Welcome to Rishikesh! Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Laxman Jhula in the morning. This suspension bridge offers stunning views of the holy Ganges River. In the afternoon, explore the Beatles Ashram, an abandoned ashram where the famous band once stayed. End your day with an evening aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat, a spiritually uplifting ritual by the river.
Laxman Jhula: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Beatles Ashram: Cost - INR 150, Time - 2-3 hours
Triveni Ghat: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a great lunch spot, try Little Buddha Cafe. They offer a variety of international cuisines in a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Ambrosia Restaurant for a lovely dinner experience. They serve a mix of Indian and Continental dishes with a beautiful view of the Ganges River. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, August 11: Yoga and Meditation
Immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Rishikesh by starting your day with a yoga and meditation session at one of the many renowned ashrams. Afterward, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated amidst lush green forests. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the Swarg Ashram promenade and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Yoga Session: Cost - Varies, Time - 2-3 hours
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Swarg Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to German Bakery for a delightful breakfast experience where you can enjoy delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, visit Chotiwala Restaurant known for its traditional North Indian cuisine. Indulge in a variety of curries and tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant offering a stunning view of the Ganges and serving a mix of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, August 12: Adventure Activities
Get your adrenaline pumping with thrilling adventure activities in Rishikesh. Start your day with a river rafting expedition on the Ganges River. Afterward, head to Jumpin Heights and experience bungee jumping or giant swing. Wrap up your day by exploring the local markets and indulging in some delicious street food.
River Rafting: Cost - INR 1,500, Time - 3-4 hours
Jumpin Heights: Cost - Varies, Time - 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost - Varies, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Start your day at The Breakfast Club with a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, and fresh fruit. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Rajasthani Thali House: Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani lunch at Rajasthani Thali House, where you can savor a variety of authentic dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Chaayos Cafe: For dinner, head to Chaayos Cafe and indulge in their wide range of tea options and delicious snacks like samosas and pav bhaji. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Sunday, August 13: Temples and Spiritual Retreats
Embark on a spiritual journey by visiting the famous Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple in Rishikesh. Explore the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, which hosts a daily Ganga Aarti. In the evening, attend a meditation session at the Osho Ganga Dham Ashram, known for its tranquil atmosphere.
Bharat Mandir: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Osho Ganga Dham Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at The Patio Restaurant. Start your day with a delicious spread of dosas, idlis, and chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Indulge in a delectable vegetarian thali at Chotiwala Restaurant. This famous eatery offers a variety of North Indian dishes served with rice, roti, and dessert. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Dinner: Savor a candlelit dinner with stunning views of the Ganges River at Ganga Beach Restaurant. Their menu features a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, August 14: Nature and Waterfalls
Spend your day amidst the natural beauty of Rishikesh. Start with a visit to the stunning Rajaji National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Next, explore the picturesque Neer Garh Waterfall and enjoy a refreshing dip. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on the Ganges River during sunset.
Rajaji National Park: Cost - INR 600, Time - 4-5 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Boat Ride on Ganges: Cost - INR 300, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Hideout Cafe is a charming breakfast spot located near the Ganges River. They offer a variety of breakfast options including traditional Indian dishes and continental fare. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Garden Cafe is a popular lunch spot known for its serene ambiance and delicious vegetarian food. They serve a range of healthy salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Zorba Organic Restaurant is a delightful dinner spot offering organic and vegan-friendly meals. They have a diverse menu with dishes ranging from Indian to Mediterranean cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Ashram Visits
Explore the spiritual side of Rishikesh by visiting some renowned ashrams. Start your day at the Sivananda Ashram, offering yoga and meditation classes. Next, visit the Geeta Bhawan Ashram, where you can attend the evening aarti and witness the grandeur of the Ganges River. End your day with a visit to the stunning Trayambakeshwar Temple.
Sivananda Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Geeta Bhawan Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 2-3 hours
Trayambakeshwar Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Little Buddha Cafe, a popular spot for travelers offering a variety of international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit The Sitting Elephant, a cozy restaurant serving mouthwatering Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 16: Souvenir Shopping
On your last day in Rishikesh, spend some time exploring the local markets and shop for souvenirs. Visit the famous Ram Jhula and explore the shops and stalls that offer a variety of items, including handicrafts, clothing, and spiritual artifacts. End your trip with a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Triveni Ghat.
Ram Jhula Market: Cost - Varies, Time - 2-3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes. A typical meal here costs around 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Little Buddha Cafe, a popular spot for international cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering pizzas and sandwiches, with an average meal cost of 400 INR per person.
Dine at Pappi's German Bakery for dinner, a cozy place known for its delectable German delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is around 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting the Vashishta Gufa, a secluded cave where the sage Vashishta meditated, or explore the nearby town of Shivpuri known for its adventure activities and camping options. Locals also enjoy visiting the Kunjapuri Temple, nestled on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
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