A Week in Rishikesh: City Experiences

Monday, October 23: Arrival in Rishikesh

Welcome to Rishikesh! Begin your journey by checking into one of the many comfortable hotels available in the city. You can search for the best hotel deals and flight prices here. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Ganges River and witness the enchanting aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat.

• Hotel check-in: Prices vary based on preferences and availability.
• Evening Aarti Ceremony at Triveni Ghat: Free, approximately 1 hour.

Tuesday, October 24: Yoga and Meditation

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at one of the renowned yoga ashrams in Rishikesh. Afterward, explore the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles once stayed. In the evening, visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula, a suspension bridge over the Ganges.

• Yoga session at a local ashram: Prices vary based on the chosen ashram, approximately 2 hours.
• Beatles Ashram: Entry fee - INR 150, approximately 1-2 hours.
• Lakshman Jhula: Free, approximately 1-2 hours.

Restaurants

• For breakfast, try out The Sitting Elephant Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and smoothies. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular spot offering a variety of North Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, visit 60's Beatles Cafe, a retro-themed restaurant known for its live music and tasty pizzas. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹800 per person.

Wednesday, October 25: Adventure Activities

Embark on an adrenaline-filled day by trying out various adventure activities Rishikesh has to offer. Start with a thrilling river rafting experience on the Ganges. Afterward, indulge in bungee jumping or flying fox at Jumpin Heights. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset view at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

• River Rafting: Prices vary based on the package, starting from INR 700, approximately 2-3 hours.
• Bungee Jumping/Flying Fox: Prices vary based on the chosen activity, starting from INR 3,500, approximately 1-2 hours.
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, approximately 1-2 hours.

Thursday, October 26: Wildlife Safari

Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari at Rajaji National Park, located near Rishikesh. Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park while keeping an eye out for elephants, tigers, and various bird species. In the evening, visit The Beatles Cathedral, a serene place dedicated to the band's visit to Rishikesh.

• Rajaji National Park Safari: Entry fee - INR 600 (Indian), INR 1,150 (Foreigner), approximately 4-5 hours.
• The Beatles Cathedral: Free, approximately 1 hour.

Friday, October 27: Temples and Ghats

Immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Rishikesh by visiting its numerous temples and ghats. Begin with a visit to the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, located amidst picturesque surroundings. Explore the ancient Bharat Mandir and Trimbakeshwar Temple. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ghat.

• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, approximately 2-3 hours.
• Bharat Mandir: Free, approximately 1 hour.
• Trimbakeshwar Temple: Free, approximately 1 hour.
• Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ghat: Free, approximately 1 hour.

Saturday, October 28: Explore Ashrams and Cafes

Discover the serene ambiance of Rishikesh by exploring its famous ashrams and unique cafes. Visit the iconic Sivananda Ashram and experience a moment of tranquility. Later, explore the bohemian charm of the local cafes and enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the Ram Jhula Bridge.

• Sivananda Ashram: Free, approximately 2-3 hours.
• Exploring Cafes: Prices vary based on preferences, approximately 2-3 hours.
• Ram Jhula Bridge: Free, approximately 1 hour.

Sunday, October 29: Rishikesh Ghat Experience

Conclude your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rishikesh's ghats. Spend your morning exploring the famous Triveni Ghat and bathing in the holy Ganges. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping for spiritual souvenirs at the local markets. Finally, bid farewell to Rishikesh with a mesmerizing sunset view at the Swarg Ashram Ghat.

• Triveni Ghat: Free, approximately 2-3 hours.
• Shopping at Local Markets: Prices vary based on preferences, approximately 1-2 hours.
• Swarg Ashram Ghat: Free, approximately 1 hour.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off-the-beaten-path experiences, venture to the nearby waterfall at Neergarh Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Another hidden gem is Kunjapuri Temple, located on a hilltop, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Locals also love exploring the lesser-known Vasishtha Cave, a serene spot for meditation and self-reflection.