Renowned as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh earned its fame when the popular English rock band Beatles visited the place back in the 60s. The famous band, seeking spirituality, spent their time at the Ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and other popular places to visit in Rishikesh including the ghats of the river Ganga.
While spending some time at this ashram is a given when visiting this spiritual city, there are plenty of other Rishikesh tourist places that demand your attention. Start your day with river rafting at Shivpuri followed by a simple breakfast at one of the riverside cafes and then roam around the various shops lined along Laxman Jhula.
Finally, unwind at the Ghat and submerge yourself in the magnificent and stunningly tranquil Ganga Aarti in the evening. And if you need a detailed guide to help you plan your entire itinerary, take cues from this one. Read ahead to learn about the popular places to visit in Rishikesh.
Places to Visit in Rishikesh
1. Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
Laxman Jhula | #1 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
One of the most prominent places to visit in Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is a 450-feet long suspension bridge at a height of 70 feet from the river. Built in the year 1939, the bridge is an important attraction as it is believed that it is the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River on a jute rope.
Laxman Jhula is among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. While you will find plenty of cafes on both sides of the bridge, the famous places you should visit are Laxman Temple and Tera Manzil Mandir situated close by. When crossing the bridge, stop in the middle and just soak in the view of the hills all around you. Nothing is more surreal than this!
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (5.2 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (5.9 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Laxman Jhula
If you are planning for a trip in January, Check more details – Places to Visit in January
2. Ram Jhula, Rishikesh
Ram Jhula | #2 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
A few miles downstream from Laxman Jhula is the Ram Jhula in Rishikesh. Almost similar in its structure and construction, this suspension bridge was built in 1980, a little later than Laxman Jhula. It is one of the must-visit places to visit in Rishikesh for its scenic views.
As you cross this bridge, you will witness the Himalayas peeking out of clouds on clear days and the Ganga River gushing down in full flow. It does make for a scenic vista which you don’t want to miss when in Rishikesh.
The bridge is also renowned for linking two popular ashrams of the town – Swarg Ashram on one end and the Sivananda Ashram on the other. About 450 feet long, this bridge offers breathtaking views of valleys and the temples around making it among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. Walk slowly if you want to take it all in.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.7 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Ram Jhula
3. Tera Manzil Mandir, Rishikesh
Tera Manzil Mandir | #3 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, this is one of the most renowned temples and among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. Perched on the banks of River Ganga, the temple (as its name suggests) has 13 storeys and strikingly beautiful architecture. It can be easily distinguished from afar thanks to its colourful facade. There are many hotels in Rishikesh at this prime location near Laxman Jhula with a view of the beautiful Ghats and the Ganga.
- Location: Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (5.3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (6 km)
- Places to Stay: Stays in Rishikesh
4. Shri Bharat Mandir, Rishikesh
Shri Bharat Mandir | #4 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
One of the oldest and the most revered temples in the entire city, Shri Bharat Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. This glorious temple has several mythological stories behind it, making it one of the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh. For instance, it is believed that the Pandavas, on their way to heaven, stayed at this temple and worshipped Lord Hrishikesh. It is also believed that at one point when Lord Buddha visited the temple, it was converted into a monastery for a few years. Fascinating, isn’t it? All these interesting stories make this temple among the best Rishikesh temples to visit.
- Location: Ghat Road, Mayakund, Rishikesh
- Timing: 5 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 9 PM; All Days
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.4 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (2.3 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
5. Triveni Ghat, Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat | #5 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
It is one of the most famous ghats and places to visit in Rishikesh and makes for a beautiful destination to watch the evening Ganga Aarti. The sanctity of the Ghat comes from the legend that it sees the confluence of three major rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
The ghat is considered sacred and if Hindu mythology is to be believed, it is said that a dip in the holy water of Ganga near the ghat can purge all your sins. After all, this ghat has been mentioned in both our epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is one of the best Rishikesh places to visit to just sit by the ghat in the evening and soak in the splendour of the Aarti.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (2.5 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Triveni Ghat
6. The Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh
The Beatles Ashram | #6 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Located at a distance of around 18 km from the city centre, The Beatles Ashram is among the best places to visit in Rishikesh. After the Beatles visited the ashram to do transcendental meditation, the outlook on Indian spirituality changed the world over and it became one of the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh.
