Rishikesh Tourist Places

More Information About Rishikesh's Top Attractions & Things to Do

The town of Rishikesh is dotted with a variety of yoga and meditation centers, providing visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in age-old techniques and discover their inner calm and peace. Rishikesh is known for the sacred Ganges River, where devotees gather to perform rituals and partake in holy baths. The renowned suspension bridges that cross the river - Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula - offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Adjoining mountains and forests beckon thrill-seekers to partake in adventurous activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, and camping. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant marketplaces, and delectable vegetarian cuisine, Rishikesh serves as an ideal destination for both spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts.

Rishikesh's tranquil beauty captivates spiritual travelers, who often arrive in search of solace. As one of the most popular holiday spots located amid the Ganges and the foothills of the Himalayas, it's no wonder why it's the seventh-largest city in Uttarakhand. Known as the capital of yoga and meditation, the city is home to numerous ashrams offering wellness retreats. It attracts a diverse crowd of like-minded tourists, some in search of religious guidance at the numerous temples, others in search of adventure. Rishikesh's sightseeing tours take visitors to places of mythological significance, such as the tourist attractions of Ram and Laxman Jhula, but there's much more to explore. As night falls, pilgrims gather at the Triveni Ghat for the aarti, a spiritual ceremony that may uplift your senses. The sight is so astounding that you may feel moved to surrender your soul to the divine, even if just for a moment, and pray.

During your Rishikesh tour, consider visiting some of the popular tourist attractions, including the city's renowned ashrams. Swarg Ashram, one of the oldest ashrams in India, was built in memory of Swami Vishuddhanand. Its isolated location on the bank of the Ganges makes it an ideal place for meditation. The Pond of Sages, or Rishikund, is a hot water spring associated with the Raghunath temple. Adventure travelers frequently visit Kaudiyala for white water river rafting and camping under starlit skies in Shivpuri. Other popular activities include bungee jumping, flying fox, and the giant swing. Don't miss the must-visit attraction, Vashishta Gufa, situated along the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

Top 10 Places to Visit on a Rishikesh Tour

If you're planning a holiday in Rishikesh, ensure that your travel planner or tour operator includes these top 10 locations in your Rishikesh travel itinerary.

1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a renowned temple located in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the verdant landscape of the Himalayan foothills. This historical temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense significance to its followers and attracts visitors from across the globe. The temple's splendid location provides a tranquil and picturesque environment. As visitors traverse through the lush woods, cross gushing streams, and ascend uphill to reach the temple, they embark on a spiritual journey. This sacred spot is a top tourist destination in Rishikesh for anyone seeking a combination of spirituality, serenity, and natural beauty. It serves both as a place of worship and a haven of natural splendor.

2. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

A sightseeing tour in Rishikesh is incomplete without a visit to the Beatles Ashram. The famous British band, The Beatles, stayed here in 1968 while visiting Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to study Transcendental Meditation. This historical sojourn lends the ashram significant importance. Today, the ashram remains a top tourist attraction in Rishikesh, offering insights into the band's spiritual development and sources of inspiration. Graffiti, murals, and quotes from the band members are scattered throughout the site, adding color and vibrancy to the peaceful surroundings. Visitors can wander through the meditation rooms, public areas, and the renowned "The Beatles Cathedral Gallery," which houses a collection of photographs taken during the band's stay. Due to the site's tranquil atmosphere and the remnants of the band's presence, which create a nostalgic and pleasant ambiance, the Beatles Ashram is a must-visit location for visitors.

3. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Tourists seeking peace and spiritual enlightenment can have a transformative experience at the renowned spiritual retreat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, situated in Rishikesh along the banks of the holy Ganges River. Founded in 1942, the ashram provides a serene setting for yoga and meditation. It also offers daily yoga and meditation sessions, enlightening lectures, and traditional Indian ceremonies, enabling guests to fully immerse themselves in the wisdom and practices of ancient times. The ashram is known for conducting the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a captivating nightly ritual that includes chanting, music, and offerings to the sacred river, cultivating an uplifting spiritual environment. With its lush grounds, tranquil atmosphere, and sweeping views of the river and surrounding hills, the ashram presents the ideal setting for contemplation and rejuvenation.

