Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas is a rustic, spiritual town called Rishikesh. For centuries this place has been luring travelers from around the world to come and explore its majestic wonders. Not only is it a great place for those looking for some peace and quiet and spiritual renewal, but it also has plenty of activities to enjoy! From white water rafting to bungee jumping, there’s something for everyone. Find out more about what you can do in Rishikesh and when is the best time to visit this beautiful destination.
Rishikesh is not only the gateway to the Himalayas but also a hub for adventure sports in India. From white water rafting to bungee jumping, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to do in Rishikesh. Here are some of the best things to do in Rishikesh:
White Water Rafting: White water rafting is one of the most popular activities in Rishikesh. The Ganges river offers some of the best rapids for rafting in India and is perfect for both beginners and experts. There are many operators offering half-day and full-day Rafting packages.
Bungee Jumping: For those looking for an extra thrill, bungee jumping is a must-do activity in Rishikesh. Located just outside the city limits, Mohan Chatti village is home to Asia’s highest bungee jumping platform at 83 meters. There are also other adventure activities like Giant Swing and Flying Fox available at the same site.
Ziplining: Another great way to get your adrenaline fix is by ziplining across the valley. Located near Lakshman Jhula bridge, you can zip from one side of the valley to the other at a height of 150 meters. This is one of the longest ziplines in India and offers stunning views of the river and mountains.
Climbing: If you’re an experienced climber, then Rishikesh is a great place to try your hand at rock climbing. There are several operators offering guided tours and all the necessary gear for the activity.
Kayaking: Kayaking is another popular activity in Rishikesh. You can paddle down the Ganges and explore hidden caves, ancient temples and other attractions along the way. There are also opportunities for river camping and night kayaking trips available with most operators.
Camping: What better way to enjoy the beauty of nature than by camping out in one of Rishikesh’s many beautiful locations? Whether it’s along the banks of the Ganges or in the mountains, there are many campsites that offer great views, comfortable amenities and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
Yoga and Meditation: Rishikesh is known as the yoga capital of the world and offers a wide range of meditation, yoga and spiritual retreats. Many of the ashrams here offer daily yoga classes, guided meditation, ayurvedic treatments and more.
The best time to visit Rishikesh depends on what you want to do while you are here. For pilgrimage purposes, the best time to visit would be during the holy festivals of Kumbh Mela or Shivaratri. However, if you are looking to experience some adventure activities, such as river rafting or Bungee Jumping, then April to November would be the ideal time for you. The weather during this period is pleasant and sunny, perfect for enjoying some outdoor activities.
The best way to reach Rishikesh is by train from Delhi, which takes about 5-6 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Delhi or Dehradun, which will take around 7-8 hours. If you are driving from Delhi, the drive will take about 9-10 hours. Once you reach Rishikesh, there are plenty of cheap guesthouses and hostels available for accommodation.
Rishikesh is a town in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, located in the northern part of the country. It is situated on the banks of the River Ganges and is known as the "Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas". Rishikesh is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world who come here to experience its natural beauty and tranquility.
The best time to visit Rishikesh is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the peak tourist season so make sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
Some things to do in Rishikesh include whitewater rafting, yoga and meditation, rock climbing, Bungee jumping, river rafting, and hiking. There are many reputable companies that offer these activities, so do your research before booking anything.
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options available in Rishikesh depending on your budget. From luxury resorts to more affordable guesthouses, you'll be able to find something that suits your needs.
When travelling to Rishikesh, make sure to pack comfortable clothes and shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, don't forget to pack your sunscreen and insect repellent as there are mosquitoes in abundance!
