Things to Do in Rishikesh

As dusk falls, the Parmarth Niketan ashram on the banks of the Ganges transforms into a scene of divine fervor. The Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual of fire and prayer, begins around 6:00 PM in summer and 5:30 PM in winter. Arrive by 5:30 PM to secure a good spot on the ghat steps. The air fills with the scent of incense, the sound of conch shells, and the chanting of mantras. Young priests in saffron robes perform synchronized movements, waving multi-tiered brass lamps, while the river glows with floating diyas (oil lamps) set adrift by devotees. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and is free to attend, though donations are welcome. For a closer view, you can pay a small fee (around ₹100) for a boat that takes you onto the river. The experience is deeply moving, especially when the aarti culminates in a collective chant of 'Har Har Mahadev.' It's a sensory overload of sight, sound, and emotion that leaves a lasting spiritual impression.

Rafting on the Ganges from Shivpuri is a quintessential Rishikesh adventure. The 16-kilometer stretch from Shivpuri to Nim Beach offers Grade II and III rapids with names like 'Roller Coaster,' 'Golf Course,' and 'Club House.' The season runs from September to June, with the most thrilling conditions in spring when snowmelt increases water flow. Operators like Red Chilli Adventure and Ganga Rafters offer trips starting from ₹599 to ₹1,500 per person, depending on the season and inclusions (lunch, transport). A typical trip lasts 2-3 hours on the water, with safety briefings and life jackets provided. As you paddle through the emerald-green rapids, you'll be flanked by towering cliffs and lush forest. The sense of adrenaline is balanced by moments of calm where you can float and soak in the Himalayan scenery. Many packages include cliff jumping (up to 20 feet) at certain points. Book through a reputable operator and check safety equipment. The experience is a perfect blend of thrill and natural beauty, making it a highlight of any visit.

The iconic suspension bridges of Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula are not just crossings but experiences in themselves. Laxman Jhula, built in 1929, spans 450 feet and is said to be where Lord Rama's brother Laxman crossed the Ganges on a jute rope. Ram Jhula, built later, is slightly longer and connects the Sivananda and Parmarth Niketan ashrams. Walking across these bridges, you'll feel them sway gently with each step, while motorbikes and bicycles weave past (though they're technically pedestrian-only). The views of the river below and the hillside temples are stunning. The bridges are free to cross, but be prepared for crowds, especially in the morning and evening. As you walk, you'll encounter sadhus (holy men), vendors selling rudraksha beads and incense, and monkeys that may try to snatch your belongings. The best time is early morning (around 6:00 AM) when the mist rises off the river and the atmosphere is serene. The bridges are also prime spots for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow.

Rishikesh is the Yoga Capital of the World, and no visit is complete without a yoga session. You can join drop-in classes at various ashrams and studios. Parmarth Niketan offers free yoga classes every morning at 6:00 AM, open to all. The Sivananda Ashram conducts structured courses, while the Rishikesh Yog Peeth offers popular teacher training programs. For a more personalized experience, many small studios along the Ganges offer one-on-one sessions for ₹500-1,500 per hour. A typical class includes pranayama (breathing exercises), asanas (postures), and meditation, often with the sound of the river in the background. The experience is not just physical but spiritual, as instructors emphasize mindfulness and inner peace. If you're interested in a deeper immersion, you can stay at an ashram for a few days, with accommodation and meals costing around ₹1,500-3,000 per night. The atmosphere is conducive to introspection, with daily schedules of yoga, satsang (spiritual discourse), and vegetarian meals. Whether you're a beginner or advanced, the guidance you receive in Rishikesh is transformative.

The Beatles Ashram, officially known as the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, is a hauntingly beautiful ruin in the jungle near Rajaji National Park. In 1968, the Beatles came here to learn transcendental meditation, and the ashram became a cultural landmark. Abandoned for decades, it was reopened to the public in 2015. The walls are now covered with vibrant graffiti and murals by artists from around the world, depicting scenes from the Beatles' stay, psychedelic patterns, and spiritual motifs. Entry costs ₹150 for Indians and ₹600 for foreigners (including a visit to the Rajaji National Park interpretation center). The ashram is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and it's best to visit early to avoid crowds and heat. As you wander through the crumbling meditation halls and overgrown pathways, you can almost feel the creative energy that once filled the space. The juxtaposition of decaying structures and colorful art is both poignant and inspiring. Bring water and insect repellent, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain.

Perched at an elevation of 1,330 meters in the Purkul valley, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, it is the spot where Shiva consumed the poison that emerged from the churning of the ocean, turning his throat blue (Neelkanth). The temple is about 32 kilometers from Rishikesh, and the drive takes around 1.5 hours through winding mountain roads. You can hire a taxi for ₹2,000-2,500 round trip, or take a shared jeep from Tapovan for around ₹200 per person. The temple itself is a modern structure with a towering spire, but the real beauty lies in the surroundings—lush forests and the sound of the river below. The best time to visit is during the monsoon (July-August) when the area is lush, but be cautious of landslides. During the Shivratri festival, the temple is thronged with pilgrims. Plan to spend 2-3 hours at the temple, including time for darshan and exploring the small shops selling prasad. The drive offers stunning views of the Himalayas, and the temple's serene atmosphere makes it a worthwhile pilgrimage.

For adrenaline junkies, Jumpin Heights offers India's highest bungee jump at 83 meters (272 feet). Located about 45 minutes from Rishikesh in Mohan Chatti, this jump is operated by a team with international safety standards. The cost is ₹3,555 per jump (including taxes), and you can also try a giant swing for ₹2,000 or a bungee-run for ₹1,000. The experience begins with a safety briefing and harness fitting, followed by a ride up to the platform. As you stand on the edge, looking down at the rocky riverbed below, your heart races. The freefall lasts about 3 seconds, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h, followed by a series of bounces. The feeling of weightlessness is exhilarating, and the surrounding valley views are breathtaking. The entire process, including waiting and briefing, takes about 2-3 hours. It's recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends. The minimum age is 12, and there is a weight limit of 35-110 kg. If you're not ready for the jump, you can still watch others and enjoy the riverside café. This is a must-do for thrill-seekers visiting Rishikesh.

Vashishta Gufa is a natural cave located about 25 kilometers from Rishikesh, near the village of Shivpuri. It is named after the sage Vashishta, who is said to have meditated here. The cave is small, with a narrow entrance that opens into a chamber with a small shrine. The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful, with only the sound of the Ganges flowing nearby. To reach the cave, you can take a taxi (₹1,500-2,000 round trip) or a local bus to the nearest village and walk. The last stretch involves a short trek down a hill and across a suspension bridge, which adds to the adventure. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the trees. Inside the cave, you can sit in silence and meditate, feeling the coolness of the stone and the spiritual energy. There is no entry fee, but donations are appreciated. Carry a torch (flashlight) as the cave is dimly lit. Many visitors combine this with a visit to the nearby Neer Garh waterfall. This is a perfect spot for introspection and connecting with nature.