We arrived in Rishikesh at 5:00 am, hired a personal auto, and headed toward Ram Jhula. As we approached the Ganga, it felt as though our souls were being cleansed. The lively chatter in the auto gradually gave way to silence as we all shared a profound sense of connection with the sacred surroundings.
Rishikesh is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a spiritual retreat that draws travelers from around the world. Also known as the Yoga Capital of the World. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, adventure through rafting, or simply a quiet retreat in nature, Rishikesh has something for everyone.
Upon reaching our accommodation, we realized we were quite early, and the staff hadn’t arrived yet. I decided to sit in the garden and began chanting with my beads mala, closing my eyes and immersing myself in the moment. I completed two rounds of chanting when I was interrupted by a voice saying, “Hare Krishna.”
I opened my eyes and greeted him back, “Hare Krishna.” Standing before me was a gentleman from Germany, not Indian, yet dressed in a traditional dhoti-kurta with a tilak on his forehead. We exchanged a few words, and he shared that he was visiting major temples across India with his family. I offered my assistance if he needed any help, to which he smiled gratefully.
After our brief conversation, I returned to my chanting. A few minutes later, we finally checked in and took some much-needed rest after our long journey.
My partner, sister, and I spent about 15 days in Rishikesh, juggling work while exploring the city. Here, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your own unforgettable trip to Rishikesh.
Where to plan stay in Rishikesh?
There are good accommodation options around Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, but most places prefer offline bookings. Due to their high demand, they tend to be fully booked quite often.
For more choices, Tapovan is the area where you’ll find a wide variety of hostels and quality hotels – spot for travelers.
What and Where to Eat in Rishikesh ?
Rishikesh offers a delightful mix of vegetarian and Italian cuisine. Here are some of the cafes and restaurants we loved during our stay.
Rawat Restaurant – Near Lakshman Jhula Road, perfect for simple and affordable everyday meals. A wholesome thali with chapati, rice, dal, sabzi, and pickles.
Cafes – Little Buddha, Beatles Cafe, and the German Bakery. Wood-fired pizzas, hummus platters
Geeta Bhawan – Indian dishes like kachoris, chole-puris, and jalebis.
German Bakery – Ideal for freshly baked bread, cakes, and coffee.
Little Buddha Cafe – Known for its laid-back vibe and riverside views, offering Italian, Israeli, and Indian food.
The Beatles Cafe Famous for its history and variety of international dishes.
Our favourite – Freshly baked Nan Khatai near Laxman Jhula – it’s a local treat you won’t want to miss!
Chats and chole paav at local shops, so yum.
And, fresh local fruits like ramphal near Ram jhula 🙂
Places You Can’t Miss in Rishikesh
- Lakshman Jhula – 450-foot-long suspension bridge built in 1929 holds a deep spiritual connection for devotees. According to Hindu scriptures, this bridge is believed to be the spot where Lakshman crossed the Ganga using a jute rope.
- Ram Jhula is newer addition compared to Lakshman jhula.
- Ganga Aarti – Held at Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Ashram, the evening aartis are a sight to behold at every ghat along the Ganga. Even if you miss the aartis at these popular locations, just head to any ghat by the river, and you’ll likely find someone performing the sacred Ganga Aarti.
- Holy dip in Ganga ji
- Join morning yoga sessions at the ashrams for a rejuvenating start to your day.
- Visit temples – Trimbakeshwar Temple, Iskcon, Raghunath Temple, etc.
- Also read: The Beatles Ashram
- Also read: Neergarh Waterfall and Neelkanth Mahadev temple
- Camping by the Ganga – Rishikesh provides camping options to suit every budget, offering a chance to stay close to nature by the river Ganga.
- Jungle safari in the stunning Rajaji National Park near Rishikesh.
- Adventure – river rafting, bungee jumping, cliff diving, and more— the thrills are endless!
- Day trip to Haridwar – Mansa devi and Har ki pauri
Ropeway to Mansa devi temple
Rishikesh in Photos
Just imagine waking up to the serene sounds of the mighty Ganga, sitting by its banks, and meditating amidst its calming energy. People living close to this sacred river are truly blessed.
Trimbakeshwar Temple also known as 13 manzil temple
The early morning near the Ganga is pure magic—tranquil, refreshing, and deeply spiritual.
Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula feel almost deserted in the early morning, that is rare.
On our second day, while staying near Ram Jhula, we decided to start the morning with a walk. As we strolled along, we came across a group of devotees doing kirtan, crossing Ram Jhula and heading towards ISKCON. Feeling the pull, my partner and I joined the group. Since it was a Sunday, there was no rush to get to work.
Flower vendors line the streets, selling vibrant blooms and incense sticks, ready to be offered to the sacred Ganga at Triveni Ghat.
Saying prayers to Ganga ji
Rafters roar with excitement as they approach the final stretch.
Evening ganga aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Filling air with chants, and the river Ganga glowing with the reflection of countless diyas.
The final river rafting as the sun sets.
As the sun sets, everything near the river Ganga lights up.
View of fully lit Lakshman Jhula from a cozy cafe
A tranquil night, just before the rain sets in.
The Ganga flowing above its normal level, swollen from the heavy rains, its currents stronger and more powerful than usual.
An occasional visitor playfully demands food and teases 😉
Above all the beautiful photos, what words can’t capture is the experience of living on the banks of the Ganga for 15 days. Waking up to the river’s blessings, hearing the morning prayers echoing in the air, even if we didn’t visit the ghats ourselves, was a constant source of peace. The ability to work while remaining connected to the spiritual energy around us felt like a rare blessing.
Watching the sadhus take their daily holy dip without fail, witnessing artists by the ghats painting and playing flutes or drums, and seeing them sing holy songs in the evening created a timeless atmosphere. As the day came to a close, sadhus lit diyas and offered flowers to Ganga Ji, while the ghats and jhulas sparkled with light. The harmony of it all – sounds, sights, and energy – shifted something deep within me.
I hope you enjoyed reading Rishikesh blog! What’s your favourite part about Rishikesh?
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