10 Best Things to do in Rishikesh

Rafting in rishikesh - Best things to do in rishikesh

Welcome to Rishikesh, a paradise of spirituality and adventure! In the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh has something unique to offer everyone. Whether you seek inner peace or an adrenaline rush, Rishikesh has it all. From experiencing Aarti, or rafting through the canyoning, to practicing yoga in the lap of nature, there is a lot to do here. With so much to offer, a visit here should be on your travel list if you are also wondering what to do in Rishikesh. Here are the 10 best things to do in Rishikesh that you must do on your trip!

Top 10 things to do in Rishikesh

Rafting in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is the ultimate destination in india for rafting. Rafting on the raging waves of the Ganges is an adventure. While rafting, you have a beautiful experience surrounded by stunning landscapes. With rapids ranging from easy to extreme, there is something for everyone here. It is one of the top attractions in Rishikesh, whether you are a solo traveler or part of a group. Rishikesh guarantees you an unforgettable experience of adventure to remember forever.

  • Rafting Point – Shivpuri
  • Starting Price – INR 600/ person
Bungee Jumping in rishikesh

For adrenaline junkies, Rishikesh offers the ultimate adrenaline rush experience. Jumping from the 83-meter platform with himalayan views gives you the experience of zero gravity. It becomes special for everyone to feel their heartbeat while falling towards the river Huel. The trained professionals and excellent equipment ensure a safe and thrilling descent. Avail this opportunity to push yourself beyond the limits and test yourself in one of the most beautiful places in nature!

  • Location – Jumping Heights, Mohan Chatti
  • Price – INR 3700/ person

3. Trekking

Kunjapuri Temple Surise Trek

Experience an awe-inspiring journey through the Himalayas with the Kunjapuri trek in Rishikesh. Trekking is one of the best offbeat things to do in Rishikesh. This trek takes you to the Kunjapuri Temple at 1650 m above spectacular Himalayas views. Enjoy trekking through the green forests while watching the sunrise over the majestic himalayas. This 3-hour journey generally lasts for about 3 hours. You can opt for an early morning trip to witness the beautiful spectacle of the sunrise!

  • Trek – Kunjapuri Temple Sunrise Trek
  • Trek Distance – 15 Km

4. Zipline

Zipline in rishikesh

Are you eager to zipline above the Ganges landscape of Rishikesh? Ziplining is ideal – it offers stunning views of the majestic Himalayas, the river Ganges, and lush green forests. Organized in Shivpuri, this activity gives you an aerial Ganga view. It is about 750 meters long. To engage yourself in challenging moments, Ziplining is an opportunity you must try now!

  • Location – Shivpuri
  • Price – INR 500/ person

5. Camping

Camping in rishikesh

If you are looking for ideal family adventure and tranquillity? Then camping in Rishikesh is for you! The campsite at the Himalayas’ foothills and on the Ganges’ banks provides a serene setting to experience fresh nature. Camping allows one to escape city life and reconnect with nature. Bonfires, starlit views, and outdoor activities will add to your camping excitement. There are many accommodation options ranging from luxury tents to trekking tents.

  • Location – Shivpuri
  • Starting Price – INR 1000/ Night

6. Paragliding

Paragliding in Rishikesh

Paragliding in Rishikesh will add a more adventurous touch to your trip. Flying over the Ganges river and the Garhwal Himalayas will bring you up close to a bird’s eye view! Paragliding gives you a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will remember. With experienced pilots and state-of-the-art equipment, safety is the number one priority. Plus, there are various paragliding options, from short trips to long flights – something for every adventurer!

  • Location  – Maldevta
  • Price – INR 2000/ person

7. Flying Fox

Flying Fox

Flying Fox gives you the feeling of flying like a bird. It is a perfect adventure activity in this picturesque town. Floating in the air with the majestic Ganges River and the lush green forests below will make your adventure dreams come true. Its courses range from easy to complex. Ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience – from novices to seasoned adventurers – trained guides and equipment are provided for all participants. Give yourself a chance to test yourself and see the stunning beauty of Rishikesh from a whole new perspective!

  • Location – Mohan Chatti
  • Price – INR 3700/ person

8. Giant Swing

Giant Swing in Rishikesh

Giant Swing is one of the favorite attractions of adventure lovers in Rishikesh. Giant Swing Point is 26 km from Rishikesh City. Located in Mohanchatti village, this jumping point allows you to swing from a height of 83 meters. The picturesque view of the surrounding makes this adventurous moment even more attractive. If you are part of Rishikesh adventure travel for the first time, try this activity. This activity will satisfy your adrenaline rush quest.

  • Location – Mohan Chatii
  • Price – INR 1000/ person

9. Ganga Aarti

Ganga Aarti in Parmarth Niketan Ghat

Experience Rishikesh’s spiritual and cultural splendour at the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony. A must-see event for any visitor to this holy city. Standing on the banks of the majestic Ganges River, priests perform an ancient ritual of devotion and reverence. It will elevate you and dazzle you with power and beauty. Whether you believe in or are interested in India’s rich cultural heritage, witnessing this incredible event is an artistic spectacle.

  • Best Places – Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ghat, & Purnanand Ghat
  • Timing – 7:00 pm (Every Day)

10. Yoga & Meditation

Yoga in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world. Meditation and yoga emphasize inner peace in the human system. If you also want to be a part of the yoga culture of Rishikesh, then take yourself forward on the spiritual path. It helps you not only physically but also spiritually. From Hatha and Ashtanga to Kundalini Yoga, Rishikesh has trained many yoga teachers, from beginners to advanced.

  • Best Places – Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram, Himalayan Yog Ashram, & Patanjali International Yoga Foundation

The most famous thing about Rishikesh is its spiritual and yoga culture. The city is known as the birthplace of yoga and attracts many spiritual seekers, yoga enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is also famous for a suspension bridge called Laxman Jhula, a popular tourist spot in the city.

Visit the Beatles Ashram, where the Beatles stayed in 1968 and wrote many famous songs.
Attend a yoga class or meditate in one of the yoga centres.
Dip in the holy Ganges river and attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
Stroll on the Laxman Jhula bridge and visit temples like Ram Jhula, Trayambakeshwar Temple, and Bharat Mandir.

Rishikesh is an affordable destination to visit. Accommodation and food are relatively cheap. You can find budget-friendly options to stay and eat. However, adventure activities like river rafting or bungee jumping can be a bit pricey.