Rishikesh, India, is a place of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty that beckons travelers worldwide.

It’s often called the “Yoga Capital of the World.” So, you’ll find the perfect ashram to discover your own version of the “pray” in your “Eat, Pray, Love” journey. You’ll find Rishikesh yoga retreats for beginners or extensive Yoga Teacher Training retreats for experienced practitioners. Meditate with and learn from revered gurus, yogis, and spiritual luminaries. 

 But this sacred town, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, is more than just a yoga destination. It’s an experience where tranquility meets excitement.

You can seek inner peace. OR plunge into the adrenaline-pumping rapids of the Ganga that challenge even the most seasoned adventurers. Brave souls can enjoy bungee jumping, too.

Along a more touristy line, you can wander through the Beatles Ashram to glimpse Rishikesh’s past. Steve and I loved the graffiti and artwork covering the crumbling walls. It made the abandoned ashram even more interesting. But watch out for the cheeky monkeys! They’ll grab your phone or camera and run off before you know it.

Noelle here, by the way.

Holistic Things To Do in Rishikesh

Beyond the rapids and rope swings, Rishikesh whispers tales of ancient wisdom. This sacred city, revered by Hindus worldwide, is a haven for spiritual seekers. Explore ancient temples, delve into the practice of yoga and meditation, and experience the profound peace that permeates the air.

1. Practice Yoga at an Ashram

Number one of the top things to do in Rishikesh, India, is obviously to visit an ashram. Whether you stay for a week, a month, or a year, ashrams offer a sense of peace that is hard to find. We broke our Rishikesh visit into two parts.

First, we stayed at Yoga Niketan for a week of yoga, meditation, learning, and clean eating. Then, we stayed in town at Holy Water Hotel for another week of exploring and trying local dishes. If you have time, I’d recommend a similar approach. Alternatively, you could extend your ashram stay. Then, you’ll have time for personal growth and still have time to complete our list of the top 11 things to do in Rishikesh for first-timers.

There are Rishikesh yoga retreats for beginners and professionals. You can also take a yoga holiday or enroll in a 200-hour yoga teacher training class.

Keep reading: Yoga and Meditation in a Rishikesh Ashram

2. Attend an Evening Aarti on the Ganges River

Rishikesh tourism has to include an evening Aarti! It’s one of the best spiritual experiences in Rishikesh beyond yoga. The air crackles with anticipation as the sun begins its descent, casting long shadows across the Ganges River. Okay, that sounds incredibly cheesy, but it’s definitely true!

Triveni Ghat Aarti

Don’t miss the evening Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat. The Triveni Ghat Aarti is both a significant religious event and a popular tourist attraction. The daily evening ceremony happens at a sacred confluence where the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet.

A sea of humanity gathers, so arrive early to sit near the front. We got there about 4:40 p.m. and were a little ways back. Steve could see, but I had to peek around people and lift my phone high into the air. Then, I’d quickly watch the replay—the same as when his temple was so crowded at the Dalai Lama’s 35th Noble Peace Prize anniversary.

Keep reading: Where to Go for Evening Aarti in Rishikesh

What is an Aarti?

The Triveni Ghat Aarti ceremony is a Hindu ritual to worship and show reverence for God and the sacred Ganges River. Participating in the Aarti helps purify the soul and wash away sins.

The Aarti aims to create a spiritual connection between the devotees and the divine. Many people attend to seek blessings from the river goddess for health, prosperity, and happiness.

The Aarti involves rituals like chanting hymns, waving lamps, and offering prayers. They all create a sacred and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Being there as a tourist rather than a devotee felt odd, as if I was intruding on a special occasion.

Many people around us shared the experience by live streaming on social media or video calls with loved ones. I could see the faces of older parents and grandparents who couldn’t make the trip. They were all excited to be part of the ceremony, even from afar.

Aarti Participants

The crowd mostly stayed in their places until near the ceremony’s end. Then, the staff started waving for people to come down to the river’s edge. Attendees received prasad (sacred offering.) It’s a white sugar candy commonly given at Hindu temples called “Batasha” or “Patasha.”

A key feature of the ceremony is devotees releasing small, lit lamps (diyas) on the river. Diyas are traditionally lit during prayers, rituals, and ceremonies. They symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

Parmarth Niketan Aarti

Parmarth Niketan is a renowned ashram on the banks of the Ganges. It hosts a captivating evening Aarti ceremony, which we didn’t attend in person but watched from across the river at our ashram.

The Parmarth Niketan Aarti may feel more relaxed due to its smaller scale. It’s also in an ashram setting. So, it focuses on personal spiritual reflection to create a more intimate and meditative experience.

Whether you choose the vibrant energy of Triveni Ghat or the slightly more tranquil ambiance of Parmarth Niketan, attending an evening Aarti on the Ganges River is an unforgettable experience. It’s an immersion into the heart and soul of Rishikesh, a chance to witness the deep spiritual connection that binds the people of India to this sacred river.

