20 Must Visit Places in Rishikesh for Every Traveler
Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, is more than just a spiritual haven. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and along the sacred Ganges River, this enchanting town offers a blend of adventure, spirituality, and scenic beauty. Whether you're a backpacker, a family traveler, or a spiritual seeker, here are 20 must-visit places in Rishikesh you shouldn’t miss:
20 Must Visit Places in Rishikesh
1. Laxman Jhula – Iconic Suspension Bridge
Timings: Open 24 hours
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (5 km)
Address: Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Route: Take an auto or cab from the city center via NH7
Restrictions: Pedestrians and two-wheelers only
One of the most famous landmarks of Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is a 450-foot-long suspension bridge connecting the two banks of the Ganges. It is believed that Lord Laxman crossed the river here using a jute rope. The bridge offers breathtaking river views, making it a must-visit.
2. Ram Jhula – The Twin Bridge of Laxman Jhula
Timings: Open 24 hours
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
Address: Swargashram, Rishikesh
Route: Walk or take a cycle-rickshaw from Laxman Jhula
Restrictions: No four-wheelers allowed
Ram Jhula is another iconic iron suspension bridge, slightly longer than Laxman Jhula. It connects Swargashram to Sivananda Ashram and offers spectacular views of the Ganges and nearby temples.
3. Triveni Ghat – Soul-Stirring Ganga Aarti
Timings: Open 24 hours, Ganga Aarti at 6:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (1.5 km)
Address: Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh
Route: Walk or take an e-rickshaw from the city center
Restrictions: Maintain silence during Aarti
This is the largest and most famous ghat in Rishikesh. During the evening Aarti, the sight of oil lamps floating on the Ganges is nothing short of magical.
4. Parmarth Niketan – Yoga & Spiritual Retreat
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Haridwar Railway Station (27 km)
Address: Swargashram, Rishikesh
Route: Auto-rickshaw or a scenic walk from Ram Jhula
Restrictions: Modest clothing required
One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan offers yoga, meditation, and spiritual programs. Don’t miss their serene Ganga Aarti at sunset.
5. The Beatles Ashram – A Musical Legacy
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (4 km)
Address: Near Ram Jhula, inside Rajaji National Park
Route: A short trek or rented bike
Restrictions: Entry fee ₹150 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)
This abandoned ashram, where The Beatles stayed in 1968, is a haven for artists, musicians, and peace seekers.
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Sacred Shiva Shrine
Timings: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Bus Stand (30 km)
Route: Private cab or trek through scenic forests
Restrictions: Wear traditional attire for temple entry
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple sits atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
7. Shivpuri – Adventure Capital of Rishikesh
Timings: Open 24 hours
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Bus Stand (16 km)
Route: Private cab or bike rental
Restrictions: Avoid during monsoon season
The ultimate adventure hub, offering river rafting, camping, cliff jumping, and trekking.
8. Rajaji National Park – Wildlife Adventure
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed in monsoons)
Nearest Transport: Haridwar Railway Station (18 km)
Route: Bus or taxi from Rishikesh
Restrictions: No plastic allowed
Perfect for wildlife lovers, featuring elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.
9. Kunjapuri Devi Temple – Best Sunrise Viewpoint
Timings: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Bus Stand (25 km)
Route: Trek or drive through scenic trails
Restrictions: Trekking shoes recommended
An ideal spot for watching the sunrise over the Himalayas.
10. Patna Waterfall – A Hidden Gem
Timings: Open all day
Nearest Transport: Tapovan (7 km)
Route: Trek from Patna village
Restrictions: Slippery trails
This offbeat waterfall is perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
11. Vashishta Cave – A Hidden Meditation Retreat
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (25 km)
Route: Drive along the Badrinath Highway
Restrictions: Maintain silence inside
This ancient cave, where sage Vashishta meditated, offers a calm and spiritual experience right beside the Ganges.
12. Neer Garh Waterfall – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Tapovan (5 km)
Route: 20-minute trek from Neer village
Restrictions: Slippery rocks, wear trekking shoes
A stunning two-tier waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a short trek and a refreshing dip.
13. Phool Chatti Ashram – A Serene Escape
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Bus Stand (10 km)
Route: Drive towards Neelkanth Road
Restrictions: Advance booking required for stays
This peaceful ashram offers yoga, meditation, and detox retreats in a scenic riverside setting.
14. Garud Chatti Waterfall – Offbeat & Peaceful
Timings: Open all day
Nearest Transport: Tapovan (6 km)
Route: Trek from Neelkanth Mahadev Road
Restrictions: Avoid monsoon season
A lesser-known waterfall, perfect for travelers looking for solitude amidst nature.
15. Tera Manzil Temple – Multi-Tiered Marvel
Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (5 km)
Route: Walking distance from Laxman Jhula
Restrictions: No photography inside
A 13-story temple dedicated to multiple deities, offering a panoramic view of the Ganges from the top.
16. Jumpin Heights – Ultimate Bungee Jumping Spot
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Bus Stand (15 km)
Route: Take a cab to Mohan Chatti
Restrictions: Minimum age 12 years, weight limit 40-110 kg
For adrenaline junkies, India’s highest bungee jump (83m) is a must-try!
17. Patna Village & Waterfall – Hidden Gem
Timings: Open all day
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (12 km)
Route: Trek from Patna Village
Restrictions: No shops or food stalls nearby
A scenic trekking spot leading to a serene waterfall, untouched by commercialization.
18. Omkarananda Ashram – A Peaceful Meditation Center
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
Route: Walk or take an e-rickshaw from Triveni Ghat
Restrictions: Silent zone
A perfect spot for spiritual seekers with daily meditation and yoga sessions.
19. Madhuban Ashram – A Divine Experience
Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (2 km)
Route: Near Triveni Ghat, accessible by auto
Restrictions: Modest dressing required
This ISKCON-affiliated ashram is ideal for learning about Krishna consciousness and enjoying sattvic meals.
20. Gita Bhawan – A Spiritual Library & Ashram
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Transport: Rishikesh Railway Station (4 km)
Route: Walking distance from Ram Jhula
Restrictions: No non-vegetarian food allowed inside
A free meditation center with a vast library of Hindu scriptures, ideal for spiritual exploration.
FAQs About Visiting Rishikesh
Q1: What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
✔️ The best time is October to April for pleasant weather and adventure activities.
Q2: Is Rishikesh safe for solo travelers?
✔️ Yes, Rishikesh is one of the safest destinations for solo travelers, especially for spiritual seekers.
Q3: How many days are enough for Rishikesh?
✔️ 2-3 days are enough to explore the main attractions and adventure sports.
Q4: Can I find vegetarian food in Rishikesh?
✔️ Yes, Rishikesh is a vegetarian-only city, famous for its sattvic meals and organic cafes.