Rishikesh is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand for a joyous vacation. It is famously known as the Yoga Capital of the World or Tapobhumi. But other than that, you can also enjoy adventure activities like river rafting. In that case, it serves the dual purpose for travellers looking for peace & adventure fun. If you want to escape from your mundane daily life routine, then plan a trip to Rishikesh, as it stocks many top attractions to make reminiscing memories.
If you wish to seek peace, there are many pilgrimage sites in Rishikesh to explore. Some popular ones include Triveni Ghat, Trayambakeshwar Temple, Raghunath Temple, Kunjapuri Devi Temple, & others. Let us briefly explain the mythological story behind its divine name. Once, a sage named Raibhya Rishi performed rigorous penance on the banks of the River Ganga. Impressed with his dedication, Lord Vishnu appeared to him as Hrishikesh. Since then the place later became popular with the name Rishikesh.
The meaning of the name Hrishikesh is the one with complete control over his senses, whose hair consists of rays of the sun & the moon, & the one who gives joy to others. He is none other than Vishnu, the Preserver of the Universe. Now, let us bring you the checklist of places worth visiting in Rishikesh.
Top 25 Places To Visit In Rishikesh On Your Vacation
1. Laxman Jhula
Built-in 1939, Laxman Jhula is one of the top sites to explore in Rishikesh. This 450-long iron suspended bridge attracts tourists with its marvellous architectural structure. According to mythological fact, it was the bridge where Lord Laxman, the younger brother of Lord Ram, crossed the River Ganga on a jute rope.
- Things to do: Visiting the nearby Laxman Temple, & other temples, & viewing the River Ganga from the top.
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 5.2 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Stand: 5.9 km
2. Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula was built in 1980, later to Laxman Jhula. While crossing this bridge, you will witness the gushing River Ganga in full flow. Earlier, there were reports of its stability weakness. But now, it is entirely safe for pedestrians to cross the River Ganga.
- Things to do: Watching gushing flow of River Ganga, & nearby temples
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 3 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3.7 km
3. Kunjapuri Devi Temple
Kunjapuri Devi Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kunjapuri in Rishikesh. The temple is placed at 1645 m, giving a panoramic sight of Himalayan peaks. Besides praying to the deity, the holy place is also suitable for trekking. You have to travel from Narendra Nagar to Gangotri, which is at a distance of 6 km. The road then divides at Hindola Khal, which leads you to the temple, just 5 km from it. Being a revered religious place, many devotees visit the temple during the Navratri festival in April & October.
- Things to do: Praying to the goddess, watching morning sunrise & trekking.
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 26.7 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 29 km
4. Triveni Ghat
The next prominent religious travel spot is Triveni Ghat. As the name suggests, it is the unification of 3 significant rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, & Saraswati. When visiting Triveni Ghat, you should attend the holy Ganga Aarti in the evening. The reason why this ghat is considered to be sacred is because taking a dip in the River Ganga cleanses all your sins.
- Things to do: Taking a dip in the holy River Ganga, & attending Ganga Aarti
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 1.7 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 2.5 km
5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Lord Shiva is one of the most loved Hindu deities, with a maximum number of devotees. If you are one of them, then Neelkanth Mahadev Temple should be included in your Rishikesh Itinerary list. Following a Hindu mythological fact, the temple lies where Shiva drank the Halahala poison that came out during the Samudramanthan. After drinking the poison, his throat became bluish & he got the name of Neelkanth.
- Things to do: Seeking blessings of Lord Mahadev, bungee jumping, flying fox
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 25.5 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 26.8 km
6. Parmarth Niketan
If you are an avid Yoga follower, you should visit Parmarth Niketan, one of the famous places to visit in Rishikesh. Its foundation was laid in 1942 by Swami Shukdevanand Saraswati. The ashram welcomes all people irrespective of caste, creed, gender, religion, race, & nationality. It organises the International Yoga Festival that attracts maximum visitors. Be part of Ganga Aarti, which takes place in the morning & evening at the ghat of Parmarth.
