Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh
1. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
Laxman Jhula is a historic iron suspension bridge in Rishikesh, believed to mark the spot where Lord Laxman once crossed the Ganga on a jute rope. Walking on this bridge, you can feel it sway slightly. Beneath it, the Ganga flows in her majestic and fierce form, a sight that may intimidate first-time visitors. From Laxman Jhula, you can also spot Ram Jhula, another well-known bridge that adds to the charm of Rishikesh’s riverfront.
Things to Do
- Walk across the iconic suspension bridges over the Ganges River.
- Visit the temples and ashrams lining both banks of the river.
- Photography of the bridges with the Himalayan backdrop and flowing Ganges.
Nearest Attractions
- Tera Manzil Temple – ~0.5 km
- Triveni Ghat – ~3 km
- Beatles Ashram – ~3.5 km
2. Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat holds immense spiritual significance as it marks the confluence of three sacred rivers—the Ganga, Yamuna, and the Saraswati. The serene Ganga Aarti held here at sunrise and sunset is truly enchanting. The Ganga Aarti held at Triveni Ghat during sunrise and sunset is a captivating experience that draws devotees and tourists alike. According to local beliefs, Lord Krishna visited here. The ghat is adorned with beautiful idols and offers breathtaking views of the Ganga. and surrounding hills.
Things to Do
- Attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony every evening.
- Take a holy dip at the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
- Witness the ritual of feeding fish and turtles in the sacred waters.
Nearest Attractions
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram – ~1.5 km
- Ram Jhula – ~3 km
- Laxman Jhula – ~5 km
3. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutiya - Paid Entry)
Also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, this site houses more than 84 meditation huts made of bricks. Once used for meditation by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, these huts are now in a state of decay due to a lack of maintenance. This ashram gained fame when The Beatles visited to learn meditation, and their name often refers to it.
Things to Do
- Explore the ruins of the ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968.
- Admire the vibrant street art and murals covering the ashram walls.
- Nature walk through the forested campus on the banks of the Ganges.
Nearest Attractions
- Ram Jhula – ~3.5 km
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram – ~3 km
- Triveni Ghat – ~4 km
4. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Situated on the banks of the Ganges, Parmarth Niketan is known for its lush green gardens, deities' statues, and a spiritual atmosphere. It is located just 300 meters from Ram Jhula. The beautiful statue of Lord Shiva in the middle of the Ganga looks awesome. Visitors can attend the evening Ganga Aarti and, if desired, book a stay for yoga or meditation.
Things to Do
- Explore the ruins of the ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968.
- Admire the vibrant street art and murals covering the ashram walls.
- Nature walk through the forested campus on the banks of the Ganges.
Nearest Attractions
- Ram Jhula – ~3.5 km
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram – ~3 km
- Triveni Ghat – ~4 km
5. Neer Garh Waterfall (Paid Entry)
Located 8 kilometers from Ram Jhula, Neer Garh Waterfall is a stunning cascade amidst forests and mountains. Visitors need to purchase a ticket, which is checked along the way. A short 600–700-meter trek leads to a refreshing natural waterfall, perfect for a peaceful escape. For those who prefer not to climb, the lower part of the waterfall is also accessible. Food and drink stalls are available, but crowds are expected due to their popularity.
Things to Do
- Trek through the scenic jungle trail to reach the waterfall.
- Swim and refresh in the natural pool at the base of the falls.
- Photography of the multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Nearest Attractions
- Laxman Jhula – ~3 km
- Phool Chatti Ashram – ~2 km
- Rishikesh town – ~8 km
6. Shivpuri
Located 15 kilometers from Rishikesh, Shivpuri is a hub for adventure activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, camping, ziplining, and sky cycling. The village also offers a beach-like experience, often referred to as Shivpuri Beach, where the mighty Maa Ganga flows through the mountains, creating an awe-inspiring view.
Things to Do
- White water rafting on the Ganges with exciting Grade III and IV rapids.
- Camping on the riverbank under the stars.
- Cliff jumping, kayaking, and body surfing in the Ganges.
Nearest Attractions
- Laxman Jhula – ~15 km
- Neer Garh Waterfall – ~12 km
- Rishikesh town – ~16 km
7. Tera Manzil Temple
Situated near Laxman Jhula, this 13-story building houses small temples and various shops. The upper floors of nearby temples or ashrams offer stunning panoramic views of the Ganga River, surrounding hills, and Laxman Jhula.
Things to Do
- Explore the 13-storey temple dedicated to various Hindu deities on each floor.
- Climb to the top floor for panoramic views of the Ganges and Laxman Jhula.
- Attend the morning and evening aarti at the temple.
Nearest Attractions
- Laxman Jhula – ~0.5 km
- Ram Jhula – ~3 km
- Triveni Ghat – ~4 km
8. Rajaji National Park
Now known as Rajaji Tiger Reserve, this park offers a glimpse into Uttarakhand’s rich wildlife. Wildlife enthusiasts can embark on jungle safaris to spot animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, deer, jackals, and many others in their natural habitat. Tickets can be booked online at Rajaji Tiger Reserve or offline at the counters. The most visited zone is the Chilla Range, which is the famous range of Rajaji National Park.
Things to Do
- Jeep safari to spot elephants, leopards, tigers, and diverse wildlife.
- Birdwatching with over 315 species, including the great hornbill.
- Elephant safari and nature walks through the dense Shivalik forests.
Nearest Attractions
- Chilla Range Gate – ~15 km from Rishikesh
- Haridwar – ~20 km
- Rishikesh town – ~15 km
9. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas in Hinduism, this temple marks the spot where the chest (upper body) of Goddess Sati fell. Located about 25 kilometers from Rishikesh by road, the path to this temple winds through scenic forests and hills, offering captivating views along the way. You can choose between a trek or a staircase to reach the temple, which is adorned with lion statues at the entrance. The temple's mountaintop location provides stunning views of the valleys.
Things to Do
- Trek to the hilltop temple for one of the best sunrise views in Rishikesh.
- Seek blessings at the Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Kunjapuri.
- Panoramic views of the Himalayas, Garhwal ranges, and Ganges valley.
Nearest Attractions
- Narendra Nagar – ~5 km
- Tehri Dam – ~45 km
- Rishikesh town – ~25 km
10. Vashishta Gufa
Accessible via Shivpuri, Vashishta Gufa is an ancient cave where Maharishi Vashishta, the guru of Lord Rama, meditated. This sacred site is thousands of years old and continues to attract devotees seeking spiritual solace. It is believed that Lord Shiva granted Vashishta a boon, ensuring that anyone meditating here would be freed from worries.
Things to Do
- Meditate inside the ancient cave where sage Vashishtha is said to have meditated.
- Visit the small temple dedicated to Sage Vashishtha and Lord Shiva inside the cave.
- Enjoy the serene Ganges riverbank setting, perfect for quiet reflection.
Nearest Attractions
- Laxman Jhula – ~12 km
- Kunjapuri Devi Temple – ~10 km
- Rishikesh town – ~17 km