A relaxed vegetarian-friendly café on the banks of the Ganges serving healthy breakfasts and great coffee; a good place to settle in and plan the day. Open generally from 8:00am; check on busy weekends for seating.
Stroll across the iconic iron suspension bridge to enjoy river views, temples and street stalls — one of Rishikesh’s must-see landmarks. The bridge and surrounding pathways are open all day but can be busy mid-morning.
Cross over to Ram Jhula and wander the shops selling spiritual books, yoga gear and souvenirs; ideal for light shopping and photos. Markets are typically open from morning until late evening.
A long-established pure-veg restaurant famous with travellers for thali meals and simple North Indian dishes; consistent and filling. Open daily from early morning to late evening.
Explore the graffiti-covered ruins of the ashram that drew the Beatles in the 1960s; a fascinating mix of art, history and quiet river-facing spots. Visitor access is usually available from about 8:00am to 6:00pm — aim to arrive in the early afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
Sit by the river and relax with chai or a light snack, watching river life and temples; a good time to rest after walking. Cafés on the ghats are typically open through the afternoon until evening.
Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, a moving ritual of lamps, chanting and music performed around sunset; a highlight of any Rishikesh visit. Public aarti commonly starts around 6:00pm (timing can shift slightly with season) and is donation-based/free.
A popular spot for wholesome vegetarian and vegan food with river-facing seating and relaxed ambience; great for lighter, healthy plates after a big day. Usually open through the evening (check seasonal hours).
Join a drop-in morning yoga session at Parmarth Niketan to experience traditional practice beside the Ganges; it’s peaceful and energising. Public sessions commonly start at 6:30am; donations or drop-in fees apply.
Enjoy freshly baked croissants, breads and hearty breakfast plates at a popular café frequented by travellers and yogis. Bakeries typically open from early morning.
A half-day rafting trip on the Ganges combines adrenaline and scenery; options range from mild grade II to III+ rapids depending on the stretch. Commercial trips usually run from early morning until mid-afternoon — book with a licensed operator and expect pickup around 8:30–9:30am.
Refuel after rafting with North Indian and continental dishes at a riverside restaurant offering scenic views. Most restaurants serving lunch open from around 11:00am to 10:00pm.
A short but enjoyable trek leads to the Neer Garh waterfall — a refreshing spot for photos and a swim (seasonal). The path is open in daylight hours, typically from early morning until late afternoon; avoid after sunset.
Treat aching muscles to an Ayurvedic oil massage or foot reflexology session at a reputable spa — ideal after rafting and trekking. Spas operate across the town into the evening; book ahead for peak times.
Enjoy a rooftop meal with a varied menu (Indian and continental) — a nice way to relax and sample local dishes in a comfortable setting. Open for dinner from early evening until late.
Casual cafe offering hearty breakfasts, coffees and quick bites — perfect for a morning fuel before a longer outing. Cafés are typically open from early morning.
A 30–40 km drive into the hills to visit the sacred Neelkanth Mahadev Temple set in forested mountains; the temple is an important pilgrimage and offers peaceful views. The temple complex is usually open from early morning until early evening (check seasonal opening times); allow 3 hours including travel time.
Enjoy a simple, hearty North Indian meal at a roadside dhaba to taste local flavours and recharge before returning to town. Dhaba hours vary but serve lunch throughout the afternoon.
Pick up books, yoga gear, spices, malas and handcrafts near Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula; a good time to compare prices and negotiate gently. Markets operate through the afternoon into early evening.
Have a final tea or chai by the Ganges, pack up and organise onward travel; a calm end to the trip. Cafés are open late afternoon and are convenient spots to wait if you have an evening departure.
Head to your onward transport (bus, train or car). If leaving by train from Haridwar or Dehradun, allow extra transfer time — plan for at least 1–2 hours buffer depending on your route.