After arriving and settling into your hotel, start the day with a gentle stroll to Triveni Ghat to soak in the serene morning light and watch locals perform puja; grab a couple of hot masala chai from a nearby stall and enjoy the riverside atmosphere. Follow this with a relaxed breakfast at The Beatles Cafe or another river-facing café, then wander over to Parmarth Niketan to glimpse its tranquil ashram gardens and book a yoga or meditation session for later in the trip.
Ease into Rishikesh with a leisurely lunch at Ganga View Cafe, then wander across to the leafy riverside lawns of Swarg Ashram to watch pilgrims, browse small stalls selling spiritual books, and relax under banyan trees. As the afternoon wanes, take a short riverside walk toward Lakshman Jhula view point for golden-hour photos and finish with a cup of coffee at Little Buddha Cafe, setting a calm tone before the evening aarti.
As dusk deepens, wander to Gita Bhawan Ghat for a quieter, more intimate Ganga aarti experience watching diyas drift past in the lamplight; afterwards, stroll along the riverbank to Triveni Viewpoint Cafe for a shared hot thandai and soft live acoustic music. End the night with a peaceful riverside walk toward Ram Jhula Promenade, pausing to enjoy candle-lit reflections on the water and plan tomorrow's early activities.
Begin with a sunrise walk to Ram Jhula viewpoint for soft morning light over the Ganges, then head to Gita Bhavan's quieter temple complex to listen to morning bhajans and explore its peaceful courtyards. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen before wandering through the alleys to discover the colorful murals and small shrine of Bharat Mandir, soaking in local life and the gradual bustle of markets preparing for the day.
Enjoy a relaxed riverside lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant before wandering through the bustling bazaars near Laxman Jhula, sampling local sweets and picking up prayer beads and incense. In the late afternoon, visit the atmospheric hilltop Tera Manzil Temple for panoramic river views and then descend to the tranquil courtyard of Baba Balaknath Temple, where you can join devotees, light a diya, and soak in the temple bells as the sun softens toward evening.
As twilight falls, head to Rajaji National Park viewpoint near Laxman Jhula for a quiet riverside sunset and the chance to spot evening bird activity, then wander down to Gurudwara Sri Bangla Sahib (local seva point) to observe community service and share langar if you're hungry. Finish with a cozy dinner at Purely North Indian Restaurant overlooking a lit-up bridge, pairing local lentil specialties with chai while you reflect on the day's temple visits and plan tomorrow's adventures.
Rise early and head to the rafting operator base near Shivpuri for pre-raft safety briefing and gear-up; enjoy a short hot breakfast at the basecamp and watch guides inspect rafts as the morning light hits the river. After a scenic drive to the put-in at Marine Drive or Kaudiyala (depending on chosen grade), launch for an adrenaline-filled morning on the Ganges-paddling through Class III-IV rapids, spotting riverside campsites and green Himalayan foothills, then dry off with chai at a beachside stall before prepping for the afternoon's longer rafting stretch and overnight beach camp.
After a thrilling morning on the rapids, paddle to a scenic riverside lunch spot at Brahmpuri Beach where local camp cooks serve fresh dal, rice and spiced vegetable wraps; linger on the warm sand and watch rafters prepping gear for the next stretch. In the late afternoon, explore the nearby wooded trails to Siddhartha Beach for birdwatching and quiet river views, then help your crew set up the overnight camp-stringing fairy lights, arranging sleeping mats and sharing stories around an open-fire dinner as twilight deepens.
As dusk settles over the river, unwind at Brahmpuri Beachside Camp with steaming cups of ginger-lemon tea while guides grill simple river-side kebabs and share tales of the day's rapids; later, take a short moonlit walk to Siddhartha Beach viewpoint to watch reflected stars on the Ganges. Back at camp, join a relaxed bonfire circle with fellow rafters, roast marshmallows, listen to a local folk guitarist, and drift to sleep in your cozy tent under the hush of the Himalayan foothills.