Keep reading: What to know for India Travel

3. Ayurvedic Treatments in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a great place to try Ayurveda. It’s an ancient Indian medicine system that balances the body and mind. Many places in Rishikesh offer Ayurvedic treatments, such as massages, panchakarma therapies, and other rejuvenating therapies.

One intriguing Ayurvedic treatment is shirodhara. It involves slowly pouring warm medicated oil onto the forehead and allowing it to pool for a specific time. The word “shirodhara” comes from the Sanskrit words shiro (head) and dhara (flow).

So, I don’t know if this sounds peaceful or like water torture. It’s supposed to have a soothing and relaxing effect on the mind and body. If you’ve tried it, drop me a comment about your experience!

Here are some of the benefits.

• Increases relaxation and calming
• Improves concentration
• Improves sleep and reduces insomnia
• Reduces anxiety and stress
• Headache relief
• Nourishes the scalp and hair

Schedule Ayurvedic treatments in Rishikesh at a day spa or an Ayurvedic retreat center. Ananda in the Himalayas is a luxury holistic wellness center. It’s a little out of our budget, but even Oprah says, “Going to Ananda is more like a pilgrimage than a visit.”

For a more affordable Ayurvedic treatment, schedule a day at Hemadri Ayurvedic Center. Find them in central Rishikesh and onsite at Parmarth Niketan Rishikesh.

4. Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Nestled in the Himalayas, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Rishikesh, is the sacred Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a vital pilgrimage spot for Hindus.

Legend says a deadly poison emerged from the churning sea during the world’s creation.  Lord Shiva drank the poison in his infinite compassion to save the universe. The poison settled in his throat, turning it a vibrant blue. That’s how he got his name, Neelkanth, the blue-throated one.

A sacred natural spring flows within the temple complex, adding to its holy atmosphere. The temple is also surrounded by verdant forests and stunning mountain views, making it a haven for both devout and nature enthusiasts.

Thousands of pilgrims flock to the Neelkanth Mela yearly for a vibrant festival celebrating this powerful deity. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple truly stands as a place of profound religious and spiritual importance in India.

Top Things To Do in Rishikesh: Be a Tourist

5. Walk Across the Ganges River

Another of the top things to do in Rishikesh is to walk along the River Ganga’s banks. Start at Lakshman Jhula and make your way to Ram Jhula.

Laksham got its name from Lord Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana. Hindu mythology says this is where he crossed the Ganges using a jute rope bridge.

Stop at the best Rishikesh photography spots for amazing views of the bridges, river, and Himalayas. Lakshman Jhula is closed to car traffic, so it’s one of the few places pedestrians have the right of way.

The bridge is about 450 feet (137 meters) long and 70 feet (21 meters) above the water level. So, it’s an ideal spot to witness the beauty of nature. During the day, you’ll see rafts flying over the white water rapids. But if you go during sunrise or sunset, the sky turns magical, filled with colors over the sparkling river.

As you walk from Lakshman Jhula, you’ll pass the Beatles Cafe. Stop in for a vegetarian meal with great views. The cafe is usually busy, so be prepared to wait. But you can do some souvenir shopping as you wait. All the shiny things like jewelry, clothes, trinkets, and notebooks are along the staircase to the cafe.

Before getting to Ram Jhula, you’ll pass through Parmarth Niketan Ashram. It’s one of the largest and most renowned ashrams in Rishikesh. It sits directly across the river from Yoga Niketan, where we stayed. 

Parmarth Niketan Ashram offers programs for spiritual seekers. Guests attend yoga classes, meditation sessions, and Vedic studies. They also offer drop-in classes if you’re staying nearby. The grounds are beautiful, so spend time exploring here.

Walk down to Ram Jhula, where pedestrians get a protected middle lane. As you head toward the middle of the river, turn back to see the enormous mural of Hanuman. 

Ram Jhula has a 750-foot (230-meter) span and was built in 1986. Around both suspension bridges are many markets, temples, ashrams, and cafes. So, you’ll get a glimpse of Rishikesh’s religious and cultural aspects.

6. Shop for Souvenirs at the Market

Beyond the Lakshman Jhula Market and Ram Jhula Market, the main Rishikesh Market is near the Triveni Ghat. There are blocks and blocks of markets and local shops. It’s shiny and lively at night, so wander around after the Aarti.

We visited the Main Market a few days before Christmas and were delighted to see the Christmas decorations. Although, honestly, the Santa masks looked like someone from a Bruce Lee movie. They cracked me up.

We ate dinner at a small local shop where there were no other Westerners. And it was so delicious! I wish I knew its name to share here, but we wandered down street after street. So, who knows where we ended up?!

7. Visit the Beatles Ashram

No Rishikesh travel guide is complete without a visit to the Beatles Ashram. We were surprised by how cool it was. We loved the graffiti, maybe even more than the history.

The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, gained international fame in 1968 when the Beatles visited to study Transcendental Meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. As you’re heading here, the signs say you’re going to the Tiger Reserve. We never saw any tigers though.

