35 Best Things to Do in Rishikesh

River Rafting is an activity that involves sailing on rapids on a rubber boat. It’s an adventure filled activity that has gained a popular momentum in the Indian adventure sports scene. Rishikesh’s proximity to the upper Himalayas along with the passing of the Ganges through this city makes it a very popular spot for River Rafting in Rishikesh.

People flock to Rishikesh for this activity due to the virtue of its location. If you are visiting and want to go on an adrenaline-pumping activity, do put river rafting on your bucket list of things to do in Rishikesh.

Best Season: Summers and monsoon are the best time for this activity because the stream is stronger.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 1500 to 3000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Also Read: A Detail Guide for River Rafting in Rishikesh

The beautiful mountain scenery along with the old world feeling of Rishikesh makes it a camper’s delight. Rishikesh is one of those places which seems to be stuck in a time limbo, not overly modern but not completely dwelling in the past.

A place such as this has a lot of stories to be discovered making it the perfect spot to camp under the stars and marvel at the sight and sounds of the surroundings and the city. Camping here will have a transcendental effect and is sure to delight you. Make your trip a memorable one at some of these best camps of Rishikesh.

Best Season: Summers and spring are the best time because of the pleasant weather.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 1000 to 6000 Rs.

Much like Bungee Jumping, giant swing works on the same principle. But unlike Bungee Jumping which is a free fall, on a giant swing, a person’s rope harness is connected to a holding point from where he swings. To put it simply, imagine the person being a pendulum ball and swinging from one end to another.

It is usually conducted at the same spot as Bungee Jumping because of the similarity between the activities. The distance covered in a Giant Swing adventure ranges between 1 - 1.5 km. It’s a thrilling activity that is sure to tickle your adventure bone.

Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 2000 to 6000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone who meets general physical fitness levels. For those who have heart conditions, blood pressure or diabetic, consult a doctor before participating in this activity.

Must Read: Camping in Rishikesh For an Adventurous Trip

Bungee Jumping in Rishikesh is a fun activity that involves jumping from a tall structure like a vertical rail, building or cliff while suspended from a rope harness. The fun lies in the jump and the recoil one encounters when they are bounced back and the rope is completely stretched out.

It’s a very unique activity in India, having been introduced to Rishikesh a few years previously.  For those who enjoy an adrenaline-filled activity, this is one should be on your list of things to do in Rishikesh.

Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Between 2000 to 4000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: It’s a slightly demanding activity as physical fitness is an absolute requisite for this activity. People with conditions such as blood pressure or diabetes should consult a doctor before indulging in this activity.

Flying Fox is basically another name for zip lining. Zip lining is an activity that involves sliding through a horizontal rope while attached to the rope through a harness. The starting point is generally located at a higher altitude than the ending point in order to allow one to slide through the rope.

The speed of sliding through a valley or between two cliffs is reason enough to try this at least once. It is an activity for all ages and is a lot of fun to participate in. You can also check here the list of thrilling & adventurous activities in Rishikesh.

Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 2000 to 5500 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone who meets general physical fitness levels. For those who have heart conditions, blood pressure or diabetic, consult a doctor before participating in this activity.

Suggested Read: Adventure Sports in Rishikesh for an Exciting Vacay

There is still one big thing left out for all those of you, adventure seekers and thrill lovers. And that thing is Hot Air Ballooning over the skies of Rishikesh. It should be at no.1 on your list of things to do in Rishikesh as the kind experience and excitement it brings with it, is comparable to none.

You will get to sit in an air balloon, which will be tied to, lifted up, and floated by a light aircraft to get you to the required heights. Once you have reached the correct altitude, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the valley and mountains, with birds chirping close to you in the sky.

You will feel like flying, free from all the hullabaloo of the world that dwells below. This ride is counted as Air Safari, one of the best ways to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of Rishikesh.

Best Season: Summer- because of the pleasant weather.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 6000 to 15,000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Not a lot of places in Rishikesh can boast the peace and calm that one experiences at Triveni Ghat and that is saying a lot. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a tranquil and peaceful experience that is sure to fill you with a sense of calm and quiet introspection.

