Rishikesh Travel Guide: Ganga Aarti, Rafting, Yoga and Cafés

Rishikesh is two towns in one: the spiritual "Yoga Capital of the World" on the banks of the Ganga, and India's adventure hub for rafting, camping and bungee. It sits just 25 km upstream from Haridwar.

Spiritual Rishikesh

• Parmarth Niketan Ganga Aarti – the most famous evening aarti, with chanting and lamps on the river. Arrive early for a good spot.
• Triveni Ghat – a more local, atmospheric aarti.
• Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula – iconic suspension bridges (some are closed to traffic or under renovation; the new glass bridge near Laxman Jhula is a newer attraction).
• Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) – where the Beatles stayed in 1968, now covered in murals.
• Yoga and ayurveda – drop-in classes and multi-week teacher trainings at many ashrams. International Yoga Festival is held each March.

Adventure Rishikesh

River Rafting

Rafting runs roughly from September to June and pauses in the monsoon. Popular stretches:

• Brahmpuri to Rishikesh (9 km): gentle, family-friendly.
• Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 km): the most popular, with Grade III rapids like "Roller Coaster" and "Golf Course".
• Marine Drive to Rishikesh (24 km) and Kaudiyala (36 km): longer and more thrilling.

Choose licensed operators with helmets, life jackets and certified guides.

Camping

Riverside camps at Shivpuri combine rafting, bonfires and beach volleyball. See our Rishikesh rafting and camping guide.

Bungee and More

Bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti (one of India's highest), giant swing, flying fox and ziplines.

Food and Cafés

Rishikesh is vegetarian and alcohol-free within the town. Cafés around Laxman Jhula and Tapovan serve everything from thalis to Israeli and Italian food.

How to Reach

• Rail: Rishikesh and Yog Nagari Rishikesh stations; Haridwar is a bigger junction.
• Air: Jolly Grant (Dehradun), about 20 km.
• Road: about 240 km from Delhi, 5–6 hours.

Best Time

September–November and February–May. Monsoon (July–August) means high river levels and no rafting.

Plan Your Trip

Rishikesh pairs well with Haridwar, Mussoorie or the Char Dham. See Uttarakhand tours:

• Rishikesh Adventure & Riverside Camping – 2 Nights / 3 Days
• Rishikesh Camping Package
• Char Dham Yatra from Haridwar by Private Sedan – 8 Nights / 9 Days
• Haridwar & Rishikesh Spiritual Weekend – 2 Nights / 3 Days from Delhi
• Dehradun – Mussoorie – Dhanaulti – Rishikesh – Haridwar Tour Itinerary

Related reading: Mussoorie travel guide · Char Dham Yatra guide · Kedarnath trek guide

More details: Uttarakhand Tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time for rafting in Rishikesh?

October–November and March–May; rafting is closed during the monsoon.

Is Rishikesh good for families?

Yes – gentle rafting stretches, aartis and riverside walks suit all ages.

How far is Rishikesh from Haridwar?

About 25 km, roughly 45 minutes by road.

Is alcohol allowed in Rishikesh?

No, Rishikesh is a vegetarian and alcohol-free town.