Rishikesh is a place where silence speaks, and the mountains listen. Rishikesh is a place that instantly calms your senses with its pristine air, the Ganges, and the mighty Himalayas. Weary city folks from all over the country flock to ‘the yoga capital of the world’ to find peace and a respite from chaotic daily life. And if you are planning a trip to this spiritual haven, there are so many beautiful experiences just waiting for you around the corner.
Located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is a name known to one and all. From spiritual retreats and yoga ashrams to white-water rafting and peaceful riverside cafes, there are so many things to do and so many places to visit in Rishikesh. Here’s a guide to some of the best places you should visit for peace, adventure, and a touch of spirituality.
Triveni Ghat is one of the most important and popular places in Rishikesh. It’s where three rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati—are believed to meet. People come here to take a holy dip, attend prayers, or just sit by the river. It is one of the top tourist places to visit in Rishikesh.
The evening Ganga Aarti is a must-see. With priests chanting, lamps floating on the water, and bells ringing, the atmosphere is both peaceful and powerful. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a calming experience.
Among Rishikesh’s best places to visit are the suspension bridges of Rishikesh. Laxman Jhula was built in 1929 and is linked to the legend of Laxman crossing the Ganga on a rope. Ram Jhula, built later, connects ashrams and temples on either side.
As you walk across, you’ll see holy men, locals, monkeys, and tourists. The views from the middle of the bridge—of the river, hills, and temples—are worth a few photos and a quiet pause.
For world-weary travellers, Rishikesh acts as a balm for the soul. And Parmarth Niketan is one of the largest ashrams that you should definitely stop by. It’s located by the river and is the perfect place to catch some me-time and contemplate. The ashram offers yoga classes, meditation, and daily prayers.
The evening Ganga Aarti here is quieter than at Triveni Ghat and equally beautiful. Staying even one night gives you a feel of ashram life—simple, calm, and focused on well-being.
In our curated list of places to visit in Rishikesh is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. About 32 km from Rishikesh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s located in the forested hills and is believed to be where Shiva drank poison during the churning of the ocean.
You can reach the temple by road or hike the 12 km trail from Rishikesh. The journey is scenic, and the temple offers a mix of spirituality and natural beauty.
Here’s a trivia that will grab your attention. Known officially as Chaurasi Kutia, this is where The Beatles stayed here in 1968 to learn meditation. Today, it’s a peaceful and quiet place inside the Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
You can walk among old meditation huts and walls covered in art and graffiti. It’s a great place for quiet time, photography, or simply enjoying nature. To enjoy sightseeing on your own schedule, it’s best to go for a car rental and avoid the hassle of taking your own car along.
Shivpuri is the main spot for adventure activities near Rishikesh. Just 16 km away, it’s known for white-water rafting, which ranges from easy to thrilling.
You can also try bungee jumping, cliff jumping, zip-lining, or camping by the river. Shivpuri is perfect if you want to add some excitement to your trip.
This temple is located at about 1,650 meters above sea level and offers one of the best sunrise views in the area. On a clear day, you can see snowy Himalayan peaks and the river valley below.
Many people leave Rishikesh early in the morning to catch the sunrise here. The temple is also a spiritual site, but the view alone is worth the visit.
Also called the Trimbakeshwar Temple, most people who have already visited will mention it as one of the must-see places to visit in Rishikesh. This 13-storey structure is located near Laxman Jhula. Each floor has shrines dedicated to different gods.
Climbing to the top to enjoy refreshing views of the Ganga and the nearby hills. It’s a peaceful place to explore and rest in between busy sightseeing.
This quiet cave is about 25 km from Rishikesh. It’s believed that the sage Vashishta meditated here. The cave is cool and silent—an ideal place for deep meditation.
Outside the cave, the river flows gently, and the surrounding area is great for sitting, journaling, or simply relaxing. It’s perfect for a short break from crowds.
After visiting temples and ashrams, it’s nice to relax in one of the town’s many riverside cafes. These are definitely some of the places to visit in Rishikesh when you want to enjoy great views while enjoying some soul food. Spots like Little Buddha Café or Beatles Café serve good food and offer great views.
The nearby markets are full of small shops selling handmade goods, spiritual books, incense, natural products, and souvenirs. It’s a great way to experience the modern, youthful side of Rishikesh.
If driving down from Rishikesh, you can opt for an affordable self-drive car rental service if you don’t want to drive your own car or need a bigger one for the trip. Revv offers clean, well-maintained cars with flexible rental plans to suit your schedule. Whether you need a car for a few hours, a full day, or a longer road trip, you can book in just a few easy steps. The vehicle can be delivered right to your doorstep, with no hidden costs and fuel plans that match your needs.
When mulling over Rishikesh’s best places to visit, renting a car gives you the comfort, safety, and freedom to travel at your own pace. No more relying on fixed schedules or crowded public transport! There are many advantages to car rental. Enjoy scenic stops along the way, take breaks when you want, and make the journey as memorable as the destination. Renting your own ride is not just convenient—it’s a smart way to travel.
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