The Ganga Aarti is performed as a mark of respect and devotion to Goddess Ganga and is attended by hundreds and thousands of locals and tourists every day. After sunset, the ghat lights up with the light from the lamps that are set afloat on leaf boats after the Aarti.

It is truly a sight to behold and the power of spirituality can be truly understood and experienced making it a must thing to do in Rishikesh. And also there are many beautiful places to visit in Rishikesh near the Triveni Ghat.

Best Season: The Aarti is performed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Free of cost.

Must Read: Best Trekking Sites in Rishikesh

What do Beatles have in common with India? It’s The Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh. The Beatles are most renowned for their universal appeal and their flare but they are also popular for their travels to Rishikesh.

The Beatles Ashram is a beautiful testament to the grandeur that was John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo and George Harrison’s Beatles and has a lot of memoirs and artefacts that give information about their time in India and their interaction with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. 

It was also the spot where they formulated a lot of their songs and some albums were even created there. For Beatles fans or fan of their genre of music, this is a definite place to add to their list of things to do in Rishikesh.

Best Season: The Aashram can be visited throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Free of cost.

Also Read: Best Time & Season to Visit Rishikesh

As the name suggests, Shivpuri, literally means home of Lord Shiva and this place is renowned for the Shiva temple. When you are visiting Rishikesh, do not miss this lovely locale. There are so many things to do in Shivpuri that you will be spoiled for choice.

From camping to river rafting, rock climbing and cliff jumping, you can experience everything right here. You can enjoy the mesmerising sunrise and sunset from the various camping sites at Shivpuri. If you’re seeking some adventure, then head to this place that boasts of up-to-date equipment, trained guides and impeccable safety standards to suit the needs of every tourist.

Location: Located 19 km away from Rishikesh

Out of the most popular things to do in Rishikesh, visiting the Ram Jhula is one that you just cannot miss. Located in Muni Ki Reti, this bridge was constructed a little after the famous Lakshman Jhula. Very similar in design and construction, the Ram Jhula connects Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Ashram to one another.

With the Ganga flowing in full force below the bridge as you walk down, you are bound to be mesmerized by the beauty of the Himalayas. Slightly lengthier than its counterpart, this bridge is 450 feet long. On either side of the bridge, you can spot numerous temples and Ashramas. You can also get your hands on spiritual books, idols of gods and goddesses and trinkets here.

Location: Ganga Vatika, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137

Timings: Open 24 hours

Approx: No entry fee

Recommended Read: Amusing Places to Visit Near Rishikesh

Located on the banks of holy Ganga, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is a true haven for spirituality. It is the largest ashram in Rishikesh and pilgrims from every corner of the world come to visit this place. This Ashram is filled with clean, pure and sacred energy that is bound to fill your heart with peace. If you are interested in spirituality, then this iconic Ashram should be on your list.

Restore the energy and balance in your life in the lap of Himalayas at this Ashram. Furthermore, there are regular yoga sessions held at this Ashram, that you are most welcome to join if you’d like.

Location: Near, Main Market Road, Ram Jhula, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304

Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day

Approx. cost: 1,600 for AC rooms and ? 600 for non-AC rooms

If you are interested in Satsangs and other meditational activities, then you must visit Gita Bhawan in Rishikesh. It is a hub for tourists during all seasons, owing to its free stays and convenient location. Devotees from all over the world flock this place to indulge in spiritual practices.

Thanks to the nominal pricing of food and other items, Gita Bhawan is a great place for people travelling on a budget. You can also get your hands on innumerable books on spirituality at the Geeta Bhawan book shop at very reasonable prices. You can also take a dip in the holy Ganges at one of the bathing ghats here.

