Our Review
Rishikesh is reckoned as an amazing destination among travel enthusiasts. It provides cost-effective and surreal experiences to the visitors. The city is located on the bank of the holy Ganga River in Uttarakhand state, India. Due to this, the town holds a special status of spiritual significance among local people. Hence, it attracts a lot of pilgrims and travellers from all over the world. Moreover, Rishikesh is also renowned as the yoga capital of the world and provides the best yoga experiences along with ancient Indian practices that support the well-being of a person. This is the prime reason people get attracted to this place.
According to statistics, each year, over a million, both national and international tourists, visit the city to experience the incredible vibes of Rishikesh. Tourists mostly visit the places to fulfil their purpose of seeking knowledge of yoga and spirituality. However, the city is not limited to adventures and yoga; rather, it offers many tourist places that can hold your breath and amaze you through vibrant experiences. In this blog, we’ll explore the Top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh that promise a fulfilling, unforgettable experience that no one can remove from their memories.
Here are the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh to explore the rare charm of the city.
1. Triveni Ghat: A Spiritual Epicentre
Triveni Ghat is a popular spiritual epicentre in Rishikesh. Here, each day, many domestic worshippers and foreign tourists take the bath in holy water to remove their sins. Every evening, as the Ganga Aarti occurs, the place is transformed into an enchanted realm. Where you can enjoy the view of different lamps floating on the water, along with flowers, chants filling the air, and the river glowing with flames at dusk, this amazing view mesmerises the souls of those who witness the event and leaves a healing effect.
Key Highlights:
- One can participate in the soulful aarti and reduce the burden of bad experiences.
- You can take a ritual bath to cleanse your sins (bad karamas).
- Enjoy street-side stalls which offer multiple delicious snacks.
Note: For experiencing a good view, try to reach the Ganga aarti at least 30 minutes before.
2. Neer Garh Waterfall: A Hidden Oasis
Neer Garh Waterfall is a hidden gem in Rishikesh, which is surrounded by lush greenery and incredible scenic views. This is considered one of the perfect places to enjoy with family and friends in Rishikesh. You can reach here through a quick hike to immerse yourself in natural pools. The place is a combination of the sound of rushing water and birdsong, creating a tranquil haven. Tourists can soak their feet in the cold mountain stream or take a revitalising bath. With butterflies attracted to the wildflowers, the hike itself is beautiful. This location is roughly 5 km from Lakshman Jhula and is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and peace.
Things to Do:
- Visitors can take a dip in the clear water pools and enjoy with friends and family.
- Capture stunning images of the natural surroundings from different angles.
- If you are a trek lover, you enjoy a short trek through the forested trail.
Best Time to Visit Neer Garh Waterfall: Right before the monsoon (March to June), when the summer is at its peak and the water is clean with low rush.
3. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): Where Music Met Meditation
The Beatles Ashram is also known as Chaurasi Kutia among locals. Around thousands of visitors visit the palace each year to satisfy their desire to explore different artworks. According to scholars, once upon a time, the Beatles visited Rishikesh, India, in 1968 to learn Transcendental Meditation from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Their retreat was held at an ashram by the holy Ganges River, tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas. They drew inspiration from this place and wrote numerous songs that were eventually included on The White Album. The ashram reopened to the public in 2015 despite having closed in the 1990s. Visitors can now explore the meditation areas, take in the vibrant murals and sense the enduring spirit of peace and creativity. The Beatles Ashram is still a unique location where Western music and Eastern spirituality once coexisted and left a lasting impression.
Why Visit:
- For discovering the importance of meditation.
- Explore the secluded woodland traces of the ashram.
- Experience peace in solitude or meditate in a soothing environment.
Photography Tip: Carry your wide-angle lens to capture the vibrant artwork and rustic charm of the ruins.
