Start your day at the peaceful and serene Tapovan Ashram, located on the banks of the Ganges River. This spiritual retreat offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for meditation and inner reflection. Take a walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Entrance to the ashram is free, and you can spend a couple of hours here.
Continuing your spiritual journey, head to the famous Beatles Ashram, also known as Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. This abandoned ashram was once a training center for transcendental meditation and was visited by the Beatles in the late 1960s. Explore the graffiti-covered ruins and connect with the energy that attracted the famous British band here. The entrance fee is approximately INR 150 ($2) per person, and you can spend about two hours exploring the premises.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its North Indian cuisine. Indulge in the flavors of local dishes like butter naan, dal makhani, and paneer tikka. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is a great place to relax and savor your meal. The average cost per person is around INR 500 ($7), and you can spend around one hour here.
Unwind and rejuvenate at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, one of the largest yoga centers in Rishikesh. This ashram offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as breathtaking sunset ceremonies along the Ganges River. Enjoy the calming environment, take part in a yoga session, or simply sit by the river and absorb the tranquil atmosphere. Entrance to the ashram is free, and you can spend a few hours here.
Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at Triveni Ghat, a sacred bathing spot on the Ganges River. Join the locals in offering prayers, lighting oil lamps, and floating them on the river. The spiritual ambiance, filled with chants and the fragrance of incense, creates a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. The aarti ceremony starts around 6:30 PM and lasts for approximately one hour.
For those seeking additional relaxation spots in Rishikesh, consider visiting the Neer Garh Waterfall, situated amidst lush greenery and offering a refreshing escape from the city. Another hidden gem is the Vashishta Gufa, a cave located on the banks of the Ganges River where you can meditate and experience tranquility. Both these attractions are off the beaten path and cherished by locals for their peaceful ambiance.
Check out the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Rishikesh here.