14 Things to Do in Rishikesh

If you like to explore new places in the mountains, Rishikesh is one of the best mountain places in India that you must visit. The tranquillity and the natural beauty of the city are enough to melt your heart.

It is not just the serenity, there are many thrilling things to do in Rishikesh as well. 

There are a lot of activities to do in Rishikesh for those who are looking for some adventure, and want to indulge in some adrenaline-pumping sports. From bungee jumping to river rafting, this place has it all. 

So, all in all, there are a plethora of places to visit in Rishikesh for people who want to relax and for those who want some excitement. 

If you are visiting the city for the first time, we have put together a list of 14 things to do in Rishikesh, India. 

Best things to do and see in Rishikesh

1. See the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
2. Go Bungee Jumping
3. Slay it on the Swing
4. Try Camping on the Banks of the Ganges
5. Ride the Waves with River Rafting
6. Get a Taste of Traditional Garhwali Food
7. Discover Cute Little Cafes
8. Visit the Beatles Ashram
9. Try the thrill of the Flying Fox
10. Pamper Yourself with a Relaxing Massage
11. Experience the Lakshman Jhula
12. Walk across the famous Ram Jhula
13. Witness the natural beauty of the Neer Garh Waterfall
14. Explore tranquillity at Gita Bhawan
    
    

1. See the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

The Ganga is considered one of the holiest rivers in India, and it is revered as a mother. The Aarthi is performed to pay respect to the river and express gratitude. It is a testament to the people’s devotion and love for the Holy Ganges. 

Every evening, as the sun goes down, the entire area around the Triveni Ghat lights up with the Aarti lamps or diyas, and it is a majestic sight to see. The entire area oozes a spiritual vibe, and seeing the Aarti is one of the most important things to see in Rishikesh; don’t miss it for anything.

2. Go Bungee Jumping

How does jumping off from about 84 metres sound to you? Exciting, scary or both? Well, no matter what emotion you feel, you must try bungee jumping in Rishikesh. It is the highest bungee jump in India. 

To jump off an edge while suspended to a harness would give you a thrill like no other. However, to bungee jump, you need a certain level of fitness. Pregnant women and people with issues like hypertension are advised to avoid the activity.

3. Slay it on the swing

The giant swing is similar to bungee jumping and is often conducted from the same platform. The only difference is unlike bungee jumping, which is a free fall, in the swing, the harness is attached and connected to a fixed point and when you swing, you sway in the air like a pendulum from one end to another. 

The distance covered in the swing is about 1-1.5 km. It is one of the most popular activities to do in Rishikesh that will surely tickle your adventure bone.

4. Try camping on the banks of Ganges

The beautiful natural landscape with snow-clad mountains, the gushing river and the rustic charm of Rishikesh make it one of the best places in India for camping. The city, which may seem like stuck in a time limbo, has a perfect blend of modern and traditional.  

There are plenty of spots where you can camp under the stars and marvel at the sights and the sounds of the beautiful surroundings. The banks of the Ganges is one of the amazing places to visit in Rishikesh. The experience will surely delight you and make your trip a memorable one.

5. Ride the waves with river rafting

If you are bitten by an adventure bug, river rafting is one of the activities to do in Rishikesh. Over the past few years, the sport has gained immense popularity in India and particularly in Rishikesh. 

The adrenaline rush you feel as you ride the chilly waves of the Ganges is of a different level. After you finish the ride, you can boast of your daredevil act for the rest of your life and feel proud of it.

6. Get a taste of the traditional Garhwali food

A trip to any place in India would seem incomplete without getting a taste of the local cuisine. When you are in Rishikesh, you must try the traditional Garhwali food at Chotiwala restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in Rishikesh. 

The restaurant located on the banks of the Holy Ganges is known to serve the most authentic Garhwali food. Apart from the food being super tasty, every item in the thali is nutritious and healthy. Since the restaurant is popular, there could be a waiting time, so it is better to arrive early before your stomach starts growling for food.

7. Discover the cute little cafes

Apart from knowing and learning about the rich cultural history of India, if you are wondering what are the best things to do in Rishikesh, you can go on a café exploring spree. There are many cafes here that serve delicious food and beverages. While some of these cafes may be overcrowded, you can discover a few little hidden gems as you take a stroll around the narrow lanes of the city.

