Thursday, September 28: Arrival and Evening Ganga Aarti
Start your trip by arriving in Rishikesh and checking into your hotel. After settling in, head to the Triveni Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening. Participate in the spiritual rituals and experience the enchanting atmosphere by the sacred Ganges River.
Triveni Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Chotiwala Restaurant offers a delicious breakfast menu with a variety of options such as parathas, omelettes, and Indian-style breads. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the Little Buddha Cafe where you can enjoy a range of vegetarian and international cuisine options. Try their delicious Tibetan momos or pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the Beatles Café for a unique dining experience overlooking the Ganges River. This cozy cafe serves a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Adventure Activities and Beatles Ashram
Embark on an adventure-filled day by experiencing the thrilling activities Rishikesh has to offer. In the morning, engage in river rafting on the Ganges, navigating through exciting rapids. Afterward, visit the famous Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the late 1960s. Explore the graffiti-covered ruins and feel the artistic vibes.
River Rafting: INR 1,500 per person, 3-4 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Sitting Elephant is a charming riverside café that offers a variety of breakfast options, from traditional Indian dishes to continental classics. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Purnima Restaurant is a popular lunch spot known for its delicious North Indian cuisine. Enjoy a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with an average cost of about 400 INR per person.
Oasis Restaurant & Café is a cozy dinner spot located near the Ganges. Indulge in their delectable Mediterranean and Italian dishes while enjoying the serene ambience. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30: Yoga and Meditation Retreat
Immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Rishikesh by participating in a yoga and meditation retreat. Start your morning with a serene yoga session, followed by a guided meditation practice. In the afternoon, visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, one of the largest and most renowned ashrams in Rishikesh, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti.
Yoga and Meditation Retreat: Prices vary, 4-6 hours
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and Neer Garh Waterfall
On your final day in Rishikesh, visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, situated amidst the picturesque hills. This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterward, cool off at the Neer Garh Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools and admire the cascading waters.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: Free, 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For an off the beaten path experience, explore the nearby village of Byasi, located about 30 kilometers from Rishikesh. This quaint village offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Enjoy nature walks, interact with locals, and experience the authentic rural lifestyle. Another hidden gem is the Vashishta Cave, situated near the Parmarth Niketan Ashram. This sacred cave is associated with the sage Vashishta and is a serene spot for meditation and introspection.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices on Kayak.