Begin your Rishikesh journey with a guided tour to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at the Triveni Ghat. The holy hymns, chants and the lit lamps floating on the Ganges, accompanied by the aroma of the incense will give you a truly divine experience. It is believed that offering prayers here will remove all your sins. End your day with a divine meal at Chotiwala.
Start your day by white water rafting in the thrilling rapids of the Ganges. Next stop, visit the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. The surreal art across the walls will give you a glimpse into the lives of the Beatles, who stayed here in the 60s, and Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the trek to the ashram can be a bit challenging.
After breakfast, drive to the serene Neer Garh waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing dip here and indulge in some cliff jumping if you dare. After lunch, proceed to the iconic Lakshman Jhula, the suspension bridge connecting the two sides of the Ganges. Take a stroll around the vibrant streets and shop for souvenirs. Visit the ancient 13-storey Trayambakeshwar Temple situated close by.
Wake up early to drive up the picturesque Kunjapuri mountain, located at an elevation of 1,676 meters. Reach the top in time for the sunrise and witness the magnificent 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges and the Ganges. Later, head back to Rishikesh and spend some time exploring the city. End your itinerary with the evening aarti at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, known for its serene ambiance, yoga and Ayurvedic facilities.
For those who have more time, consider visiting the Rajaji National Park located 35 kilometers from Rishikesh. Stroll the streets of Rishikesh market for souvenirs. For those with less time, consider skipping the Kunjapuri Temple or the Beatles Ashram.