4. Lakshman Jhula

The Lakshman Jhula suspension bridge holds immense religious significance. This architectural marvel, spanning the sacred Ganges River, offers a mesmerizing view of the surrounding area. Named after Lord Rama's brother, Lakshman, the bridge is tied to a mythological tale of devotion and sacrifice. The sacred river flows peacefully below the bridge as people walk across it, feeling the gentle sway beneath their feet. The bridge is lined with shops, cafes, and ashrams, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blends religion, culture, and commerce. Beyond its picturesque setting, Lakshman Jhula also serves as a gateway to various Rishikesh attractions, including historical temples, yoga studios, and the breathtaking Himalayan foothills.

5. Ram Jhula

This renowned bridge, which spans the holy Ganges River, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Ram Jhula, constructed in a manner similar to its counterpart, Lakshman Jhula, is adorned with intricate architectural elements and serves as a gateway to Rishikesh's spiritual and cultural experiences. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the bridge, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and observe pilgrims partaking in religious ceremonies on the riverbanks. With its blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance, Ram Jhula is a captivating site for tourists seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in Rishikesh.

6. Triveni Ghat

One of the most frequented places in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat, the confluence of three sacred rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati. As per historical scriptures, it is held that this particular location was graced by the presence of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama after they departed from Mathura and Ayodhya, respectively. The evening Ganga Aarti, a captivating spiritual ritual where priests offer prayers, light diyas (lamps), and chant hymns, attracts hundreds of tourists and devotees to Triveni Ghat. The mesmerizing ambiance, rhythmic sounds of bells and chants, and the sight of floating diyas on the river create an unusual and deeply moving experience. Visitors can also partake in the tradition of lighting diyas and setting flowers afloat on the river, practices believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings.

7. Rajaji National Park

After the Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital, Rajaji National Park ranks as the second most visited wildlife destination in Uttarakhand. Home to a diverse range of biodiversity, it encompasses dense forests, hilly terrain, and sparkling rivers. Covering an area of approximately 820 square kilometers, Rajaji National Park is a habitat for a variety of wildlife species including majestic elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, and over 300 different types of birds. Tourists can witness the park's astonishing biodiversity firsthand through exhilarating jungle safaris, guided nature walks, and bird-watching excursions. Offering a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for wildlife encounters, the park is a must-visit location for those seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience in nature.

8. Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a picturesque location that attracts visitors with its breathtaking views and spiritual significance. The temple is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peethas in Hindu mythology and is dedicated to the goddess Shakti. Reaching the temple involves a brisk yet invigorating trek, which is rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the charming settlements below. The breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset from Kunjapuri Devi Temple foster a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. The temple is a favored spot for deep reflection, yoga, and meditation, attracting both spiritual devotees and outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Vashishta Gufa (Cave)

Vashishta is a figure revered in Hindu tradition for his teachings and wisdom. The cave bearing his name attracts visitors seeking solace, peace, and spiritual rejuvenation. The cave's serene environment, accentuated by ancient idols, natural formations, and a nearby babbling stream, evokes a sense of reverence. Vashishta Gufa is a must-visit location for those in pursuit of peace and enlightenment, as it allows visitors to connect with nature, explore spirituality, and immerse themselves in the region's rich cultural heritage.

10. Swarg Ashram

Nestled on the banks of the holy Ganges River and surrounded by the beautiful Himalayan mountains, Swarg Ashram provides a unique retreat for individuals seeking peace, tranquility, and a space for meditation. Activities here include partaking in soul-cleansing rituals, attending enlightening spiritual discourses, practicing yoga and meditation, and enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the ashram's gardens. With its spectacular natural beauty and a diverse array of spiritual experiences, Swarg Ashram serves as a compelling destination for spiritual seekers and a gateway to understanding one's inner self.