Set out early for a scenic drive to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, arriving for a brisk morning darshan before the crowds and taking in the misty valley views; afterward, hike the short forest trail to Panch Tirthi, a cluster of holy ponds where you can perform a cleansing ritual and enjoy quiet birdwatching. Finish with a rustic breakfast at Local Dhaba near Neelkanth-hot parathas and chai-while soaking in the sound of the nearby streams and planning the afternoon descent back toward Rishikesh.
After the morning darshan and Panch Tirthi walk, drive a short distance to the shaded picnic glades of Guptkashi Meadows for a riverside packed-lunch prepared by a local vendor-expect simple aloo parathas, chutney and hot chai while listening to the mountain stream. Later, take a gentle guided nature walk to Kalpavriksha viewpoint (a local scenic promontory) to scan the valley for Himalayan birdlife and photograph sweeping views, then stop at Local Honey Stall by the roadside to sample fresh wild-honey and buy a small jar as a keepsake before returning toward Rishikesh as the light softens.
After returning from the meadows, drive to Vashishta Gufa for a tranquil sunset visit-sit beside the cave's small shrine as the valley cools and listen to evening chants carried on the breeze. Finish the day with a cozy dinner at The Hilltop View Cafe, sampling local rajma and steamed rice while watching the twinkling lights of distant villages and planning a gentle next-morning descent back to Rishikesh.
Start before sunrise with a drive to the trailhead at Kunjapuri Temple Road, then hike the shaded ridge path toward Kunjapuri Devi Temple-arrive in time for a quiet darshan and sweeping Himalayan sunrise views over the Ganges plain. Alternatively, choose the gentler route to Garud Chatti Village, walking through terraced farms and pine groves to reach the cascading Garud Chatti Waterfall, where you can cool your feet, photograph the falls from the lower viewpoint and enjoy a simple riverside breakfast from a local tea stall.
After the morning summit or waterfall visit, stroll into the nearby village lanes to the quaint roadside hamlet of Malla Kunjapuri Bazaar for a hearty packed lunch of local aloo-tikki and steaming chai served by a family-run stall; linger on a sun-warmed stone wall and watch shepherds tend flocks in the terraced fields. Later, take a gentle guided descent toward the forested glade of Bhairav Kund, stopping at the timbered Tea Hut at Bhairav for masala chai and lemon cookies, then follow the fern-lined trail to a secluded riverside bend where you can rest, photograph mountain reflections and plan a slow return to Rishikesh as the afternoon light softens.
After returning from the day's trek, unwind at Neelkanth Viewpoint Cafe for warm ginger tea and a platter of local pakoras while watching the valley descend into twilight; the cafe's terrace is perfect for comparing sunrise photos from Kunjapuri or waterfall shots from Garud Chatti. Later, take a short drive to Vashishta Riverbend for a gentle riverside stroll, listening to evening insects and the distant temple bells, then finish with a cosy dinner at Forest Edge Homestay Dining where you can sample homemade saffron kheer and swap trail stories with your host.
Kick off the day with an adrenaline-charged morning at Jumpin Heights-arrive early for registration, safety briefing and the spectacular 83-metre platform bungee jump, then toast your jump with hot masala chai at the onsite cafe while watching others take the plunge. Afterward, cross to the adjacent activity zone to try the high-speed Flying Fox over the Ganges gorge and a guided tandem Giant Swing session, both run by certified instructors, before returning to your riverside hotel to freshen up and compare footage from the morning's thrills.
After a morning of high-adrenaline jumps, slow the pace with a guided riverside canyon walk to Vashisthi Riverbend where local guides point out safe viewpoints and teach basics of river ecology; pause there for a packed lunch from Canyon Cafe-try their hearty rajma wrap and ginger-lime cooler. Later, head to the nearby activity hub at Flying Fox Launch Plaza to try the scenic zipline circuit that traverses the Ganges gorge (a calmer, panoramic alternative to bungee), then unwind with a couples' massage or foot soak at Ganga Edge Spa to soothe muscles before evening plans.
