Things to Do in Rishikesh: 20 Best Places & Activities

Rishikesh is one of those destinations where a single trip can include white-water rafting, riverside walks, yoga, temples, waterfalls, cafés, adventure sports and peaceful evenings beside the Ganga.

Whether you're travelling as a couple, with family, with friends or on a solo trip, there are plenty of things to do in Rishikesh beyond rafting.

Things to Do in Rishikesh: Quick Answer

The best things to do in Rishikesh include river rafting, attending Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, visiting Beatles Ashram, exploring Ram Jhula and other riverside areas, experiencing yoga and meditation, visiting temples and waterfalls, and trying adventure activities such as bungee jumping. Rishikesh combines spiritual experiences with outdoor adventure, making it suitable for different types of travellers.

Rishikesh Activities at a Glance

If you're planning to stay close to the city's spiritual and sightseeing attractions, Saltstayz Autograph Rishikesh near Triveni Ghat is an option to consider. The property is positioned near Triveni Ghat and offers amenities including a rooftop pool, gym and parking.

1. Go River Rafting on the Ganga

River rafting is one of the most popular things to do in Rishikesh and is suitable for travellers looking for an active outdoor experience. Different stretches of the Ganga offer different distances and difficulty levels, so beginners and experienced adventure travellers can choose accordingly.

Popular rafting stretches include Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive and Kaudiyala.

If rafting is the main reason for your trip, read our detailed guide to Rafting in Rishikesh: Best Time, Season, Routes & Safety Guide before booking.

Tip: River conditions and rafting operations can change, particularly around the monsoon, so confirm availability before travelling.

2. Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

Watching the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is one of the most memorable things to do in Rishikesh, especially around sunset. The riverside ceremony combines devotional chants, lamps and views of the Ganga, creating a distinctly spiritual atmosphere.

Triveni Ghat is also one of the most accessible places to experience the religious and cultural side of Rishikesh.

The ceremony is held in the evening, but timings can vary, so check locally on the day of your visit.

Why Visit Triveni Ghat?

1. Experience the evening Ganga Aarti
2. Sit beside the Ganga
3. Watch traditional rituals
4. Take photographs of the riverfront
5. Explore nearby temples and markets

If you're staying nearby, visiting Triveni Ghat in the evening is particularly convenient.

3. Visit Beatles Ashram

Beatles Ashram, officially associated with Chaurasi Kutia, is one of Rishikesh's most distinctive attractions for visitors interested in music, history, art and spirituality. The Beatles visited the ashram in 1968 while studying Transcendental Meditation under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

Today, the site is known for its meditation huts, murals, graffiti and atmospheric surroundings.

The former ashram has become particularly popular with photographers and travellers looking for something different from Rishikesh's temples and riverfront attractions.

Current tourism information lists visiting hours as 10 AM to 4 PM, but it is sensible to verify timings before visiting.

4. Walk Around Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is one of the recognizable landmarks of Rishikesh and offers views of the Ganga and surrounding riverside areas. Walking around the bridge and nearby neighbourhoods is an easy way to experience the city's spiritual and everyday atmosphere.

The area around Ram Jhula is also surrounded by ashrams, temples, shops and cafés.

For photographers, early morning and late afternoon can offer softer light and a more relaxed atmosphere.

5. Experience Yoga in Rishikesh

Yoga is deeply associated with Rishikesh, which has developed an international reputation as a destination for yoga, meditation and spiritual learning. Visitors can find everything from short introductory sessions to longer courses and retreats.

You don't need to be an experienced practitioner to include yoga in your itinerary.

A simple morning session can be a good way to start the day before exploring the city.

Yoga Is Ideal For:

1. First-time practitioners
2. Wellness travellers
3. Couples
4. Solo travellers
5. Visitors looking for a slower itinerary

6. Explore Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh Waterfall is a popular nature experience near Rishikesh and provides a change of pace from the city's temples, cafés and busy tourist areas.

The surrounding forested landscape makes the waterfall particularly appealing to travellers who enjoy short hikes and outdoor exploration.

Plan enough time for the walk rather than treating it as a quick photo stop.

Wear comfortable footwear and carry drinking water, particularly if you're visiting during warmer months.

7. Visit Tera Manzil Temple

Tera Manzil Temple, also known as Trayambakeshwar Temple, is a distinctive multi-storey temple near the Ganga and is known for its colourful architecture and river views. The temple is one of the spiritual landmarks frequently included in Rishikesh sightseeing itineraries.

The multiple levels contain shrines dedicated to different Hindu deities.

It can be combined with a visit to the nearby riverfront and other attractions around the bridge area.

8. Visit Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir is one of the important temples in Rishikesh and offers travellers an opportunity to experience the city's religious heritage away from its adventure activities. Incredible India lists Bharat Mandir among Rishikesh's notable spiritual attractions.

If you're interested in the cultural side of Rishikesh, include the temple along with Triveni Ghat and other nearby spiritual sites.

Dress respectfully when visiting temples and follow local customs.

