Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, on the banks of the holy river Ganga, Rishikesh is a place where spirituality meets adventure. Whether you’re a college student looking for an adrenaline rush, a corporate team in need of a break, or a family seeking peace and bonding time, Rishikesh offers something special for everyone.
Why Visit Rishikesh?
Rishikesh isn’t just a pilgrimage site or a yoga capital — it’s a destination that welcomes everyone with open arms. With its scenic beauty, sacred vibes, and thrilling experiences, it’s a perfect mix of calm and chaos. The town is about 25 kilometers from Haridwar and well connected by road, rail, and air.
For Families: Peaceful, Spiritual, and Refreshing
A family trip to Rishikesh can be both relaxing and spiritually uplifting. It’s a great place to unwind, spend time with loved ones, and introduce children to Indian culture in an authentic environment.
Recommended Activities for Families:
- Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: A serene experience with chanting, rituals, and oil lamps floating in the river. A must-see for all ages.
- Walk across Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula: Enjoy a peaceful walk with views of the Ganges and surrounding hills.
- Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Located 30 km from Rishikesh, this ancient temple is a calm and scenic spot perfect for family visits.
- Take a Yoga or Meditation Session: A few light sessions at ashrams like Parmarth Niketan can be a unique family experience.
Tip: Choose a riverside resort or hotel where kids and elders alike can enjoy the view, fresh air, and calmness.
For Corporate Groups: A Break That Builds Teams
Looking for a weekend escape with your office team? Rishikesh is ideal for corporate outings, leadership retreats, and off-site events. It helps reduce burnout and builds team connection in a natural environment.
Activities to Include:
- White Water Rafting: A thrilling experience that’s perfect for building team spirit and confidence. The 16 km stretch from Shivpuri is ideal.
- Camping and Bonfire: Riverside camping allows colleagues to bond outside the boardroom.
- Team Trekking Adventures: Morning treks to places like Kunjapuri Temple or Neer Garh Waterfall offer fresh air and a sense of accomplishment.
- Group Yoga or Wellness Workshops: Helps reset mental energy and encourages work-life balance.
Tip: Choose a resort that provides custom packages for corporate groups with meeting spaces, adventure activities, and guided experiences.
For Students: Budget-Friendly Fun and Adventure
College life is all about making memories. A Rishikesh trip with friends brings a blend of fun, thrill, and Instagram-worthy spots — all without breaking the bank.
Student-Friendly Activities:
- Bungee Jumping at Mohan Chatti: One of India’s highest bungee jump platforms. A must-try for thrill-seekers.
- River Rafting: The 16 km route is exciting and safe for students, especially during peak season.
- Explore Beatles Ashram: Covered in artistic graffiti and deep spiritual history, it’s a great place for group photos and peace.
- Stay in Budget Hostels: Affordable hostels with common areas, cafes, live music, and travel communities make for a lively stay.
Tip: Book rafting and bungee packages in advance to get group discounts and better deals.
Where to Stay?
Accommodation in Rishikesh suits all types of travelers.
- For Families: Ganga Kinare, Aloha on the Ganges
- For Corporate Groups: Shaantam Resort, Glasshouse on the Ganges
- For Students: Live Free Hostel, Shiv Shakti Hostel, Zostel
Choose your stay based on your budget and experience preferences — riverside views, luxury resorts, or backpacker hostels.
What to Eat?
Rishikesh is a vegetarian zone, so don’t expect meat or alcohol. But the food here is fresh, healthy, and full of flavor.
- Little Buddha Café: Great views and global menu.
- Chotiwala Restaurant: Famous for traditional North Indian dishes.
- Freedom Café: Affordable, tasty meals with a casual vibe.
Tip: Try local thalis and herbal teas. Many cafes also serve vegan options and ayurvedic foods.
How to Reach Rishikesh?
- By Road: About 5-6 hours drive from Delhi. Well-connected via NH58.
- By Train: Rishikesh Railway Station or Haridwar Station (25 km away) are nearest.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant (Dehradun), around 35 km away.
Once in Rishikesh, local taxis, autos, and rented scooters are easily available.
Best Time to Visit
- March to June: Ideal weather for rafting, camping, and trekking.
- September to November: Pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
- Avoid July–August: Monsoon season leads to high river levels and cancellations of adventure sports.
Travel Tips Before You Go
- Carry comfortable clothes and footwear suited for both adventure and temple visits.
- Book rafting and bungee activities in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Follow local customs and respect spiritual places by dressing modestly and keeping noise levels down.
- Mobile signals are strong in town areas but may drop in remote parts.
- Pack some medicines and essentials, especially when traveling with kids or elderly.