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Rishikesh Adventure Special

Planning 2 days in Rishikesh? A thrilling 2-day Rishikesh adventure itinerary combining white-water rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, and camping, with a serene evening of Ganga Aarti and iconic suspension bridges. It includes a detailed day-wise schedule, activities, meal suggestions, transportation tips and an estimated budget to help you plan your trip with less guesswork.

Day 1: River Rafting and Cliff Jumping Extravaganza

Day 1

Start your day early with an adrenaline-packed rafting trip from Shivpuri to Rishikesh, navigating Grade II-IV rapids. After the rafting, enjoy cliff jumping at a designated spot along the river, then unwind at a riverside camp for lunch and relaxation. In the evening, visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula bridges, followed by the grand Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan in Swarg Ashram.

Activities

Begin with a 16 km rafting expedition from Shivpuri to Nim Beach, conquering rapids like 'Roller Coaster', 'Golf Course', and 'Club House'.
Take a thrilling cliff jump (approx. 20-30 feet) at a safe spot during the rafting trip, under the supervision of trained guides.
Enjoy a riverside camping experience at Shivpuri beach, with bonfire, games, and overnight stay in tents.
In the evening, walk across Laxman Jhula (1929) and Ram Jhula (1986) suspension bridges, then attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan (or Triveni Ghat) as the sun sets.

Meals

•Breakfast at your hotel or at a local café in Tapovan
•Lunch at the riverside camp (simple vegetarian thali)
•Dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Laxman Jhula with a view of the Ganges

Day 2: Bungee Jumping and Spiritual Exploration

Day 2

Kick off the second day with an exhilarating bungee jump at Jumpin Heights in Mohanchatti, one of India's highest (83 meters). After the jump, visit the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) to see the vibrant murals and tranquil meditation spots. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (32 km) or opt for a peaceful meditation session at Vashishta Gufa (21 km). End the day with a relaxed stroll through Swarg Ashram's vegetarian zone and a final dinner at a German bakery.

Activities

Drive to Jumpin Heights in Mohanchatti (approx. 30 km from Rishikesh) and take the 83-meter bungee jump over a rocky riverbed (pre-booking essential).
Explore the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) with its graffiti-covered walls and peaceful forest setting, perfect for photography and reflection.
Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, where he consumed the halahala poison during the churning of the ocean (approx. 32 km, 1.5-hour drive).
Alternatively, hike to Vashishta Gufa, a meditation cave associated with sage Vashishta, for a serene hour of silence.

Meals

•Breakfast at a German bakery in Tapovan (try the apple strudel)
•Lunch at a pure-veg restaurant in Swarg Ashram
•Dinner at a café near Laxman Jhula with live music and river views

Detailed Timeline

Day 1

9 activities

Morning

06:00 AM

Early Morning Pickup and Drive to Shivpuri

Start your day with a 6:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Tapovan or Rishikesh town. Drive 16 km to Shivpuri (about 45 minutes) through winding Himalayan roads. Carry your swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes. Your rafting operator will brief you on safety and gear at the base camp.

07:30 AM

Rafting Safety Briefing and Gear Up

Arrive at the Shivpuri rafting base, sign the waiver, and receive life jackets, helmets, and paddles. Listen to a 20-minute safety demonstration covering paddle commands and self-rescue techniques. Tip: Keep your valuables in a waterproof bag; lockers are available at the base for a small fee (₹50).

08:00 AM

Begin 16 km Rafting Expedition on the Ganges

Launch your raft into the Ganges and navigate the first set of rapids: 'Roller Coaster' (Grade II) and 'Golf Course' (Grade III). The river is cool and invigorating, with stunning forested cliffs on both sides. Your guide will lead you through each rapid with clear commands. Expect splashes and adrenaline!

10:30 AM

Cliff Jumping at a Designated Spot

Pause at a safe cliff jumping spot (approx. 20-30 feet high) along the riverbank. With your guide's supervision, take the plunge into the deep, clear water—a thrilling moment. If you're nervous, you can opt to watch or jump from a lower ledge. Cost: included in rafting package; no extra fee.

Afternoon

12:00 PM

Continue Rafting to Nim Beach

Resume rafting through the 'Club House' rapid (Grade IV) and other exciting stretches. Arrive at Nim Beach, the standard endpoint, around noon. Here, you'll disembark and help carry the rafts to the shore. A short break allows for photos and a quick dip before heading to the riverside camp.

01:00 PM

Riverside Camp Lunch and Relaxation

Enjoy a simple vegetarian thali (rice, dal, vegetables, roti, and salad) at the riverside camp in Shivpuri. After lunch, relax in a hammock, play beach volleyball, or take a short nature walk. The camp is set on a sandy beach with basic facilities; use the time to rest your muscles.

