Places to Visit in Rishikesh

Discover the spiritual heart and adventure capital of India! Rishikesh offers sacred ghats, thrilling activities, and serene ashrams along the holy Ganges. From iconic bridges to Himalayan treks, experience yoga, white-water rafting, and breathtaking sunsets in this mystical riverside town.

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Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

These twin suspension bridges are Rishikesh’s most iconic landmarks spanning the Ganges. Laxman Jhula’s 450-foot span connects temples and vibrant markets, while Ram Jhula offers stunning river vistas. According to legend, Lord Laxman crossed here on a jute rope. Both bridges come alive with sadhus, street vendors and photographers at sunset. Don’t miss the famous German Bakery near Laxman Jhula for delicious treats.

Triveni Ghat

Sacred bathing spot where three rivers meet. Famous for its mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti. Pilgrims believe a dip here purifies the soul.

Beatles Ashram

Abandoned ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968. Features unique graffiti art and meditation domes. A paradise for music and photography enthusiasts.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Ancient Shiva temple amidst lush forests. 12km trek through beautiful trails. Believed to be where Lord Shiva consumed poison.

Parmarth Niketan

Rishikesh’s largest ashram with daily yoga classes. Famous for its grand Ganga Aarti ceremony. Houses a spectacular 51-foot Shiva statue.

River banks near Jhulas

there are many designated river banks near suspension bridges like Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula and Janki Juhla.

Kunjapuri Temple

Scenic sunrise trek destination. Offers 360° views of Himalayan peaks. Important Shakti Peeth temple dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Shivpuri

Popular starting point for river rafting. Offers camping by the Ganges. Famous for its white water rapids (Grade III-IV).

Tera Manzil Temple

13-story temple with unique deities on each floor. Offers panoramic views of Rishikesh. Also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple.

Bohemian Cafes

Famous riverside cafes with bohemian vibe. Serves organic food and fresh juices. Perfect sunset spot with live music evenings.

Haridwar

One of Hinduism’s seven holiest cities, where the Ganges enters the plains. Har Ki Pauri ghat’s evening Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing spectacle of lights and devotion. The city buzzes with pilgrims visiting ancient temples and taking holy dips. Major festivals like Kumbh Mela transform it into a sea of humanity. Don’t miss the vibrant markets selling religious artifacts and street food.

Dehradun

Capital of Uttarakhand, known for Forest Research Institute, Robber’s Cave, and Sahastradhara springs. Base for Mussoorie trips.

Mussoorie

“Queen of Hills” with attractions like Kempty Falls, Mall Road, and Gun Hill. Offers stunning Himalayan views and colonial charm.

Devprayag

Sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers, forming the Ganges. Visit the Raghunathji Temple and enjoy serene landscapes.

Chopta

“Mini Switzerland of India,” base for Tungnath Temple (world’s highest Shiva shrine) and Chandrashila trek. Snowy winters, lush summers.

Auli

India’s premier ski destination boasts 10km of slopes against Nanda Devi’s backdrop. The 4km cable car ride offers breathtaking alpine vistas at 3,050m. Summer turns its slopes into flower-filled hiking trails with panoramic views. Well-equipped resorts cater to both winter sports and summer getaways. The artificial lake ensures snow availability throughout the season.

Rajaji National Park

Wildlife sanctuary for elephant safaris, birdwatching, and spotting tigers, leopards, and deer. Best visited November–June.

Pauri

Quiet hill town with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and dense forests. Known for Kandoliya Devta Temple and Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev.

Tehri Dam

Asia’s highest dam with adventure activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and zip-lining. Scenic lake surrounded by mountains.

Landour

This charming cantonment near Mussoorie preserves British-era architecture and quiet charm. Landour Bakehouse’s fresh breads and Kellogg’s Church’s stained glass are must-sees. Lal Tibba viewpoint offers the region’s most spectacular Himalayan vistas. Walking trails pass through fragrant pine forests and colonial bungalows. Writer Ruskin Bond’s hometown inspires with its old-world atmosphere.

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