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May 12, 2025
The quaint hamlet of Rishikesh, tucked away in the Himalayan foothills, combines natural beauty with spiritual tranquillity. Often referred to as the "Yoga Capital of the World," it attracts tourists from all over the world who are looking for adventure, peace, and a more intimate relationship with nature. Whether you want to meditate by the Ganges, visit historic temples, or engage in exhilarating pursuits like trekking and river rafting, there are several places to visit in Rishikesh.
The town is a great place to explore and unwind because of its serene atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and diverse culture. Let us explore a few famous places in Rishikesh that are must-sees.
There are several different attractions in Rishikesh that appeal to adventurers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers. The top tourist places to visit in Rishikesh ensure an unforgettable trip for all types of tourists, from famous sites like Laxman Jhula and Triveni Ghat to tranquil ashrams and exhilarating locations for bungee jumping and river rafting.
Some of the famous places to go in Rishikesh are as follows:
It is one of the most well-known ghats and tourist attractions in Rishikesh, and it is well worth the trip to see the Ganga Aarti in the evening. According to a tale, the Ghat is sacred because it is where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge.
Sitting here in the evening and taking in the beauty of the Aarti is one of the most significant ways to experience the charm of the destination. This is one of the best places to visit in India with family.
Laxman Jhula is a well-known suspension bridge in Rishikesh across the holy Ganges River. It links the communities of Jonk in Pauri Garhwal and Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal. One of the best places to visit in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is Laxman Jhula, which combines spirituality, history, and picturesque Ganges views.
It is thought to be the location where Lord Lakshman, Lord Rama's younger brother, once used jute ropes to cross the river. Over time, these must visit places in Rishikesh evolved into a symbol of devotion and heritage, drawing pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers from across the globe.
In Rishikesh, this place is a suspension bridge that spans the Ganges. The 230-meter-long and 2-meter-wide extension connects Parmarth Niketan with the Sivananda Ashram, providing a picturesque and spiritual route. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the river, mountains, and temple from neighbouring ashrams while crossing this place of tourist interest in Rishikesh.
The surrounding area has cafes, stores, restaurants, both modern and old, and street sellers to meet all your needs while you are there. Ram Jhula is one of the popular Rishikesh tourist places since it is a great area to walk in if you want to enjoy the serene and spiritual rhythm of nature.
Situated in Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganges River, Sadhana Mandir is one of the most serene places for visit in Rishikesh. The Ashram was established as a haven for earnest spiritual searchers and provides a calm setting that is perfect for meditation and personal development.
All visitors can stay in a peaceful and cosy setting at Sadhana Mandir, which offers both shared and private rooms. The rooms are tidy, uncomplicated, and furnished with the essentials for a restful and concentrated stay. It is considered one of the most popular Rishikesh sightseeing places.
The Beatles Ashram is one of the top places to explore in Rishikesh, situated around 18 kilometres from the city centre. The Beatles' visit to the Ashram to engage in transcendental meditation revolutionised the way people thought about Indian spirituality, and it was ranked among the top ten destinations in Rishikesh.
The Beatles wrote a lot of songs during their stay at the Ashram, which is regarded as one of their most fruitful times. You must go to this place of interest in Rishikesh and experience its peace if you are a Beatles fan.
This sacred temple, which is around 30 kilometres from Rishikesh, is regarded by all Lord Shiva devotees as one of the most significant pilgrimage places to visit from Rishikesh. The temple is said to have been constructed on the same location where Lord Shiva drank the venom known as "Halahal," which was extracted after churning the ocean to get the elixir of life.
In addition, devotees can take a sacred dip in the temple's freshwater spring. It is regarded as one of the top ten Rishikesh tourist attractions for a religious and spiritual experience.
Located in the Swarg Ashram neighbourhood of Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganges, Gita Bhawan is a highly regarded spiritual place to see at Rishikesh for seekers and devotees. Offering free lodging, basic vegetarian meals, and access to spiritual books and talks based on the Bhagavad Gita and other scriptures, it functions as a peaceful sanctuary.
