Rishikesh

Rishikesh History

Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is all about grand temples, traditions, architectural marvels, yoga ashrams, and adventure sports. Every temple here, whether it's the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple, or the 13-story Trimbakeshwar Temple, has a captivating legend that fascinates visitors from all over the world. The twin Ram and Lakshman Jhulas are architectural marvels in and of themselves. These 750-foot-long suspension bridges straddle the Ganges. There are various ashrams in this area that guide visitors into the spiritual world of ancient types of yoga, meditation, and vipassana in order to cleanse their souls and de-stress.

There are a variety of interesting and adventurous activities in Rishikesh. If you don't want to experience the adrenaline rush of white water rafting, which is offered up to grade 6, you can spend your time doing things like cliff jumping, kayaking, and body surfing. Various waterfalls are also there in this beautiful city such as Patna Fall and Neer Garhi Fall, which are ideal for escaping into nature's raw wilderness. If you're a spiritual person, you won't want to miss Maha Aarti's jaw-dropping display.

Rishikesh Geography

Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, steep valleys, roaring streams, magnificent lakes, and a few patches of dusty plains in the south characterize Uttarakhand's terrain. Uttarakhand is home to some of the world's tallest mountains. Nanda Devi (25,646 feet [7,817 metres]), India's second-highest mountain, Kamet (25,446 feet [7,756 metres]), and Badrinath (25,446 feet [7,756 metres]) are among the most notable (23,420 feet [7,138 metres]).
Uttarakhand is separated into a number of physiographic zones that run parallel to one another from northwest to southeast.
With elevations ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 feet, the northern zone, known as the Himadri, encompasses segments of the Zaskar and Great Himalaya mountains (3,000 to 7,600 meters). This zone contains the majority of the main summits. The Lesser Himalayas, also known as the Himachal, is located adjacent to and south of the Great Himalayas, with elevations ranging from 6,500 to 10,000 feet (2,000 to 3,000 meters); the zone comprises two linear ranges: the Mussoorie and the Nag Tibba. A section of the Siwalik Range lies to the south of Himachal Pradesh. The Kumaun Himalayas encompass the Himadri, Himachal, and Siwalik mountain ranges.
The Siwalik Range's southern edge combines with the Bhabar, a narrow bed of gravel and alluvium that connects to the southeast with the Tarai, a marshy area. The total elevations of Siwalik-Bhabar-Tarai range from 1,000 to 10,000 feet (300 to 3,000 meters) flat-floored depressions, known locally as duns, such as the Dehra Dun, can be found south of the Siwaliks.

Plan My Package Recommends Places To Visit in Rishikesh

Bungee Jumping

Enjoy the highest bungee jumping of India in Rishikesh and make the trip worth it.
Rishikesh is India's highest bungee jumping location, at around 83 meters in height. The activity takes place in the Mohan Chatti area, which is located near Rishikesh. Bungee Jumping includes jumping from a fixed cantilever with a rubber string wrapped across your ankle and your face facing the rocky river hall, as the title suggests. This location is nestled between two valleys, giving it an adventurous and exhilarating feel. When individuals think of such an activity, the first thing that comes to mind is safety. Bungee jumping in Rishikesh is only set up with the safety of the jumpers in mind. As a result, the entire action is supervised and executed by experienced masters who have been brought in from New Zealand to Rishikesh to conduct such magnificent art.

Rafting

River Rafting in Rishikesh is the most popular River rafting center in India which attracts thousands of adventure-seeking tourists every year. Rishikesh is well known as the longest river rafting sports location in India. Rafting in Rishikesh is very outstanding and attracts adventure enthusiasts from all over the nation. River Ganga which streams down from Gangotri to Rishikesh is full of rapids and full of adventurous expeditions.
Rafting, often known as white water rafting, is a thrilling adventure sport that is very popular among adventure fans. This exciting water activity makes use of an inflatable raft for navigating a water body with a strong current. Rafting usually takes place on a river.
Rafting is a sport that anyone above the age of 12 can participate in. It is not recommended for persons who are afraid of water, have high blood pressure, have cardiac difficulties, or have breathing concerns.
It is recommended that you participate in the activity with the help of a supervisor or a rafting coach. The coach or supervisor can provide the best possible guidance to both experienced and new rafters, as well as assure water rescue in the event of an emergency.

Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is one of Rishikesh's most iconic landmarks, and if you're planning a pilgrimage or simply traveling for a vacation, you must see it. It is a suspension bridge made completely of iron with a length of around 450 feet. It was built by the Public Works Department (PWD) in 1986.

Laxman Jhula

The bridge is composed of iron and is almost 450 feet long, hung at a height of nearly 70 feet above the river. Since its inception, Lakshman Jhula has been a tourist attraction as it is closely associated with Hindu mythology. It connects the villages of Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal and Jonk in Pauri Garhwal.

Places nearby Rishikesh

Haridwar (approx 20.6 Km from Rishikesh)

Haridwar, popularly known as the "Gateway to the Gods," is located on the bank of the holy river Ganga and is one of India's seven ancient cities. Haridwar also offers the gateway to Char Dham pilgrimages; Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. According to Hindu legends, Haridwar is one of the four locations where Amrita, the nectar of immortality, spilled over from the container or Kumbha while being carried away by Garuda, the mythical bird, and Lord Vishnu's vehicle. As a result, it is one of the four locations where the Kumbh Mela, which is claimed to be the world's largest gathering of people, takes place once every 12 years.

Dehradun (approx 43.2 Km from Rishikesh)

Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand, it also serves as a gateway to the country’s most popular hill destinations, which also include Nainital and Mussoorie. It is most renowned for its top boarding schools, such as the Doon School and the Indian Military Academy, which are both located in the Doon Valley. Dehradun is known as the "school capital of India" because of its large number of schools. This city produces a lot of Basmati rice, which is subsequently sold to other areas of the country.

Mussoorie (approx 73 Km from Rishikesh)

Mussoorie is one of Uttarakhand's most famous hill stations, which is approximately 290 kilometers from Delhi in the Dehradun district. Mussoorie, also known as "Queen of the Hill's", is located at a height of 7000 feet above sea level and offers a mild, pleasant climate all year. It has the Shivalik range of the Himalayas as a backdrop and is surrounded by the Doon Valley. Mussoorie, once the British summer capital, is a favorite honeymoon and family destination.

Chamba (approx 64 Km from Rishikesh)

The lovely town of Chamba in Uttarakhand is situated at an altitude of 1676 meters above sea level, on the foothills of the Himalayas, and is drenched in old-world charm. Chamba gives the most breathtaking views of huge peaks, mist-covered deep ravines, and verdant valleys. Chamba is undiscovered and untouched, bordering snow-capped mountains on one side and affording a spectacular view of the valley on the other. Following the engulfment of old Tehri, Chamba has risen to prominence as a popular tourist destination in Tehri Garhwal. This is unquestionably a refuge for people seeking a break from the monotony of city life.

How To Reach Rishikesh

Rishikesh By Air

The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport(DED) in Dehradun. Dehradun Airport, also known as Jolly Grant Airport, is the nearest airport to Rishikesh, which is around 20 kilometers distant. Popular airlines such as Air India, SpiceJet, operate on a daily basis from New Delhi, the capital city of India. After that, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Rishikesh. The second nearest airport to Rishikesh (250 km) is Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is well-connected to all major cities in India and around the world. From New Delhi to Rishikesh, pre-paid taxis, cabs, and buses are readily available.

Rishikesh By Train

Rishikesh has its own railway station by the name of Yog Nagri Rishikesh, however Dehradun and Haridwar are well connected, but it is not connected to other major Indian cities. The other nearest railway station to Rishikesh is at Haridwar, which has a large train network connecting it to cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Varanasi, and many more. Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi, and Mussoorie Express are just a few of the popular trains that go from Delhi to Haridwar. Rishikesh is only 20 kilometers from Haridwar train station, and taxis and buses are readily available outside, taking less than 40 minutes.

