Explore a perfect 3-day Rishikesh travel guide, covering spiritual experiences, thrilling adventures, offbeat attractions, and essential tips to make your trip truly memorable.
Rishikesh, sitting at the foothills of the stunning Himalayas, isn’t just a town—it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Located on the holy banks of the Ganges, it’s famously called the “Yoga Capital of the World” and the “Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas.” Whether you’re after some soul-soothing peace or an adrenaline rush, Rishikesh has something for everyone.
In this travel guide, we’ll take you through an exciting 3-day journey in Rishikesh, from spiritual retreats and adventure activities to peaceful walks in nature. So, are you ready to explore this incredible town? Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Start with Spirituality and Culture
1. Triveni Ghat
Begin your Rishikesh itinerary at Triveni Ghat, the biggest and most popular ghat in town. It’s where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet, making it a sacred spot for an early morning dip or some quiet meditation. After that, visit Bharat Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The peaceful vibe and old architecture make it a perfect start to your spiritual journey.
- Best time to visit: Early morning, 5:30 am – 7:00 am
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Around 20 minutes (5.2 km)
2. Beatles Ashram
Next, head to the Beatles Ashram at Chaurasi Kutia. This ashram became famous worldwide in the 1960s when the Beatles visited to learn transcendental meditation. Today, you can wander through the old halls covered in colorful graffiti and soak in the calm, peaceful vibe of the place.
- Opening hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 11 minutes (2.7 km)
3. Neer Garh Waterfall
After a spiritual morning, head out for a short hike to Neer Garh Waterfall, a hidden gem about 3 km from Laxman Jhula. The hike is easy and takes you through beautiful forest scenery. When you reach the waterfall, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool water or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful cascades.
- Best time to visit: October–November or February–May
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Around 25 minutes (8.1 km)
4. Ganga View Café
After your hike, it’s time to refuel. Stop by Ganga View Café, a popular spot known for its tasty food and amazing views of the Ganges. Treat yourself to dishes like scrambled tofu, vegan chickpea pancakes, or a 3-slice open toasty while you relax and soak in the scenery.
- Cost per person: Around 200–600 INR
- Walking time from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 2 minutes (350 metres)
Day 2: Adventure and Nature
1. River Rafting in Rishikesh
Kick off your day with some adventure! Rishikesh is famous for river rafting, and no trip here is complete without it. The 16 km stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh has rapids ranging from Grade I to IV, perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters. As you ride the waves, you’ll also get stunning views of the surrounding hills, making the experience even more thrilling.
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Cost per person: Around 450 INR
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 25 minutes (7.8 km)
2. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
Next, visit the two famous suspension bridges, Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. These bridges are not only architectural marvels but also offer stunning views of the Ganges, temples, and ashrams nearby. Take a leisurely walk across, explore the bustling streets, shop for souvenirs at local stores, or simply sit by the river and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Timings: 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 7 minutes (1.7 km)
3. Parmarth Niketan
Make sure to visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram, one of the largest and most peaceful ashrams in Rishikesh. It’s a perfect spot for meditation, yoga, and learning about Hindu culture. Don’t miss the evening Ganga Aarti, a magical ceremony with chanting, floating diyas, and the gentle breeze of the river—it’s an experience you won’t forget.
- Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 8 minutes (2.5 km)
4. Indulge in Street Food
Wrap up your day by tasting the delicious street food of Rishikesh. Don’t miss local favorites like samosas, aloo chaat, and lassi. You can try samosas at The Rajasthani Restaurant near Triveni Ghat, or sweet jalebis at Geeta Bhawan Swargashram. Some of the best street food spots are around Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, where you can enjoy the flavors while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Explore Hidden Gems and Find Serenity
1. Vashishta Cave
End your Rishikesh trip with a visit to Vashishta Cave, a peaceful spot about 25 km from town. It’s said that sage Vashistha once meditated here, and since then, people have come to the cave seeking calm and tranquility. The walk through the surrounding forest is beautiful on its own. Once inside, you can sit, relax, and feel the serenity—it’s almost like the silence itself helps your worries melt away.
- Timings: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm & 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Around 30 minutes (7.4 km)
2. Rajaji National Park
Next, step into nature at Rajaji National Park, a great place to see wildlife up close. The park is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds. You can go on a jeep safari through the dense forest and watch animals in their natural surroundings. It’s calm, green, and a refreshing break from the busy areas of Rishikesh.
- Timings: 6:00 am – 9:00 am & 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
- Entry fee: Around 150 INR for 3 hours
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: About 6 minutes (2.1 km)
3. Kyarki Village
After your wildlife adventure, head to Kyarki Village, a small and scenic village near Rishikesh. It gives you a glimpse of the simple, traditional life in the Himalayan foothills. Spend some time talking to the locals, learning about their culture, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Don’t miss the Kyarki viewpoint, which is especially beautiful during sunset. It’s the perfect place to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
- Best time to visit: Daytime
- Travel from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Around 35 minutes (9.9 km)
4. Shopping at Laxman Jhula Market
End your trip with a little shopping. Rishikesh has lively markets where you can pick up souvenirs, local handicrafts, yoga accessories, and more. Laxman Jhula Market is a great place to buy scarves, shawls, handmade clothes, and unique crafts. You can also explore Rishikesh Main Market and Ram Jhula Market for more shopping options and last-minute souvenirs.
How to Reach Rishikesh
By Road
Rishikesh is well connected by road and is a popular choice for travellers. It is around 240 km from Delhi, and the drive usually takes 6–7 hours, depending on traffic. You can easily reach Rishikesh by car, taxi, or shared cab.
By Train
The nearest major railway station is Haridwar Junction, about 25 km from Rishikesh. From Haridwar, you can take a bus, taxi, or auto to reach Rishikesh in 40–45 minutes. There is also a Rishikesh Railway Station, but only a few trains run directly to it.
By Bus
Rishikesh is also easy to reach by bus. Both government and private buses connect the town with major cities like Delhi, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Buses from Haridwar and Dehradun are frequent and usually take 1–2 hours. Travelling by bus is a budget-friendly and convenient option, especially for backpackers.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh
The best time to visit Rishikesh depends on what you want to experience. In general, the ideal months are September to November and March to May. During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, adventure activities, and exploring the town at a relaxed pace.
Conclusion
Rishikesh truly has something for everyone. From peaceful spiritual experiences and scenic ghats to thrilling adventure sports and river rafting, the town offers a perfect mix of calm and excitement. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore nature, or dive into local culture, Rishikesh is a destination that leaves you with unforgettable memories.