8. Visit the Beatles Ashram

Dedicated to the legendary English rock band, The Beatles, this ashram is one of the unique places to see in Rishikesh. The band members took several trips to Rishikesh, and many of their songs were created here. Although the ashram is now in an abandoned state, it still has plenty of paintings and memoirs that are a testament to the time the Beatles spent here.

9. Trying te thrill of the Flying Fox

It is another form of zip lining that involves sliding from one point to another through a rope while being harnessed. The starting point is at a higher altitude than the end-point to allow one to slide through the rope and get momentum. 

The speed of sliding through the valley or between the cliffs and the majestic view below is reason enough for you to try this sport at least once. It is one of the Rishikesh adventure activities that is suitable for all and it is a lot of fun to participate in.

10. Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage

Exploring the whole of Rishikesh can get tiring. And, the best way to relax your muscles and rejuvenate is to pamper yourself with an ayurvedic massage. There are many well-known massage centres here that use many herbal oils to relieve you from all the stress and tension, and perhaps the perfect end to your trip after indulging in all the adventure activities to do in Rishikesh.

11. Experience the Lakshman Jhula

In Rishikesh, the Lakshman Jhula stands as an architectural marvel, a suspension bridge connecting Tehri and Pauri districts. Legend speaks of Lakshman, Lord Rama's brother, crossing the Ganga here on a jute bridge during the Ramayana era. 

Built by Rai Bahadur Surajmal Jhunjhunwala, a 284 ft. hanging bridge succumbed to the 1924 flood. Despite this, a pillar-less suspension bridge was reconstructed, showcasing brilliance. Its historical significance and proximity to sacred sites make Lakshman Jhula is one of the top places to visit in Rishikesh.

12. Walk across the famous Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is an architectural gem in Rishikesh. It is a 450 ft. suspension bridge connecting the Ganges' banks to Shivananda and Swarga ashrams. Located 3 km from the city centre, it holds significance as one of the prominent places to visit in Rishikesh. 

Also known as the 'Shivananda Jhula,' this structure was erected in the late 80s with notable contributions from the regional government and Shivananda Ashram Divine Life Society. Similar to Lakshman Jhula, it evolved from a jute bridge. This bridge is also one of the best things to see in Rishikesh.

13. Witness the natural beauty of the Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the places to visit in Rishikesh that nature lovers must not miss. The narrow stream of blue water flows through steep rocks, creating a stunning sight as it falls into a clear pool. It's a perfect spot for relaxation, meditation, and beautiful photos, making it one of the most amazing places in Rishikesh.

14. Explore tranquillity at Gita Bhawan

Another must-see spot in Rishikesh is Gita Bhawan. Located by the Ganga River, it offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It's a place where people can learn a lot about Hinduism and take part in religious and cultural events. The institute provides free food, stay, and education for pilgrims. Residents engage in daily prayers, meditation, and other activities. Visitors are welcome to join these activities and enjoy affordable vegetarian meals and facilities at Gita Bhawan. 

How to reach Rishikesh

To reach Rishikesh, you have several options depending on your starting location and preferences. Here are some options on how to reach Rishikesh easily: 

By Air: The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is about 35 kilometers away. There are daily flights to Dehradun from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Once you arrive at the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rishikesh. 

By Train: The nearest railway station to Rishikesh is Haridwar Junction (IR station code: HW), which is about 25 kilometres away. There are several trains connecting Haridwar to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. After arriving at Haridwar, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Rishikesh. 

By Road: Rishikesh is well-connected by road to nearby cities and towns. There are regular buses from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and other nearby places. You can choose from state-run buses or private operators. Alternatively, you can also drive to Rishikesh, as the roads are well-maintained.

If you are driving, here’s how to reach Rishikesh from the nearest cities. 

Resorts in Rishikesh

Summit By The Ganges Resort & Spa in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is an affiliate property of Club Mahindra.

You will have easy access to key attractions, so you can conveniently enjoy the best things to do in Rishikesh. Explore and experience the culture and participate in spiritual and adventure offerings.

You and your loved ones can enjoy picturesque surroundings and a serene atmosphere and relax and rejuvenate.

This is one of the premium resorts in Rishikesh that is close to many of the places mentioned above. 

So, Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World has plenty of things to offer. Pack your bags and get ready to have a fun time exploring the city and indulging in various activities.