Rishikesh is an ideal city to visit, which blends yoga and adventure. Along with being situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is also the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Rishikesh is a city of spiritual transformation and unique for lovers of beauty and adventure. If you choose hill travel beyond Rishikesh, then it would not be wrong to say that near Rishikesh are also the most beautiful hill stations of Uttarakhand. If you are looking for some beautiful hill stations around Rishikesh, here is a guide for you. We have prepared a list of beautiful hill stations around Rishikesh below, which you must visit.
Narendra Nagar is just 20 kilometres from Rishikesh and 3,349 feet above sea level. Offering panoramic views of the deodar forests and Rishikesh city, this hill town was once the summer capital of the Tehri rulers. If you want to see hill stations near Rishikesh, then this city is for you. As the historical land of the Tehri Kingdom, it is a central hub where you will find significant attractions like Kingdom Palace, Hotel Ananda and Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek.
Image Credit – Mr. Raj
Chamba, located 64 km from Rishikesh, is one of the best hill towns in Tehri Garhwal. It is the main circumambulation route for exploring the Garhwal Himalayas. Also, it is the main route of Gangotri-Yamunotri Dham, which is one of the Chota Char Dhams of Uttarakhand. Spread over an area of about 4 to 5 km, this hill station offers stunning views of the Himalayas and Tehri Lake. There are many hotels, resorts and guest houses to stay here, which provide luxurious accommodation on a low budget. Dobra-Chanthi Bridge is one of the most popular attractions of Chamba, which is 24 km away.
Just 11 km from Chamba and 75 km from Rishikesh, New Tehri is a beautiful hill station and the administrative centre of Tehri Garhwal district. It is famous for the Tehri Dam, which is one of the largest dams in Asia. The surrounding view is completed by the lake and the lush green mountains. If you are an adventure lover then it is the best place for you. Here you can enjoy water sports like jet skiing, boating and parasailing. The same happened with the Bollywood film “Batti Gul Meter Chalu“, which gave it recognition at the National level.
Kanatal, 78 km from Rishikesh, is a charming village and hill station in Tehri Garhwal. Kanatal is known for offering offbeat experiences and outdoor activities. From camping to ziplines, it is a hub of adventure and a paradise to stay in. Experience the untouched beauty and rustic charm of Kanatal for a memorable holiday amidst nature. Along with the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, the serene atmosphere here and the snow-capped peaks will compel you to stay here.
Located at a distance of 67 km from Rishikesh, Dhanaulti is a wonderful stop surrounded by deodar forests. Situated at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea level, it is famous for its beautiful views of the Garhwal Himalayas and its serene environment. The dam is a great place to embrace the peace and enjoy the winding paths. Dhanaulti is one of the most beautiful places near Rishikesh, and tops the top holiday destinations.
Who does not know Mussoorie? Mussoorie is a world-famous tourist hill station 120 km from Rishikesh. Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of Hills“, is a panoramic view of nature. Like Interline, this hill station is full of natural Miracle and retains a freshness. Kempty Fall, Mall Road, Camel Back Road, and Company Garden are the major tourist places here. If you are also planning to visit Mussoorie, then it may be best to travel from Rishikesh. After the adventurous options of Rishikesh, a visit to the “Queen of Hills” will bring you peace.
Devprayag is a beautiful hill town, 72 km from Rishikesh. It is the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers, after which the river is known as “Ganga”. With wonderful surroundings and a spiritual aura, this place offers a unique experience to every enthusiast and tourist. If you are looking for a hill town a little far away from Rishikesh, then Devprayag should be your first choice. It is also the starting point for a 74 km rafting expedition to Rishikesh, from where the rafting journey lasts for 2 to 3 days.
Lansdowne is a hidden gem in Pauri Garhwal, 124 km from Rishikesh. It is a picturesque town that is ideal for those seeking solitude. Amidst its lush greenery and oak forest, it was once a favourite tourist destination of the British Raj. Now, at this location, the Garhwal Rifles provides military training as an Indian Army service. Every tourist who visits this blissful abode cannot live without praising this place. Unveil the serenity of Lansdowne, and let its magic awaken your love for nature.
Image Credit – Rakesh Singh Rawat
One of the hidden gems of Dehradun, Chakrata, is 124 km from Rishikesh. Surrounded by a landscape of towering pine and deodar trees, it offers an unforgettable experience to everyone. Beyond the bustling city, Chakrata is home to a calm and serene environment. With an exciting journey of curvy roads, the journey from Rishikesh to Chakrata will be one to remember for a lifetime. Chakrata comes under the Jaunsar area, where folk culture and hospitality service will keep you hooked here.
Image Credit – Vidyut Prakash Maurya
Overlooking the Himalayas, Chopta is an excellent place for summer and winter holidays. This small destination located in Chamoli district is at a distance of about 162 km from Rishikesh. It is famous for the Tungnath Temple, which is the highest temple of Lord Shiva. It is a beautiful hill station near Rishikesh, which offers impressive views of the Himalayas. The best time to visit Chopta is from December to February. If you want to experience the vastness of the Himalayas and see the depiction of nature in a new form, then Chopta will be your best destination.
There are many beautiful hill stations near Rishikesh, among them are Narendra Nagar, Chamba, New Tehri, Kanatal, Dhanaulti, and Rudraprayag come within a 100 km radius of Rishikesh. It will take you a full one to two days to travel to these hill stations.
The nearest hill town to Rishikesh is Narendra Nagar. It is located only 20 km away from Rishikesh.
The best time to visit hill stations near Rishikesh is from March to June and from September to November. The temperature remains moderate during this time and the beauty of the mountains is also better than in winter.
It is possible to visit some of the hill stations near Rishikesh in a day trip. But to fully experience the natural beauty and adventure activities in the area, an overnight stay would be more enjoyable. It also depends on the distance from Rishikesh to the hill station and the time you have for travel.