10 Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh for a Soulful Trip in 2024

Home » Top 10 Places To Visit In Rishikesh

Friday, September 16, 2022

Rishikesh, one of the popular tourist destination of Uttarakhand tourism, is known for its tranquil beauty, splendid temples, architectural marvels, and adventure sports. Called the ‘Yoga Capital of the World,’ Rishikesh never fails to impress. It’s a land that has something for everyone. So, whether it is a trip to experience Rishikesh yoga, meditate or relax and unwind, Rishikesh has something for all types of travelers. There are many beautiful places to visit in Rishikesh that will mesmerize you and keep you entertained throughout your trip!

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful land, here is all the information you need, including the top tourist places in Rishikesh that you must visit.

How to Reach Rishikesh

Traveling to Rishikesh is easy. You could travel to Rishikesh by either air, road, or rail.

Air: Jolly Grant airport, Dehradun, is the nearest airport to Rishikesh. It is located about 35 km from the city, and regular flight services are available to and from all major cities in India.
Rail: Tourists can also travel to Rishikesh by rail. You can travel to Haridwar railway station and hire a cab to Rishikesh.
Road:Rishikesh is also well-connected by road from all major towns and cities in the country. Bus services are readily available from major cities like Dehradun, Delhi, Haridwar, Mathura, and Mussoorie.

Best Time To Visit Rishikesh

The weather in Rishikesh Uttarakhand is pleasant all year round. So you can plan a trip to this mesmerizing place anytime. Here is a breakup of each season if you plan a trip here.

Peak season – March to May
Shoulder season – October to February
Low season – June to September

October to February (Winters)

Winters are the best time to visit Rishikesh. The temperature during this time ranges between 8°C and 34°C. Rishikesh is perfect during the winter. From religious to cultural and adventurous things, Rishikesh has something for everyone!

March to May (Summer)

Summers in Rishikesh can get very hot and humid. Temperatures range between 14°C and 39°C. Being the world’s yoga capital, you can visit the place during this time of the year to indulge in some of the best spiritual experiences.

June to September (Monsoon)

Temperatures during the monsoon range between 24°C and 35°C. Although it is a low tourist season, Rishikesh transforms into a magical place like most hill stations. If you’re looking to enjoy the spectacular beauty of the site, then monsoons are the best time to visit for a relaxing vacation.

Places to Visit in Rishikesh

There are plenty of fantastic tourist places in Rishikesh that you can visit when planning your trip. From yoga to cultural, historical, and adventurous activities, there are many things to do in Rishikesh for everyone.

1. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

Located about 4 km from Rishikesh railway station, the Laxman and Ram Jhula bridges are among the top tourist places to visit in Rishikesh. The bridges measure about 450 feet long, and the iron suspended bridges offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. An architectural marvel, these two bridges are an important tourist attraction for pilgrims worldwide.

Things to do: Visit the famous Trayambakeshwar temple. Laxman temple and Ram temple and witness the beauty around them.
How to reach: You can get to the bridges by bus, train or car from the city center.

2. Shivpuri

A trip to Shivpuri is a good idea if you’re up for some adventure in Rishikesh. Situated about 19 km from Rishikesh, Shivpuri is like heaven on Earth. Located on the banks of the Ganges, it is one of the best tourist places in Rishikesh. Here, you can enjoy a variety of exciting adventure options and camping by the river. Some popular adventure activities here are trekking, boating, and river rafting.

Things to do: Visit Karera Bird Sanctuary, enjoy overnight jungle camping, and visit Sakhya Sagar Lake.
How to reach: Shivpuri can easily be reached by train, car, or bus from Rishikesh city center.

3. Triveni Ghat

If you’re wondering what to do in Rishikesh, then a trip to Triveni Ghat is a must for a spiritual experience. Situated alongside the Ganges, it’s one of the most sacred places in Rishikesh. The evening aarti and the spirituality of the place will transport you into a different world. It would be best to visit this holy ghat to gain insight into the place’s spiritual beauty. You could also go for a homestay in Rishikesh if you’re looking for a budget trip.

