Rishikesh is a spiritual place of attraction. It is especially interesting for seekers of meaning, yogis but also backpackers from all over the world who want to be introduced to the Indian philosophy. Rishikesh is the gateway to the Himalayas in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The holy Ganges flows down from the mountains with enormous force.
In my Rishikesh Travel Guide you will receive information and tips about the ashrams in Rishikesh, yoga courses, trips to the waterfall as well as how to get to Rishikesh. It’s all about the best places to visit in and around Rishikesh.
HOW TO GET TO rishikesh FROM delh
The fastest way to travel from Delhi to Rishikesh is by airplane. The Jolly Gant Airport is located approximately 18 kilometres from Rishikesh. The flight time is approximately 1.5 hours and the drive from the airport to Rishikesh will take another 50 minutes - more or less depending on the traffic.
Another easy way to get to Rishikesh is by train, as the city has its own long-distance train station. From here you can continue to Haridwar, from where trains depart to most major cities in India. Since Haridwar is only about 22 kilometers from Rishikesh, it is also possible to reach the station by rental car or bus.
Furthermore, there’s also the option to book a cap or private driver from Delhi to Rishikesh, but the journey will take you around 8 hours!
WHAT IS rishikesh FAMOUS FOR?
Ashrams & Yoga Centres
Rishikesh is considered the Indian center for yoga, meditation and Ayurveda healing. Therefore, a visit to one of the many ashrams and yoga centers is a must during your stay! Yoga classes and teacher training courses are offered literally at every corner.
The Maharashi Mahesh Yogi Ashram is famous for the visit of The Beatles in 1968. The Ashram is also known as the Beatles Ashram and it has been closed since 1997, but it is possible to enter for 50 rupees. The band not only found time for yoga and meditation, but also wrote some songs for the White Album. It is a very peaceful, and beautiful place with a relaxed atmosphere. Unfortunately, nature slowly but surely overgrows the ashram.
Every year in March the International Yoga Festival takes place in Rishikesh. Thousands of yoga devotees make a pilgrimage to the city on the Ganges.
Best things TO do And Top Places To Visit in rishikesh
Kunjapuri Devi Mandir Temple
Kunjapuri Temple is a sacred temple located 25km from Rishikish. Watching the sunrise at 4am in summer is an absolute must when you are in the area and an experience you will never forget.
Many tour operators offer a group tour for to the Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise. If you are completing a YTT in Rishikesh you will most likely visit the Temple as part of an excursion. About 300 steps have to be climbed but you will be rewarded with the most breathtaking sunrise. The view of the mountains and the Himalayas is simply magnificent and has a magical power.
Neer Garh Waterfall
One of the best activities to do in Rishikesh is hiking to the Neer Garh waterfalls. The waterfall and its surroundings are simply beautiful and can be reached by foot or car/ cap from Rishikesh. There is an entrance fee of 30 rupees for Indians and 50 rupees for tourists.
The steep - but absolutely worthwhile - path leads through the jungle to the different pools of the waterfall. It has a series of three breathtaking waterfalls with natural pools. It is possible to take a bith in the refreshing pools but it's not big enough for swimming.
The best time to visit the waterfall is during the week before 9am and after 5pm. This way you can escape the busy streets and crowds at the waterfall.
Make sure to walk a bit further up the last waterfall until you reach the nearby village. The AquaOneWorld and Neer Shiva cafe are located in charming landscape. The peaceful eco cafe and accommodation is a hidden jewel in Rishikesh.
Tera Manzil Temple
The spiritual and religious landmark of Rishikesh is the Trayambakeshwar Temple. The holy 13-story orange building on the banks of the Ganges is located right next to Lakshman Juhla. Temple has various shops and offers great sunset views.
Laxman Jhula & RAM JHULA
Lakshman Jhula is a suspension bridge across the river Ganges, located 5 kilometres north-east of the city of Rishikesh. Purely crossing the bridge over the Ganges is already a great experience. On the one hand the view is absolutely beautiful and on the other hand you have to experience the atmosphere that is created when people, scooters/motorcycles and cows cross the bridge - not to forget the hungry but peaceful monkeys.
The Ram Jhula suspension bridge over the Ganges is a replica of the Lakshman Jhula, which was built during the British rule in 1939.
You have a great view of the river and the surrounding mountains, but once again you have to share the bridge with scooters, cows and monkeys.
Where To Find Vegan Food In Rishikesh
Many of the restaurants in Rishikesh are geared towards international tourists and backpackers. The whole city is purely vegetarian and alcohol is officially forbidden which makes it a great place for vegan food lovers! The German Bakery with its stunning views over the Gangha river and Laxman Jhula offers different vegan cakes. Tulsi is a small hidden cafe run by a super friendly local. Even though not the whole menu is vegan, he is considerate and always makes sure your happy with your food. Yo definitely have to try the banoffee pie and delicious bread! Cafe Nirvana is also a small cosy cafe with a lot of vegan options.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to write them in the comment section below. ⇣
xx
Nina
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I have been to Rishikesh once when I went there with friends to do camping and rafting. Such a wonderful experience it was.
I am sure you must have had an awesome stay in Rishikesh.