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Rishikesh is a beautiful spot by the Ganges River, tucked into the mountains. If you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll find plenty to do—try some yoga, check out the temples, go rafting, or simply chill by the water. It’s perfect whether you want peace and quiet or a bit of adventure.
Where you stay makes a huge difference. Rishikesh has three main areas, and each feels completely different.
The Laxman Jhula area is my top pick for first-timers. You’re right by the river, surrounded by cafes, yoga centers, and that classic Rishikesh vibe. It’s walkable and has lots of budget guesthouses plus some nicer hotels. The only downside? It gets touristy and the narrow streets can feel chaotic.
Ram Jhula is quieter and slightly less crowded but still close to everything. If you want a peaceful stay with easy access to the main spots, this works well.
The downtown area near Triveni Ghat has more local character and better connectivity to buses and trains. It’s less scenic but more practical if you’re arriving late or leaving early.
Our honest advice? Book a hotel near Laxman Jhula for your first trip. You can walk to most places, and you’ll feel like you’re really in Rishikesh, not just visiting it.
The Ganges isn’t just a river here—it’s the heart of everything. Head to Triveni Ghat around sunrise. You’ll see locals taking their morning dips, and the whole scene feels incredibly peaceful. Don’t worry about following any strict rituals. Just sit on the steps, watch the water flow, and soak in the atmosphere. That’s enough.
In the evening, come back for the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Priests wave large fire lamps while chanting prayers, and hundreds of people light small leaf boats with candles and float them downstream. It’s beautiful, though it does get crowded. Arrive 30 minutes early if you want a decent spot.
This is probably the most exciting thing you can do here. Even if you’ve never rafted before, the guides make it super easy to follow along. The 16-kilometer stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh takes about two to three hours and includes some fun rapids without being scary. You’ll get wet, you’ll probably scream a little, and you’ll definitely have a good time.
Book through a licensed operator, and they’ll provide life jackets and helmets. Most trips run from September to June when the water levels are right.
Rishikesh has two famous hanging bridges—Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. They swing slightly as you walk across, which feels odd at first but you get used to it. From the bridges, you get amazing views of the river and mountains. The area around both bridges is filled with small cafes, yoga shops, and street vendors selling prayer beads and scarves.
Our tip? Visit early morning when it’s less busy. Midday can get packed with tourists taking photos.
You don’t need to be deeply spiritual to appreciate the ashrams here. Beatles Ashram, where the famous band stayed in 1968, is now abandoned but covered in colorful graffiti art. It’s a cool place to explore and take photos.
Parmarth Niketan is another beautiful ashram with well-kept gardens. They welcome visitors, and you can join their evening aarti if you want a quieter experience than the one at Triveni Ghat.
Rishikesh is completely vegetarian and alcohol-free, so adjust your expectations. The food is simple but tasty. Try aloo puri for breakfast, thalis for lunch, and stop by the German Bakery area for fresh smoothies and desserts. Little Buddha Cafe and Bistro Nirvana are popular spots with river views.
Bring comfortable walking shoes because you’ll be on your feet a lot. The town is hilly in parts. Also, dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples and ashrams.
You don’t need a packed schedule in Rishikesh. Some of my best moments there were unplanned—chatting with a sadhu by the river, watching monkeys steal food from unsuspecting tourists, or just sitting at a cafe watching life go by. Give yourself space to wander and discover your own rhythm in this special little town.
