Things To Do
in Rishīkesh
Rishikesh sits along the banks of the Ganges in Uttarakhand and blends spirituality with stunning mountain scenery. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, the town is lined with ashrams, temples, and riverside cafes. It draws both spiritual seekers and adventure travelers seeking whitewater thrills and serene viewpoints.
From ancient temples to adrenaline-fueled river sports, Rishikesh offers a unique balance of devotion, culture, and natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful yoga session by the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by the serene sounds of the flowing river. After yoga, enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes like aloo paratha and chai. As the morning sun rises, take a leisurely stroll along the river, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Rishīkesh.
Visit the iconic Triveni Ghat, where you can participate in the afternoon Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ceremony of light and devotion. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a riverside restaurant, indulging in some local vegetarian dishes while soaking up the views. Afterward, explore nearby souvenir shops and artisan stalls for unique handicrafts and spiritual items.
In the evening, return to Triveni Ghat for the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony, where you can witness the river come alive with lamps and chants. Engage with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences about spirituality and life in Rishīkesh. Cap off your day with a quiet meditation session by the river, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Rise early for a guided trek into the nearby hills, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. As you hike, enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife that the region offers, taking breaks to appreciate the beauty around you. The morning sun will illuminate the trail, making for perfect photo opportunities.
After reaching a scenic viewpoint, relish a packed lunch while surrounded by the majestic mountains. Continue your trek, exploring hidden trails and learning about local flora and fauna from your guide. As the afternoon progresses, make your way back to Rishīkesh, feeling invigorated by the fresh mountain air.
Relax in the evening at a cozy café overlooking the Ganges, sipping on herbal teas and enjoying a light dinner. Engage in conversations with fellow trekkers about their adventures in the Himalayas, sharing tips and stories. As dusk falls, take a moment to appreciate the stunning sunset, painting the sky in vibrant colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚶♀️Local transportation (one-way) | $0.30-1 |
| 🚖Taxi start (per ride) | $1-3 |
| 📶SIM card/data (1 GB) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spiritual atmosphere and yoga heritage
- Stunning river and hill scenery
- Wide range of outdoor adventures
- Generally affordable with good value cafes
- Crowded in peak season around the river
- Noise and energy from ashrams can be intense for some
- Not a party destination; nightlife is low-key
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Bathroom kahan hai?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Rishīkesh
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic suspension bridges with river views, mountains, and daily life on the ghats.
Shoreline and steps ideal for sunset photography and the evening aarti.
Graffiti-filled ruins that offer a psychedelic, historical backdrop.
Temple grounds and sprawling ghats with golden hour light along the Ganga.
A short hike leads to a lush waterfall with forest scenery perfect for nature shots.
Food in Rishīkesh
Rishīkesh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Garhwali potato dish with light spices, often served with puri or rice.
Must-Try!
A creamy spinach-based curry finished with yogurt and chickpea flour, served with rice.
Horse gram dal, a Garhwali staple rich in protein, commonly enjoyed with rice or roti.
A curated plate of regional dishes offering a sampler of local flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Riverside stalls offering chai, momos, chaat and quick bites.
Market with handicrafts, herbal teas, spices and light snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes, and avoid loud conversation near temples and ashrams.
Seek permission before taking photos in religious spaces; avoid phone ringing during prayers.
Avoid touching heads of others; show respect to sadhus and elders; avoid pointing feet toward sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Rishīkesh
Ensure a smooth experience
Typically 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up for tuk-tuk or guides is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many hotels and cafes accept cards and digital wallets; keep some cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with highs around 35-40°C; evenings comfortable. Hydration and sun protection are essential; river activities are popular but midday can be intense.
Lush green hills, frequent showers and some leeches in forested areas; be cautious on slippery trails and check rafting eligibility due to water levels.
Pleasant temperatures around 20-30°C, clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Cool to cold with temps near 5-12°C; mornings can be foggy; cafes and ashrams offer warm tea and meditation indoors.
Rishīkesh at Night
Hiking in Rishīkesh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular uphill hike to a temple with panoramic Himalayan views.
Forest path to a scenic waterfall near Rishikesh.
Wildlife-rich trails around the park's foothills near Shyampur and Chila.
Airports
How to reach Rishīkesh by plane.
About 35-40 km from Rishikesh; airport connects to domestic destinations and international hubs via Delhi.
Major international hub; 250-300 km away; connected by road, rail, or flight with transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Uttarakhand communities with distinctive culture and cuisines.
Visitors drawn to ashrams, temples and yoga centers from across India and abroad.
Various travelers seeking adventure, culture, and wellness.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
White-water rafting on the Ganges, a signature Rishikesh experience.
Short treks to viewpoints and waterfalls in the surrounding hills.
Widely offered in ashrams and wellness centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rishīkesh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rishikesh is predominantly vegetarian; look for sattvic menus and avoid non-vegetarian options; most cafes accommodate dairy-free and vegan requests.