The time the Beatles spent at the ashram is touted as one of their most productive periods where they wrote plenty of songs. If you are a Beatles fan, you have to visit the ashram and soak in its tranquillity. The place is not maintained properly but still, the ruins look beautiful. Just find a spot inside the ashram and spend some hours meditating.
- Location: Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
- Timings: Open on all days till sunset
- Entry Fee: 100-150 rupees per person
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.8 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near The Beatles Ashram
If you’d like to know where you can camp under the starlit sky, read our blog on camping in Rishikesh.
7. Shivpuri, Rishikesh
Shivpuri | #7 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
No trip to Rishikesh is complete without trying the adrenaline-spiking water sport – river rafting. And the best place to indulge in one of the most exciting adventure activities in Rishikesh is Shivpuri. A hub for river rafting, the place is crowded with people who want to try this adventure sport. It is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh for adventure sports whether you want to go for the short 9-km or the long 21-km expedition.
There are many things to do in Rishikesh like bungee jumping, zipling, and Giant Swing, and if you want to do it all, we recommend you book a 1N/2D camp. After river rafting, you can unwind in the tents and spend your evenings around a bonfire. It is advised to plan your trip according to the weather, as during monsoon season or heavy rainfall the level of the river rises and rafting gets risky during that period. If you are looking for places to visit in Rishikesh in 2 days, you can plan the water activities in the morning and explore other best places to visit in Rishikesh in the evening.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (14.8 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (16.1 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Shivpuri
8. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rishikesh
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple | #8 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Located around 30 km from Rishikesh, this holy temple is considered one of the most important pilgrimage places to visit in Rishikesh for all the devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the temple was built at the same spot where Lord Shiva drank the venom ‘Halahala’ that was extracted after churning the ocean to obtain the elixir of life.
Not only this, the temple also has a freshwater spring where devotees take a holy dip. It is considered among the top 10 places to visit in Rishikesh for a spiritual and religious experience.
- Location: Kotdwar – Pauri Road
- Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
- Best time to visit: September to June
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (25.5 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (26.8 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
9. Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh
Jumpin Heights | #9 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, being the adventurer’s paradise, is also the hub of one of the most daunting yet exhilarating activities of them all – bungee jumping. And the best place to try this adventure sport is Jumpin Heights.
Apart from bungee jumping, this adventure sports point has provisions for flying foxes and giant swings. Right from expert instructors to the gear needed for bungee jumping, you will find everything here making it one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh. Plus, you can also record your reaction on camera. You will find some of the best hotels in Rishikesh nearby for a delightful stay.
- Entry Fees: INR 100, extra charges for bungee jumping and flying fox
- Location: District Pauri Garhwal, Mohan Chatti, 30 km from Rishikesh
- Timing: 9:30 AM – 4 PM, All Days
- Best time to visit: September to June
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (21.3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (23.2 km)
10. Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh
Parmarth Niketan | #10 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Parmarth Niketan is among the top places to visit in Rishikesh if you are an ardent Yoga follower. Established in the year 1942, this ashram has grown into one of the biggest spiritual places in the country.
- Location: Swargashram, Rishikesh
- Timing: 9 AM – 8 PM, All Days
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.9 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Parmarth Niketan
11. Byasi, Rishikesh
Byasi | #11 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Byasi is a small village and among the best places to visit near Rishikesh. If you are an adventure lover, this is the place for you. Camping, river rafting, and boating are some activities that happen here all through the year. The village has lots of restaurants and homestays too. Byasi is mostly famous for the spot for camping in Rishikesh.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (30.5 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (31.3 km)
12. Muni ki Reti, Rishikesh
Muni ki Reti | #12 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
In the list of tourist attractions in Rishikesh, this town is a popular choice. Filled with innumerable Hindu temples and ashrams, the place will keep you grounded and calm. The town is just 6 km from the main Rishikesh city. The Ganges is less crowded here and you can enjoy a stroll through its banks. It is among the most unique places to visit in Rishikesh.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
- Places to Stay: Stays near Muni ki Reti
13. Kaudiyala, Rishikesh
Kaudiyala | #13 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
For adventure seekers, Kaudiyala is one of the best tourist places in Rishikesh. Located 40 km away from the centre of the holy city, this place is located on the banks of the Ganga and has turned into a camping and adventure activity zone. The white sands add beauty to the town.
