Rishikesh is a city in Uttarakhand, India, located in the Himalayan foothills next to the Ganges River, which is considered sacred. The city is famous for its focus on yoga and meditation, with many temples and ashrams along the river, especially around Swarg Ashram, a peaceful area that is alcohol-free, vegetarian, and free of traffic. The Triveni Ghat, where three rivers meet, is a holy spot for bathing and spiritual cleansing. Every evening, a ritual called Ganga aarti is held, where oil lamps are floated on the river. Further upstream, pedestrian bridges like Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula connect both sides of the river. Near Lakshman Jhula, the 13-story Trayambakeshwar temple stands tall. Rishikesh is also known for its yoga schools, and visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, kayaking, and white-water rafting.
places to visit in Rishikesh
Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is a large wildlife park and tiger reserve located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It covers 820 square kilometers across three districts: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. The park is known for its rich wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and various bird species.
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is an iron suspension bridge over the Ganges River, located 5 kilometers northeast of Rishikesh. The bridge is a popular spot for tourists, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 1,330 meters. Situated about 32 kilometers from Rishikesh, it is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus in the Pauri Garhwal district.
Parmarth Niketan
Parmarth Niketan is a peaceful ashram in Rishikesh, nestled among the Himalayas beside the Ganges River. Founded in 1942, the ashram is known for its spiritual teachings and yoga programs.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another famous iron suspension bridge in Rishikesh, located 3 kilometers northeast of the town. It connects the areas of Swarg Ashram and Shivanand Ashram, offering beautiful views of the Ganges.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a major ghat in Rishikesh located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is the largest and most visited ghat, where pilgrims and visitors come to bathe in the holy river and attend evening aarti ceremonies.
Beatles AshramThe Beatles Ashram is the place where the famous band stayed in 1968 while on a spiritual retreat. Today, the ashram features murals and graffiti inspired by the Beatles, attracting fans from around the world.
Trayambakeshwar Temple
Trayambakeshwar is a grand 13-story Hindu temple located on the banks of the Ganges River. It is open to the public and is known for its spiritual significance and magnificent views.
Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh Waterfall, also called Neer Gaddu, is located about 5 to 7 kilometers from Lakshman Jhula. It is a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and is a popular destination for short treks and picnics.
Shivpuri River Rafting
Shivpuri is a popular spot for white water rafting in Rishikesh. The Ganges River offers a thrilling experience with a range of rapids, making it an exciting destination for adventure lovers.
Best Time To Visit Rishikesh
Rishikesh has a pleasant climate throughout the year due to its location in the foothills. You can visit Rishikesh at any time, but the best months are February, March, and from August to October. The summer months of May and June can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. If you’re planning to go for river rafting, the ideal time is from late September to November and then from early March to early May. It’s best to avoid visiting in July during the Savan festival, as the city gets very crowded, roads may be blocked, and hotels fill up quickly.