After a day of adrenaline, settle into a mellow riverside evening at The Ganga Viewpoint Terrace where you can watch the gorge glow amber while sipping spiced lemon tea and sampling a light thali of local snacks. Later, take a short walk to Riverside Live Café for laid-back acoustic music and craft mocktails, then finish with a private twilight boat ride from Ghat 9 Launch to see lamps drifting on the water and trade stories of your jumps under the stars.
Begin gently with a sunrise Hatha session at Sattva Yoga Academy, followed by a guided pranayama workshop on their terrace overlooking the river to center breath and energy. Afterwards, stroll to Swami Dayanand Ashram for a quiet bhajan listening session and a mindful tea ceremony, then enjoy a nourishing ayurvedic breakfast at Phool Chatti Café featuring warm kitchari and herbal chai to fuel a restorative day.
After a restorative morning, wander to Parmarth Niketan's riverside lawns for a guided mindful walking practice and participate in their community karma yoga activity helping with the ashram garden - a gentle way to connect with local practitioners. Later, head to Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram for a restorative yoga nidra session and an Ayurvedic consultation at Anand Prakash Wellness Centre, followed by a light sattvic lunch at their café of steamed vegetables and herbal kitchari to sustain an easy, contemplative afternoon.
As dusk falls, settle into a calming sound healing session at Tattvaa Yogashala where Tibetan bowls and guided relaxation ease lingering tensions from the day's practice; afterwards, wander to The Ganga Art Café for a light sattvic dinner of seasonal salads and herbal infusions while enjoying a quiet riverside art exhibit. Finish with a moonlit stroll to Triveni Ghat Viewpoint to participate in a small-group, mindful diya release-an intimate way to reflect on the week and prepare for tomorrow's restorative plans.
Rise early and drive to the park gate to join a guided jeep safari from Chilla Range-track sambar, spotted deer and langurs at first light as your naturalist points out pugmarks and bird species; the open grasslands often reveal grazing elephants at a respectful distance. After the safari, visit the nearby Rajaji Interpretation Centre for a short talk on local conservation and a coffee break at the centre's terrace while scanning the riverine woodlands for kingfishers and bar-headed geese, then head to a riverside picnic spot at Motichur Riverbend for a packed breakfast prepared by your guide.
After the morning safari, head to Sitabani Forest Reserve for a guided nature walk along shaded trails where your naturalist will point out endemic butterfly species and the remnants of old oak groves; pause at the lookout to scan riverine thickets for otters and forest hogs. Later, enjoy a riverside picnic at Ganjdhar Riverbank served with warm pakoras and chai, then visit the Chilla Watchtower for late-afternoon birding-this quiet vantage is ideal for spotting raptors and capturing wide-angle photos of the park as the light softens.
As dusk deepens, drive to Sukhlal Mahadev Viewpoint for panoramic sunset colours over the Shivalik ridges and watch crepuscular mammals emerge while your guide listens for calls; the vantage is perfect for spotting chital and observing elephant movement on distant ridgelines. After sunset, unwind with a riverside dinner at Forest Rest House Dining Terrace, sampling local hill cuisine by lantern-light and sharing sightings with your naturalist before a gentle night-walk along the park perimeter (guided and permitted) to listen for owls and nocturnal amphibians.
Wake up to a relaxed breakfast at 60s Café with freshly baked croissants and river views, then wander the quieter lanes toward Rishikesh Main Bazaar to browse hand-block printed textiles, silver jewellery and artisan incense while sampling sugarcane juice from a street vendor. Continue to Paltan Bazaar Bookshop to flip through spiritual and travel titles, then pause for a mid-morning chai and homemade walnut cake at Little Buddha Café (offbeat courtyard branch) before strolling down to the peaceful pebble beaches of Vashisthi Ghat for light birdwatching and people-watching along the water.
Head to Ram Jharua Lane Market for a slow browse through stalls selling hand-painted postcards, brass puja items and locally made chocolates, then stop at Cozmic Café for a leisurely coffee and a shared slice of homemade banana bread while watching market life. Wander downstream to Gandhi Ghat Promenade for a riverside walk, pause at Beatles Garden Café for iced chai and people-watching, and finish with a visit to Surya Kund Artisan Collective to pick up a handcrafted souvenir and watch artisans at work as the light softens.