9. Spend Time at Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan is one of Rishikesh's well-known ashrams and is associated with yoga, meditation and spiritual activities. It is located along the Ganga and is another place where visitors can experience the quieter side of Rishikesh.

The ashram is particularly relevant for travellers interested in:

1. Yoga
2. Meditation
3. Spiritual programmes
4. Ganga-side experiences
5. Wellness travel

Check the current schedule if you want to attend a specific programme.

10. Try Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is one of the adventure activities available around Rishikesh for travellers looking for something beyond rafting. Rishikesh's tourism profile includes bungee jumping among its adventure offerings.

This activity is better suited to travellers who actively enjoy adrenaline-based experiences.

Before booking, check the operator's current safety standards, eligibility requirements and operating conditions.

11. Try Giant Swing or Other Adventure Activities

Rishikesh's adventure scene extends beyond rafting and bungee jumping.

Depending on current availability, travellers can find activities such as:

1. Giant swing
2. Ziplining
3. Trekking
4. Camping
5. Other outdoor adventure experiences

Always check the current operator, safety equipment and activity requirements before booking an adventure activity.

12. Explore Rishikesh's Cafés

Exploring Rishikesh's cafés is one of the easiest things to do after a morning of sightseeing or rafting. The areas around Tapovan and the riverside have become popular with travellers looking for coffee, vegetarian food, casual meals and relaxed spaces.

Café hopping works particularly well for:

1. Couples
2. Friends
3. Solo travellers
4. Digital nomads
5. Long-stay visitors

Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, leave a little time to sit down and enjoy the slower side of Rishikesh.

13. Take a Riverside Walk

A simple walk beside the Ganga can be one of the most enjoyable free things to do in Rishikesh. The riverfront gives you a different perspective of the city, especially during the quieter hours of the morning and evening.

You can combine a riverside walk with:

1. Photography
2. Temple visits
3. Café stops
4. Ganga Aarti
5. Shopping

For a relaxed itinerary, this is one activity that doesn't require a fixed booking.

14. Go Camping Near Rishikesh

Camping is a popular way to experience the natural surroundings around Rishikesh, particularly for groups and travellers who want to combine outdoor activities with an overnight stay.

Depending on the campsite, packages may include activities, meals, bonfires and outdoor experiences.

If camping is part of your plan, compare the location, inclusions, sanitation facilities and safety arrangements before booking.

15. Explore Rishikesh's Ashrams

Rishikesh is internationally known for yoga and spiritual learning, and exploring its ashrams gives visitors a different perspective on the city beyond tourism. The destination continues to attract people interested in yoga, meditation and spiritual practices.

You can explore ashrams around areas such as:

1. Tapovan
2. Swarg Ashram
3. Ram Jhula
4. Parmarth Niketan area

Remember that an ashram is a place of spiritual practice rather than simply a tourist attraction, so visitors should respect the rules and atmosphere.

16. Visit Raghunath Temple

Raghunath Temple is another spiritual attraction that can be added to a Rishikesh sightseeing itinerary. The temple is associated with Rishikund, a sacred water tank within its premises, and is located close to other attractions including Triveni Ghat.

The temple can easily be combined with a visit to Triveni Ghat.

For travellers interested in Rishikesh's religious history, this is a worthwhile addition to a temple-focused itinerary.

17. Take a Ganga Boat Ride

A boat ride on the Ganga offers a slower alternative to rafting and gives travellers a chance to see Rishikesh's ghats, temples and riverfront from the water. Incredible India specifically highlights boat rides as one way to experience Triveni Ghat and its surroundings.

This can be particularly appealing for:

1. Couples
2. Families
3. Older travellers
4. Photography enthusiasts

Availability depends on local conditions and operators, so check before planning around it.

18. Go Trekking Around Rishikesh

The hills and forests around Rishikesh provide opportunities for short hikes and nature walks, including routes leading towards waterfalls and viewpoints. This makes the destination suitable for travellers who want to add some physical activity without spending the entire trip on adventure sports.

For beginners, choose a shorter marked route and avoid heading into unfamiliar forest areas alone.

Carry water, wear suitable footwear and check weather conditions before starting.

19. Shop for Local Items

Shopping in Rishikesh can be a simple way to spend an evening after sightseeing, with markets offering spiritual items, clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs and travel essentials.

Popular purchases can include:

1. Rudraksha items
2. Incense
3. Yoga accessories
4. Handmade products
5. Spiritual books
6. Clothing
7. Souvenirs

For a more relaxed shopping experience, visit the markets when the day's sightseeing is finished.

20. Watch the Sunset by the Ganga

Ending your day beside the Ganga is one of the simplest experiences in Rishikesh and requires no elaborate itinerary. Find a suitable riverside spot, slow down and watch the changing light over the river before heading towards the evening's activities.

You can combine sunset time with a visit to Triveni Ghat and then attend the Ganga Aarti.

It is a good reminder that not every memorable Rishikesh experience needs an adventure ticket.

