Are you looking for some excitement—things to do in Rishikesh? You are on the right platform. Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a vibrant city with a nearly ideal blend of spiritual experiences and exciting adventures.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure maniac, or a spiritual soul, Rishikesh has a little something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top 10 things to do in Rishikesh that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Go Rafting in the Ganges
Rafting is right at the top of the list of exciting things to do in Rishikesh. You can experience some of India’s best white-water rafting action right here. Don’t worry if you are a beginner – there are certified operators and top-notch safety arrangements that will help you through this experience.
As you ride through these whitewater rapids, the most breathtaking Himalayan scenery engulfs you. It is a memory of a lifetime, an adventure etching the forever stamp in your mind.
2. Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
If you are looking to raise goosebumps with a spiritual experience, then the Triveni Ghat must come first on your things to do in Rishikesh list due to the evening Ganga Aarti. You will see an enthralling ceremony before your eyes just when the sun has set. The chanting goes on with holy mantras by the priests who are seen doing rituals with fire to the Ganges River.
Want to participate? You can! For a small amount, you can sit in the first rows and personally do Aarti. The mantra and bhajan chanting brings an atmosphere of serenity, rejuvenation of the mind, and is peace-giving to the body.
3. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
If you are a Yoga and Meditation lover, do visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, ranked among the things to do in Rishikesh. It is the largest ashram in the entire city that offers a really serene environment for spiritual growth. You can attend yoga classes, spiritual discourses, or just soak in the calm atmosphere here.
4. Neer Garh Waterfall
Those who love nature, for them, visiting the Neer Gharh Waterfall is certainly one of the most rejuvenating activities in Rishikesh. The hike alone to this waterfall is full of fun with small bridges leading one upfront to the top, and beautiful vistas opening to the surroundings from the hike. It is an excellent spot to spend any spare time and for relaxation, contemplation, or even a spot of landscape photography.
Read More – 7 Exciting Things to Do in Kolkata
5. Walk Across Lakshman Jhula Bridge
No list of things to do in Rishikesh would ever be complete without mentioning the iconic Lakshman Jhula Bridge. This suspension bridge links Tehri and Pauri Districts, having a lot of historical value associated with its existence since the age of Ramayana.
As you walk across the 284-foot bridge, you will feel the gentle sway beneath your feet and get panoramic views of the Ganges below you, and the mountains surrounding it. You have colorful markets, cafes, and temples on either side. Not just a crossing, it’s an experience that binds you with the rich cultural heritage of this city.
6. Kunjapuri Camp
For a freaky overnight camping experience, Kunjapuri camping makes for a great deal. Certainly amongst those things to do in Rishikesh, it is very exciting for nature lovers. The Kunjapuri camps are well equipped with comfortable accommodations overlooking beautiful mountain views. You spend a stay amidst nature, away from the chaos and confusion of the city.
The best part? You can wake up at daybreak when the sunrise from the Himalayas is just about to reveal itself. When the first rays of sunlight paint those snow-capped peaks with a hue of gold, you shall literally know why it is such a special place. Not to mention your camera—those views are surely Instagram-worthy!
7. Hike to Patna Waterfall
If you have a taste for adventure, definitely add a hike to Patna Waterfall in your list of things to do in Rishikesh. This hidden location, with an approximate distance of 5 km from Laxman Jhula Bridge, offers the perfect proportion of natural beauty and physical challenge.
This waterfall trail travels through lush forests and offers truly breathtaking views of the surroundings. Once it reaches the waterfall itself, the views it provides are of water cascading down the rocky cliffs into a clear pool below.
8. Meditate at Vashishta Gufa
For a genuinely mystic experience, explore Vashishta Gufa. This ancient cave is said to be where the great sage Vashistha mediated and one feels the powerful energies the instant one enters it. It has a peaceful ambiance inside, perfect for meditation. Take out some time and sit in silence. After you meditate, take the path from the temple down to the white sand beach adjacent to the Ganges. Sitting quietly beside the river that flows, encircled by these huge Himalayas, is an experience absolutely impossible to forget.
9. Take a Dip at Triveni Ghat
According to Hindu beliefs, bathing here cleanses your soul by washing off your sins. The best of it comes in the early morning while witnessing the scene of devotees offering milk to the river, ‘Surya Namaskar’, and fish-feeding activities. This, in fact, is always a great way to spend the local culture-soaked early hours in the morning.
10. Neer Garh Waterfalls
Last but not least in the list of things to do in Rishikesh is a visit to Neer Garh Waterfall. This cascading beauty is an absolute treat for adventure and nature lovers. The higher one climbs, the remoteness of the surroundings gives way to scenes set up to leave you in awe. Huge gushy waterfalls with water rushing over rocks create this melodious sound, which serves as the soundtrack for your journey. After reaching the top, take a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by this waterfall.