Location: Gangapar, P.O, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304

Timings: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM everyday

Approx. cost: No entry fee

Must Check: Resorts in Rishikesh For Comfortable Stay

Tera Manzil Temple or Trayambakeshwar or Trimbakeshwar Temple is where all Hindus can worship all their deities in one place. Situated on the banks of river Ganga, this 13-storey temple is clearly visible from the Lakshman Jhula. This is one of the most famous tourist spots and one of the top things to do in Rishikesh.

This temple has an attractive, symmetric structure and visitors are attracted to the sheer beauty of it. From the top storeys of this temple, one can witness the stunning sunset here. The Ganga Aarti performed in the evening is also a sight that will remain with you for the rest of your life.

Location: Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249302

Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM everyday

Approx. cost: No entry fee

On your temple tour to Rishikesh, mark Bharat Mandir at the top. This temple is the most ancient and sacred one in Rishikesh. It is even is mentioned in Vishnu Puran, Vaman Puran and Mahabharata. This temple is named after Bharat, Ram’s brother.

One of the major attractions in this temple is the huge old tree that lies right in front of the main door. Combining roots from three trees, it is impossible to understand how the roots are entangled with each other. If you’re interested in archaeology, then visit the museum inside the temple that contains sculptures, decorated bricks and pottery found in the temple during excavation.

Location: 9, Ghat Rd, Mayakund, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201

Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM everyday

If you are planning a trip to Rishikesh, Check out the tour packages of Rishikesh to spend your vacation!

Neer Gaddu or Neer Garh Waterfall is a natural waterfall located on Rishikesh-Badrinath highway in Uttarakhand. This is one of the most popular things to do in Rishikesh. You will be stunned by the beauty of this natural waterfall as you take a small trek towards it.

During the summer season, tourists can take a dip in the cold water flowing through the natural rocks and cliffs into a narrow stream. There are two bathing pools at this two-tier waterfall and a trek will take you towards the bigger waterfall that has a larger pool. Two small bridges on either side of the waterfall have small resting stops where you can relax for a bit and proceed further.

Location: Neergarh Waterfall Rd, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137

Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM everyday

Approx. cost: 30 per person

Further Read: Best Homestays in Rishikesh to stay with your family

A holy pond located near Raghunath Temple and Triven Ghat in Rishikesh, Rishikund is believed to be blessed by Goddess Yamuna through sacred water. This sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita. You can find Lord Ram’s impression inside the sanctuary.

One fascinating fact about Rishikund is that the water in this pond always reflects the image of Raghunath Temple. You have to take a flight of ten steps towards the pond which enjoys the shade from the trees all around it. If you’re looking for some self-reflection and time off, then you should head to Rishikund and sit by it and feel the peaceful surroundings.

Location: Mayakund, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201

Timings: Always open

Approx. cost: no cost required.

Want to have a hawk’s eye view of this town? Then paragliding is one of the best activities in Rishikesh for you. Fly over the calm landscape of Rishikesh on a parachute. This is a completely different way to look at this holy place as you kiss the sky and glide through the clouds above it.

Imagine the rush of the Ganga river below you and the lush green forests, dams and not to forget - the gigantic Himalayas. So while you find inner peace at the ground, fly like a free bird in the air with paragliding. This is a great sport for all adventure lovers and we all know that Rishikesh is famous for it.

Best season: Any time except the monsoon season as it is difficult to paraglide in the rainy season

Approx. cost: For 10 to 15 Mins ride it will cost you around ? 4500 per person

Difficulty level: This adventure sport can be enjoyed by beginners and people who do not have extremely good fitness levels.

Must-Know: Best River Rafting Packages from Delhi

Have you ever imagined yourself amidst gushing waterfalls, tied to a rope and slowly treading downwards? On your next visit to Rishikesh, you can experience this. It is most definitely one of the most exciting activities in Rishikesh.

Waterfall rappelling will give you the right amount of adrenaline rush as your body is forced down by the water and you have to step down one step at a time while maintaining your balance. The picturesque Neer Garh Waterfalls are one of the best waterfalls in Rishikesh to try your hand at this activity. But this one’s not for the faint-hearted.

