upstream from Rishikesh, in the lush Himalayan foothills, perched on the holy Ganges River. Kaudiyala, renowned for its untouched beauty and exhilarating river experiences, is a picturesque haven for nature lovers. Enormous trees, luxuriant vegetation, and tumbling waterfalls provide a breathtaking setting for treasured moments. Kaudiyala is a popular destination for adventure seekers because of its thrilling water activities, especially white-water rafting. Beyond the surge of adrenaline, Kaudiyala invites visitors to savor the peace and quiet of the natural world. One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is to take up hiking routes meandering through thick forests, providing sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and glimpses of unusual species.

Famous for: White River rafting & Camping

Best Time to Visit: March to June & September to November

Timings: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How to Reach: Since Kaudiyala is located 40 kilometers from Rishikesh, the best way to reach the desired destination is either hire a taxi or bus from Rishikesh.

Curious about all? Plan a trip to experience these best places to visit in Rishikesh temples as well as its fascinating history for a hassle-free vacation! A pleasant trip with your friends or family can be experienced through engaging in all of these activities. It is time to make plans for an adventurous Rishikesh tour packages. So, when are you travelling to this place of adventure and religion? Offering breathtaking views of hills covered in vegetation, numerous ashrams and more, Rishikesh must be the next destination to check off on your bucket list.

FAQs

Q1. What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?

While a place like Rishikesh can be visited all year round, the best time to go is between the months of September and November or March and May as the weather is very good and ideal for going out and engaging in enjoyable activities at this time.

Q2. Which are the best spiritual places to visit in Rishikesh?

Some of the best spiritual places are:

Triveni Ghat
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Parmarth Niketan ashram
Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Tera Manzil Temple

Q3. What are the best things to do in Rishikesh?

You can do following things in Rishikesh:

Visit Laxman Jhula
Take a dip at Triveni Ghat
See Neergarh Waterfall
Try adventure sports like, river rafting and camping

Q4. How many days are enough to explore this beautiful land Rishikesh?

A total of 4 days is suggested ideal to explore all the popular destinations as well as to indulge in adventurous activities.

Q5: What can I take as souvenir for my family or loved ones?

You can take gems and stones such as Shaligram, utensils, brass artifacts and much more for your loved ones or family as a token.

Q6: What type of weather can be expected in Rishikesh?

Rishikesh's winters are typically cold, in contrast to the city's hot summers. Anytime between October and April is the ideal choice for anyone planning a trip to Rishikesh.

Q7: What are some other places near Rishikesh that one could add up in the trip?

While staying in this city, visitors can also travel to a few nearby locations. Rishikesh is located respectively 77 miles, 43 km, and 19 km from Mussoorie, Dehradun, and Haridwar.

Q8. What adventure activities can one try in Rishikesh?

There are various adventure activities that Rishikesh offers such as river rafting, kayaking, cliff jumping, trekking, camping, bungee jumping etc. Every adventure activity in Rishikesh assures you of an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience.

Q9. How can I cover Rishikesh in one day?

If you are planning to visit Rishikesh in a single day, you can cover the major highlights of this yoga capital city like Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, & Rajaji National Park.

Q10. What is the famous thing of Rishikesh?

Since Rishikesh got its name “Yoga Capital of the World”, it is mainly famous for yoga and meditation. Since the destination is enriched with natural splendors providing a serene surrounding, it is an ideal spiritual retreat.