Laxman Jhula is an iconic suspension bridge over the Ganges River in Rishikesh. It is a popular attraction and offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding mountains. There are also several shops and cafes on the bridge.
Ram Jhula is another suspension bridge over the Ganges River and is located close to Laxman Jhula. It offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills. There are also several ashrams and temples in the area.
Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing spot on the banks of the Ganges River. Many people come here to take holy dips in the river and offer prayers. The ghat is also known for its evening aarti ceremony, which is a beautiful and spiritual experience.
Neer Garh Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall located amidst the hills near Rishikesh. It requires a short trek to reach but is worth the effort for the stunning views and serene atmosphere. The area around the waterfall is also great for a picnic.
The Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a historic ashram located in the forest area near Rishikesh. It gained fame when the Beatles visited it in the 1960s to learn transcendental meditation. Today, the ashram is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the Beatles' time here.
To get around Rishikesh, visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw or hire a scooter. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in the city and can be hailed from the street. Hiring a scooter is a good option for those who want to explore Rishikesh at their own pace. However, visitors should be aware of the hilly terrain and narrow roads in some areas. The estimated cost for a taxi or auto-rickshaw is 200-300 INR, while hiring a scooter can range from 200-500 INR per day. Traffic can be congested in some areas, so travelers should plan accordingly.
If visitors have more time, they can explore the ancient city of Haridwar, which is a popular pilgrimage destination and is located about 20 km from Rishikesh. White water rafting and bungee jumping are also popular activities in Rishikesh. If visitors have less time, they can skip Triveni Ghat or The Beatles Ashram, depending on their interests.
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, which is located about 35 km from Rishikesh. There are daily flights from major cities in India, such as Delhi and Mumbai. Taxis are readily available at the airport to take visitors to Rishikesh. The estimated cost for a taxi is around 1000 INR, and the travel time is approximately 1 hour.