15 Best Things to Do in Rishikesh

Rishikesh offers something for every kind of traveler, making it one of India’s most popular destinations. From thrilling river rafting, camping, bungee jumping, and scenic treks to peaceful yoga sessions, ancient temples, waterfalls, and the evening Ganga Aarti, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is much more than a spiritual destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, nature, or culture, this Himalayan town has it all. Explore these 15 best things to do in Rishikesh and make your trip truly memorable.

1. River Rafting in Rishikesh

• Distance: 12 KM, 16 KM, 25 KM, and 35 KM rafting routes available.
• Famous Rapids: Roller Coaster, Golf Course, Club House and The Wall.
• Safety: Raft with trained guides, safety gear, and authorized operators.
• Best For: Beginners, families, and adventure lovers.

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Rishikesh

Rafting Distance	Price (per person)
12KM	₹600
16KM	₹800
25KM	₹1200
35KM	₹2000

2. Adventure Sports

Rishikesh is a paradise for adventure lovers with 40+ thrilling activities. Enjoy exciting experiences like bungee jumping, zipline, giant swing, flying fox, rock climbing, and many more adventure sports.

Adventure Sports	Price (Per Person)
Bungee Jumping	₹2000 – ₹600
Zipline	₹1500 – ₹2000
Giant Swing	₹1000 – ₹2500
Paragliding	₹3000 – ₹7000

3. Camping in Rishikesh

• Camp Variety: Choose from luxury camps, beach camps, riverside camps, cottages, and resort stays.
• Facilities: Enjoy comfortable facilities like swimming pools, AC rooms, coolers, and buffet meals.
• Best Locations: Popular camping places include Shivpuri, Tapovan, Mohan Chatti, and Byasi
• .Best For: Perfect for families, couples, groups, and adventure lovers looking for a relaxing nature stay.

Camp Variety	Price (Per Person)
Beach Camps	₹1000 – ₹1200
Riverside Camps	₹1200 – ₹1500
Luxury Camps	₹1500 – ₹2000
Ac Cottage	₹2000 – ₹2500

4. Yoga in Rishikesh

Rishikesh, known as the Yoga Capital of the World, offers peaceful yoga experiences with Himalayan views and the holy Ganga River. Practice yoga, meditation, and wellness sessions in a calm natural environment.

• Best Places: Tapovan, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and riverside yoga centres.
• Best Time: Enjoy peaceful sunrise yoga in the morning and relaxing sunset yoga in the evening.
• Yoga by Ganga: Practice yoga on beautiful river beaches surrounded by nature.
• Courses: Choose from different yoga courses like 7-day, 21-day, or 1-month programs based on your goals.

5. Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh

Ganga Aarti is one of the most peaceful and spiritual experiences in Rishikesh, held throughout the year in every season. In the evening, devotees gather at the holy Ganga River to participate in prayers, lamps, and a beautiful divine atmosphere.

Famous Places for Ganga Aarti:

• Triveni Ghat
• Parmarth Niketan
• Shatrughan Ghat
• Sai Ghat

6. Temples in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is not only famous for adventure and yoga but also for its ancient temples and spiritual places. Visitors can explore peaceful temples surrounded by Himalayan views, learn about local culture, and experience the spiritual side of the city.

Famous Temples in Rishikesh:

Temple	Location
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple	Near Rishikesh
Trayambakeshwar Temple	Lakshman Jhula
Bhootnath Temple	Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple	Narendra Nagar

7. Waterfalls in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is surrounded by beautiful waterfalls that offer a perfect mix of nature and adventure. Many waterfalls include short scenic treks, while some flow through multiple branches and others have a single straight waterfall, making them ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Famous Waterfalls Near Rishikesh

• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Patna Waterfall
• Garud Chatti Waterfall
• secret waterfall

8. Beaches in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has more than 20 beautiful beaches along the Ganga River, located in the city and nearby areas. These peaceful spots are famous for river rafting, yoga, camping, sunset views, swimming, and photography. Some beaches also offer perfect locations for riverside relaxation and nature experiences.

