Thursday September 28: Arrival and Riverside Exploration
Start your trip by arriving in Rishikesh, a spiritual and serene city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the sacred Ganges River, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge that offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding area. As the evening sets in, attend the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where priests perform rituals while chanting hymns and lighting oil lamps.
Riverside Walk: Free, 2 hours
Laxman Jhula: Free, 1 hour
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Indian cuisine. Enjoy a plate of hot and crispy aloo paratha with a side of tangy pickle. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Little Buddha Cafe, a cozy eatery with a wide range of international dishes. Indulge in their delightful wood-fired pizzas or go for their refreshing salads. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at The Sitting Elephant, a charming restaurant that serves delectable Indian and continental cuisine. Savor their mouthwatering butter chicken or dive into their cheesy pasta, all while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Friday September 29: Yoga, Ashrams, and Beatles Ashram
Start your day with a yoga session at one of the many renowned yoga centers in Rishikesh. Immerse yourself in the spiritual practices and teachings of yoga. In the afternoon, explore some of the famous ashrams in the area, such as the Sivananda Ashram and the Swami Dayananda Ashram, where you can learn about spirituality and participate in meditation sessions. In the evening, visit the Beatles Ashram (also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram), where the famous band stayed during their visit to Rishikesh in the 1960s.
Yoga Session: INR 500-1000 (approx.), 2 hours
Ashram Visits: Free or donation-based, 2-3 hours
Beatles Ashram: INR 150 (approx.), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Indian breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional dishes like parathas and samosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Tulsi Restaurant, a vegetarian spot offering a wide range of Indian and Continental dishes. Don't miss their thali platters. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at Pure Soul Cafe, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges river. Enjoy their international cuisine and specialty pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday September 30: Adventure Activities
Embark on an adventurous day in Rishikesh. Start your morning with a thrilling river rafting experience on the Ganges, navigating through the rapids and enjoying the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, head to Jumpin Heights, an adventure park offering various adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, giant swing, and flying fox. You can choose the activities that suit your family's preferences and enjoy an exhilarating time together. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage or spa treatment.
River Rafting: INR 1,000-2,000 (approx.), 3-4 hours
Jumpin Heights Adventure Park: Prices vary based on activities, 2-3 hours
The Sitting Elephant Cafe: A cozy cafe offering a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Chotiwala Restaurant: A popular local eatery known for its delicious vegetarian thali meals and traditional Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Xanadu Cafe: A rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges, serving a fusion of Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday October 1: Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall and Camping
Spend your last day in Rishikesh amidst nature and tranquility. Embark on a trek to the picturesque Neer Garh Waterfall, located a few kilometers away from the city. Enjoy the scenic trail, surrounded by lush greenery, and cool off in the refreshing cascades of the waterfall. In the afternoon, indulge in a camping experience by the riverside, where you can enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and delicious meals. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Himalayan foothills and create lasting memories with your family.
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious Indian breakfast dishes like parathas and dosas. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, try Ganga Beach Restaurant located by the riverside. They offer a variety of Indian and continental dishes, with an average cost of around 400 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at 60's Cafe Delmar, a cozy restaurant known for its international cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have more time in Rishikesh, consider visiting some off the beaten path attractions. Explore the nearby village of Kaudiyala, known for its natural beauty and adventure sports. You can also visit Vashishta Gufa, a cave where the sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated. Additionally, take a stroll through the local markets and try the delicious street food, such as the famous Rishikesh speciality, "Lassi." These hidden gems and local favorites will provide a deeper insight into the culture and lifestyle of Rishikesh.
Before finalizing your travel plans, check hotel and flight prices to find the best deals for your trip to Rishikesh.