The Ashram has a bookshop with Hindu religious publications, satsang centres, and meditation rooms. Because of its serene ambience and riverbank location, this Rishikesh tourist point draws pilgrims from all across India who are looking for enlightenment and inner serenity.
One of the noteworthy locations to include in your Rishikesh tour package is Swarg Ashram, which is a community of temples, yoga centres, stores, cafes, and spaces for meditation rather than a single structure. One of the oldest ashrams in the region is a serene location for those seeking spirituality. It is situated in Rishikesh between Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula.
Travellers from all over the world, monks, and devotees frequently stay at this best tourist place in Rishikesh for days or weeks to reflect and recover.
One of the most visited sites in Rishikesh is the Tera Manzil Temple, also called Trayambakeshwar Temple. This Rishikesh tourist spot is a tranquil getaway for those looking for quiet introspection and a spiritual connection. This 13-story temple rises on the banks of the Ganges River, next to the famous Lakshman Jhula.
The temple is different from other temples with a single central deity since it has different idols of Hindu gods and goddesses on each floor. This is also one of Rishikesh famous places to visit.
Shivpuri, a quiet town 16 kilometres from Rishikesh, is well-known for its riverbank campsites and adventurous pursuits. This hamlet, which is frequently ranked as one of the most popular Rishikesh places to see, is notable for its exceptional blend of exciting and natural experiences.
It is one of the most popular places for white river rafting and is also great for camping, yoga, and bonfires under the stars. This Rishikesh place to go is surrounded by hills and the Ganga River, and is perfect for people who want both excitement and peace.
Sage Vashishta, one of the Saptarishis, is said to have meditated in the ancient cave known as Vashishta Gufa, which is situated on the banks of the Ganga around 25 kilometres from Rishikesh. You should include this place in your Uttarakhand tour packages for meditation and contemplation, surrounded by peaceful woodlands and the calming murmur of the river.
The cave's quiet, dark atmosphere enhances the meditative experience. A sacred Peepal tree and a tiny ashram outside enhance the spiritual charm. Vashishta Gufa is the best place in Rishikesh for those seeking to commune with heavenly energy and inner solitude.
One of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India, Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a sacred location close to Rishikesh, rising to a height of roughly 1,650 meters. Swargarohini, Chaukhamba, Bandarpoonch, and other Himalayan peaks (Rishikesh best tourist places) can be seen from the temple, which is about 25 kilometres from the town.
Dedicated to the goddess Durga, the temple draws pilgrims and tourists looking for natural beauty and spiritual serenity. For those who enjoy nature, meditation, and photography, this is one of the best places to see in Rishikesh.
In the centre of Rishikesh, the old and hallowed Bharat Mandir is devoted to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. Significant both historically and spiritually, it is thought to be the city's oldest temple. Every year, a ritual bath and procession from Mayakund carry on this tradition. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh.
The city was named after Lord Vishnu, who reportedly decided to settle here as Hrishikesh Narayan after being impressed by Sage Raibhya Rishi's intense penance. It is also one of the most Rishikesh best places to visit, with references to the temple found in the Mahabharata, Vishnu Puran, and Shrimad Bhagwat.
Rishikund is a serene ancient pond located near the Raghunath Temple in the heart of the town, making it one of the top places to visit in Rishikesh. This sacred water tank is thought to have been blessed by the River Goddess Yamuna herself and has great spiritual significance.
The adjacent Raghunath Temple's partial reflections are still visible, glimmering on its serene exterior. Before entering the temple, pilgrims frequently take a bath here because they think the waters have purifying qualities. Serene ghats, stone steps, and a timeless atmosphere surround a tranquil haven and make it one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand.
The sacred Hindu sanctuary of Raghunath Temple, which is located close to Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh, is devoted to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It is one of the best places to visit in North India.
The temple features a 60-foot gopuram that is embellished with elaborate carvings that depict episodes from the Ramayana. Inside, stories of Hindu mythology are told through colourful murals and sixteen well-carved pillars. Raghunath Temple is one of the famous temples in Rishikesh.
