Rishikesh Trip: Lose yourself on the Ghats of Ganga

Located in the Northern state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is well-known as the Yoga Capital of the world. The religious inclination by the presence of the Ganga invites devout Hindus from all parts of India. Those with the love of adventure sports visit Rishikesh for the white-water rafting in the Ganga. I didn’t go to Rishikesh for any of that. I just went to find the tranquility and inner peace on the ghat of the Ganga. Although I did try to visit all the places to visit in Rishikesh in one day, not all could be covered, but I found peace surely. My Rishikesh trip constituted of strolling around the Ganga, and the ghats eating bhelpuri or gol-gappas. 

Rishikesh Trip: Lose yourself on the Ghats of Ganga

Ram Jhula

Over the river Ganga, the suspension bridge built-in 1980s is Ram Jhula. The bridge was built after Laxman Jhula but still is one of the most landmarks in Rishikesh. On your Rishikesh trip, I suggest a walk down the Ram Jhula towards the other side to explore the other side of Rishikesh. 

There are ashrams on both sides of the river, and the Ram Jhula is one of the best ways to behold each front. After Laxman Jhula’s closing in July’19, Ram Jhula is one of the fastest means to cross the other side. The bridge is used by pedestrians and two-wheelers to cross the river. Ram Jhula is lit brightly as dusk creeps up visible from far ends of the town. 

Update: Laxman Jhula is closed for restoration from July 2019.

The Ganga Ghats

Rishikesh is well known for the Ganga river dividing the town into two parts. The ghats on the Ganga are now well maintained and quite clean. I completely loved spending time doing nothing but just sitting on the Ganga Ghats with my feet dip in the river.  

Triveni Ghat Aarti

One of the most famous ghats in Rishikesh is the Triveni Ghat. It is said that Lord Krishna visited the ghat and was shot by a hunter. This makes it one of the most idolized ghats in the town. 

On your Rishikesh trip, take out time in the evening to attend the aarti here. Even when you’re not religious, the chants here mesmerize you. Or take a dip in the holy waters of the river Ganga or sit back listening to the holy chants. 

The Beatles Ashram

The Beatles Ashram is one of the most popular spots in Rishikesh and the music junkies don’t miss going there on their Rishikesh trip. It was a meditation training center and The Beatles studied meditation here during early 1968. 

The Beatles Ashram is located on a secluded corner of Rishikesh just near the Rajaji National park, opposite Muni ki Reti. The ashram was closed in 1990 and was acquired by the Department of Forest and opened for public in 2015. The ashram celebrated the 50th anniversary of Beatles arrival in 2018. The ashram is painted with graffiti by the lovers of The Beatles band as a tribute. 

If you have more than a day to spend, here are some places to visit or activities to do on your Rishikesh trip. 

Rajaji National Park

The Rajaji National Park, a renowned tiger reserve in Uttarakhand came into existence in 1983 when 3 national parks were merged into one. There are almost 20 tigers in the park, so you might spot one on a safari.

River Rafting

Most of the people visit Rishikesh for the white water rafting on the Ganga. The river rafting takes almost 3-4 hours and is an extremely tiring activity. If you’re on a short Rishikesh trip, you might not be able to do anything else after rafting. 

Adventure Sports at Jumpin Heights

If you love adventure sports, then Jumpin Heights should be your pick. Located just outside of the town, the zone is one for the adventure junkies. They offer bungee jumping, flying fox, giant swing, run by ex-army officers. The best part is that the officers are trained in New Zealand and the hub is of international standard.

Where to stay in Rishikesh

There is no dearth of places to stay in Rishikesh, hotels, hostels, Airbnb and even ashrams. I was staying only for a night and wanted to stay by the Ganga ghats, I chose Yog Niketan by Sanskriti. I was thrilled that I booked the moment I checked in the room, the Ganga was right in front of the room. The balcony gave me a perfect view of the river that I expected. The best part was the hotel exited right on the ghats of Ganga. The bright room with elegant interiors, the hotel will make your stay remarkable.

If you’re visiting Rishikesh for Yoga, then you’re in luck, Yog Niketan by Sanskriti offers daila Yoga sessions too. With in house restaurant with ample food options and an included breakfast, you’ll feel right at home.

If you like, you may book the hotel here. 

Where to eat in Rishikesh

During your Rishikesh trip, eat local, the town has numerous wonderful cafes. Don’t forget to eat the street food when you’re taking a walk on the Ganga ghats.

How to commute in Rishikesh

The public transport is almost non-existential in the town like any major city. But there are auto rickshaws available all over the town. They are shared but also available as personal but cost a tad high than the former. You may also rent a bike or scooter if you like more freedom, but it’s not easy to drive in the mild hilly roads. 

So, this is my Rishikesh Travel Guide with all the must-see places to visit in Rishikesh. Tell me what all things you’d like to do on your Rishikesh trip.  

HAVE YOU TRAVELED TO RISHIKESH? HOW MANY DAYS DID YOU SPEND AND WHAT ALL PLACES YOU VISITED? IF YOU PLAN TO TAKE A RISHIKESH TRIP, WHAT ARE THE PLACES YOU’D LIKE TO SEE? TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!

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