Rishikesh By Road

Rishikesh is well connected by a number of buses from all of the major cities and towns, so visitors will have no trouble getting there. Bus connectivity is so good that people don't have to worry about missing a bus. The buses provide excellent service. Bus fares are in a reasonable price range. Rishikesh is easily accessible by road from Delhi (229 kilometers), Dehradun (45 kilometers), Mussoorie (72 kilometers), Haridwar (19 kilometers), and Mathura (378 Kilometres).

Best Time To Visit Rishikesh

Rishikesh in Winter

Rishikesh weather offers you to visit this sacred city anytime in the year, which also makes an evergreen destination for the tourist. The best time to visit Rishikesh is during the winter. The air is refreshing, providing a pleasant treat for the lungs. The weather sings with a lovely chill, providing the ideal backdrop for reaching wanderlust. When appropriately dressed, the weather is great for exploration and discovery.

Rishikesh in Summer

During the summer, Rishikesh's temperature fluctuates from 15°C to 40°C. The days are bright and pleasant. Even if it can get a little chilly at night. Many tourists prefer to visit during this time of year as it's ideal for camping and other adventure activities. The most popular adventure sport in Rishikesh is white water river rafting, which is best done in the summer. Camping and hiking are terrific ways to start these warm days.

Rishikesh in Monsoon

Monsoon has the ‘climate status' of being relaxed and breezy, because of its agreeable temperatures. Rain, wind, mist, and fog provide the perfect setting for peace and reflection. However, severe weather events such as landslides and floods pose a threat. As a result, if you're looking for a fresh viewpoint, this is the best time to visit Rishikesh.

Places to Stay in Rishikesh

There is all kind of hotels available in Rishikesh depending upon your interest. Also, there are many camping sites, where you can enjoy bonfires along with the river music. check out some hotels below.

Lemon Tree Premier

Lemon Tree Premier's luxurious and spacious interiors add up the excitement. This collection of upper midscale business and leisure hotels increases the Lemon Tree experience while maintaining the brand's signature, eccentricity, and vitality. With personalized services, luxury in-room amenities, award-winning restaurants, and entertaining excursions, Lemon Tree Premier pampers the style-sensitive and upbeat tourist.

Aloha on the Ganges

Aloha on the Ganges is more than a simple Rishikesh resort that will take your breath away with the beauty of its surroundings; it also supports you in experiencing both physical and mental relaxation, as well as realizing the value of a moment of calm and personal space in your daily life. Aloha on the Ganges is, in absolute terms, the ultimate retreat from the ordinary to the spiritual, where every corner screams harmony and every color calms the senses. Leisure Hotels, a significant operator in Uttarakhand's hotel sector, owns Aloha on the Ganges. The Bungalows are the best holiday houses in Corbett, Goa, Naukuchiatal, Ramgarh, and Rishikesh, according to Leisure Hotels. A total of 65 rooms are available, including 24 Superior Rooms, 12 Bedroom Apartments (Ganges view), 02 Bedroom Premium Apartments (Ganges view), 08 Bedroom Apartment, and 05 Deluxe Room.

Rishikesh Camps & Hostels

There are many options for hostels & camping in Rishikesh on the riverside. Contact Plan My Package for great deals.

Places to Eat in Rishikesh

Tulsi Restaurant

In the hills, surrounded by forests, there is a sustainable handmade cafe. Every part has been lovingly constructed by the entire family. It's more than a cafe; it's an experience. This is built out of junk. Furthermore, the climbers, creepers, and hedges add to the beauty of the area. They have their own plantation, and the scent of the leaves might just persuade you to choose it.

Ayurpak

AYURPAK, an AYURVEDA-based restaurant, and homestay in Rishikesh serve food that is ideal for yoga and is conveniently located near numerous yoga centers. Ayurpak is a basic and inviting homestay run by a family. Sure, stimulate your appetite, but it's your soul that gets the most nourishment.

Do’s & Don’t in Rishikesh

Do’s

Do keep some warm clothes even if you are traveling in the month of the summer.
Do carry water bottles to take Gangaajal from Rishikesh.
Do behave like responsible tourists.
Do carry the valid student ID cards if you have, to avail discount on entry tickets to Beatles Ashram.