Rishikesh
5 ToursRishikesh is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, Rishikesh is known as The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Rishikesh is surrounded by three other districts namely Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal and Haridwar. It is located approximately 25 km north of the city Haridwar and 43 km south west of the state capital Dehradun. According to Census of India, 2011 Rishikesh had a population of 102,138 making it the 7th largest city also being largest municipal board in the state of Uttarakhand. The center of town where the train and bus stations can be found is of little interest to most travelers. Further north-east are 2 bridges spanning the Ganges, Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, at either end of these bridges are the main hubs of activity and interest.
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Best Time to Visit
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Key Attractions
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Take a holy dip in Ganges.
Take a holy dip in the Ganges, with reputed healing powers
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Study Yoga.
Check into an Ashram to study yoga, meditation and Hindu philosophy.
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Ayurveda massage class
You can find many places in Rishikesh to receive massage, but you can also learn how to give them
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Trekking.
There is lot of soft treks available around Rishikesh. Some of them take you to beautiful and hidden waterfalls. These beautiful natural wonders are 2-6 kms from Laxman Jhula and are hidden in the nearby forest. Rishikesh is known as The Gateway to the famous treks in Garhwal Himalayas such as Kuari pass Trek, Valley of Flowers trek, Glorious Gharwal Trek etc..
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White Water Rafting.
Rishikesh is very popular for its rafting on the River Ganga (Ganges). The months from September to December and March to June are considered as the best periods for the ultimate enjoyment of water rafting. The rafting will go on for several kilometres, and the path is interspersed with rapids, ranging from Level 1 to Level 5, in order of difficulty. There are several local travel agencies, offering these rafting trips. The package usually includes an overnight camp on the banks of the river, with a brilliant trek among the hills in the morning. If one has time, courses in rafting are also offered.
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Camping
Camping is a recreational activity that does not have any age limit. Any individual who likes to explore new places and enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature can embark on a camping voyage. Camping in Rishikesh on the Ganga beach offer an environment to wake up with the birds cher chew and can swim in the fresh water of the river Ganges. Camping in Rishikesh is a very popular activity.
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Rappelling
Climbing down with a rope is called rappelling. The group is taken to a spot where there is a cliff drop, experts with proper equipment who setup the gear first and then, one by one, everyone comes down. It's all about trusting your gear and following the instructions and then it's a lot of fun.
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Rock Climbing
This is something everyone is familiar with, this is also included in some of the camps but not everyone can do it as it requires a lot of strength and skill. The group is taken to a cliff side and with proper safety gear everyone is given a chance to climb the cliff side.
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Cliff Jumping
You are supposed to jump into freezing water from a cliff! Yes, it sounds crazy but this is one thing which everyone can brag about back home, of course you are wearing a life jacket and a helmet but still to jump from so high into the Ganga which is murky and the bottom can't be seen, it's not like jumping into a swimming pool where one can see the bottom the water is static.
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Bungee Jump
You can try bungee jump at Jumping Heights. It is a unique experience in India, a jump from 83 mtrs just above a natural river and have the time of your life.
Nearby Places
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Haridwar
It is about 20 km from Rishikesh. Haridwar, literally Gateway to God, is one of the Hindu holy places in India and a center of Hindu religion and mysticism for centuries. Located on the banks of River Ganges (Ganga), at the point where the Ganges descends from the hills to the North Indian plains, Haridwar attracts a large number of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world.
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Mussoorie
6-7 Hrs drive from Rishikesh. Mussoorie with its green hills & varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill resort and a fabulous honeymoon spot. Commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalyan snow ranges to the northeast, & glittering views of the Doon Valley, Roorkee, Saharanpur & Haridwar to the South, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists. Its history dates back to 1827 when Captain Young, an adventurous military officer, explored the present site & laid the foundation of this holiday resort which now has few rivals. Mussoorie is famous for its scenic beauty and hectic social life.
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Shivpuri
Shivpuri is one of the most visited places around Rishikesh, and only 10 km away. It is the hub for many adventure sports like river rafting, camping and trekking.
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Rajaji National Park
Just 20 Mins drive away; Rajaji National Park of India is nestled between the Shivalik ranges and the Indo-Gangetic plains. Broadleaved deciduous forests, riverine vegetation, scrubland, grasslands and pine forests form the range of flora at these parks. The dense jungles here are home to vivacious wildlife here. The varied topography of the national park is also responsible for vivid animal life inhibited here.
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Kuflon,
6-7 Hours’ drive from Rishikesh. A postcard countryside village with stunning views, friendly locals, and natural freshwater pools made by waterfalls of the Asi Ganga. An experience of village life in the Garhwal Himalayas, away from the tourist circuit. Stay at 'Kuflon Mountain Homestay', the mountain home of a friendly couple who quit their job in the cities to answer the call of the Himalayas. Such comforts at an altitude of 5,000 feet is a real treat.