Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. Present by the banks of the holy river Ganga, Rishikesh is a tranquil location, a place to visit all types of tourists, whether they are seeking mental peace or taking a bite of the adventure Rishikesh has to offer… Rishikesh is popular for its adventure activities ancient temples.
The “adventure capital of India” has a lot to offer. From whitewater rafting to bungee jumping, Rishikesh satisfies thrill-seekers to its best. Apart from the adventure, you can visit many places in Rishikesh like ashrams and temples, the iconic Ram Jhula, and Lakshman Jhula. It is divided into two main areas – the downtown area known as Rishikesh town, where the popular Triveni Ghat is situated.
The other part of the Rishikesh houses the most popular ashrams, cafes, accommodation. There is a lot in Rishikesh that you can do on your visit. Here is our guide on what to do when you visit Rishikesh.
Visit Ram Jhula & Lakshman Jhula
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is one of the most iconic places in Rishikesh. You must stop by this iconic bridge if you plan to visit Rishikesh. It is a suspension bridge built entirely out of iron, and the length of the bridge is around 450 feet. The bridge is present roughly 3km from the town of Rishikesh. One of the most memorable experiences you can enjoy at the Ram Jhula is overlooking the holy city of Rishikesh from the bridge. This bridge is a must-visit location.
Lakshman Jhula
The Lakshman Jhula is a famous hanging bridge across the river Ganga that connects Tapovan in the Tehri Garhwal district and Jonk in the Pauri Garhwal district. This 450ft long and 70ft high bridge is a must-visit. The Lakshman Jhula is popular amongst tourists because Lord Lakshman had crossed the river Ganga at this same site.
Visit Temples and Ashrams
Lakshman Temple
The temple is popular for its rich and intricate architecture. The delicate engravings on the walls and the pillars reflect the rich heritage of India.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
This ashram is located in the district of Pauri and is one of the most peaceful places to visit in the area. It is popular for its spiritual retreats and age-old Vedic chanting assemblies.
The Beatles Ashram
The Beatles Ashram is present on the eastern banks of the Ganga in Muni Ki Reti district. It became famous when, in 1968, the renowned rock band “The Beatles” visited the ashram to learn and practice meditation.
Visit Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is the biggest Ghat in Rishikesh. ‘Maha Aarti’ happens every evening at Triveni Ghat. Triveni Ghat is also mentioned in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The devotees also make offerings to the river in milk while feeding the fishes in the Ghat. If you decide to visit Triveni Ghat, you must time your visit according to Ganga Aarti. It is a spectacular, holistic, and peaceful experience you can capture while in Rishikesh.
Adventure Sports in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the Adventure Capital of India, so adventure-seekers don’t need further push to pack their bags and come to this city. In terms of adventure sports, Rishikesh has a lot to offer. Some of the best activities you can do are bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, free fall or giant swing, flying fox, and cliff jumping. This is the best location for those seeking adrenaline rushes.
Whitewater Rafting
Rafting in Rishikesh particularly is the best one could experience in India. There are some certified operators whose safety arrangements are well in place, and there are customized packages for camping and rafting at Rishikesh. The food and water arrangements are made only by the rafting service providers. This is one of the most exciting activities to do while in Rishikesh.
Cliff Jumping
Cliff Jumping is one of the most exciting activities in Rishikesh. The activity is mostly done when you are in the river, swimming or rafting, or just taking a dip. This includes diving into the river from a raised platform like stones. It is advised to do this activity where the river is deep, calm, and under proper guidance to avoid injuries.
Bungee Jumping
Bungee Jumping will surely help you do so. It is an adventurous activity about jumping from a place that is at height. While jumping, you connect with a properly attached cord to a surface or any object that can bear heavyweight.
You can enjoy the best bungee jumping available in India in Rishikesh. The venue for Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh is located in Mohanchatti with Jumpin Heights. Jumpin Heights feature India’s highest Bungee jumping in Rishikesh, with a height of 83 meters.
Giant Swing
The Giant Swing in India allows you to enjoy double the freefall of the Bungee, with considerably more speed and almost as much fear. After the Giant Swing, jumpers are lowered down to a drop zone in the river, with only 2 ft of water. Feel the initial free fall as the ropes take over to give you a smooth swing similar to a pendulum. It will surely provide you with a memorable experience to remember for a lifetime.
Flying fox
In this activity of around 1 hour, you will glide down ultra-strong cables or zip lines, Roll down the wire up to 7 meters above the river level, and then go you. You are finally returning & settling down at the lowest point. Accelerate up to speeds of 160 km. Feel the air gushing past. You are pulled back to the launch platform by a retrieval mechanism.
Best time to visit Rishikesh-October to March.
Ideal stay- 3-4 days.