Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual vibes of Rishikesh, known as the Yoga capital of the world. In the morning, visit the iconic Lakshman Jhula, an iron suspension bridge over the Ganges River. Take a peaceful walk across the bridge, enjoying panoramic views of the river and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, head to the Triveni Ghat and witness the evening Ganga aarti (ritual worship of the river) as the sun sets. Complete your day with a visit to the vibrant Ram Jhula, another suspension bridge offering serenity and stunning vistas of Rishikesh.
Lakshman Jhula: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Triveni Ghat: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Ram Jhula: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sitting Elephant, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For lunch, try Little Buddha Cafe, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Enjoy their mouthwatering Tibetan dishes while enjoying the scenic views of the Ganges. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit The Beatles Cafe, a must-visit restaurant for fans of the legendary band. Indulge in their exquisite European and Indian fusion dishes while listening to the Beatles' iconic songs. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, October 31: Ashram Visit and Ganga Dip
Spend the morning exploring the spiritual side of Rishikesh by visiting renowned ashrams. Start with the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where you can attend a morning yoga or meditation session. Afterwards, visit the Omkarananda Kamakshi Devi Mandir and seek blessings. In the afternoon, head to the Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple in Rishikesh, and take a dip in the holy Ganges River. Witness the magical Ganga Aarti in the evening at the Parmarth Ghat for a profound spiritual experience.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Cost - Free, Time - 2 hours
Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Ghat: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head over to Wafflin EF Resorts where you can indulge in a variety of waffles and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Chotiwala, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try Devraj Coffee Corner that offers a cozy ambiance and a variety of dishes including pasta, pizza, and local Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
Wednesday, November 1: Adventure and Nature
Experience adrenaline-pumping activities and embrace the natural beauty of Rishikesh on this day. Start early and go for a thrilling white water rafting adventure on the Ganges River. After rafting, venture to the serene Beatles Ashram, officially known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram. Explore the abandoned ashram, covered in stunning graffiti, and enjoy peaceful moments amidst nature. Conclude your day with a visit to the Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem where you can trek and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
White Water Rafting: Cost - Starts at INR 600 ($8) per person, Time - 3-4 hours
Beatles Ashram: Cost - INR 150 ($2) per person, Time - 2 hours
Neer Garh Waterfall: Cost - Free, Time - 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian breakfast options like crispy dosas and fluffy pooris. A meal here costs around INR 150 per person.
For lunch, visit Little Buddha Cafe, a popular spot with a peaceful ambiance and stunning river views. They serve a variety of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, and Continental. Expect to spend around INR 300 per person for a meal.
For dinner, stop by The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant offering a range of Indian and international dishes. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and panoramic views of Rishikesh while savoring your meal. The average cost for a dinner here is about INR 500 per person.
Thursday, November 2: Yoga and Sunset at Kunjapuri Temple
Indulge in the ancient practice of Yoga in the morning by participating in a Yoga class in Rishikesh. Afterward, head to the Kunjapuri Temple, situated atop a hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and the sunset. Spend your evening absorbing the tranquility and spirituality of this revered place. Return to Rishikesh for a final evening stroll along the Ganges River, witnessing the shimmering diyas floating during the Ganga Aarti.
Yoga Class: Cost - Starts at INR 200 ($2.7) per person, Time - 2 hours
Kunjapuri Temple: Cost - Free, Time - 4 hours
Ganga Aarti at Ganges River: Cost - Free, Time - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at the famous Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine and friendly service. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Bistro Nirvana, a cozy cafe offering a diverse menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at The Sitting Elephant, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges. Indulge in their flavorful Indian and International dishes while enjoying the serene ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off-the-beaten-path attractions in Rishikesh, visit the Vashishta Cave, where sage Vashishta is said to have meditated. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple situated amidst lush green mountains. For a peaceful escape, head to the Shivpuri Suspension Bridge and savor the serenity and bird's eye view of the Ganges. These hidden gems are popular among locals and can be enjoyed on a shoestring budget, offering unique experiences in Rishikesh.