Travelogged #25 Indulge In The Unparalleled Exotic Beauty Of Rishikesh

If you are one of those who loves exploring places with a mountainous backdrop, then Rishikesh is the place to be. Rishikesh is one absurd blend of yogis, sanyasis, pilgrims, travelers, hippies, adventure sports enthusiasts and more. Situated in the foothills of India and popularly called the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is the place where the holy River Ganges and River Chandrabhaga converge. Visit the Yoga and Meditation centers around Rishikesh to enrich yourself spiritually and indulge in the unparalleled adrenaline-pumping sport of white water rafting and bungee jumping to reaffirm your faith in life. So, we bring to you the most amazing places to visit in Rishikesh.

 

 

Places To Visit In Rishikesh 

 

1. Rishi Kund

Let's start with the places to visit in Rishikesh with this sacred pond which is located close to Triveni Ghat. There are a lot of legendary stories related to this kund which says that pleased by a saint goddess of the river Yamuna filled up this pond with water. You'll also be able to find Lord Ram's impressions into the sanctuary over here. 

 

2. The Beatles Ashram

While planning a trip to Rishikesh one of the most touristy place to visit would definitely be The Beatles Ashram. Rishikesh has been very popular for its age-old practice of yoga and meditation which made "The Beatles" set foot upon this serene and quiet town. Thus, after the visit of them legendaries at this place, Rishikesh has been in the limelight and which is why it is also known as the "Yoga Capital" of the world. So, seek the right kind of fitness mantra at this place.  

 

 

3. Triveni Ghat

Situated at the bank of Ganges there lies Triveni Ghat which is a confluence of three holy significant Rivers the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswathy. Take a dip at this holy place to get relief from all the sins that you have carried on till now. You will also find a market near the Triveni Ghat where you'll find a good range of kullu topis, Nehru jackets, kurtas, salwar kameez and jewellery, bangles on the narrow streets. 

 

4. Laxman Jhula And Ram Jhula

Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh is one of the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh. Essentially, it is a balancing span crosswise over waterway Ganga, around 450 ft long and 70 ft over the stream. The jhula was hanging jute bridge before though now it has been changed into an Iron suspension bridge. The scaffold is utilized as a way to visit Swarg Ashram and Gita Bhavan. Additionally, one ought not to miss the incomparable Terah Manzil; a thirteen story sanctuary which is located near to Laxman Jhula.

 

 

 

 

5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Talking about the trance and enchantment of the magical city, topping the list of places that tells the story of the most significant tales of the Hindu mythology is Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. It is one of the most visited pilgrimages for ages. Standing tall at the height of 1330 mtrs, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple lies adjacent to the amazing Nar Narayan mountain range.

 

Things To Do In Rishikesh

There are numerous super-fun things to do in Rishikesh, taking from River Rafting to Bungee Jumping and Cliff Jumping to Kayaking, and more Rishikesh is endowed with every adventurous activity where you can indulge yourself exploring the hidden dimensions of the mother nature and take a break from boring city life.

 

1. River Rafting

If you want to be a part of an extraordinary and extremely challenging river rafting experience then Rishikesh is the place for you. Preferably one of the most amazing things to do in Rishikesh that offers a mindblowing and challenging river rafting experience. 

Best Time For River Rafting in Rishikesh: Anytime is the best time for river rafting in Rishikesh, except monsoon and January. October to June is the ideal time to try river rafting in Rishikesh. 

Rishikesh River Rafting Stretch: Kaudiyala to Lakshman Jhula (36 km)- with 13 major rapids

Rafting Charges in Rishikesh: Rs 400-1300.

Note: Charges for river rafting in Rishikesh gets cheaper in packages

River Rafting Routes:

• Kaudiyala- Marine Drive (10 km with grade III & IV)
• Marine Drive- Shivpuri (11 km with grade II & III)
• Shivpuri-Brahmpuri (11 km with grade I & II)
• Brahmpuri-Lakshman Jhula (9 km with grade I)

 

2. Mountain Biking

Explore Rishikesh through mountain biking as it has rejuvenating sights to offer which includes magnificent sunsets. It's one of the most exciting routes for mountain biking in India - Rishikesh Biking routes offer the sight of beautiful small villages, paddy fields and several prayer flags on the way. 

Mountain Biking Route: Rishikesh and surrounding areas are all yours to explore

Best Time For Mountain Biking in Rishikesh: Anytime is the best time. Try to avoid in monsoons.

 

3. Cliff Jumping 

We all want to live the big life, enjoy the fine luxuries king size but nothing can beat the rush that you get out of jumping off a cliff which is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh.

Average Height of Cliffs: 20 feet (10 feet if the water level rises)

Where To Do Cliff Jumping in Rishikesh: 2 km before Lakshman Jhula from Brahmapuri

 

4. Rappelling And Rock Climbing

Rishikesh offers some of the best rappelling and rock climbing activities along with a grand experience of camping out in the open, underneath the gorgeous stellar sky. If you often spend time in the city and haven't yet had the time to catch a break, it's best you head out to Rishikesh and give yourself the much-needed break with the right dose of thrill and adventure. 

Best Time For Rappelling And Rock Climbing in Rishikesh: Anytime! Try avoiding in monsoon as it is slippery. 

 

5. Parasailing And Paragliding

Rishikesh is heaven for people living in North India since it's easily connected with the capital and other major cities and reachable too. The best part is the prismatic beauty that it offers in addition to the beautiful quaint getaway. But Rishikesh is also synonymous with adventure and thrill and is home to some of the best adventure sports in India. So, when in Rishikesh do consider going for the ultimate paragliding experience in Manali.  

Best Time For Parasailing And Paragliding in Rishikesh: Anytime! Try avoiding in monsoon as it is cloudy.

 

How To Reach Rishikesh From Delhi?

By Road: Being a popular tourist destination, Rishikesh has a good network of buses connecting it with important places such as Haridwar, Dehradun, and New Delhi. Buses depart in the morning and late evening from the Kashmere Gate ISBT, New Delhi for Rishikesh every day. 

By Air: Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport to Rishikesh which is approximately 35 kilometers away. Once you reach the airport, you can opt for a regular taxi or bus service which is easily available from Dehradun to Rishikesh. 

 

So, on this note have an amazing stay at Rishikesh. 

 

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Suggested Reads:

Travelogged # 13: Awesome Things You Should Do In Gokarna, Karnataka

Explore An Unbelievably Beautiful Landscape - Your Handy Guide To Kashmir

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FAQs

 

Q. What is the best time to visit Rishikesh?

A. Since Rishikesh is located in the foothills of Shivalik mountain ranges, the weather is generally pleasant throughout the year. Still, the ideal time to visit Rishikesh would be February-March and August-October as May-June is quite hot in summer.

 

Q. Is swimming allowed in river Ganges?

A.  Yes, taking a dip in the holy water of river Ganges is allowed near the banks of the river at designated spots like Triveni Ghat and some other.

 

Q. Are there any good restaurants or cafes in Rishikesh?

A. Of course, yes, Rishikesh attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the globe. Apart from pilgrim town nowadays, Rishikesh emerges as a 'World capital of Yoga' and 'Adventure capital of India'. Being one of the busiest tourists places Rishikesh offers some awesome mouth liking restaurants and cafes for tourists as per their cuisine choices.