4. Lakshman Jhula: A Historical Suspension Marvel
Lakshman Jhula is a famous suspension bridge that crosses the Ganges River in Rishikesh, India. Constructed in 1929, it serves as an essential walking route between the villages of Tapovan and Jonk. Using jute ropes, Lord Lakshman is said to have crossed the river at this location. The iron bridge, which was 70 feet above the river and 450 feet long, became a popular tourist and pilgrimage site. However, due to a structural problem, it was first only accessible on foot before being opened to automobiles in 2019. There is a new bridge being constructed nearby. The area remains a religious and cultural hub.
Must-Do Activities:
- Cross the bridge on foot or by bike to experience wide views of the surroundings.
- Must go to nearby temples like Tera Manzil and Lakshman Temple to enjoy the surroundings.
- Also, visit cafes and old bookstores on either side of the Lakshman Jhula
Note: Try to explore the place early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful view before the arrival of the crowd.
5. Swarg Ashram: A Peaceful Retreat on the Ganges
On the left bank of the Ganges, across from Shri Shivanand Ashram, is a small township called Swarg Ashram, which is 5 km upstream from Rishikesh. There are two ways to get there: by boat across the Ganges or on foot through the Ram/Shivanand Jhula, which is constructed across the river. The ashram was constructed as a tribute to Swami Vishudhanand, a saint who is more popularly known in the community as Kali Kamli Wala, or the saint with the black blanket. Numerous ashrams, temples, and caves that are inhabited by saints can be found within the Swarg Ashram. Several cafes, shops, shopping malls, libraries, parks, meditation centres, Ayurvedic dispensaries, dining establishments, and lodging facilities are also included in Swarg Ashram. The region is surrounded by hills of forest, has lovely orchards, and an atmosphere free from the pollutants of a motorised city.
Highlights:
- One can easily enrol in yoga and meditation classes.
- You can learn about Ayurvedic practices and holistic therapies.
- Visit the nearby Sivananda Ashram and Gita Bhawan, both are significant places.
Note: Stay at least for a week to immerse yourself entirely in the serene environment.
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A Sacred Journey Through the Mountains
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is more than just a place of worship; it is a portal to devotion and mythology. The temple’s beautifully carved entrance welcomes you, carrying whispers of ancient stories and traditions. Here, pilgrims go to pray in the serene surroundings of the rivers in search of spiritual relief. When Maha Shivaratri occurs, the temple is changed into a glittering representation of faith that pulls devotees to the gods in wonder. There is a saying that lord shiva ingested the Halahala poison that was churned from the ocean, turning his throat a deep blue. The temples that honour Lord Shiva are known as Neelkanth (Blue Throated One).
What to Expect:
- An adventure hike that makes the journey memorable and beautiful.
- Panoramic Himalayan Landscapes
- Offerings of milk and bael leaves accompany the devotees’ prayers.
Pilgrim Tip: For a spiritual and daring day trip, combine your visit with a hike along the nearby forest trails.
7. Parmarth Niketan: The Heart of Yoga in Rishikesh
More than just an ashram (pilgrim stay), Parmarth Niketan is a place where spirituality and nature coexist peacefully. This stunning haven of peace, which attracts tourists from all over the world, is situated in Rishikesh on the banks of the holy Ganges. Founded in 1942, the ashram has become the biggest in the area and provides soul-nourishing yoga, meditation, and satsangs. When the sun sets, the Ganga Aarti turns the riverbank into a glowing display of devotion. One doesn’t just go to Parmarth Niketan in the middle of the Himalayas, whispers they experience it and remember its tranquillity for a very long time.
Best Experiences:
- Indulge yourself in an early morning yoga class while overlooking the Ganga River
- Join satsangs and Ayurvedic therapy sessions
- Immerse yourself in an elaborate Ganga Aarti in the evenings
Important Insight: The staff provide packages that include meals and workshops for both short-term and long-term stays.