Famous Beaches in Rishikesh

Beaches Location	Best For
Rishikesh Beach	Yoga
Shivpuri Beach	Rafting & Camping
Sirasu Beach	Pre – Weeding Photoshoot
Kaudiyala Beach	Beach Camping

9. Trekking in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is known for short and scenic treks rather than long Himalayan treks like Tungnath or Kedarnath. Popular options include Kunjapuri Trek, Neer Waterfall Trek, Kyarki Viewpoint, Patna Waterfall Trek, Gartangli Trek, and Sirasu village trails.

Famous Treks in Rishikesh:

Trek Name	Distance	Duration
Kunjapuri Temple Trek	5-6km	2-3 hours
Gartangli Trek	3km	1.5 hours
Kyarki Viewpoint Trek	2.5km	1-2 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall Trek	1.5km	1 hour

10. Wildlife in Rishikesh

Near Rishikesh, you can explore the beautiful Rajaji National Park, a famous wildlife sanctuary located near Chilla Road Bridge. The park is home to elephants, deer, birds, and various wildlife species, offering a peaceful jungle experience close to nature.

• Location: Rajaji National Park, near Chilla Road Bridge, Rishikesh.
• Distance: Around 10–15 KM from Rishikesh.
• Duration: Jungle safari takes around 2–3 hours.
• Entry Fee: Fees vary depending on safari type and season.
• Best For: Wildlife lovers, photography, and nature exploration.

11. Ashrams in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is home to many peaceful ashrams, most of which are located along the banks of the holy Ganga River. These ashrams provide a serene environment for yoga, meditation, spiritual learning, and relaxation amidst nature.

Famous Ashrams in Rishikesh:

• Parmarth Niketan Ashram
• Gita Bhawan Ashram
• Jai Ram Ashram
• Sivananda Ashram
• Swami Dayananda Ashram
• Omkarananda Ganga Sadan

12. Kayaking in Rishikesh

Kayaking is one of the most exciting adventure activities in Rishikesh, offering a close experience with the Ganga River. Learn essential kayaking skills, including paddling, balance, and rolling techniques under professional instructors.

• Best Season: October to March
• Course Duration: 7, 15, 21 days & advanced programs
• Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced
• Includes: Accommodation, meals, kayak, paddle, safety gear & instructor
• Best For: Adventure lovers and water sports enthusiasts

Kayaking Course Details

Course	Duration	Approx. Price
Beginner	7 Days	₹1000–₹10000
Intermediate	15 Days	₹15000–₹20000
Advanced	21 Days	₹20000–₹30000

13. Cafes in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has many beautiful cafes offering peaceful riverside views, mountain views, and cozy indoor spaces. These cafes are perfect for enjoying delicious food, coffee, sunsets, and relaxing moments during your trip.

Famous Cafes in Rishikesh:

• Beatles Cafe
• Little Buddha Cafe
• Freedom Cafe
• Bistro Nirvana
• The 60’s Cafe (Cafe Delmar)

14. Local Markets in Rishikesh

Rishikesh offers a unique shopping experience with colourful local markets near the Ganga River. Visitors can explore Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula Market, and Lakshman Jhula Market for spiritual items, handmade jewellery, bracelets, rudraksha malas, clothes, and local souvenirs.

Famous Markets in Rishikesh

• Triveni Ghat Market: Spiritual items, diyas, rudraksha, and souvenirs
• Ram Jhula Market: Jewellery, clothes, handicrafts, and cafes
• Lakshman Jhula Market: Bracelets, bags, spiritual products, and local shopping

15. Spa & Ayurvedic Massage in Rishikesh

Rishikesh offers relaxing spa and Ayurvedic massage experiences with traditional therapies, natural oils, and wellness treatments. Visitors can enjoy peaceful massages to relax their body and mind after exploring the city.

Spa & Massage Highlights:

• Types: Full body massage, Ayurvedic massage, yoga massage, and wellness therapies.
• Popular Areas: Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Tapovan, and nearby wellness centres.
• Price Range: Approx. ₹800–₹3,000 depending on massage type and duration.
• Best For: Relaxation, stress relief, and rejuvenation after travel and adventure activities.

How to Reach Rishikesh

• By Own Vehicle: Rishikesh is well connected by road from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and nearby cities.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, around 20–25 KM from Rishikesh.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station, about 25 KM away.
• By Bus: Regular buses are available from Delhi, Haridwar, Dehradun, and other major cities.

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