- Location: Badrinath Road
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (36 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (36.8 km)
14. Ragunath Temple, Rishikesh
An important temple in Rishikesh, the Raghunath Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and his wife Goddess Sita. Many important religious ceremonies take place in this revered temple. It is one of the most religious places to visit in Rishikesh.
- Location: Near Triveni Ghat
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.4 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (2 km)
15. Rishikund, Rishikesh
Rishikund | #15 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Rishikund is called the ‘pond for rishis’ and is a holy water body located near the Ragunath Temple. The pond reflects the entrance tower of the Raghunath Temple and is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Rishikesh to have a peaceful time. The pond is said to have been blessed by the River Goddess Yamuna.
- Location: Mayakund, Rishikesh
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (1.8 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
16. Lakshman Temple, Rishikesh
Lakshman Temple | #16 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
This very old temple is located near Lakshman Jhula and is said to be the place where Lord Lakshman meditated to seek spiritual enlightenment. This temple is known for its ancient carvings, sculptures, and paintings and is a very famous place in Rishikesh.
- Location: Near Lakshman Jhula
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (4 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (5.4 km)
17. Vashistha Cave, Rishikesh
Vashistha Cave | #17 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Dedicated to Saint Vashistha, this is said to be the place where he lived and meditated at the end of his life. Located in a beautiful spot, this is one of the most visited places in Rishikesh. You can spend some time on the premises and meditate inside the cave.
- Location: Badrinath Road
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (21.2 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (27 km)
18. Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Devi Temple | #18 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Situated on the top of a small hill, you will have to climb 80 steps to reach the famous Kunjapuri Devi Temple. It is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peets, hence quite crowded on weekends. It is considered one of the best places near Rishikesh to visit. Sunrise at this temple is a delight for tourists. If you are looking for places to visit in Rishikesh in one day or 2 days, you should visit this place for the stunning sunrise.
- Location: Hindolakhal Rd, Rishikesh
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Best time to visit: September to June
- How to Reach
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (26.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (29 km)
19. Sivananda Ashram, Rishikesh
Sivananda Ashram | #19 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Sivananda Ashram is located about 3 m from Rishikesh and is a very popular Yoga centre in the city. Many famous personalities have paid a visit to this ashram to participate in the powerful and empowering Yoga programs conducted by the gurus, enlisting it among the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh.
- Location: Shivananda Nagar
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2.7 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
20. Omkarananda Ashram, Rishikesh
Omkarananda Ashram | #20 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
The Omkarananda Ashram is located on the banks of the River Ganga and was established more than 50 years ago. Visit this ashram for a spiritually enlightening experience. It is one of the most peaceful and serene places to visit near Rishikesh.
- Location: Swami Omkarananda Saraswathi Road, Ganga Vatika
- Best time to visit Rishikesh: Throughout the year
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (2.5 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (3.1 km)
21. Neer Garh Waterfall, Rishikesh
Neer Garh Waterfall | #21 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh is a stunning natural attraction known for its cascading waters and picturesque surroundings. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as trekking along the nearby trails, capturing stunning photographs, enjoying a picnic amidst nature’s embrace, or simply taking a leisurely walk to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Rishikesh.
