Famed as the ‘Yoga capital of the world’, Rishikesh is a popular tourist destination among nature lovers and pilgrims. Blessed with spiritual and serene environs, Rishikesh is a perfect blend of divinity and tranquility. There is no dearth of famous tourist attractions in Rishikesh, which attracts thousands seeking wisdom, adventure, and religion.
Most prominent amongst them is the Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Parmarth Ashram, and Beetles Ashram. Rishikesh has numerous temples and ashrams situated on the banks of the river Ganga flowing along with the city. In the context of temples, tourists can consider visiting Bharat Mandir, Trayambakeshwar Temple, Tera Manzil Temple, and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
Swarg Ashram, Geeta Bhavan, and Sivananda Ashram are also the major best tourist attractions in Rishikesh.
The best tourist places to visit in Rishikesh that you can add to your itinerary are:
Triveni Ghat: It is the biggest bathing ghat in Rishikesh and is the confluence point of the 03 holy Indian rivers of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati.
Lakshman Jhula: It has its significance in the most popular Hindu Mythology, Ramayana. It is popular among tourists for shopping and other activities such as rafting.
Ram Jhula: It is also a suspension bridge similar to the Lakshman Jhula. It connects Sivananda Ashram and Swarg Ashram. Gita Bhawan and Parmarth Niketan Ashram are situated on the one end of the bridge.
Beatles Ashram: It is located in the Swarg Ashram. This ashram was closed in 1997, consumed by the forest department. Still, there are some buildings, such as meditation cells and lecture halls where people can witness the glory of the ashram. In February 1968, Beatle stayed here to learn yoga and meditation. After the Beatle's visit, Rishikesh came into the limelight throughout the world for yoga.
Parmarth Niketan: It is situated in the Swarg Ashram area and is a very popular Ashram to attend evening Arti. It is a venue for the International Yoga Festival that takes place every year in March.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: The Temple of Lord Shiva is located at a distance of 31 km from Rishikesh. This temple also offers hiking opportunities apart from its accessibility by road. Temple Timings: 05 AM to 01 PM and 04 PM to 09 PM.
Sivananda Ashram: Sivananda Ashram is also known as Divine Life Society. It is located near Ram Jhula. There are numerous activities performed by the Ashram, such as Yoga and meditation. They also offer a basic accommodation facility to live in Ashram and there is also a hospital.
Bharat Mandir: Bharat Mandir Temple is situated at the center of Rishikesh and near the main market. This is one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh. The deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu and the complex has a small museum. (Temple Timings: 05 AM to 11 AM and 3 PM to 09 PM).
Geeta Bhawan: Geeta Bhawan is Ashram located in the Swarg Ashram area. The ashram has a large complex with a discourse hall and offers accommodation for tourists looking for economical stays.
Swarg Ashram: Swarg Ashram is the area between Lakshman Jhula and Rishikesh. This place is well known for various rishikesh famous ashrams, beautiful surroundings, and divine living.
Tera Manzil Temple: Tera Manzil Temple has 13 floors. Each floor has many small temples with different deities throughout. It is located near the Lakshman Jhula.
The top things to do in Rishikesh are:
- Yoga and Meditation in Ashrams or on sandy beaches of River Ganga are the best things to do in Rishikesh.
- In the evening, participate in the Aarti ceremony on the ghats of the river Ganges. The popular Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.
- White water rafting in River Ganges is famous in Rishikesh. In 02 nights and 03 days, you can complete the rapids from Level 01 to Level 04.
- Trekking/hiking and camping in the resorts by the Ganges or the hills are must-activities in Rishikesh.
- Other activities are kayaking, Bungee jumping, Rock Climbing, River Rappelling, Cliff jumping into the river, etc.