Rishikesh, a small city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is a hub for spiritual seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Here are 10 things to do in Rishikesh that will make your visit unforgettable.
Take a dip in the Ganges River
The Ganges River is considered the holiest river in Hinduism, and taking a dip in its waters is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul. Rishikesh is one of the few places in India where the river is still relatively clean and unpolluted, making it an ideal spot for a dip. The experience of immersing yourself in the chilly waters of the Ganges is a unique and unforgettable one.
However, it’s important to note that the river can be dangerous at times, especially during the monsoon season when the water level rises rapidly. It’s best to consult a local guide or check with your hotel before venturing into the river.
Attend the Ganga Aarti
Every evening at sunset, a beautiful ritual called the Ganga Aarti takes place on the banks of the Ganges. Devotees gather to offer prayers and watch as priests perform an elaborate ceremony involving fire, flowers, and incense. The Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing spectacle, with the flickering flames of the lamps and the sound of chanting creating a mystical ambiance. The ceremony lasts for about an hour and is a must-see for anyone visiting Rishikesh.
Go trekking in the Himalayas
Rishikesh is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and is an excellent base for trekking. There are numerous trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and waterfalls, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The most popular trekking trail in Rishikesh is the Neer Garh Waterfall trek, which takes you through lush forests and scenic villages before culminating at the beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall. The trek is a moderate one and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
Another popular trekking trail in Rishikesh is the Kunjapuri Temple trek, which takes you to a temple dedicated to the goddess Sati. The temple is located at an altitude of 1645 meters and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Experience yoga and meditation
Rishikesh is known as the yoga capital of the world, and visitors can take classes in various styles of yoga and meditation. Practicing yoga and meditation in the serene surroundings of Rishikesh is a unique and rejuvenating experience. Many ashrams and yoga centers offer short-term courses and retreats for visitors, ranging from a few days to several weeks. Some of the popular yoga and meditation centers in Rishikesh include Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, and Yoga Niketan.
Take a bungee jumping or flying fox ride
For adventure enthusiasts, Rishikesh offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping and flying fox rides. The jump from a height of over 80 meters, with the stunning view of the valley and the river below is an experience that is sure to get your heart racing. The bungee jumping facility in Rishikesh is operated by Jumpin Heights, which has been rated as one of the safest operators in the world. Flying fox rides, also known as zip-lining, are another adrenaline-pumping activity that you can try in Rishikesh. The flying fox ride takes you across the valley, suspended by a rope, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Visit the Beatles Ashram
The Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a popular tourist attraction in Rishikesh. The ashram gained fame in the late 1960s when the Beatles visited it to learn Transcendental Meditation. The ashram is now abandoned and covered in graffiti, but the ruins of the meditation cells, lecture halls, and other buildings still stand. Visitors can explore the ashram and the surrounding forest, which is home to a variety of bird species.
Try Ayurvedic massages and therapies
Rishikesh is home to numerous Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers that offer a range of massages and therapies. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that uses natural herbs and oils to heal the body and mind. Visitors can try massages, herbal baths, and other therapies that are customized to their individual needs. Some of the popular Ayurvedic spas in Rishikesh include Ananda in the Himalayas, Vasundhara Palace, and Ayurpak.
Explore the Rajaji National Park
The Rajaji National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located near Rishikesh, spread over an area of 820 square kilometers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and birds. Visitors can take a jeep safari or an elephant ride to explore the park and spot the wildlife. The park is open from November to June, and the best time to visit is between December and March.
Go white water rafting
Rishikesh is known as the white water rafting capital of India, and for good reason. The Ganges River in Rishikesh offers some of the best rapids for rafting, ranging from grade 1 to grade 5. The rafting season in Rishikesh starts from September and lasts till June, with the peak season being from October to November and March to April. There are several operators that offer rafting trips, ranging from short trips of 1-2 hours to longer trips of 3-4 hours.
Visit Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a popular bathing ghat in Rishikesh, located at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The ghat is considered a sacred spot, and devotees gather here to take a dip in the holy waters. The ghat is also famous for its evening aarti, where devotees offer prayers and light lamps to the river. The aarti is a beautiful sight, with the lamps floating on the river and the sound of chanting filling the air.
In conclusion, Rishikesh is a unique destination that offers a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. With its serene surroundings, scenic landscapes, and a range of activities to choose from, Rishikesh is an ideal destination that caters to all interests.
