Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh
Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh
Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh
Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh : Rishikesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is often called the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’. It is a popular destination for spirituality, meditation, yoga, and adventure activities. The city offers breathtaking views of the Ganges river and surrounding hills. There are many interesting tourist spots that should not be missed when visiting Rishikesh.
Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh : Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rishikesh located along the banks of the Ganges. ‘Triveni’ refers to the confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The ghat is considered a sacred bathing spot, with steps leading down to the river. Devotees come here to take a holy dip, offer prayers and participate in the Ganga Aarti ceremony held every evening.
The Ganga Aarti is a spiritual experience, with chants, prayers, flower offerings, diya flames and ringing of bells. It is a sight to behold as the pujaris perform the rituals with large flaming lamps. The aarti can be viewed from the ghat steps or by booking a boat ride. Triveni Ghat is a place to sit near the river, meditate and absorb the peaceful vibes. The mesmerizing Ganga Aarti is a must-see event for every tourist visiting Rishikesh.
Laxman Jhula
Crossing the river Ganga is the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension pedestrian bridge and one of the landmarks of Rishikesh. Named after Lord Ram’s younger brother Laxman, it offers majestic views of the river flowing below and the hills surrounding it. The 450 feet long iron bridge sways a bit while crossing and can make some travellers nervous. But it is completely safe and an experience in itself.
Shopping stalls selling jewellery, clothes, devotional items and food line the bridge. Many ashrams and temples are located nearby including the 13 storey Tera Manzil Temple. Laxman Jhula provides amazing photo opportunities. Sitting on the bridge and soaking in the sights and sounds of Rishikesh is an unforgettable experience that makes it a must-visit spot.
Neer Garh Waterfall
Rishikesh has numerous waterfalls that can be visited, but the most popular is the Neer Garh Waterfall. Located just 5 km from Laxman Jhula, it can be reached by a short trek from the road. The fall is formed by water from the natural springs in the area. It descends from a height of about 20-25 meters in two tiers amidst lush green surroundings.
The cascade is best visited soon after the monsoon months between August and October when the water flow is maximum. The pool formed at the base is ideal for swimming and bathing. The falls make a pleasant spot for a picnic amidst natural beauty and is popular with families. There are snacks stalls in the area. Neer Garh is perfect for nature walks and getting some quiet time in nature’s lap away from the city crowds.
Beatles Ashram
A must-visit place for music lovers and Beatles fans. The ashram is located in the Swarg Ashram area, once home to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s academy visited by the Beatles in 1968. Though most structures are dilapidated now, the ashram is adorned with colorful wall art and graffiti dedicated to the Fab Four.
The meditation cells, lecture theatre and other buildings provide a glimpse into the band’s stay. The serene forest within the complex is ideal for walks. There is a Beatles Cathedral Gallery with photographs and memorabilia. The annual Beatles Fair organised here in February offers music, artist workshops and food stalls. The Beatles Ashram allows visitors to re-live the era of the legendary music band and the sixties. The tranquil vibes make it a popular spiritual retreat.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Parmarth Niketan is one of the largest and most renowned yoga ashrams in Rishikesh situated along the banks of the Ganges. Established in 1942, it has gained international recognition as a centre for yoga, meditation and spirituality. The sprawling complex has over 1000 rooms, extensive gardens and a ghat for a holy dip in the river.
The ashram conducts daily yoga and meditation classes for visitors. The evening Ganga Aarti performed at the riverside temple within the ashram is a colourful affair with chants, music, lamps and flower offerings. The ashram also organizes international yoga programmes, festivals, ayurvedic massage training and other events throughout the year.
The splendid gardens provide a peaceful ambience for contemplation. The ashram offers comfortable accommodation options for those looking at a spiritual stay. The Parmarth Niketan yoga programmes draw participants from across the globe wishing to study and practice yoga in its birthplace.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is another iconic bridge and landmark of Rishikesh similar in design to the Laxman Jhula. It connects Swarg Ashram to Shivananda Nagar across the Ganga. Built in 1986, the 450 feet long suspension bridge stands atop pillars and provides exceptional views.
There are some ashrams in the vicinity apart from shopping stalls selling handicrafts, devotional items and foodstuffs. Local kids can often be seen jumping into the river from the bridge. The bridge vibrates when crossed by pedestrians. Ram Jhula is among the top spots for capturing Instagram worthy photos. Witnessing the sunset from the bridge as rituals are conducted on the ghats below is an ethereal experience.
Geeta Bhawan
This sprawling complex in Swarg Ashram houses one of the largest temples in Rishikesh dedicated to Lord Krishna along with rooms to accommodate over 1000 pilgrims. The temple structure is grandiose with intricate architecture, arches, multi-tiered tops and elephant sculptures. Geeta Bhawan was set up in 1944 and also contains a preaching hall and museum.