- Things to do: Attending Ganga Aarti, practising yoga & meditation
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 3 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3.9 km
7. Raghunath Temple
Raghunath Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama & his consort Sita. This temple is located near Triveni Ghat & is known for organising religious ceremonies. So, besides seeking the blessings of Lord Ram, you can also attend the evening aarti here. You can also plan a destination wedding in Rishikesh amidst a religious atmosphere.
- Things to do: Seeking blessings of Lord Ram & Goddess Sita, attending evening aarti at Triveni Ghat, bathe in holy pond, capture the reflection of temple in the pond via photography
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 1.4 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 2 km
8. Tera Manzil Mandir
Tera Manzil Mandir, also popularly known as Trimbakeshwar Temple, is one of the famous holy shrines in Rishikesh. Located on the banks of River Ganga, it comprises 13 storeys, as per its name, & is exceptionally appealing for its unique structure.
- Things to do: Worshipping Shiva & other deities
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 5.3 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 6 km
9. Bhootnath Temple
After Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Bhootnath Temple is another holy spot dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located atop the hill, you must reach it via trekking, which is tough. However, the devotion towards Shiva will surely take you to the temple, where you can experience the panoramic view of Rishikesh city. Bhootnath is one of the names of Lord Shiva, as he is the master of ghosts.
- Things to do: Praying to Shiva, watching the panoramic view of Rishikesh city
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 2.9 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 4 km
10. Sivananda Ashram
There are many things to do in Rishikesh, including practising yoga at Sivananda Ashram, which is 3 m distance from Rishikesh. It is the famous Yoga centre in the city, where many popular personalities visit this ashram to become part of the empowering Yoga programs organised by the masters.
- Things to do: Participate in Yoga programs
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 2.7 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3 km
11. Lakshman Temple
Lakshman Temple in Rishikesh holds utmost importance as it is dedicated to Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram. Situated near Lakshman Jhula in Tapovan, the spiritual aura of this temple attracts devotees for its ancient carvings, sculptures, & paintings. Lakshman is also known to be the incarnation of Shesh Naag, on the coil of which Lord Vishnu rests.
- Things to do: Praying to Lord Lakshman
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 5 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 6 km
12. Shri Bharat Mandir
Shri Bharat Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. There are several mythological facts you will find here about this temple. One such relates to the Mahabharata era, when Pandavas were leaving for heaven, stayed at this temple, & took blessings of Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. Another version depicts the visit of Lord Buddha to this temple, which was transformed into a monastery for some years.
- Things to do: Seeking blessings of Lord Hrishikesh Narayan, a form of Lord Vishnu
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 1.4 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 2.3 km
13. Kaudiyala
Other than religious sites, there are adventure activities to do in Rishikesh. Kaudiyala is one perfect example for adventure seekers. Nestled at the banks of the River Ganga, it is an ideal spot for camping & river rafting with friends. The white sand here adds beauty to the town.
- Things to do: River rafting & camping
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 36 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 36.8 km
14. Omkarananda Ashram
The foundation of Omkarananda Ashram took place 50 years ago by H.D. Paramahamsa Omkarananda Saraswati. He was a renowned saint, writer, philosopher, & mystic sage. Many saints & priests of magnificent temples visit this ashram to celebrate Shivratri, Navratri, Krishna Janmashtami, & Deepavali. It is located on the banks of River Ganga, & is a must place to experience spiritual enlightenment.
- Things to do: Engaging in religious activities, experience peace & attending meditation centres
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 2.5 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3.1 km
15. The Beatles Ashram
The Beatles Ashram became famous ever since the popular musical group The Beatles made their visit. During their time of stay, they wrote many songs. If you were a Beatles fan, you should explore the ruins of this place, which is still captivating. Enjoy hours meditating here.
- Things to do: Exploring the ruins of the ashram, & practise meditation
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 2.7 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3.8 km
16. Osho Gangadham
If you are visiting Rishikesh to experience meditation & peace, visit Osho Gangadham, founded by the late spiritual guru Osho. It is a perfect place to soothe your inner self by learning the art of meditation. Those dealing with stress & anxiety must visit this ashram. Proper hygiene is maintained in all the rooms & meals.
