Welcome to Rishikesh, the spiritual and adventure capital of India! Start your journey by checking into your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, you can take a peaceful walk along the banks of the holy Ganges River, absorbing the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the famous Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge, offering mesmerizing views of the river and surrounding hills. As the evening sets in, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where you can witness the beautiful ritual of lamps being floated on the river.
Lakshman Jhula: INR 0 (free), 2-3 hours
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: INR 0 (donation-based), 1 hour
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast in Rishikesh, head to The Sitting Elephant Café. Located near the banks of the Ganges, this cozy café offers a variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, smoothie bowls, and freshly brewed coffee. Expect to spend around 300 INR per person for a satisfying morning meal.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, make your way to Bistro Nirvana. This charming restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with options such as wood-fired pizzas, salads, pasta dishes, and flavorful curries. A meal here will cost you approximately 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Ramana's Organic Cafe. This eco-friendly restaurant serves a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients. From hearty Indian thalis to wholesome Mexican bowls, the menu offers something for everyone. Plan to spend around 400 INR per person for a delectable dinner at Ramana's.
Saturday, November 11: Yoga and Meditation
Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at one of the renowned yoga centers in Rishikesh. After breakfast, continue your spiritual journey with a visit to the Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in the late 1960s and learned transcendental meditation. In the afternoon, explore the lively market in the main town area, brimming with shops selling clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. In the evening, head to Triveni Ghat to witness the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Yoga session: INR 500-1000, 2 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150, 1-2 hours
Shopping in the main town: As per your budget and preference, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of delicious Indian breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Savor a delectable lunch at German Bakery, known for its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering bakery items. The restaurant also offers various international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Experience the flavors of Indian cuisine at Little Buddha Cafe for dinner. This charming restaurant specializes in vegetarian dishes and offers a serene riverside view. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, November 12: Adventure Thrills
Get ready for some adrenaline-pumping activities! Start your day with a white water rafting expedition on the Ganges River, experiencing the thrill of navigating through rapids. Afterward, visit the Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the evening, take a scenic hike to the iconic Shiva statue at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, offering panoramic views of Rishikesh.
White water rafting: INR 1000-2000, 4-5 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: INR 50, 2-3 hours
Hike to the Shiva statue: INR 0, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at The Sitting Elephant for a delicious breakfast. This cozy cafe offers a variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, and fresh juices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Try their thali, a traditional Indian meal served on a platter with various curries, bread, and rice. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Beatles Cafe, a themed restaurant dedicated to the legendary band. Enjoy their rooftop seating with a stunning view of the Ganges while savoring their delicious wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, November 13: Ashram Experience
Dive deeper into the spiritual side of Rishikesh by spending a day at an ashram. Start with an early morning yoga and meditation session at the renowned Sivananda Ashram. After breakfast, attend spiritual discourses and lectures offered by the ashram. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vashishta Cave, where it is believed that Sage Vashishta meditated. Return to the ashram for evening prayers and meditation.
Yoga and meditation at Sivananda Ashram: INR 300 (donation-based), 2-3 hours
Vashishta Cave: INR 0 (free), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Asha Café: Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast at Asha Café, offering a wide range of organic and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Amrit Ganga: Indulge in a traditional Indian thali for lunch at Amrit Ganga, known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Chotiwala Restaurant: Savor the best of North Indian cuisine for dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, famous for its lip-smacking curries and aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Tuesday, November 14: Trekking to Kunjapuri Temple
Embark on an adventurous trek to Kunjapuri Temple, located at an altitude of 1,676 meters. Start your journey early in the morning to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. The trek offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys. Afterward, visit the temple and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance. Return to Rishikesh by late afternoon and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the local markets.
Exploring local markets: As per your budget and preference, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
An iconic breakfast spot in Rishikesh is The Sitting Elephant, known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit juices. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a hearty lunch, head to Little Buddha Cafe and indulge in their mouthwatering pizzas and pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite famous for its traditional Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, November 15: Triveni Ghat and Rishikund
Start your day by visiting Triveni Ghat for a morning dip in the holy Ganges and witnessing the sunrise. Afterward, explore Rishikund, a sacred pond believed to have healing properties. Take a leisurely walk along the ghats, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. In the afternoon, you can indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments or yoga classes to further relax and rejuvenate.
Triveni Ghat: INR 0 (free), 1-2 hours
Rishikund: INR 0 (free), 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic spa treatment or yoga classes: As per your budget and preference
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Rishikesh is Chotiwala, known for their delicious Indian breakfast options such as stuffed parathas and masala tea. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Ramana's Organic Cafe, which offers a range of healthy vegetarian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit 60's Beatles Cafe, a themed restaurant that pays tribute to the legendary band. Enjoy a variety of international cuisines and live music performances. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, November 16: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
On your last day in Rishikesh, visit the famous Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located amidst picturesque surroundings and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva consumed poison during the churning of the cosmic ocean. Spend some time exploring the temple complex and enjoying the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Rishikesh and depart for your onward journey.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: INR 0 (free), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Little Buddha Cafe, known for its mouthwatering pancakes and fresh fruit bowls. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Chotiwala Restaurant and savor their authentic Indian thali. This popular eatery offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes at an average cost of ₹400 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at The 60's Beatles Cafe, a charming restaurant serving delicious pizzas and Italian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Rajaji National Park, home to various wildlife species including elephants, tigers, and leopards. You can also take a short excursion to the beautiful hill station of Mussoorie, known for its scenic beauty and charming atmosphere. Locals also recommend trying the traditional Garhwali cuisine at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.