Best Things to Do in Rishikesh for Different Travellers

Things to Do in Rishikesh for Couples

Couples can combine adventure with slower experiences.

A good combination could include:

1. Morning rafting
2. Café lunch
3. Beatles Ashram
4. Riverside walk
5. Sunset by the Ganga
6. Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat

For accommodation, Saltstayz Autograph Rishikesh near Triveni Ghat can be considered if you want to stay near one of Rishikesh's important riverfront areas.

Things to Do in Rishikesh with Family

Families can create a balanced Rishikesh itinerary by combining sightseeing, temples, riverside experiences and age-appropriate activities.

Consider:

1. Triveni Ghat
2. Ganga Aarti
3. Ram Jhula area
4. Beatles Ashram
5. Temple visits
6. Riverside walks
7. Café visits
8. Suitable rafting stretches

For families, don't try to cover every attraction in one day. Rishikesh is easier to enjoy when you leave some free time between activities.

Things to Do in Rishikesh with Friends

Friends travelling together can combine rafting and adventure activities with cafés, waterfalls, sightseeing and an evening by the Ganga.

A group itinerary could include:

1. River rafting
2. Bungee jumping
3. Neer Garh Waterfall
4. Café hopping
5. Riverside walks
6. Camping
7. Ganga Aarti

If you're travelling as a larger group, confirm activity availability and transportation arrangements in advance.

Best Free Things to Do in Rishikesh

Not everything in Rishikesh requires a booking.

Some low-cost or free experiences include:

1. Walking around the riverfront
2. Exploring bridge areas
3. Visiting selected temples
4. Watching the Ganga
5. Exploring local markets
6. Attending the Ganga Aarti
7. Walking around the ashram areas

A good Rishikesh itinerary mixes paid activities with simple experiences that let you slow down.

Best Things to Do in Rishikesh in 1 Day

If you only have one day, don't try to cover all 20 activities.

Suggested 1-Day Rishikesh Itinerary

Morning

1. Start with rafting or yoga
2. Have breakfast
3. Explore the Ram Jhula area

Afternoon

1. Visit Beatles Ashram
2. Have lunch at a local café
3. Take some time to relax

Evening

1. Visit Triveni Ghat
2. Watch Ganga Aarti
3. Enjoy a riverside walk or dinner

This itinerary gives you a mix of adventure, culture, spirituality and food without constantly rushing between attractions.

Best Things to Do in Rishikesh in 2 Days

With two days, you can add more adventure and nature experiences.

Day 1

1. River rafting
2. Café lunch
3. Beatles Ashram
4. Ram Jhula
5. Ganga Aarti

Day 2

1. Yoga or meditation
2. Neer Garh Waterfall
3. Temple visit
4. Café hopping
5. Riverside sunset

If you're staying near Triveni Ghat, you can keep the evening activities relatively convenient.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh

Choosing your accommodation according to your itinerary can save time during a short trip.

For travellers interested in sightseeing around central Rishikesh, Saltstayz Autograph Rishikesh near Triveni Ghat is a convenient option to consider.

The property is listed on Saltstayz as a Rishikesh hotel near Triveni Ghat and offers amenities including a rooftop pool, gym and parking, along with multiple room options.

Check rooms, amenities and availability at Saltstayz Autograph Rishikesh →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Rishikesh?

The best things to do in Rishikesh include river rafting, Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, visiting Beatles Ashram, exploring Ram Jhula, yoga and meditation, visiting temples and waterfalls, café hopping and adventure activities such as bungee jumping.

Is Rishikesh good for a 2-day trip?

Yes, two days are enough to experience several major attractions and activities in Rishikesh. A practical itinerary can combine rafting or yoga on the first day with Beatles Ashram, Ram Jhula and Ganga Aarti, followed by waterfalls, temples and cafés on the second day.

What is Rishikesh famous for?

Rishikesh is famous for the Ganga, yoga and meditation, spiritual centres, ashrams, river rafting and adventure activities. The city also attracts travellers to attractions such as Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula and Beatles Ashram.

What can couples do in Rishikesh?

Couples can enjoy river rafting, café hopping, visiting Beatles Ashram, walking beside the Ganga, exploring temples and watching Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. A balanced itinerary can combine adventure during the day with slower riverside experiences in the evening.

What can families do in Rishikesh?

Families can visit Triveni Ghat, temples, Beatles Ashram and riverside areas, while choosing adventure activities according to age and eligibility. A relaxed itinerary with fewer activities per day is generally easier for families.

Plan Your Rishikesh Trip

Rishikesh works best when you don't treat it as a checklist of attractions.

Spend one part of your trip on adventure, one part exploring its spiritual and cultural side, and leave enough time simply to enjoy the Ganga and the surrounding landscape.

For a first visit, combine rafting, Beatles Ashram, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat and Ganga Aarti with at least one nature experience such as a waterfall or trek.

And if you're planning to stay near the city centre, book your stay at Saltstayz Autograph Rishikesh near Triveni Ghat and use the location as a base for exploring Rishikesh.