Rishikesh

My Journey to Rishikesh

During one of my work visits to Delhi, I decided to extend my stay and take a short trip to Rishikesh. After days of meetings and the city rush, I wanted a place where I could breathe, slow down, and reconnect with myself. Rishikesh had always been on my list – the Yoga Capital of the World, a place where the Ganga flows through the lap of the Himalayas, and where spirituality meets adventure.

I booked a car from Delhi for the trip, which turned out to be the most comfortable option. Leaving early in the morning, the city was just waking up as I passed through Delhi’s busy streets and slowly merged onto the open highways. The drive took around 6–7 hours, with the scenery constantly changing – from endless stretches of farmland to small bustling towns along the way. We made a quick stop for chai and breakfast at a roadside dhaba, which added a classic touch to the road trip.

As we crossed Haridwar and entered Uttarakhand, the air felt fresher, cooler, and lighter. The sight of the Ganga flowing alongside the road was the perfect welcome to Rishikesh. By noon, I had reached, ready to begin my journey in the Yoga Capital of the World.

Rishikesh instantly felt like a pause button – where time slows down, and you find yourself becoming more present.

About Rishikesh

Rishikesh is more than just a destination – it’s an experience. Known globally as the Yoga Capital of the World, this town sits at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The sacred Ganga River flows through Rishikesh, making it a spiritual hub for seekers, saints, and travelers.

The town is divided into two parts – the quieter side near Ram Jhula and ashrams, and the livelier side near Lakshman Jhula with cafés, adventure sports, and hostels. What makes Rishikesh unique is its balance – you can meditate by the river in the morning, go rafting in the afternoon, and sip coffee in a bohemian café by evening.

Places to Visit in Rishikesh

Triveni Ghat – The most popular ghat in Rishikesh, known for the sacred evening Ganga Aarti where diyas float across the river and chants fill the air. A perfect place to soak in the spiritual energy or take an early morning holy dip.

Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula – Iconic suspension bridges offering panoramic views of the Ganga and surrounding hills. Walking across them is both scenic and lively, with sadhus, travelers, and even monkeys adding to the experience.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram – A peaceful ashram famous for yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic healing. The Ganga Aarti here has a calm, soulful atmosphere compared to the bustling Triveni Ghat.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple lies deep in the forests around 30 km from Rishikesh. The scenic drive and mythological significance make it a must-visit for devotees and nature lovers alike.

The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) – Once home to The Beatles during their spiritual retreat, today it’s filled with colorful murals and graffiti. A quirky, quiet spot that blends music, art, and meditation.

Neer Garh & Patna Waterfalls – Natural waterfalls just a short hike away from town. Perfect for a refreshing dip or a peaceful escape into nature.

Food in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a 100% vegetarian and alcohol-free town, which preserves its spiritual atmosphere. But don’t mistake that for a lack of variety – the food scene here is surprisingly diverse and vibrant.

• Street Food: The lanes near Triveni Ghat are perfect for trying local snacks like hot samosas, crispy jalebis, aloo puri, and tangy chaat. Simple yet flavorful, these are best enjoyed with a glass of masala chai.
• Cafés: Rishikesh has a thriving café culture, popular with both locals and international travelers. Cafés like Little Buddha Café offer river views and a relaxed vibe, German Bakery is known for its freshly baked bread and desserts, while The Beatles Café combines music, art, and great food. Most serve a mix of continental, Israeli, and Indian fusion dishes.
• Ayurvedic Meals: Many ashrams and health-focused restaurants serve sattvic thalis – wholesome meals prepared with fresh ingredients, light spices, and a focus on balance. These meals not only taste good but also leave you feeling energized and calm.

Things to Do in Rishikesh

• River Rafting – One of the most thrilling experiences in Rishikesh, rafting on the Ganga gives you an adrenaline rush while you float past lush hills and riverbanks. The Shivpuri to Rishikesh stretch is the most popular and beginner-friendly.
• Camping by the River – Spend a night under the stars with the sound of the Ganga flowing nearby. Many campsites also offer bonfires, music, and adventure activities.
• Yoga & Meditation – Being the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is the perfect place to attend guided yoga and meditation sessions at world-famous ashrams or even join short workshops.
• Café Hopping – The town is dotted with scenic cafés where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Beatles Café, Little Buddha Café, and Ganga View Café are favorites for their river views and global menu.
• Adventure Sports – If you’re an adventure lover, Rishikesh won’t disappoint. Apart from rafting, you can try bungee jumping, zip-lining, or short treks to nearby hills and waterfalls.
• Spiritual Walks – Begin your mornings walking barefoot along the ghats, sitting quietly by the river, or attending satsangs (spiritual discourses). These moments of stillness are as memorable as the adventure.

Stay Options in Rishikesh

• Budget: If you’re a backpacker or solo traveler, places like Zostel Rishikesh and Live Free Hostel are perfect. They offer clean dorms, fun common areas, and a chance to meet fellow travellers from around the world.
• Mid-range: For those looking for comfort without going overboard, EllBee Ganga View and Divine Resort & Spa provide cozy rooms, good amenities, and even river views – ideal for families and couples.
• Luxury: If you want to indulge, Rishikesh has some of the finest luxury stays. Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa offers world-class service with stunning natural surroundings, while Ananda in the Himalayas is a globally renowned wellness retreat, perfect for yoga, meditation, and holistic healing.

How to Reach Rishikesh

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, about 20 km from Rishikesh. Daily flights connect Dehradun with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or cab which takes around 30–40 minutes to reach the town.
• By Train: The closest major railway station is Haridwar (25 km away), which is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other Indian cities. From Haridwar, you can hire a cab or take a shared auto/bus to Rishikesh in about 45 minutes. Rishikesh does have a small railway station, but trains are limited.
• By Road: Rishikesh is easily accessible by road from Delhi and other nearby cities. Regular buses (Volvo, AC, non-AC) run from Delhi’s Kashmere Gate ISBT and take around 6–7 hours depending on traffic. Many travellers also book private cabs or self-drive, as the Delhi–Meerut–Roorkee–Haridwar–Rishikesh route is smooth and scenic.

Local Transport

• Auto-rickshaws and shared tempos for short distances.
• Bicycles and scooters available for rent.
• Taxis for intercity and comfortable travel.
• Walking is ideal for exploring nearby attractions.

Itinerary (3 Days in Rishikesh)

Budget (Approx. per person for 3 days)

Travel Tips for Rishikesh

Pack Smart: Carry light cotton clothes in summer, a light jacket for evenings, yoga wear for sessions, and comfortable sports shoes for rafting or trekking.

Spiritual Norms: Rishikesh is a vegetarian, alcohol-free town – respect the local culture by avoiding meat and liquor here.

Book in Advance: During peak season (Oct–March), pre-book rafting slots, camping stays, and even hostels as Rishikesh gets crowded with tourists.

Stay Connected: Mobile network can be patchy in hilly or riverside areas, so download offline maps if planning treks or temple visits.

Cash & Connectivity: While many cafés accept UPI, smaller shops and autos prefer cash – carry some handy change.

Respect the Vibe: Ashrams and ghats are meant for peace and meditation – keep your voice low, dress modestly, and be mindful of the spiritual environment.