As dusk falls, settle into a cozy riverside table at Little Buddha Café (main bridge terrace) to sip masala chai and share a plate of tandoori momos while watching evening life along the Ganges. Afterwards, wander toward Triveni Chaitya Walkway to join locals releasing diyas and listen to soft bhajans, then finish the night with live acoustic music and dessert at Hidden Gem Café & Lounge, a tucked-away spot perfect for reflecting on your market finds and planning a relaxed final day.
Pack leisurely after a calm riverside breakfast, then take a gentle final stroll to Ganga Kinare Walkway to collect last photos of the river and watch morning fishermen untangle nets; stop at Yoga Niketan Café for a light kitchari bowl and herbal tea to fortify your journey. Before checkout, visit the nearby Ek Welcome Centre to pick up fresh locally-made incense and a jar of wild-honey as travel gifts, and slip into a short reflexology session at Rishikesh Foot Spa to ease travel stiffness before you depart.
Enjoy a relaxed riverside lunch at Café Karma, sampling their light thali before strolling through the tranquil sculpture gardens of Siddharthanagar Artists' Lane to browse last-minute handcrafted prints and stone carvings. Later, take a short tuk-tuk to Ganga Glass Studio for a guided workshop where you can watch artisans make glass souvenirs and pick one personalized piece, then return to your hotel for final packing and a quick luggage check at Rishikesh Travel Desk before heading to the station or airport.
For a calm final evening, wander to Gandhi Ghat Sunset Pavilion to watch the river glow while sharing a plate of local chaat from the nearby Chaat Corner Stall and listening to soft temple bells. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed riverside dinner at The Riverstone Bistro-their wood-fired paneer and lemon-mint cooler are perfect for a last meal-then take a quiet moonlit stroll to Laxman View Terrace to release a pair of diyas and reflect on your trip before packing for departure.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Triveni Ghat | Free |
| Masala chai (street stall) | ₹30 |
| The Beatles Cafe (breakfast) | ₹300 |
| Parmarth Niketan (visit / yoga drop-in) | ₹500 |
| Ganga View Cafe (lunch) | ₹350 |
| Swarg Ashram (visit) | Free |
| Lakshman Jhula viewpoint | Free |
| Little Buddha Cafe (coffee) | ₹150 |
| Gita Bhawan Ghat (aarti) | Free |
| Triveni Viewpoint Cafe (thandai) | ₹120 |
| Ram Jhula Promenade (stroll) | Free |
| Ram Jhula viewpoint (sunrise) | Free |
| Gita Bhavan (temple visit / bhajans) | Free |
| Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen (breakfast) | ₹350 |
| Bharat Mandir (visit) | Free |
| Chotiwala Restaurant (lunch) | ₹300 |
| Laxman Jhula bazaars (shopping - small purchases) | ₹400 |
| Tera Manzil Temple (entry/darshan) | Free |
| Baba Balaknath Temple (visit) | Free |
| Rajaji National Park viewpoint near Laxman Jhula | Free |
| Gurudwara Sri Bangla Sahib (langar observation) | Free |
| Purely North Indian Restaurant (dinner) | ₹350 |
| White-water rafting (Shivpuri / Marine Drive) - half day shared trip | ₹800 |
| Beach camping (overnight basic camp) | ₹700 |
| Brahmpuri Beach (lunch at camp) | ₹200 |
| Siddhartha Beach (exploration) | Free |
| Brahmpuri Beachside Camp (dinner/bonfire) | ₹400 |
| Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (darshan) | Free |
| Panch Tirthi (visit) | Free |
| Local Dhaba near Neelkanth (breakfast) | ₹150 |
| Guptkashi Meadows (picnic / packed lunch) | ₹200 |
| Kalpavriksha viewpoint (nature walk) | Free |
| Local Honey Stall (small jar) | ₹200 |
| Vashishta Gufa (sunset visit) | Free |
| The Hilltop View Cafe (dinner) | ₹350 |
| Kunjapuri Devi Temple (trek / darshan) | Free |
| Garud Chatti Waterfall (visit) | Free |
| Malla Kunjapuri Bazaar (lunch/snacks) | ₹150 |
| Bhairav Kund tea hut (chai) | ₹40 |
| Neelkanth Viewpoint Cafe (evening tea & pakoras) | ₹200 |
| Forest Edge Homestay Dining (dinner) | ₹400 |
| Jumpin Heights (bungy jump, certified) | ₹5000 |
| Flying Fox / Giant Swing (per activity) | ₹800 |
| Canyon Cafe (packed lunch) | ₹250 |
| Flying Fox Launch Plaza (zipline circuit) | ₹1000 |
| Ganga Edge Spa (couples massage per person) | ₹800 |
| Ganga Viewpoint Terrace (light thali/snacks) | ₹250 |
| Riverside Live Café (mocktails / music) | ₹300 |
| Ghat 9 Launch (private twilight boat ride per person) | ₹400 |
| Sattva Yoga Academy (drop-in Hatha class) | ₹400 |
| Swami Dayanand Ashram (bhajan / visit) | Free |
| Phool Chatti Café (ayurvedic breakfast) | ₹250 |
| Parmarth Niketan karma yoga (participation) | Free |
| Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram (Yoga Nidra session) | ₹500 |
| Anand Prakash Wellness Centre (Ayurvedic consultation) | ₹800 |
| Tattvaa Yogashala (sound healing session) | ₹600 |
| The Ganga Art Café (dinner) | ₹350 |
| Triveni Ghat Viewpoint (diya release participation) | Free |
| Rajaji National Park jeep safari (Chilla range per person) | ₹1200 |
| Rajaji Interpretation Centre (visit) | Free |
| Motichur Riverbend (picnic breakfast) | ₹200 |
| Sitabani Forest Reserve guided walk | ₹500 |
| Ganjdhar Riverbank picnic (lunch) | ₹250 |
| Chilla Watchtower (birding) | Free |
| Sukhlal Mahadev Viewpoint (sunset) | Free |
| Forest Rest House Dining Terrace (dinner) | ₹400 |
| 60s Café (breakfast) | ₹300 |
| Rishikesh Main Bazaar (shopping - small purchases) | ₹500 |
| Paltan Bazaar Bookshop (books / purchases) | ₹200 |
| Little Buddha Café (walnut cake / chai) | ₹200 |
| Vashisthi Ghat (pebble beach visit) | Free |
| Ram Jhula Lane Market (shopping) | ₹300 |
| Cozmic Café (coffee & banana bread) | ₹300 |
| Gandhi Ghat Promenade (walk) | Free |
| Beatles Garden Café (iced chai) | ₹150 |
| Surya Kund Artisan Collective (souvenir) | ₹400 |
| Little Buddha Café (main bridge terrace - dinner) | ₹350 |
| Triveni Chaitya Walkway (diya release) | Free |
| Hidden Gem Café & Lounge (dessert / music) | ₹300 |
| Ganga Kinare Walkway (final stroll) | Free |
| Yoga Niketan Café (kitchari bowl) | ₹250 |
| Ek Welcome Centre (incense / honey purchase) | ₹300 |
| Rishikesh Foot Spa (short reflexology session) | ₹400 |
| Café Karma (riverside lunch thali) | ₹350 |
| Siddharthanagar Artists' Lane (prints / carvings) | ₹400 |
| Ganga Glass Studio (workshop souvenir) | ₹600 |
| Rishikesh Travel Desk (luggage check service) | ₹100 |
| Gandhi Ghat Sunset Pavilion (sunset + chaat) | ₹200 |
| Chaat Corner Stall (chaat plate) | ₹100 |
| The Riverstone Bistro (dinner) | ₹450 |
| Laxman View Terrace (final diya release) | Free |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹23440 |