Things to Do in Rishikesh
From river rafting and bungee jumping to yoga, meditation, Ganga Aarti and scenic nature walks, Rishikesh offers activities for adventure seekers and travellers looking for a peaceful escape. Explore these experiences and choose what suits your interests, travel season and comfort level.
01🌊River Rafting on the Ganga
Experience guided white-water rafting on suitable stretches of the Ganga near Rishikesh. Routes and difficulty levels vary, and trips operate only when river conditions and local permissions allow. Choose a licensed operator, wear a helmet and life jacket, and follow the guide’s instructions.
02🪂Bungee Jumping
Try an exhilarating jump at an authorized adventure facility near Rishikesh. Before booking, check the operator’s safety standards, age and weight restrictions, medical eligibility and current operating status.
03🧘Yoga and Meditation
Join a yoga or meditation session in the town known worldwide for its spiritual traditions. Ashrams and studios offer everything from introductory classes to longer retreats; choose a programme suited to your experience.
04🪔Attend the Ganga Aarti
Watch the evening prayer ceremony on the banks of the Ganga, particularly around Triveni Ghat or the Parmarth Niketan area. Arrive early, dress respectfully and follow any photography or crowd-management instructions.
05☕Explore Riverside Cafes
Relax at a cafe around Tapovan and the riverside neighbourhoods while enjoying views of the hills and Ganga. This is a pleasant way to slow down between sightseeing and outdoor activities.
06🎨Visit the Beatles Ashram
Explore Chaurasi Kutia, the forest retreat linked with the Beatles’ 1968 stay. Discover its meditation structures, artistic murals and quiet paths, subject to the site’s opening hours and entry arrangements.
07🥾Take a Nature Walk
Walk along accessible riverside paths or designated nature trails to appreciate Rishikesh’s forested surroundings. Stick to established routes and avoid isolated or slippery sections during heavy rain.
08⛺Try a Riverside Camping Experience
Spend time at an authorized campsite in the wider Rishikesh–Shivpuri region. Look for a site with proper sanitation, safety arrangements and permission to operate; camping restrictions apply in some riverbank areas.
09💧Go on a Waterfall Trek
Enjoy a short trek towards scenic falls such as Neer Garh, where permitted. Wear sturdy footwear, carry drinking water and avoid steep, slippery trails when rainfall makes conditions unsafe.
10🌅Enjoy Sunrise at Kunjapuri
Head to Kunjapuri Devi Temple for panoramic hill views and a peaceful early-morning experience. Visibility depends on weather, and the visit involves a drive followed by steps to the temple.
11🌿Experience an Ayurvedic Wellness Session
Explore traditional wellness services offered by reputable centres in Rishikesh, from relaxation massages to guided wellness programmes. Confirm qualifications and suitability before booking any treatment.
12📷Photography by the Ganga
Capture suspension bridges, temple architecture, riverside life and mountain scenery during the softer morning or evening light. Be considerate when photographing worshippers and observe local restrictions.
13🛍️Explore Local Markets
Browse shops around Tapovan, Ram Jhula and Swarg Ashram for handicrafts, spiritual books, clothing and souvenirs. Keep time for walking through the lanes and discovering small local businesses.
14🛕Visit Temples and Ashrams
Discover the town’s spiritual heritage through visits to Bharat Mandir, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and established ashrams. Check visitor timings, remove shoes where required and respect prayer activities.
15🚴Cycling Around Rishikesh
Explore suitable roads or guided cycling routes in the surrounding area. Select a route appropriate to your fitness, use a helmet and stay alert to traffic, steep gradients and changing weather.
16🏞️Adventure Activities in Shivpuri
Explore organized outdoor experiences in the Shivpuri area, which may include rafting and other guided activities depending on the season. Confirm availability, safety requirements and permissions with the operator.