Uttarakhand, India · Travel guide
Rishikesh travel guide
The yoga capital of the world, where the Ganga leaves the Himalaya.
- Best time
- Oct - Nov, Feb - Apr
- A day, mid-range
- ₹3,500-6,000 per person
- Getting there
- Air · Train
- Ready-made trips
- 1 itinerary
Rishikesh sits where the Ganga emerges from the Himalayan foothills, about 240 km from Delhi. It's a pilgrimage town of ashrams and temples, and since the Beatles' 1968 visit, a global centre for yoga and meditation.
Beyond the spiritual side it's also India's white-water rafting hub, with rapids just upstream at Shivpuri, plus waterfalls, forest walks and riverside cafés in Tapovan.
When to go
Best time to visit Rishikesh
October to November and February to April are ideal for weather and rafting. Rafting stops in the July-August monsoon.
- Jan: Good
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Best
- Apr: Best
- May: no note
- Jun: no note
- Jul: Avoid
- Aug: Avoid
- Sep: no note
- Oct: Best
- Nov: Best
- Dec: Good
- Oct - NovClear, pleasant, rafting open
- Dec - JanCold mornings, quiet ashrams
- Feb - AprWarm, rafting open; International Yoga Festival in March
- Jul - AugMonsoon; rafting closed
Getting there
How to reach Rishikesh
- Air
- Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport (DED) is 35 km away.
- Train
- Haridwar is 25 km away with many trains from Delhi; Yog Nagari Rishikesh station also has services.
- Getting around
- Shared autos run between Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula and Tapovan; walking between ghats is easy.
Where to stay
Where to stay in Rishikesh
Tapovan
Cafés, yoga schools and hostels above Laxman Jhula.
Swarg Ashram
Ashrams and quiet guesthouses near Parmarth Niketan.
Shivpuri
Riverside camps near the rafting put-in.
What to see
Top things to do in Rishikesh
- 01
Parmarth Niketan Ganga Aarti
The famous evening aarti with chanting and lamps.
Arrive by 5:30 PM for a good seat.
Open in Maps - 02
Beatles Ashram
The ruined ashram where the Beatles stayed, covered in murals.
Carry ID for the ticket.
Open in Maps - 03
Shivpuri rafting
16 km of grade II-III rapids back to Rishikesh.
Use a state-licensed operator.
Open in Maps - 04
- 05
Neer Garh Waterfall
Turquoise pools and falls a short hike from the road.
Slippery after rain.
Open in Maps - 06
Laxman Jhula and Trimbakeshwar Temple
The iconic bridge area with a 13-storey temple.
Use the new glass bridge alongside.
Open in Maps - 07
Kunjapuri Temple
A hilltop temple with Himalayan sunrise views.
Leave at 4:30 AM for sunrise.
Open in Maps
What to eat
What to eat in Rishikesh
Aloo puri and chole
The classic pilgrim's breakfast at Chotiwala.
Ayurvedic thali
Simple, sattvic meals at ashrams and wellness cafés.
Masala chai and smoothie bowls
Tapovan's café staples.
What it costs
Rishikesh trip cost per day
Backpacker
₹1,200-2,000
per person, per day
Hostel, shared autos, café food
Mid-range
₹3,500-6,000
per person, per day
Hotel, rafting, classes
Comfort
₹15,000+
per person, per day
Wellness retreat like Ananda
- Rishikesh is vegetarian and alcohol-free by law.
- Dress modestly at ashrams and ghats.
- Book multi-day yoga courses in advance in peak season.
Good questions
Rishikesh travel FAQs
How many days do you need in Rishikesh?
Two to three days for yoga, rafting and the aartis; longer for a yoga course or retreat.
When is the Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh?
Every evening around sunset, about 5:30-6:30 PM depending on the season, at Parmarth Niketan and Triveni Ghat.
Is Rishikesh safe for solo travellers?
Yes, it's one of India's most popular solo destinations, with a big community of travellers in Tapovan.
What's the best time for rafting in Rishikesh?
September to November and February to June. It's closed in July and August.