- Things to do: Practise meditation & inner peace
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 8 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 6 km
17. Vashistha Cave
Vashishtha Cave is related to sage Vashishtha, one of the Saptarishis & the Manas Putra of Lord Brahma. According to Hindu mythology, this is the cave where he meditated for 100 years. Do visit here & spend some time meditating inside the cave.
- Things to do: Meditating peacefully in cave
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 21.2 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 27 km
18. Rishikund
Rishikund, or Pond of Rishis, is a pious site in Rishikesh you should visit & take a holy bath here. The pond is said to be blessed by Goddess River Yamuna. Here, you can see the reflection of the entrance tower of the Raghunath Temple. It is one of the relaxing places to consider.
- Things to do: Taking a holy dip in the pond, watching the reflection of Raghunath Temple
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 1.8 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3 km
19. Sadhaka Grama Ashram
Sadhaka Grama Ashram was founded by Swami Veda Bharati in 2002. It is a non-profit ashram based on Swami Rama’s principles. Encircled with the most lavish villas in Rishikesh, this is a must-place to experience peace.
- Things to do: Experience rejuvenating session, yoga, & meditation
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 4 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 6 km
20. Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh Waterfall is a unique natural attraction in Rishikesh for its wonderful sight of cascading waterfall & scenic surroundings. It is the best place to indulge in photography, trekking, picnicking, or leisure walks amidst the serene atmosphere. You can also have fun dipping into the chilly pond formed by the waterfall at its base.
- Things to do: Picnicking, trekking, photography, nature walk, dipping in water
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 8.9 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 9.7 km
21. Byasi
For all those seeking adventure fun, you must visit Byasi in Rishikesh. It is a perfect place to experience river rafting, camping, & boating. You will find a plethora of restaurants & homestays at this place. Do include this in your Itinerary list when planning a vacation to Rishikesh.
- Things to do: Camping, boating, & river rafting
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 30.5 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 31.3 km
22. Muni Ki Reti
Muni Ki Reti is also a popular travel spot to explore in Rishikesh. It houses a multitude of Hindu temples & ashrams. Coming to this place will keep you calm & grounded. With a lesser tourist crowd, you will surely enjoy strolling through the banks of the River Ganga.
- Things to do: Visiting temples, strolling through River Ganga
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 2 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 3 km
23. Shivpuri
Shivpuri comes as an ideal retreat for adventure seekers who can enjoy river rafting, a famous water sport in Rishikesh. The place is crowded with adventure seekers waiting for their turn. Whether you wish to go for a 9 km or 21 km expedition aquatic ride, you will be equipped with safety equipment.
- Things to do: River Rafting
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 14.8 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 16.1 km
24. Rajaji National Park
If you think Rishikesh is all about temples, let us draw your attention to Rajaji National Park, a perfect travel spot for wildlife lovers. Here, you can get the chance to view the tiger passing by. Besides this, you would also love to capture the flow of rivers Ganga & Song.
- Things to do: Watching tiger, viewing the flow of River Ganga & River Song
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 14 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 8 km
25. Rishikesh Main Market
After exploring temples & other offbeat spots, it’s time to shop at Rishikesh Main Market. Here, you can shop for necklaces, earrings, bangles, & many more items. Purchasing items from here will seem like a token of memories regarding your joyous visit to the divine city of Uttarakhand.
- Things to do: Shopping for items including earrings, bangles, & other things
- Distance from Rishikesh Bus Stand: 1.0 km
- Distance from Rishikesh Railway Station: 1.3 km
Conclusion
With all the options of best places to visit in Rishikesh, the famous Yoga Capital of the World, is a perfect place to escape from the bustling city life, & experience inner peace. But to explore it, you need to decide on your staycation. Well, no need to scroll around for multiple options, as we suggest you book jüSTa Rasa Retreat & Spa. It is one of the best luxurious resorts to stay in Rishikesh. This 5-star resort features facilities ranging from 28 rooms, a Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Banquet Hall, swimming pool, & spa.