Some people come to Rishikesh to explore their adventurous side, some to connect with spirituality, yet others to attain Nirvana, and still more to just lose or find themselves. Whatever your motive, whenever you arrive, from wherever you come, Rishikesh will always welcome you with open arms.
Tourism in Rishikesh has a lot to offer, but most visitors don’t venture beyond the usual river rafting and temple excursions surrounding Ram and Lakshman Jhullas. So, from the best hotel in Rishikesh near Ganga, here is a list of the top ten things to do in Rishikesh:
Learn Yoga at the World’s Yoga Capital
Rishikesh is presently known as the Yoga Capital of the World, owing to the globalization of YOGA. People who are spiritually oriented frequently travel to Rishikesh for yoga. So, take a break from the hectic pace of everyday life and connect with your inner self at one of the Yoga & Meditation Ashrams.
The Beatles Ashram
Classics are timeless. The same is true of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram, often known as the Beatles Ashram. The Beatles, the real gods of music, came here in 1968, sparking a mania that made India a fashionable global destination for westerners seeking nirvana. Songs from The Beatles’ White Album were written here. This Ashram, which is spread across 14 acres of land near Ram Jhulla, was abandoned in 1977 and has been under the supervision of the Forest Department since then. Once a popular tourist site for foreigners, it now serves as a reminder of a magnificent past.
Feel At Ease at Backpackers Hideout
Rishikesh isn’t only about spirituality and bent limbs; it’s also a favorite backpacker hangout. Most Ashrams have daily rates as low as Rs. 200, which include meals and yoga sessions. And other Ashrams, such as Shivananda Ashram, provide everything for free. Simply arrange ahead of time and experience the Ashrams’ basic hospitality.
Relax & Recharge
If your concept of a vacation is to relax and practice the art of doing nothing, The Neeraj Ganga Heritage Palace, the best hotel in Rishikesh near Ganga is the place for you. A place tucked away from the hustle and bustle of town, set in the heart of the city with the Ganga running just near it.
Witness The Heavenly Light Ceremony
Unlike other holy sites, the nighttime Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh is an elegant and uncrowded celebration where religious authorities do not breathe down your neck for offerings and pujas. You may either participate in the bhajan chorus or simply enjoy the visual treat. The Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Triveni Ghat are two notable spots to witness this late afternoon splendor in Rishikesh. These locations are best visited in the evening, at approximately 6 p.m.
Discover Your Daring Side
If you enjoy an adrenaline rush, this is the spot for you. Rishikesh has a lot to offer for adrenaline junkies, whether it’s white water rafting, kayaking, Rappelling, Rock Climbing, Cliff Jumping, Bungee Jumping, Trekking, Jungle Safari, or Biking. So, choose an activity that appeals to you and develop your adventurous side.
Enjoy Stunning Vistas With Your Eyes
Temples perched on top of hillocks in and around Rishikesh provide some of the most stunning panoramic vistas. The spectacular snow ranges and peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas to the north and Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the Doon valley to the south may be seen from Kunjapuri Devi Temple, which is located 15 kilometers from Rishikesh. Bhootnath Temple, located 3 kilometers from Lakshman Jhula on a mountain, is a hidden paradise for pilgrimage travelers and adventure enthusiasts.
Nirvana for Food Lovers
Rishikesh has developed into a worldwide town with delectable foods from all over the world as a result of the flood of tourists from across the world, from backpackers to well-heeled tourists. Though Google Baba will provide you with a thorough list of restaurants and cafes, some of the greatest cafés in our opinion are in the Lakshman Jhulla region.
Make Peace with Your Soul; Learn Indian Classical Music from The Gurus
Indian classical music like a crystal has indeed been shining bright for millennia. It may not be popular, but its soul-stirring qualities are world-renowned. So, while in Rishikesh, don’t miss out on learning Indian Classical music and dance from the Gurus themselves.
Enroll at the Veena Maharaj Music School, the Sivananda Ramesh Music School, the Bhuwan Music School, or the Om Rudra Cultural Society. Attend the Yoga & Music Festival, which brings together musicians from all over India and the world to teach Yoga and Music for free.
Discover Your Inner Explorer
Rishikesh excursions include Narendra Nagar, Neergudu waterfall, Garur-Chatti waterfall, and limestone caverns in Rajaji National Park, Chila Sanctuary, and Chandrashila Summit. So, get off the beaten path. Replace your fear of the undiscovered with curiosity. You never know when your finding will be on someone else’s schedule. Every voyage has hidden destinations that the traveler is unaware of.
Rishikesh is extremely popular both in India and internationally, yet relatively few people have truly explored it. So, instead of visiting tourist attractions, consider discovering the unknown within the explored. Who knows, you could discover a side of yourself you were unaware of.