Things to do: Attend the famous evening Ganga aarti and visit the market in the area.
How to reach: You can reach Triveni Ghat by train, bus, or car from the city center.

4. Neer Garh Waterfall

Situated close to Laxman Jhula, Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the top tourist places in Rishikesh. The cascading waterfall will leave you amazed. It’s a perfect place to visit if you’re looking to admire the beauty of Rishikesh and escape from the hustle-bustle of life. The waterfall attracts many photographers who come here to capture the natural beauty of the place. This place also has some of the best 5-star hotels in Rishikesh that you can check out.

Things to do: Experience the natural beauty of the site and trek to the top of the beautiful waterfall.
How to reach: Train, car, and bus are the modes of transport you can use to reach Neer Garh Waterfall.

5. The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram

The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, also known as the ‘The Beatles Ashram,’ is a popular tourist attraction in Rishikesh. The ashram gained importance after the Beatles visited this serene site. The tranquillity and calmness of the ashram will leave you awestruck and spellbound. Tourists and pilgrims visit the ashram to enjoy a quiet meditation session or the place’s spiritual beauty.

Things to do: Enjoy the serene beauty and calmness of the site.
How to reach: Bus, train, and car services are available to go to the ashram from the city center.

6. Kaudiyala

When it comes to adventure, Rishikesh has a lot of it. Head to Kaudiyala if you want to experience water rafting. It is one of the best whitewater rafting places in the world. The 16 km stretch is a fantastic place for that exciting adrenaline rush. Here are some of the best Rishikesh tour packages that you can check out.

Things to do: Enjoy camping, white water rafting, and boating.
How to reach: You can get to the place from the city center by car, bus, or train.

7. Swarg Ashram

You could never run out of places to visit in Rishikesh because the land has a lot to offer. Visit the Swarg Ashram, India’s oldest ashram, for a sense of spirituality. Nestled between Laxman and Ram Jhula, it was built in honor of Swami Vishudhanand. It is isolated and a perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty and meditate.

Things to do: Enjoy the serene location and attend meditation and yoga sessions.
How to reach: You can hire a car, or take a train, or bus to get to the ashram.

8. Garud Chatti Waterfall

Looking to rejuvenate and unwind? Escape to Garud Chatti Waterfall for the best experience. Located close to Laxman Jhula, this is one of the best places in Rishikesh that you must visit. The falls attract tourists and adventurous souls who love to trek to the place. Visiting the sight during the monsoon months will allow you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and natural beauty.

Things to do: Camping, enjoying the natural beauty, and bathing in water.
How to reach: Bus and train services are readily available. You can also hire a car to get to the waterfall from Rishikesh city center.

9. Rajaji National Park

Located about 16 km from the center, the Rajaji National Park is a refreshing place to admire the beauty of Rishikesh. It’s an abode of flora and fauna; if lucky, you may even spot a tiger passing you by. The national park is excellent for sightseeing and catching a glimpse of the wild.

Things to do: Enjoy a safari and witness the beauty of the Ganga.
How to reach: Train or bus services are available to get to the park. Hiring a car is also a convenient option.

10. Osho Ganga Ashram

If you’re looking to calm your body, mind, and soul, head to the Osho Ganga Ashram to learn the techniques of Osho active meditation. Located at a peaceful site, you can learn the art of soothing your inner self. Tourists who come to the ashram prefer to stay for a week to get the best experience.

Things to do: Learn Osho active meditation and enjoy the natural surroundings.
How to reach: You could hire a car to get to the ashram. Train and bus services are also available to reach the place from the city center.

These are some of the top places to visit in Rishikesh for spirituality, adventure, and sightseeing. Check out SOTC to book some of the best holiday tour packages for a comfortable and exciting vacation!