- Timings: No timings
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Best time to visit: Throughout the year
- Things to do: Trekking, Picnic, Nature walk, Photography
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (8.9 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (9.7 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
22. Yoga Vedashala, Rishikesh
Yoga Vedashala | #22 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Yoga Vedashala is a renowned yoga centre that offers a serene and holistic environment for individuals seeking wellness and spiritual growth. It provides a serene setting where individuals can immerse themselves in the practice of yoga and meditation, rejuvenate their minds and body, and learn from experienced instructors. It is one of the best yoga places to visit in Rishikesh.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Yoga and Meditation, Ayurvedic treatments, Nature walks
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (4 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (4.8 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
23. Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
Swarg Ashram | #23 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Swarg Ashram is among the spiritual places to visit in Rishikesh and Haridwar built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanand. It is located along the banks of the Ganga. Swarg Ashram is a popular yoga and meditation centre where you can find peace through spiritual practices, meditation, holy chants, etc.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Yoga and Meditation, Spiritual practices, Nature walks
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (15 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (13.9 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
24. Patna Waterfalls, Rishikesh
Patna Waterfalls | #24 of 25 Best Places to visit in Rishikesh
Patna waterfall is located in the Patna colony and is among the best places to visit near Rishikesh. It drops down from a height of around 40 feet surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery. This is a great spot in the hidden places to visit in Rishikesh for those seeking a quiet and peaceful experience. The surroundings of the waterfall are mostly untouched allowing visitors to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Swimming, Photography, Nature walks
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (9.3 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (12.2 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
25. Swarg Niwas Temple, Rishikesh
Swarg Niwas Temple is a religious destination in Rishikesh. The architecture reflects a blend of traditional Indian design elements featuring carvings, ornate decorations, and vibrant paintings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where devotees can seek blessings and spiritual guidance. It is among the best places to visit near Rishikesh for people seeking religious experience.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Yoga, prayers, spiritual practices
- How to Reach:
- By Bus: Rishikesh Bus Stand (9 km)
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station (12 km)
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Rishikesh
Frequently Asked Questions About Rishikesh:
Q. What adventure activities in Rishikesh can I enjoy?
A. Rishikesh is best known for river rafting which can be enjoyed from July to mid-September. Other things to do in Rishikesh for thrill seekers are cliff jumping, body surfing, riverside camping, bungee jumping, flying fox, giant swing, rappelling, mountain biking, rock climbing and trekking.
Q. Why should I plan a trip to Rishikesh?
A. Rishikesh is a paradise for those seeking rejuvenation or spiritual enlightenment as it is known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Moreover, if you’re willing to do the Chota Char Dham pilgrimage, Rishikesh would be your entry point to the shrines. You can also explore some places to visit near Rishikesh to enjoy a range of adventure activities, especially rafting.
Q. How to reach Rishikesh?
A. The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (21 km) while the major railhead serving the town is Haridwar Station (21 km). From both the gateways as well as nearby cities, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Rishikesh.
Q. List some of the best yoga ashrams in Rishikesh.
A. Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, Sadhana Mandir, Yoga Niketan and Rishikesh Yogpeeth are among the most popular yoga places to visit in and around Rishikesh.
Q. Where to shop in Rishikesh?
A. Some of the best shopping places in Rishikesh are Laxman Jhoola Market (aromatic essential oils and authentic Rudraksha ), Moti Bazaar (brass idols and prayer bells), Shyampur Haat Bazaar (spices) and Upper Bazaar (souvenirs and handicrafts).
Q. What are the top attractions to visit in Rishikesh and Haridwar?
A. The top 10 places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh are Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhula, Parmarth Niketan, Beatles Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Shivpuri, Neer Garh Waterfall, Ram Jhula, Jumpin Heights and Kunjapuri Temple.
Q. In which state Rishikesh is located?
A. Rishikesh is located in the state of Uttarakhand in North India.
Q. How to reach from Delhi to Rishikesh?
A. The Delhi to Rishikesh distance is 263 km and there are multiple options to commute from Delhi. The major options are Delhi to Rishikesh by Train (New Delhi Railway Station to Rishikesh Railway Station) and Delhi to Rishikesh by Bus (Kasmere Gate and Anand Vihar to Rishikesh Bus Stand). You can also take a taxi/cab from Delhi.
Q. How to reach Kedarnath from Rishikesh?
A. The Rishikesh to Kedarnath distance is 216 km. There are buses and taxis available from Rishikesh Bus Stand to Gaurikund.
Q. How is Rishikesh weather?
A. The average Rishikesh temperature in summers is 24°C to 35°C and in winters is 8°C to 20°C.
Q. What is the Haridwar to Rishikesh distance?
A. The distance between Haridwar to Rishikesh is 20 km.
