10 Experiences That Make Rishikesh The Popular Weekend Getaway That It Is!

Rishikesh is a backpacker’s paradise; there is cheap lodging, easy transportation, and a never-ending list of things to do and experience. But that’s not all. The aura and beauty of this place is so captive that once you visit Rishikesh, you wouldn’t want to leave. And with the plethora of things to try, it’s nearly impossible to decide when to head back.

Rishikesh - a popular religious holiday destination - is also well known for adventure. From rafting, camping, and trekking to kayaking, parasailing, and bungee jumping - the choice is spoiling for adventurous travelers. And in case you are just the opposite kind, Rishikesh indulges you too! The scenic beauty and the peace in the air are just perfect for a relaxing break. Just live off beer and great food as you soak in the breath-taking beauty and the lovely weather of this beautiful hill station.

Further, Rishikesh’s proximity to Delhi makes it a popular getaway for couples, families and friends. Plus there are solo travelers who take backpacking trips to Rishikesh. It is the kind of place, which is good for a quick relaxing getaway as well as for a long rejuvenating escape managed in a small budget.

From this myriad of engrossing and amazing experiences one can get in Rishikesh, we bring you the list of 10 things that must do in Rishikesh. The list is not exhaustive, but a mix of experiences that show you the best of this mind-blowing holiday destination.

Have Breakfast at Little Buddha Café

An idyllic start to the day, a delicious brunch, and a mesmerising view of the Ganges – Little Buddha café offers more than you expect. The treehouse-styled café is a place you would not want to miss. The café overlooking the Ganges is straight out of a poet’s dream – perfect for you to sit in silence, ponder on silly musings, and ramble your thoughts on paper.

Don’t miss feasting on Avocado Salad and mix veggie platter, as you enjoy a mesmerising view from the balcony side of the café. Here, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in a measly budget of INR 200 – INR 300 per person.

Timings: 8 am – 11 am

Experience the awe-inspiring scenic beauty at Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula

Yes, they are not exactly a modern traveler’s muse! But the charm of Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula is still there. Believe me, the iron suspended bridges, amidst the gigantic Ganges, will leave you awestruck. The blue water and the scenic beauty of the bridge will hold you captive. And on a drizzly day, the scene is truly mesmerizing.

Don’t miss the markets near Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.

Enjoy a quiet session of meditation at the Beatles Ashram

The ashram owes its name and its global acclaim to the popular band ‘The Beatles’ and their visit here. Popular among peace seekers, the ashram is one of the favourite picks of those looking for a quiet getaway.

Don’t miss the meditation sessions that are meant to relax the body, mind and soul. Also, explore the various meditating halls of the ashram, if historical ruins fascinate you. Charges for entry as well as a guided tour are INR 100 only.

Rafting and Trekking

Rishikesh is one of the most popular destinations for rafting in the Ganges. White river rafting in Rishikesh is best experienced from February to June and September to December. So if you are planning a trip within these months, rafting is a must. If you love trekking, you can ask the organizers to club it with your rafting package.

Don’t miss exploring the jungles of Rishikesh and trekking along the river with your gang of friends.

Kayaking

Kayaking in Rishikesh is another great adventure. Given the strong and fierce rapids of Rishikesh, kayaking is not exactly a beginner’s game. With a basic course, however, you will be good to go.

Price for a 6-hour kayaking session start from INR 3,000 per person. And the charges keep increasing as you level up your kayak package.

Witness the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

The evening aarti at the Triveni Ghat is an absolutely mesmerizing sight. There is a kind of positivity in the air; a sense of spiritualism that envelops you and leads you to state of trance.

Don’t miss the sight of lamps floating in the water during the aarti time. If you are a photographer, we bet this is a shutterbug's delight.

Note: Timing of the aarti is 6 pm – 7 pm.

Bungee Jumping at Mohan Chatti

Jumping from 83m high cliff overlooking the picturesque Ganges - if that’s on your adventure bucket list, head to Rishikesh now. There are many bungee jumping organizers who offer competitive packages to adventure seekers. Don’t forget to negotiate for a lower price if you are a group of 5 or more.

Among many bungee jumping organisers in Rishikesh, Jumping Heights is a popular and trusted name. They organize bungee at Mohan Chatti, which is 25 km away from Rishikesh. With expert masters from New Zealand and modern bungee equipment, they ensure complete safety for all adventurers.

Starting price is INR 3,000 per person. You can club bungee with Giant Swing and Flying Fox as well. Plan your adventure after checking the complete price list.

Don’t forget to collect your ‘Dare to Jump" certificate.

Visit the vibrant temples in Haridwar

Haridwar is an important pilgrimage destination that witnesses lakhs of people visiting the temples every year. The eternal beauty of these temples and ghats has been luring not just Indians but a number of international tourists too. Even if you are not religious, Haridwar’s temples offer the perfect mood for some soul searching.

Don’t miss spending some quiet time at these temples and ghats, specially at the time of dawn and dusk.

Distance from Rishikesh to Haridwar: 23 km

Listen to the melody of gushing water at Neer Garh waterfall

Neer Garh waterfall is the perfect getaway spot in Rishikesh. Nestled peacefully just 2 km from the Laxman Jhula, this waterfall is also a great place to click some amazing photographs. Trust me, the aesthetic beauty and the serenity of this place will compel you to stay here forever.

Don’t miss trekking to the top of the waterfall.

Local shopping in Rishikesh

You don’t plan a trip to Rishikesh to shop. But if you are there, no point missing out on it. With variety of shopping options available, you can get the best of quality at a cheap price. The markets that you must visit in Rishikesh include:

• Laxman Jhula market - The variety ranges from clothing, jewellery, precious stones to the religious and spiritual goods.

• Rishikesh main market - Probably the cheapest of all the markets in Rishikesh, it is ideal for picky quirky and unique daily household items.

• Swarg Ashram market - Here, explore the local cafés and shops that specialize in precious stone jewellery.

Don’t think too much. Pack your bags and spend a thrilling weekend in Rishikesh.