The galleries display dressed idols of gods and goddesses, saints and religious artwork. The hall conducts discourses on spirituality based on Hindu scriptures. The gardens surrounding the temple are well maintained and offer a tranquil ambience. Geeta Bhawan serves delicious prasad made of ghee, milk and dry fruits. The temple is specially decked up during Janmashtami and Holi celebrations.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Located at a height of 1675 meters, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated amidst hills and lush forests about 32 km from Rishikesh. ‘Neelkanth’ refers to Lord Shiva’s throat turning blue from consuming poison during the Samudra Manthan episode. The temple’s location offers breathtaking views of hills, valleys and the Ganges river.
An important Hindu pilgrimage site, the main temple houses a Shiva Lingam and has a sacred water spring within its premises. The trek to the temple through hilly forest terrain is a great nature experience passing waterfalls and hills. For the less adventurous, shared taxis to the temple are available from Rishikesh. Visiting the temple during special occasions like Maha Shivratri provides the chance to see elaborate rituals being performed.
Shivpuri
The small town of Shivpuri along the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway is renowned as the river rafting capital of India. The stretch of Ganges here has exciting grade 2 and 3 rapids like Return to Sender, Roller Coaster and Golf Course providing thrilling rafting options. Rafters have to take a dip in the cold waters before embarking.
Several rafting camps operate fixed departure rafting trips including transportation and meals. Rishikesh is considered the white water rafting hub of India. Apart from rafting, Shivpuri offers camping, cliff jumping, kayaking, trekking, Ayurvedic spas and yoga programmes. River rafting helps experience Rishikesh’s adventurous side making Shivpuri a popular excursion.
Rajaji National Park
Spread over 800 sq km, Rajaji National Park is a vast wildlife sanctuary located at the foothills of the Shivalik range. The forest is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, over 315 bird species and numerous other animals. Safaris are organized by private operators and the forest department to spot wildlife.
Trekking routes like the Chandi Devi and Kaudia Top trails pass through the densely wooded park. The park can be visited all year-round but the best game viewing months are from November to June. Stay options include forest rest houses and private jungle resorts. Rajaji National Park provides nature and wildlife lovers the chance to spend time in the wilderness, away from the city crowds.
Bungee Jumping
For adventure junkies, bungee jumping from the 83m high platform at Mohanchatti near Kaudiyala is a thrilling experience. Operated by Jumpin Heights, it is India’s highest bungee jumping site. Jumpers are securely harnessed and experience freefall at a speed of 160 km/hr before bouncing up. Other activities like giant swings and flying fox are also offered. The location provides picturesque views of the Solang valley and Himalayas. Bungee jumping at Rishikesh gets the adrenaline pumping unlike anywhere else.
Waterfalls
Apart from Neer Garh, there are several other scenic waterfalls around Rishikesh that can be reached via short hikes. Some popular ones are Patna Waterfall, Vasistha Cave Waterfall, Bhargaon Waterfall and Kune Waterfall. The plunging waters, natural pools, lush greenery and rocky terrain make them ideal picnic spots and photography hotspots. September to November is the best season to enjoy the waterfalls in full glory. Don’t miss taking a refreshing dip in the cool waterfall pools.
Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh : Riverfront Cafes
Rishikesh has numerous cafes along the banks of Ganga offering scenic views and wholesome food. Popular ones like Little Buddha Cafe, Madras Cafe and German Bakery have open air seating overlooking the river. The cafes serve continental, Italian and different cuisines. This is the perfect place to relax over a cup of coffee or meal while gazing at the Ganges. Many cafes have books, board games, music and free wifi. Riverfront dining in Rishikesh is an experience in itself.
The holy city of Rishikesh has something to offer everyone – spirituality and wellness activities, adrenaline filled adventures, nature escapes, photography opportunities and charming cafes. The long list of attractions gives visitors solid reasons to plan a trip to Rishikesh. An enchanting blend of serenity, spirituality, landscapes and thrills, Rishikesh has tourism offerings found nowhere else.
FAQs about Top Tourist Attractions in Rishikesh
Q: What are the top things to do in Rishikesh for tourists?
A: Top attractions in Rishikesh include river rafting, visiting ashrams, meditation, yoga classes, exploring temples, waterfalls and cafes.
Q: When is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
A: September to November and February to mid-June are ideal with pleasant weather. Monsoons also have their charm. Avoid peak summers.
Q: Which are the famous temples in Rishikesh?
A: Top temples are Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Trimbakeshwar Temple, Bharat Mandir, Lakshman Jhula Temple and Parmarth Niketan Temple.
Q: What adventure activities can be done in Rishikesh?
A: White water rafting, bungee jumping, giant swing, cliff jumping, mountain biking, trekking, camping and kayaking.
