How many days do you need in Rishikesh?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Rishikesh, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Rishikesh?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Rishikesh. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Foodie & Nature Lover's Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Rishikesh

Day 1: Rishikesh Town Exploration

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty Indian breakfast at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its delicious parathas and chai, perfect for a budget traveller.

£3, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Triveni Ghat

Head to Triveni Ghat to witness the morning Ganga Aarti ceremony, a beautiful spiritual experience by the river.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Sitting Elephant

Enjoy a vegetarian thali meal at The Sitting Elephant, offering a variety of local dishes at affordable prices.

£5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula

Take a leisurely walk across the iconic suspension bridges, Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, offering stunning views of the Ganges and surrounding mountains.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Little Buddha Cafe

End your day with a relaxing dinner at Little Buddha Cafe, known for its chilled atmosphere and delicious international cuisine at reasonable prices.

£7, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple & Waterfalls

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shri Balaji Dosa

Start your day with a South Indian breakfast at Shri Balaji Dosa, famous for its crispy dosas and filter coffee.

£4, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Explore the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, a sacred Hindu temple located amidst lush greenery and serene surroundings.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Phool Chatti Waterfalls

Pack a picnic lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon by the Phool Chatti Waterfalls, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

£3, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore local street food at Ram Jhula Market

Indulge in local street food delicacies at Ram Jhula Market, offering a variety of snacks and sweets at pocket-friendly prices.

£5, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Devraj Coffee Corner

Enjoy a simple yet delicious dinner at Devraj Coffee Corner, known for its affordable meals and stunning Ganga views.

£6, 1 hour

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Day 3: Beatles Ashram & Ganga Beaches

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pumpernickel German Bakery

Start your day with a European breakfast at Pumpernickel German Bakery, offering a range of pastries and coffee.

£5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Beatles Ashram

Visit the abandoned Beatles Ashram, also known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, to admire the graffiti art and peaceful surroundings.

£2, 2 hours

1:00PM

Relax at Ganga Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at one of the serene Ganga beaches like Kaudiyala Beach, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the river.

Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram for Ganga Aarti

Experience the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, a spiritual highlight of Rishikesh.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its traditional Indian cuisine and welcoming ambience.

£8, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Adventure Activities & Local Markets

Rishikesh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pappu Ki Chai

Start your day with a local breakfast experience at Pappu Ki Chai, serving piping hot chai and savoury snacks.

£2, 1 hour

10:00AM

Try River Rafting

Embark on an adrenaline-pumping river rafting adventure in the Ganges, a must-do activity for thrill-seekers.

£15, 3 hours

2:00PM

Shop at Rishikesh Main Market

Explore the bustling Rishikesh Main Market for souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts at bargain prices.

Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax by the Ganges

Spend a peaceful evening by the Ganges, soaking in the serene atmosphere and watching the sunset over the river.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chotiwala Dhaba

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Chotiwala Dhaba, known for its North Indian comfort food and local culinary delights.

£6, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Haridwar Temples & Ganga Aarti

Haridwar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pandit Ji Poori Wale

Kick off your day with a traditional North Indian breakfast of poori sabzi and lassi at Pandit Ji Poori Wale, a local favourite in Haridwar.

£4, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Har Ki Pauri Ghat

Explore the iconic Har Ki Pauri Ghat, one of the most sacred bathing ghats on the Ganges, offering a glimpse into the spiritual essence of Haridwar.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hoshiyar Puri

Indulge in a flavourful lunch at Hoshiyar Puri, known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine and affordable thali meals.

£5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Mansa Devi Temple

Climb to the hilltop shrine of Mansa Devi Temple via cable car for panoramic views of Haridwar and the chance to seek blessings at the Goddess' temple.

£2, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Witness the grand Ganga Aarti ceremony at Har Ki Pauri Ghat, a magical experience as lamps are lit and hymns fill the air during the evening prayers.

Free, 1.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Foodie & Nature Lover's Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Rishikesh

Day 1: Rishikesh Town Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple & Waterfalls

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Beatles Ashram & Ganga Beaches

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Adventure Activities & Local Markets

8:00AM

10:00AM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Haridwar Temples & Ganga Aarti

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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