Best season: March to June

Approx. cost: 600 per person

Difficulty level: Difficult

If you have done your research, you already know that Rishikesh is one of the best places for rock climbing in India. Lots of people from around the world flock to this town to try out various adventure sports. If you are one of them, then you must try rock climbing on the Shivalik Hills.

This range is considered to be one of the best due to the steep incline and topography. This activity not only requires basic strength but also requires you to maintain mental stability. While you are suspended on ropes and you have no option but to climb up gradually, your mind and body become more alert and you start enjoying the adrenaline rush.

Best season: October to February

Approx. cost: 1,000 per person

Difficulty level: Beginner/Medium

Kayaking is a water activity, much like canoeing, that involves paddling across on water on a kayak. A kayak is a canoe-like boat but unlike a canoe, you sit facing the front. Kayaking is a fun activity especially on the streams of Rishikesh because of the clear waters and the rapids that make for a bumpy and fun activity.

Go kayaking on the Ganges and meander through rough patches along the stream and truly take in the rush and force of the water as it charges downhill. For anyone looking for things to do in Rishikesh, look no further and try kayaking in this beautiful city.

Best Season: Summer and Spring are the best time because of the pleasant weather and the force of the water.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 600 to 2000 Rs depending on the size of a group.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Imagine Majestic Mountains, freshwater rivers and streams, picturesque valleys and beautiful flora and fauna. Picture trekking through them and basking at the glory of all of these. If this is something that interests and excites you then Rishikesh is the perfect spot for you to go trekking.

Being at the foothills of the upper Himalayas, this is the ideal spot for anyone to trek in. Rishikesh’s proximity to places such as Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath makes it an ideal place to trek in or start trekking from. For a trip through nature and its preciousness, do put it on your bucket list of things to do in Rishikesh.

Best Season: Summer, Autumn and Spring are the best time because of the pleasant weather.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 3000 to 10000 Rs depending on the location of the trek.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Much like the name suggests, cliff jumping involves jumping off a cliff ranging from 20 to 50 feet into waters. It’s a fierce activity and not to be taken trivially as it requires a strong will to jump into cold waters. You could do it for the sport or as a hobby but it’s an activity that is sure to delight and excite you.

Rishikesh is the perfect spot to indulge in this. So, take charge and take the leap of glory as you crash into the water and come out with a ton of good memories.

Best Season: Summer- because of the pleasant weather and the ideal water temperature.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 1750 to 4000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Vashishta Gufa or Vashistha Cave is an ancient cave where sage Vashistha had once meditated. This cave is located on Rishikesh-Badrinath road in Uttarakhand. One of the popular activities in Rishikesh for meditation lovers, a visit to this cave is a must. Located among the trees of a small village known as Gular, this place is peaceful and pristine. While the entrance to the cave has some light, as you go deeper into it, the cave gets pitch dark.

But, it is very well maintained with clean floors and mats laid out to accommodate almost a dozen people. At the end of the cave, you can spot a shiva linga and a flickering oil lamp that fills this cave with aroma.

Location: Haridwar Rishikesh Badrinath Road, Shivpuri Range, Uttarakhand 249192

Timings: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM everyday

Approx. cost: No entry fee 

If you are still looking for peaceful things to do in Rishikesh then you might want to check out Kunjapuri Temple, located on top of a hill. This will become your favourite place for spending some time by yourself on your trip. This temple is of immense significance to Hindus as the chest of burned Sati had fallen here.

Situated at a height of approximately 1,700 mts on a hill, this temple offers a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains and peaks around it. Many devotees believe in starting their new year by seeking blessings at this temple. You can visit this temple for blessings or just to spend some peaceful time by yourself.

Location: Hindolakhal Rd, Adali, Uttarakhand 249175

Timings: Open 24 hours

Approx. cost: No cost

Built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanand, the Swarg Ashram is better known as Kali Kamli Wala. This little township upstream from Rishikesh has a very peaceful vibe to it. While you can take a strolling visit to this place, we recommend staying here to feel the peace within. This is one of the most calming activities in Rishikesh.

