If you want to be in touch with divinity and spirituality, then there is no place like Rishikesh. It is one of the best pilgrimage destinations to visit in Uttarakhand, the home of Char Dham. It is known for its scenic beauty and its religious sites. It is traffic-free and alcohol-free. Rishikesh is also known as the Yoga capital of the world. There are many things to do in Rishikesh, making it a perfect destination during summers.
Things To Do In Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the perfect place to have religious experiences. There are many things to do in Rishikesh. We have listed the best ones for you. Your Uttarakhand getaway should be memorable.
1. Laxman Jhula
Of the prominent places in Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is considered to be one of the best places to visit. It is a 450 feet long suspension bridge and is 70 feet above the river. The legend states that Lord Lakshan crossed the river on the same spot using a jute rope.
The bridge was built in the year 1939 and has now emerged as a major attraction. There are plenty of cafes on both sides of the bridge. While crossing the bridge, you will be able to get a view of the surreal landscape! You can visit the Laxman Temple and Tera Manzil Temple nearby.
2. Ram Jhula
Located a few kilometres downstream of Laxman Jhula, the Ram Jhula is located. Similar to the Laxman Jhula in structure, it was built in 1980. When you cross the bridge, you will get a fantastic view of the Himalayas, valleys and temples.
It is around 450 feet long. This scenic treat is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh. The bridge links the two popular ashrams, Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Ashram on either side.
3. Tera Manzil Mandir
Tera Manzil Mandir, also known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh. In this temple, Hindus can worship all their deities in one place. The temple is situated on the banks of river Ganga and is easily visible from the Laxman Jhula, being 13 storied.
The temple has an attractive, symmetrical design and is visited by devotees from across the country. The Ganga Arti held during the evenings makes it a great site.
4. The Beatles Ashram
The Beatles Ashram is located 18 kilometres away from the city centre and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh. The Beatles, the legendary British Rock Band, had visited the Ashram to do transcendental meditation. This is considered to be one of their iconic moments.
If you are a Beatles fan, you can visit the place to soak in the tranquillity and spirituality. It is in ruins now, but you can still visit it for its significance. In fact, the Beatles have written many of their songs while they are in the Ashram.
5. Ganga Arti At Triveni Ghat
The Triveni Ghat is one of those places in Rishikesh that offers spirituality and tranquillity all the one place. Among the best things to do in Rishikesh, experiencing the Ganga Arti at Triveni Ghat is the most recommended.
The Ganga Arti is purposed to show devotion to the river Ganga, which is personified as Goddess Ganga. After sunset, the Ghat is lit up with Diyas, and the lumination from the diyas and sacred chants make the whole atmosphere divine.
6. River Rafting In Rishikesh
River Rafting is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh if you love water sports and the adrenaline rush. River Rafting involves sealing rapids on a rubber boat. Rishikesh’s proximity to the Himalayas and the source of the river Ganga ensured that the water is clean and rapid. It is one of the best ways to enjoy your getaway in Uttarakhand.
7. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Mahadev Temple is considered to be one of the most important places to visit in Rishikesh. It is a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu Mythology, the temple is built at the same spot where drank the poison Halahala was extracted after the ocean was churned to get the elixir of life.
8. Bharat Temple
The Bharat Temple is named after Bharat, Lord Rama’s brother. The ancient temple is mentioned in Vishnu Purana, Vaman Purana and Mahabharata. One of the major attractions is the old tree that lies in front of the main door. There is a museum inside the temple that consists of sculptures, bricks, and pottery.
9. Camping In Rishikesh
The Himalayas, the streams, and the lush green scenery make Rishikesh a perfect place to camp. This pilgrimage destination also offers several opportunities for camping amidst the hills. When you will camp under the stars, you will be in bliss and make great memories! The weather is pleasant and chilly, making it great for camping.
10. Neer Gaddu Waterfalls
Another natural beauty to visit is the Neer Gaddu Waterfalls. This natural waterfall is located on the Rishikesh - Badrinath Highway. It is one of the best things to do in Rishikesh, especially if you love natural beauty. You will need to take a small trek towards it to reach the two-tier waterfalls. There a two bathing pools and a trek that will lead to the bigger waterfall with a larger pool.
With so many things to do in Rishikesh, you will surely enjoy your religious getaway. Uttarakhand has everything for you, pilgrimage and adventure! Read our blogs to know more about the various holiday destinations in India.
Things To Do In Rishikesh - FAQs
How to reach Rishikesh?
The nearest railway station from Rishikesh is the Haridwar Railway station, which is around 25 kilometres away from Rishikesh. There is a station in Rishikesh but is not served by many trains. The nearest airport to Rishikesh is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is 35 kilometres away.
What are the best things to do in Rishikesh?
Some of the best things to do in Rishikesh are Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Tera Manzil Temple, Beatles Ashram Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bharat Temple, River Rafting, Camping and the Neer Gaddu waterfalls.
Which is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
Rishikesh can be visited throughout the year. The winters are chilly and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 28 degrees celsius. Summers can be quite hot with temperatures with the temperature reaching 41 degrees celsius.
Which adventure activities I can do in Rishikesh?
There are many adventure activities that you can do in Rishikesh. Some of them are River Rafting, Camping, Trekking, Bungee Jumping, Mountain Biking, Waterfall Rappelling Rock Climbing, and more.
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