The ashram is on the Ganges River’s eastern bank in the Himalayas’ foothills. Initially built in 1963 as the International Academy of Meditation, it was abandoned in the 1990s. Many worldwide celebrities (beyond the Beatles) visited the ashram in its prime. 

The ashram reopened to the public in 2015 and has since become a popular tourist destination. It’s a really cool spot. Artists from around the world decorate the walls with color and words. 

The buildings are falling apart, so they aren’t spectacular. But the artwork and the random graffiti are super fun. 

Rishikesh Adventure Activities for Adrenaline Junkies

Craving an adventure? Rishikesh is calling! This vibrant town in the Himalayan foothills is a playground for thrill-seekers. White-water rafting through the rapids or bungee jumping off the highest commercial bridge in India. Rishikesh promises an unforgettable adrenaline rush.

8. Go River Rafting

For around $20 US, you can take a three-hour rafting trip down the Ganges in Rishikesh. It’s an adrenalin rush that takes you down fast and furious rapids. You’ll boat through the Ganges’ scenic beauty and foamy waters.

There’s tons of fast-paced river action followed by pool drop or calm water. So, the Ganga is a forgiving 3-4 river. Adventurous beginners and experienced rafters will all enjoy this river rafting experience.

While we didn’t choose this activity, we watched scores of rafters end their trip near Laxman Jhula. Steve and I sat on the deck overlooking the river during afternoon tea at our ashram. We drank tea while watching monkeys play, and rafters come in.

The best time to visit Rishikesh for river rafting is 

9. Try Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh adventure activities for adrenaline junkies wouldn’t be complete without mentioning India’s highest bungee jumping point.

I don’t know about you, but this isn’t exactly my thing. However, bungee jumping is a big thing in Rishikesh. Please tie a rope harness around me so I can jump off a cliff or vertical rail. Um, no thank you. But, it’s worth mentioning because so many people come for the adrenaline rush.

Himalayan Bungy is the highest bungee jumping destination in India. Step onto a platform 384 feet (117 meters) over the Ganga River. Then, step right off for a wildly exciting free fall experience.

We also saw signs for Thrill Factory and Jumping Heights, two other bungee jumping and thrill-seeking companies in Rishikesh.

Rishikesh for Nature Lovers

Rishikesh is a great place for nature lovers. The Himalayas and the Ganges River make for beautiful scenery. There are also many opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and trekking in Rishikesh.

10. Go on One of the Best Hikes Near Rishikesh

The best time for hiking and other outdoor activities in Rishikesh is October through March. During our mid-December visit, temperatures ranged from 41 to 77℉ (5 to 25℃.) So, it was quite pleasant.

Take a Sunrise Day Hike in Rishikesh with Get Your Guide (not an affiliate, but we like their tours). First, they’ll drive you up the mountainside to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple. There, you’ll watch the sun come up over the Himalayas. Then, explore the surrounding area and temple, soak in the peacefulness, and eat breakfast. Later, you’ll descend on foot to Neer Waterfall to enjoy its natural beauty. It’s a bit of driving and hiking for a full day of nature.

11. Explore a Cave for Meditation

Vashishta Gufa (Cave) is a sacred cave with immense significance in Hindu mythology and spirituality. It’s on the banks of the holy River Ganges, about 15 miles (25 kilometers) from Rishikesh.

The cave got its name from the great sage Vashishta, believed to have meditated there for several years.

According to Hindu mythology, Vashishta was one of the seven sages, considered the universe’s wisest and most learned being. During his formative years, he was Lord Rama’s guru, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu.

The Vashishta Gufa formed naturally by the flow of the River Ganges over several millennia. 

It has a narrow entrance and a spacious inside chamber. The cave walls have stalactites and stalagmites, which add to its natural beauty.

Devotees make the pilgrimage to Vashishta Gufa, where many sages and saints meditate. People visit the cave seeking blessings and spiritual guidance. Some say meditating in the cave helps one attain spiritual enlightenment. It’s also thought to liberate one from the birth-and-death cycle.

After getting a ride to the cave, you’ll climb about 200 steps to reach it.

Top Things to Do in Rishikesh Wrap-up

I stopped at 11 things because this article grew too long, and I’m too lazy to chop it into two parts. Yep, the brutal honesty of digital nomads. Ha ha.

I didn’t even touch on the foodie aspect of Rishikesh. So maybe I will add another article to my ever-growing list of “things to write.” Take a foodie tour or a cooking class, or eat at one of the many excellent local restaurants.

There’s so much more I could write. And honestly, I’ve been trying to convince Steve to go back to Rishikesh for another week at the ashram. Understandably, he’s like, this country is enormous, let’s keep exploring new places.

But Rishikesh kind of stole my heart. So, if you’re heading to India, definitely put this city on your bucket list. And if you’ve been there, drop me a comment about your favorite thing to do in Rishikesh!