Rishikesh Travel Guide

Rishikesh is simultaneously one of Hinduism's most sacred cities and the adventure capital of North India — a remarkable combination that draws millions of pilgrims, yogis, backpackers and rafters to its banks on the Ganges every year. At 356 metres in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalaya, where the Ganges emerges from the mountains into the plains, Rishikesh has been a centre of Hindu spirituality for centuries — the ashrams, the ghats, the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Niketan, and the Shiva temples in every lane create an atmosphere of genuine devotion. The Beatles famously came to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram here in 1968, establishing Rishikesh's international reputation for yoga and meditation. Today, over 200 yoga ashrams and schools operate here. And on the same Ganges, just upstream from the meditation centres, white water rafters run Grade III–IV rapids through spectacular river gorges — a juxtaposition that somehow feels perfectly right.

Places to Visit in Rishikesh

Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

The iconic suspension bridges over the Ganga — Laxman Jhula (1930, 450 feet long) and Ram Jhula — are the symbols of Rishikesh. The multi-storey Trimbakeshwar Temple beside Laxman Jhula, the market lanes, and the Ganga views from the bridges are quintessential Rishikesh.

Parmarth Niketan Ganga Aarti

The largest ashram in Rishikesh holds a magnificent evening Ganga Aarti on their ghat — 200+ priests with brass lamps, flowers, incense and chanting. 6 PM daily. The reflection of the lamps in the Ganga is one of Rishikesh's most beautiful moments. Free to attend.

Beatles Ashram (Maharishi Ashram)

The abandoned ashram where The Beatles composed over 40 songs in 1968 — now a beautiful ruin inside Rajaji National Park. The meditation domes, colourful murals and jungle setting make it extraordinarily atmospheric. Entry ₹600 foreigners, ₹150 Indians.

Shivpuri Rafting Stretch (16 km)

The premier Ganga rafting stretch — 16 km from Shivpuri to Rishikesh with Grade III–IV rapids including the famous "The Wall," "Roller Coaster" and "Golf Course." 2.5 hours on water. Book through licensed operators in Rishikesh market.

Experiences & Activities

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  Ganga White Water Rafting: 16 km Shivpuri stretch (₹600–1,200/person) or 35 km Marine Drive stretch for more experienced rafters. Grade III–IV rapids. September–June (avoid July–August monsoon floods). Only use Safety & Adventure Tour Operators Association (SATOA) registered operators.
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  Yoga & Meditation: 200+ yoga schools — from free ashram classes to certified 200-hour teacher training. Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, Bihar School of Yoga (Munger based but teaches here) are the most respected. Walk-in classes from ₹200.
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  Laxman Jhula Walk & Market: Walk across both suspension bridges. The lanes between them — cafe-lined, incense-scented, full of mala beads, books and Ganga prasad — are the heart of the Rishikesh backpacker experience.
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  Bungee Jumping: At 83 metres, Rishikesh has India's highest bungee jump (operated by Jumpin Heights at Mohan Chatti, 18 km). Also: giant swing, flying fox. Book at jumpinheights.com. ₹3,500.

When to Visit Rishikesh

Delhi to Rishikesh Cab Fare (2026)

* One-way from Delhi. Toll, parking & state tax charged at actuals. Call for return / multi-day package rates.

How to Plan Your Rishikesh Trip

Essential Rishikesh Tips

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  Rafting Safety: Only book SATOA-registered operators. Life jackets and helmets are mandatory. Avoid operators who skip the safety briefing. September–October post-monsoon has the best water levels and most exciting rapids.
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  No Meat or Alcohol: Rishikesh is a sacred city — meat and alcohol are not sold or served anywhere. Respect this. The vegetarian food scene is excellent — many international cafes serve outstanding vegan and healthy food.