One of the most important tourist places to visit in Rishikesh is Muni Ki Reti, a little village on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Muni Ki Reti is named for a sage named Muni, who is supposed to have spent considerable time meditating here.
Muni Ki Reti is considered to be an essential centre for meditation and yoga in India. It is the perfect place to visit in summer in India. This place is peaceful and serene, attracting spiritual seekers from around the world.
Phool Chatti Ashram is a calm spiritual haven tucked away in Rishikesh, India, on the banks of the Ganges River. The place offers several things to do in Rishikesh, including pranayama, meditation, mantra chanting, traditional Hatha and Ashtanga yoga, and nature walks.
Morning meditation, yoga asanas, yogic cleaning, and evening pooja and kirtan are all part of the daily routine. For those looking for a comprehensive yoga experience in a natural environment, Phool Chatti Ashram is one of the best places to visit in June in India.
One of the serene and spiritually energising locations to visit is Omkarananda Ashram in Rishikesh. An ideal addition to any Rishikesh tour package, the Ashram is renowned for fostering Vedantic studies, yoga, and classical arts in a calm and orderly setting.
One of its attractions is the Patanjala Yoga Kendra, which provides students from all over the world with genuine Iyengar Yoga instruction. The Ashram also operates several cultural and educational establishments around the area. This is one of the popular places to visit in winter in India.
Swami Sivananda established the serene and spiritual Sivananda Ashram near Rishikesh in 1936. This Ashram, which is close to the banks of the Ganges, is one of the best snowfall places in India for individuals looking for inner peace. In a calm setting, it gives guests the opportunity to establish a close connection with Indian spiritual traditions.
Morning prayers, open-to-all spiritual talks, yoga lessons, and meditation sessions are all part of the daily schedule. The Ashram (among the places to visit in Rishikesh) has exquisite yet understated carvings that promote inner development and self-control.
This is one of the must visit places in Rishikesh. The breathtaking Neer Garh Waterfall is well-known for its tumbling waters and charming surroundings. Visitors can trek along the neighbouring trails, snap breathtaking pictures, have a picnic in the embrace of nature, or just take a stroll to take in the tranquil surroundings.
During the summer months, the trek provides a chance for visitors to unwind by the pools and have a cool plunge. Because of its natural beauty, the region is perfect for capturing special moments. It is among the best places to visit in July in India.
The Garud Chatti Waterfall is perhaps one of the most stunning off-the-beaten-path places to visit from Rishikesh. The monsoon season offers the best view of this captivating cascade. This waterfall is about a 1.5-kilometre trek away.
It is a small yet beautiful natural area. Many thrill-seeking solo travellers have recently been interested in visiting the falls because it is one of the best places for solo travel in India.
Kaudiyala, located approximately 40 km from Rishikesh along the Badrinath Highway, is a renowned adventure destination nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills. It is especially famous for its challenging Grade III and IV rapids, making it one of the best places for river rafting in India.
The area offers scenic riverside campsites where one can enjoy bonfires under the starlit sky. The best time to visit Kaudiyala is from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor adventures.
Beyond rafting, visitors can engage in various adventure activities in Rishikesh, such as rock climbing, rappelling, trekking, and beach camping.
The Rajaji National Park is one of the best natural places to see at Rishikesh. The national park, which is only 16 kilometres from the city centre, is home to both plants and animals. With its revitalising feelings that brighten your day, the park is a living example of nature's abundance.
The Ganga River can also be seen flowing through the centre. The park is a living example of nature's bounty with refreshing vibes that make your day, and is the best place to visit in Uttarakhand.
Rishikesh, a little village by the banks of the sacred Ganga River, is a popular destination for adventure sports. The village is among the top rafting destinations in India because of its ideal water flow and topography. Byasi is among the top weekend places to go in Rishikesh.
Activities such as boating, river rafting, and camping take place here year-round. The hamlet has numerous eateries and homestays. The main reason Byasi is well-known in Rishikesh is that it is a camping area.
