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Rishikesh, India

Destination Guide

Rishikesh

India

Best things to do in Rishikesh

15 curated attractions in Rishikesh, India. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

February - April, September - November

Average temp

23°C/73°F

Budget

Budget-friendly

Safety

Very safe

About Rishikesh

Known as the yoga capital of India, Rishikesh is a small town perched by the Ganges River, where spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts mingle in a somewhat chaotic harmony. It gained fame in the 1960s when The Beatles visited, and now you can find the Beatles Ashram, where a mixture of wistful nostalgia and meditation still hangs in the air. The riverbanks are dotted with ashrams, temples, and adventure sports like bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights. The town has a distinct rhythm, with rituals by the ghats and the constant sound of chants, but it also attracts adrenaline junkies looking to test their limits. Most visitors come to immerse themselves in yoga, meditation, and the occasional leap off a platform into the Ganges below. Just be prepared for the slightly chaotic public transport, where

Who it's for

Ideal for those seeking spiritual growth or a yoga retreat, as well as thrill-seekers wanting a bit of action. Not the place for anyone who prefers organized transport or quiet streets; the combination of pilgrims and tourists can feel overwhelming at times.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The main attractions are within walking distance, but expect some steep paths
  • Taxi services exist but can be unreliable
  • Nearest major city is Dehradun, about an hour's drive away
  • Bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights is a short taxi ride from the centre
Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Monasteries
Vashishta Gufa

Vashishta Gufa

Caves & cenotes
Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula

Bridges
The Beatles Cathedral Gallery

The Beatles Cathedral Gallery

Specialty & quirky museums
Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Hindu & Balinese temples
Jumpin Heights (Bungee Jumping)

Jumpin Heights (Bungee Jumping)

Paragliding, ziplines & air adventures
Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula

Bridges
Gita Bhawan

Gita Bhawan

Monasteries
Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh Waterfall

Waterfalls
Swarg Ashram

Swarg Ashram

Monasteries
Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat

Pilgrimage sites & sacred mountains
Raghunath Temple

Raghunath Temple

Hindu & Balinese temples
Phool Chatti Ashram

Phool Chatti Ashram

Monasteries
Shivpuri

Shivpuri

Kayaking, rafting & water sports
Beatles Ashram

Beatles Ashram

Monasteries

Where to eat in Rishikesh

The places worth planning a meal around.

Chotiwala Food & Hotel

Chotiwala Food & Hotel

Indian

★ 3.5 · 19,341 reviews

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