This is everything you need to know about exploring the natural, cultural and spiritual side of Rishikesh – how to get there and get around, where to stay, what to do and a few cute cafes to visit!
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RISHIKESH:
Rishikesh is known as one of the spiritual capitals of India, situated in the state of Uttarakhand. No cultural experience in India is complete without visiting this unbelievably unique and beautiful place.
There is an intense magic that permeates throughout this region. It is surrounded by breathtaking green hills, the powerful Ganga River with white sand beaches and animals around every corner. It is known to be the birthplace of yoga. Not only is Rishikesh considered the yoga capital of India but the yoga capital of the world! For any travelers interested in immersing themselves in meditation, yoga, spiritual communities and ashrams, Rishikesh is the place to be. Many gurus, spiritual leaders and masters practice in these sacred lands that are situated along the banks of the most holy river in India.
You will find everything here from a strong sense of community, like-minded travelers, good restaurants, a variety of accommodations and even incredible nature spots. Rishikesh’s immense power of spirituality blends so beautifully with the natural surroundings.
HOW TO GET TO RISHIKESH:
air:
The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 21km away. You can take a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi and many other major cities in India to Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can then take public or private transport to Rishikesh.
train:
The nearest railway station to Rishikesh is the Rishikesh Railway Station in Adarsh Nagar/Triveni Ghat area. Although this train station is the closest one, it does have limited schedules and services. Many travelers opt to take the train from Delhi or Mumbai to the Haridwar Train station which is just 25km away from Rishikesh. This one is much more well-connected and only a short distance away from your destination.
You can easily take a taxi or TukTuk from the station to your destination in Rishikesh.
road:
The most common way to get to Rishikesh is via bus as it is well-connected to Delhi and other major cities by road. There are frequent public and private bus options available. From Delhi, you can take one of the regularly operated buses from the Delhi ISBT, Kashmiri Gate. It can take anywhere between 3 and 5 hours depending on the road conditions.
Once in Rishikesh town, you can hire a taxi or TukTuk to take you to Laxman Jhula or Tapovan.
HOW TO GET AROUND, DO YOU NEED YOUR OWN TRANSPORT?
Rishikesh is an awesome place to rent a scooter and explore along the endless Ganga. Driving to the different waterfalls, beaches and temples is a huge part of what makes being in Rishikesh so enjoyable. You can rent scooters from a number of different agencies, particularly in Tapovan. Having a car is not necessary here, as the area you will be exploring is not too expansive.
If you do not have your own transport, there is an abundance of taxis and TukTuks around every corner in Rishikesh.
ROAD CONDITIONS:
The road condition around Rishikesh are generally good.
One thing to note is that during any holidays, there are a lot of road blocks all throughout the tourist spots in Rishikesh. Always wear your helmet, carry your driver’s license with you and make sure the scooter rental company gives you all the papers for the rental to show the traffic cops if they ask you.
THE 2 SIDES OF RISHIKESH – LAXMAN JHULA VS. TAPOVAN:
Laxman Jhula and Tapovan are the two villages across from each other separated by the mighty Ganga River. These are the most livable areas of Rishikesh and where you will most likely want to stay.
Laxman Jhula feels more like you are in the nature, has better views, easier access to the Ganga and more tourists.
Tapovan is more popular with the Indian travelers and tourists. There is more traffic and noise in the central parts of Tapovan. Though, you have quicker access to a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
I personally loved the views, cute cafes and markets on the Laxman Jhula side.
THE SPIRITUALITY AND CULTURE OF RISHIKESH:
You cannot speak about Rishikesh without mentioning the deep culture and spirituality that defines this area.
Rishikesh is a place filled with culture, where people come to practice yoga, meditation and attend spiritual retreats. Its peaceful setting by the Ganges River and the Himalayan foothills makes it perfect for reflection and “finding oneself”.
Many visitors come to Rishikesh to experience ancient traditions, meet spiritual leaders and dive into Indian spirituality. You will see incredible temples around every turn, as well as Babas, Yogis and Gurus. There are so many different ceremonies that you will come across on the steps of the Ganga’s various ghats. Rishikesh is also the hippie capital of the world, especially in Laxman Jhula.
For a truly authentic Rishikesh experience, you can immerse yourself in one of the town’s many Ashrams. An Ashram is a spiritual retreat, where you can live in a community setting where people come for meditation and inner growth. Ashrams often provide accommodation and meals.
2 UNMISSABLE HIKES TO DO:
1. VALLEY OF FLOWERS
The Valley of Flowers trek in Uttarakhand is a breathtaking journey through the pristine wilderness of the colorful Himalayas. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, the valley is known for its vibrant flowers that bloom during the monsoon season, painting the landscape with a pallet of colors.
The trek typically starts from Govindghat (specifically from Pulna) and involves a moderate hike through lush forests, meadows and streams, eventually leading to the valley. Along the way, you are treated to insane views of snow-capped peaks and diverse nature.
The Valley of Flowers trek is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. This trek can be done in 4-6 days.
2. NEER GAHR WATERFALL:
Located on the outskirts of Tapovan, this is one of Rishikesh’s most impressive waterfalls. You walk through a beautiful trail up to Neer Waterfall where you can enjoy views of the flowing streams and the surrounding mountains.
This hike is about 3km from Laxman Jhula and 6km from Tapovan.
WHERE TO STAY IN RISHIKESH:
BUDGET – MID-RANGED OPTIONS:
- Madpackers Rishikesh – beautiful views, budget dorm options and mid-ranged private rooms.