Devotees from all over the world flock to Parmath Niketan Ashram, which is situated along the banks of the holy Ganga River and is surrounded by verdant surroundings in the foothills of the Himalayas. This is one of the common places to visit in Rishikesh.
A visit to the biggest Ashram in Rishikesh will uplift your spirits and help you become more in tune with your spiritual side. You can improve your physical and mental well-being. Thus, this place is a famous Rishikesh tourist attraction.
Himshail Waterfall, a tranquil location perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty, is around 4 kilometres from Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The waterfall creates a calming atmosphere that draws meditators and yoga practitioners.
Visitors can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the waterfall, take nature walks, and click pictures of the best tourist place in Rishikesh.
Swami Veda Bharati founded the peaceful spiritual retreat known as Sadhaka Grama Ashram in Rishikesh. It is the headquarters of the International Association of Himalayan Yoga and Meditation Societies and is surrounded by lush nature.
Dorms and single rooms are available, and three vegetarian meals are served every day. Sadhaka Grama is the perfect place to explore in Rishikesh to deepen one's spiritual path because of its peaceful surroundings and organised spiritual activities.
One of the most famous places to visit in Rishikesh to study Vedanta and Sanskrit is Swami Dayananda Ashram. It blends ancient teachings with contemporary methods. It provides classes in Vedic chanting, Paninian-style Sanskrit grammar, and Vedanta materials.
The famous places in Rishikesh offer a three-month Vedanta course and a three-year program for a more in-depth study of Vedantic philosophy. Additionally, it offers Swami Dayananda Memorial Retreats and family retreats, where parents are required to accompany their children.
A hidden gem tucked away in the verdant Rajaji Forest, Patna Waterfall is roughly 6.5 miles from Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh. The trail provides a tranquil stroll through lush surroundings and is reachable from the Neelkanth Temple Road.
The area's charm is enhanced by nearby limestone caverns, which beckon investigation. Activities available to visitors include swimming, nature walks, and photography. This place is the main attraction in Rishikesh.
The Bairaj Lake, which is connected to the Ganga River, adds another dimension to the array of stunning tourist places to visit from Rishikesh. It is the most magnificent masterpiece of Mother Nature among all the lakes in Uttarakhand.
The scenery is quite peaceful, even though you are not permitted to approach the fishing areas. You may unwind in the sun at the lovely lake park, where you can watch the Pashulok Barrage dumping water into the lake.
The best time to visit Rishikesh is from February to April and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, the temperature remains moderate, making it perfect for sightseeing, yoga retreats, and river rafting. Monsoons bring lush greenery but also slippery trails, while winter offers a serene, spiritual atmosphere for those seeking peace.
This holy town is a highlight among the places to visit in Uttarakhand. It attracts visitors with its tranquil ghats, adventure sports, and spiritual ashrams nestled in the lap of the Himalayas.
You can visit Rishikesh, one of the best hill stations in North India, in various ways. These are as follows:
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, roughly 21 kilometres from Rishikesh. Regular domestic flights connect it to major Indian cities, including Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. Taxis and cabs are available from the airport to Rishikesh.
Although there is a small railway station in Rishikesh, Haridwar Railway Station, which is roughly 25 km distant, is the closest significant railhead. Cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Varanasi are all easily accessible from Haridwar. It takes roughly 45 minutes to go to Rishikesh from Haridwar via taxi or local bus.
Major cities in North India are easily accessible by road from Rishikesh. Regular buses run from Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. It takes roughly 6–7 hours to go by car or bus via NH 34 from Delhi to Rishikesh, which is about 240 miles away.
Make your travel seamless and memorable by booking with Trip Planners India, the best trip planner in India. Whether you are exploring spiritual retreats in Rishikesh or embarking on an adventure in Uttarakhand, they offer personalised itineraries, budget-friendly packages, and expert guidance.
With a commitment to quality and convenience, we ensure a stress-free journey, letting you focus on the experience while we handle all the travel details.