8. Tera Manzil Temple (Trimbakeshwar): A Towering Spiritual Landmark
With its thirteen colourful stories, Tera Manzil Temple, also called Trimbakeshwar Temple, is a towering structure situated on the banks of the holy Ganges in Rishikesh. With multiple shrines honouring various Hindu deities on each floor, devotees and seekers can find a spiritual haven in this place. The temple is painted white, and the bright orange colour stands out against the tranquil Himalayan landscape. As visitors ascend, chants, incense, and bells add to the atmosphere. The summit offers tranquillity and perspective with its stunning views of the Ganges and Laxman Jhula. It is a journey through devotion, culture, and breathtaking beauty rather than just a temple.
Top Attractions:
- Wonderful spiritual ambience and Intricate architecture
- An aerial perspective of Rishikesh town and the Ganges
- Spiritual souvenirs from temple stalls
Travel Tip: Try to visit during early morning hours to experience peace before the crowds come.
9. Ram Jhula: A Bridge of Devotion and Connection
An iconic suspension bridge in Rishikesh, the Ram Jhula flows gracefully across the Ganges to connect the spiritual hubs of Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Ashram. Built in 1986, it wobbles gently under the feet of curious tourists, pilgrims, and monks. Over its 450-foot length, the river below glistens green, and the wind echoes with the sound of temple bells and chants. Motorbikes hum, cows amble aimlessly, and saffron-robed sadhus pause in the middle of the crossing. Beyond simply being a place to cross the bridge is a centre of spiritual activity where traditions meet daily life, and each step feels like a part of something timeless and incredibly sacred.
Why It’s Special:
- Surrounded by many temples, yoga institutions, and spiritual bookstores
- Best for photography and walking slowly
- Easy access to famous locations like Anandamayi Ashram and Gita Bhawan
Travel Hack: For a pleasant walking tour of Rishikesh, visit both Lakshman and Ram Jhula in a loop
10. Kunjapuri Devi Temple: A Sunrise View to Remember
Kunjapuri Devi Temple, which is situated near Rishikesh on a hilltop, offers both divine energy and mesmerising views of the Himalayan peaks. The sky is bursting with colour at sunrise, and the peaks of Swargarohini and Gangotri glow in gold, which blows your mind and spirit.
The trip resembles a physical and spiritual pilgrimage and includes a strenuous 300-step climb. Devoted to the goddess Durga, the temple is revered for its power and presence and is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. Pilgrims light incense, ring the temple bell and whisper prayers to infuse the pure mountain air with devotion. It is a place where the natural and divine realms silently meet.
Things Not to Miss:
- Get sweeping views of the Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Gangotri and Swargarohini.
- Spiritual rituals are performed at dawn.
- Explore peaceful settings for meditation and relaxation.
Adventure Option: Book a guided sunrise trek or cycling tour to the temple for a memorable morning.
Final Travel Tips for Visiting Rishikesh
February to May and September to November are the Best Times to travel to Rishikesh.
To reach the city, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, 21 km away. Rishikesh is also linked via train and road from Delhi and Dehradun.
Local transport is also available as rickshaws, taxis, and rental scooters are readily available. Most attractions are within walking distance if you stay in central Rishikesh.
Conclusion
Rishikesh is far more than just a destination for tourists. Exploring the city is a transformative experience that witnesses breathtaking scenery and thrilling adventures while fusing your soul with spirituality. When you visit the place, you get a fresh, revitalising energy that lasts for a long time. Every location of this amazing town has a unique tale to tell, from the serene chants at Triveni Ghat to the breathtaking sunrise at Kunjapuri Devi Temple. Every location is sure to astonish you with its unique atmosphere. I can promise you that visiting these Top 10 Places in Rishikesh will undoubtedly give you lifelong memories and unforgettable experiences, regardless of whether you are a yoga enthusiast, pilgrim, curious backpacker, or just a regular traveller. So, prepare for a trip to Rishikesh to awaken your senses and spirit by packing your bag and putting on your shoes.
Also Read: Why Rishikesh Is Known as The Yoga Capital of The World