- Indian Culture – a wonderful space with cozy rooms and surrounded by trees, close to the Laxman Temple.
- Zostel Rishikesh (Laxman Jhula) and Zostel Rishikesh (Tapovan) – awesome vibes, great place to meet travelers, cozy rooms and amazing views!
UPSCALE & LUXURY OPTIONS:
- Lemon Tree Premier – luxurious rooms with an amazing pool space overlooking the Ganga River.
- Divine Resort and Spa – experiencing Rishikesh in this kind of luxury is unreal. the views of the Ganga from the hotel and rooms are unmatched.
- Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa – a stunning property with an infinity pool and all the facilities you could dream of while still experiencing the beauty of the Ganga.
WHAT TO DO IN RISHIKESH:
- Shivpuri Drive – My favorite activity in Rishikesh. The scenery along this drive is so special with beautiful deep valley views along the river. This journey takes you from Rishikesh to the village of Shivpuri, about 11 km away. You can keep driving down this road for as long as you wish. In Shivpuri lookout for activities like bungee jumping, kayaking, rafting and zip lining.
- The Secret Waterfall – A small waterfall to visit if you are driving around Rishikesh.
- Hang out with monkeys: There are monkeys EVERYWHERE. So much so, that you need to be careful when walking around with food! Sometimes they even get inside your room if you are not careful. You will see tons of Macaques and Langurs. The Langurs are very chilled, but the red faced monkeys are the naughty ones, so be careful! And remember not to touch them!
- Lakshman Jhula Bridge – Iconic bridge in Rishikesh. Currently you can only admire it. It has been closed to pedestrians and vehicles since August 2026.
- Patna Waterfall – Beautiful waterfall with a lovely trail through the forest.
- Mangal waterfall – A waterfall off the side of the road.
- Visit the Beatles Ashram – Officially known as the Chaurasi Kutia Ashram, is famous for housing the Beatles in the 1960s when they, along with other celebrities, stayed there to study Transcendental Meditation. Today, this abandoned ashram serves as a popular tourist destination, offering a small glimpse into the Beatle’s spiritual journey. The Ashram is decorated in art.
- Swim in the Ganga and relax on the riverbank beaches – This is an everyday must when staying in Rishikesh (in the right season). It is nothing short of heavenly in October or March, and you will see the river in its crystal blue form. Be aware of strong currents, you can find safer designated spots along the riverbanks to swim.
- Evening Aarti at the Triveni Ghat – Attend traditional Hindu practices with music, dancing, chanting of hymns and prayer.
- Yoga retreats and teacher trainings – This is the place in the world to experience a multi-day yoga retreat or to do your teacher training course.
- Community gatherings, ecstatic dances, yoga classes and spiritual practices – You can ask your hotel/hostel for guidance on where to find these. They are advertised at tourist restaurants and by word of mouth amongst travelers. If you plan to do Ayurvedic massages and healing – be sure to work with a qualified and reputable healer.
- Explore Ram Jhula: This part of Rishikesh is fascinating to explore as there are many Babas, cows and monkeys all over the place!
- Trayambakeshwar Temple – A magnificent temple along the Ganga River. An icon of the area.
- Rishikesh View Point – Photo opportunity over Rishikesh.
- HimShail WaterFall – A scenic drive takes you to this small waterfall.
- River Rafting, Bungee Jumping and Zip Lining activites.
A FEW CAFE SUGGESTIONS TO TRY!
- The 60’s Cafe (The Beatles) – Delicious food options! One of my favorites in Rishikesh.
- Secret Garden Cafe – Some healthy food options.
- ChatSang Café – One of the better cafes you will find in Rishikesh.
- Little Buddha Cafe – Popular cafe with nice views and decent food.
- The Patio – More upscale restaurant with veg dishes.
IS VISITING RISHIKESH WORTH IT?
Rishikesh is definitely worth visiting if you are dreaming of experiencing the spiritual life of India. Rishikesh is definitely not for everyone or every kind of traveler. But it should be on your bucket list if you are interested in immersing yourself in this truly unique way of life and spirituality.
The beauty of Rishikesh is that you have so many choices of what to do depending on how you feel throughout your days. You can choose to be in your own space or be in the beautiful chaos of markets and festivities. Go explore in nature, have a swim in the Ganga, do adventurous activities or attend workshops, do yoga and meditate.
I would love to hear more about your experience in Rishikesh in the comments of this post. And if you have any hidden gem experiences feel free to share with fellow readers below.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
IS RISHIKESH SAFE?
Yes, Rishikesh is considered a safe destination in India. As always, if you are a solo traveler (specifically a female) it is best to avoid any paths at night time that aren’t lit up and just be aware of your surroundings in general. Overall, Rishikesh does not have violent crimes or risky spots where tourists are targeted.
The only thing I personally experienced in Rishikesh that made me feel unsafe was when I was there over New Years and on the Tapovan side there were a lot of drunk locals on the streets saying inappropriate things and driving scooters under the influence. This did put a sour taste in my mouth and I do think that this was due to it being New Years and not your typical crowd of local people were there. I did not experience this on the Laxman Jhula side, only Tapovan. So, if you are there during a festive time or a holiday, I would recommend practicing extra caution on the roads and not walking alone at night time.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT RISHIKESH?
The best time to visit Rishikesh is October to February/March. This is also the peak season. The temperatures in these months are much more tolerable and enjoyable than the Summer and Monsoon seasons. March and April is spring time which also has pleasantly warm temperatures.
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