Start your Rishikesh journey by arriving at the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, take a taxi or hire a private car to reach Rishikesh (approximately 20 kilometers). Check-in at your preferred hotel and freshen up. In the morning, head to the Triveni Ghat for a dip in the holy Ganges river. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding areas. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where priests perform rituals accompanied by devotional songs.
Start your day with an early morning yoga session at one of the many yoga centers in Rishikesh. After a refreshing breakfast, explore some of the renowned ashrams in the area, such as the Beatles Ashram (also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram), where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s. In the afternoon, visit the Swarg Ashram, a tranquil place perfect for meditation and spirituality. Take a walk along the banks of the river and enjoy the serene atmosphere. End the day by attending a meditation or Satsang session at one of the ashrams.
Embark on an adventurous day by indulging in various activities offered in Rishikesh. In the morning, go for river rafting on the Ganges and experience the thrill of navigating the rapids. Afterward, try your hand at other exciting activities like cliff jumping, rappelling, or zip-lining. In the afternoon, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amidst lush green forests, it offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. Spend some time exploring the temple complex and immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance.
Start your day by having breakfast at one of the Beatles-themed cafes in Rishikesh, such as the famous Beatles Café. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the ambiance filled with Beatles memorabilia and music. Afterward, spend a leisurely afternoon by the riverside, either at one of the riverside cafes or by taking a relaxing stroll along the Ganges. You can also opt for a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or participate in a yoga or meditation session. In the evening, consider attending a live music performance at one of the local venues.
Spend your last day in Rishikesh exploring the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, one of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, known for its spiritual activities and beautiful surroundings. Attend a morning yoga class or meditate in the serene ashram premises. Afterward, head to the local markets for some souvenir shopping. Rishikesh offers a variety of shops selling spiritual items, clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the many vegetarian restaurants in the city.
While exploring Rishikesh, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit the Vashishta Gufa, a cave where the sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated. It is a peaceful and secluded spot away from the city's hustle and bustle. Another hidden gem is the Waterfall Café, located near the Neer Garh Waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing drink or meal while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. These off the beaten path attractions provide a unique experience and are loved by both locals and travelers seeking tranquility.
Before finalizing your travel plans, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.