There are various places of worship inside the Ashram that are dedicated to various Hindu Gods. This place is also famous for yoga and meditation which you can indulge in, while being here. Few eateries, stores, libraries and parks line this ashram and these will surely prove as a holistic experience when you visit this place.

Location: Near Ram Jhula

Timings: 6:00 - 8:00 PM everyday

Approx. cost: Rs 600

One of the famous national parks of India is Rajaji National Park, located in Uttarakhand. The park has 3 different entry points, one of which is near Rishikesh and is known as Chilla range. One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is to take a safari along with a local guide, across Rajaji National Park. Jeep Safari in Rishikesh is an adventurous thing to do in the city. 

The park is known to have the maximum number of elephants across India. It also has a wide variety of wild animals such as Sambar deer, barking deer, Antelopes like Nilgai and Goral, tiger, leopard and monkeys. Adding to this kitty, there is a huge variety of Himalayan birds, numbering up to 400 species.

Some of the most sought-after birds by tourists and bird-watchers include Scaly Thrush, Rusty Treecreeper, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Bush Warbler, Leaf Warbler, Black-necked Stork and Blue Magpie.

After you have discovered so much in and around Rishikesh, surely you would need some rest and relaxation. And what better than an Ayurvedic massage. It is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh, to make your body feel special and cared for. I will quote a well-known saying- “If you take care of your body, it will take good care of you”. That’s the case with about everyone.

We in our daily lives, go through tremendous pressures, tensions, workload, etc. that we get fatigued out. We start craving for a break, one that will rejuvenate, refresh and heal us. Ayurvedic massage in some of the best massage centres of Rishikesh is just what you need.

They will treat you with fragrance-filled, herbal and ayurvedic oils, that will not only free the tension and pressure out of your mind and body; but will also loosen up and relax your tense muscles.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 750 to 3000 Rs.

If you are in Rishikesh and don’t try your hand in Yoga, that would be like going to Delhi and not indulging in the local food. Rishikesh is the Yoga capital of the world and has a lot of people who practice and teach this ancient exercise and meditation activity.

Yoga helps in attending physical and mental prowess and calmness and is a very relaxing activity to indulge in. A lot of places in Rishikesh offer Yoga classes for you to choose from. So, warm up and loosen those muscles as you take part in this ancient Indian tradition.

Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 900 to 2000 Rs.

Difficulty Level: This is an activity that can be availed by anyone with basic physical fitness.

Once you have travelled across the length and breadth of Rishikesh, you can hop-in to one of the many cafeterias that line its streets. It’s not just about having a coffee, it’s about having coffee in a café near the banks of river Ganga, or about having the same in the lap of Himalayas or yet, about enjoying a hot mug of coffee in the downtown across LakshmanJhula.

One of the famous downtown cafes is the ‘Beatles Cafe’. It is said that ‘The Beatles’ band members visited this café, and ended up making lyrics of a new song in this café. Since then this café got a new name- The Beatles’ Café. Having coffee here should be on your list of things to do in Rishikesh.

The flavours are many, right from regular to choco latte to cold coffee to choco-ice-cream or the black coffee, and so on.

Best Season: This activity can be availed throughout the year.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 500 to 2000 Rs.

One of the best things to do in Rishikesh is eating your heart out at Chottiwala restaurant and spoil yourself in food outing. Located on the banks of river Ganga, this restaurant opened way back in 1958. Since then it has been serving traditional Indian cuisine food items of north India, at very affordable prices.

The restaurant is known for not just it's tasty, but also nutritious and healthy food. The best part is that despite being crowded, you don’t have to wait for more than half an hour to get your order on your table. The Chottiwala restaurant also serves many South Indian, Garhwali and Chinese dishes.

Foreigners need not worry, because Chottiwala also serves Continental food in which you can have the required amount of spices in your platter, as you like, to spoil your taste buds. It also offers many sweet dishes and other delicacies to spoil yourself.

Approximate Cost: Ranges Between 200 to 900 Rs for two people.