Welcome to Rishikesh! Start your relaxing journey by checking into your hotel and taking some time to unwind. Rishikesh is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," so why not join a yoga class in the morning? The tranquil surroundings and serene atmosphere will set the tone for your trip. In the afternoon, visit the famous Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the 1960s and learn about their spiritual journey. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual offering prayer to the river.
Yoga Class: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Beatles Ashram: Entrance fee INR 150, 1-2 hours
Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Little Buddha Cafe, offering a wide range of international dishes with a stunning view of the Ganges. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at 60's Green Cuisine, a rooftop restaurant serving organic and vegetarian food. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday September 24: Serene Nature and Spa Day
Embrace the natural beauty of Rishikesh by starting your day with a visit to Neer Garh Waterfall. The cascading water and lush green surroundings create a peaceful ambiance. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment at one of the many wellness centers in Rishikesh. Indulge in a relaxing massage or try a traditional Ayurvedic therapy to revitalize your mind and body. As the evening approaches, head to the Lakshman Jhula Bridge for a serene sunset view over the Ganges River.
Neer Garh Waterfall: Free, 2-3 hours
Spa Treatment: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Lakshman Jhula Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Bliss: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Bliss, known for its healthy and organic options. Enjoy a variety of smoothie bowls and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Veda Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Veda Restaurant which offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes. Indulge in their flavorful curries and traditional Indian thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Swagat Restaurant: Enjoy a delightful dinner at Swagat Restaurant, specializing in North Indian cuisine. Feast on their succulent tandoori kebabs and aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday September 25: Adventure and Meditation
Start your day with an exhilarating adventure by participating in river rafting on the Ganges River. Enjoy the thrill of navigating through the rapids while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, visit one of the ashrams in Rishikesh for a meditation session. Experience inner peace and tranquility as you connect with your spiritual side. In the evening, explore the local markets and indulge in some retail therapy. Rishikesh is known for its handicrafts and spiritual souvenirs, so make sure to pick up some unique items to remember your trip.
Bliss Cafe: Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast at Bliss Cafe. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of options including fruit bowls, smoothie bowls, and vegan pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Sitting Elephant: For lunch, head to The Sitting Elephant, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Try their flavorful curries and biryanis, and don't miss their signature thali platters. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Ganga View Restaurant: Enjoy a scenic dinner at Ganga View Restaurant, which offers breathtaking views of the Ganges River. Indulge in a variety of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit Vashishta Cave, a secluded spot where spiritual seekers meditate in solitude. The cave offers a serene and serene environment for introspection and contemplation. Another local favorite is the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where you can attend yoga and meditation classes led by experienced instructors. It's a great place to enhance your spiritual practice and connect with like-minded individuals. Finally, take a short hike to the beautiful Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This hidden gem offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.