Start your journey in Rishikesh by immersing yourself in the serene and spiritual atmosphere. In the morning, visit the famous Parmarth Niketan Ashram located on the banks of the holy Ganges river. Participate in a yoga or meditation session to rejuvenate your mind and body. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the iconic Laxman Jhula bridge, enjoying the panoramic views of the river and surrounding hills. As the evening sets in, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat, where priests offer prayers with oil lamps.
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located near Laxman Jhula. This cozy cafe offers a variety of healthy options such as freshly made smoothie bowls and avocado toast. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Himalayan Delight: For a satisfying lunch, head to Himalayan Delight, situated close to Parmarth Niketan Ashram. This restaurant serves delicious Himalayan cuisine, including momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
The Riverside Grill: Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Riverside Grill, known for its stunning views of the Ganges river. This restaurant offers a diverse menu with grilled specialties such as tandoori kebabs and fresh seafood. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, October 12: Adventure and Nature
Embark on an adventurous day in Rishikesh, starting with an early morning hike to the popular Neer Garh Waterfall. Spend the morning amidst the tranquil nature, taking a refreshing dip in the pristine waters. In the afternoon, head to Shivpuri for an exciting river rafting experience in the Ganges. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate through thrilling rapids. As the evening approaches, visit the Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles once stayed, and explore the graffiti-covered ruins.
The Breakfast Club is a cozy cafe that offers a variety of delicious breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Soul Kitchen is a popular vegetarian restaurant that serves healthy and flavorful lunch dishes such as fresh salads, sandwiches, and Indian thalis. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Maan's Chinese Restaurant is a must-visit for dinner, offering a wide range of mouthwatering Chinese dishes with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, October 13: Spirituality and Serenity
Immerse yourself deeper into the spiritual side of Rishikesh on this day. Start your morning by attending a yoga class at Omkarananda Patanjali Yoga Kendra to experience the holistic benefits of yoga. In the afternoon, visit the Kunjapuri Devi Temple, located atop a hill, to witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the sunrise or sunset. Complete your day by taking a peaceful evening stroll along the Triveni Ghat and witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony once again.
Omkarananda Patanjali Yoga Kendra: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500 per class, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Breakfast: Little Buddha Cafe is a cozy spot serving freshly baked goods and a variety of vegetarian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Lunch: The Sitting Elephant offers a delicious selection of Indian and international cuisines in a vibrant and quirky atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Dinner: Zorba Organic Restaurant & Cafe provides a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on organic and healthy dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, October 14: Nature and Adventure
Explore the natural beauty of Rishikesh on this adventurous day. Begin your morning with a visit to the Rajaji National Park, a tiger reserve known for its rich biodiversity. Embark on a thrilling jeep safari to spot various wildlife species. In the afternoon, head to the Vashishta Gufa, a cave where the sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and soak in the spiritual vibes. As the evening approaches, visit the Triveni Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of the Ganges and nearby temples.
Rajaji National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 400-500 per person, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Indulge in wellness activities and bid farewell to Rishikesh on your last day. Start your morning with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa session at one of the wellness centers in the city. Experience traditional Ayurvedic therapies and massages that leave you refreshed. In the afternoon, visit the Swarg Ashram, known for its peaceful surroundings and various yoga and meditation centers. Spend some time meditating by the river or exploring the ashram. As the evening sets in, enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at one of the local restaurants, savoring the flavors of Rishikesh.
Local Restaurant for Dinner: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Conveniently located near the wellness centers, this cozy cafe offers a variety of nutritious breakfast options such as smoothie bowls, avocado toast, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Ashiyana: Situated in the heart of Swarg Ashram, Ashiyana is a vegetarian restaurant known for its organic ingredients and tranquil ambiance. Enjoy a healthy and wholesome lunch with options like lentil soup, vegetable curry, and fresh salads. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Ganga View Restaurant: Nestled on the banks of the Ganges, this riverside eatery offers a mesmerizing view of the river and the surrounding hills. Savor the delicious Indian and international cuisine while enjoying the soothing sounds of the river. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Rishikesh, make sure to visit the beautiful Phool Chatti Ashram, located on the outskirts of the city. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another hidden gem is the Ram Jhula bridge, which is less crowded than Laxman Jhula but equally picturesque. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Aloo Poori and Kachori at Chotiwala Restaurant, a favorite among the locals. These hidden gems and local favorites will add a touch of authenticity to your Rishikesh experience.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices and availability on Kayak.