04:00 PM

Return to Rishikesh and Visit Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

Drive back to Rishikesh (45 minutes) and spend an hour walking across the iconic Laxman Jhula (built 1929) and Ram Jhula (built 1986) suspension bridges. These pedestrian bridges offer panoramic views of the Ganges and the surrounding temples. Watch for monkeys—keep your belongings secure.

Evening

06:00 PM

Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan

Arrive at Parmarth Niketan in Swarg Ashram for the evening Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual of fire, chants, and lamps. Find a spot on the ghat steps by 6:00 PM; the ceremony begins at sunset (around 6:30 PM). Arrive early for a good view; photography is allowed but be respectful. Afterward, explore the ashram's peaceful gardens.

08:00 PM

Dinner at Rooftop Restaurant in Laxman Jhula

Head to a rooftop restaurant near Laxman Jhula (e.g., Ganga View Cafe or similar) for dinner with a view of the illuminated Ganges. Try local dishes like paneer tikka or thali. Expect to pay ₹300-500 per person. After dinner, take a short stroll back to your hotel or camp.

Day 2

9 activities

Morning

07:00 AM

Breakfast at German Bakery in Tapovan

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a German bakery in Tapovan—try the apple strudel and fresh coffee. Many bakeries open by 7:00 AM; order a veggie omelette or muesli for energy. Cost: ₹200-400 per person. After breakfast, prepare for the drive to Mohanchatti.

08:00 AM

Drive to Jumpin Heights in Mohanchatti

Take a private taxi or shared jeep to Jumpin Heights, located about 30 km from Rishikesh (1 hour drive). The road passes through scenic villages and forested hills. Pre-booking is essential; arrive by 9:00 AM for your scheduled jump slot. Carry your ID and booking confirmation.

09:00 AM

Bungee Jump at 83 Meters

After a safety briefing and weigh-in, take the plunge from India's highest bungee platform (83 meters) over a rocky riverbed. The freefall lasts about 3 seconds, followed by a rebound—an unforgettable rush. Cost: ₹3,500-4,000 per jump (includes video/photo packages). Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

11:30 AM

Visit Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Drive back towards Rishikesh and stop at the Beatles Ashram in the Rajaji National Park area. Explore the graffiti-covered meditation halls and overgrown forest paths where the Beatles stayed in 1968. Entry fee: ₹150 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners (plus ₹50 camera fee). Spend an hour wandering and taking photos.

Afternoon

01:30 PM

Lunch at Pure-Veg Restaurant in Swarg Ashram

Head to Swarg Ashram's vegetarian zone for lunch at a pure-veg restaurant (e.g., Chotiwala or similar). Enjoy local thali, chole bhature, or South Indian dishes. Cost: ₹150-300 per person. After lunch, you can stroll through the ashram's peaceful lanes and shops.

03:00 PM

Scenic Drive to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Take a taxi or shared jeep to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, 32 km from Rishikesh (1.5-hour drive) through dense forest and winding roads. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who consumed the halahala poison here. Carry water and wear comfortable shoes; the temple is on a hilltop with steps. Entry is free; donation appreciated.

05:00 PM

Alternative: Hike to Vashishta Gufa

If you prefer a quieter spiritual experience, hike to Vashishta Gufa, a meditation cave 21 km from Rishikesh. The trail takes about 45 minutes from the parking area, passing through forest. Spend 30 minutes in silent meditation inside the cave. No entry fee; carry a flashlight. This is a serene alternative to the temple.

Evening

07:00 PM

Stroll Through Swarg Ashram and Relax

Return to Rishikesh and take a leisurely walk through Swarg Ashram's vegetarian zone, visiting small shops for souvenirs or chai. Enjoy the evening atmosphere as the Ganga Aarti begins at nearby ghats. This is a good time to reflect on the day's adventures and relax your muscles.

08:00 PM

Dinner at Café Near Laxman Jhula with Live Music

End your day with dinner at a café near Laxman Jhula that offers live music and river views (e.g., Freedom Café or similar). Try wood-fired pizza or pasta along with a fresh juice. Cost: ₹300-500 per person. After dinner, take a final walk across the bridge under the stars before retiring.

Food Recommendations

The Beatles Café

Rooftop café with a Beatles theme, vegetarian

Must Try: Wood-fired pizza and banana honey pancake

₹300-₹600 per person

Little Buddha Café

Riverside café in Tapovan, vegetarian with international options

Must Try: Veggie burger and chocolate brownie with ice cream

₹400-₹700 per person

Ganga Beach Café

Beachside café with a relaxed vibe, pure veg

Must Try: Masala chai and veg thali

₹200-₹400 per person

Transportation Tips

Rishikesh is well-connected by train (Rishikesh Railway Station) and bus (ISBT); from Delhi, it's a 5-6 hour drive.
Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are the main local transport; negotiate fares before starting.
To reach Jumpin Heights, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Tapovan (approx. ₹800-₹1000 one-way).
For rafting, most operators provide pickup from your hotel in Rishikesh; confirm the meeting point at Shivpuri beach.