Rishikesh, in Uttarakhand, is the perfect getaway if you’re looking for some spirituality or adventure with scenic backdrops. Situated on the banks of the Ganga, the pilgrimage site is home to several ashrams and temples. In 1968 the Beatles came to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram, and soon the city became popular amongst foreign tourists eager to learn yoga and meditation. Rishikesh became the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ with numerous spiritual seekers flocking here to learn yoga and meditation. Since it is the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas,’ its mountainous terrain makes it an ideal location for adventure camps and activities loved by adrenaline-seeking daredevils. Here is our list of things to do in Rishikesh.
1. Stroll Along the Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula
Two suspension bridges across the Ganga, one named after Lakshman and the other Lord Rama, are iconic structures of Rishikesh. Do pause over the middle of the bridge and watch the Ganga flowing with numerous rafts. You will also see the numerous ashrams, temples and hotels on the banks of the river. The bridge is a sight to behold when illuminated at night. The Lakshman Jhula was shut during our visit, so the Ram Jhula was very crowded. We could feel the bridge swaying several times as two-wheelers drove over it. A new bridge Jhanki Setu was awaiting to be opened for public.
2. Attend the Evening Ganga Maha Aarti at Triveni Ghat
If you want a spiritual experience, then the evening arti at Triveni Ghat is not to be missed. Scores of tourists head to the ghat, especially near Parmarth Niketan Ashram, at dusk. Several priests light the lamps and perform the Ganga Aarti as drums are beaten. We attended the aarti at our hotel on one of the evenings as we had just checked in and would not make it in time for the arti at the ghat. There were also individuals performing arti at ghats. Leaves with flowers and lighted diyas could be seen floating in the river as the devotees prayed and chanted mantras.
3. Seek Thrills with White Water Rafting in Rishikesh
If you want to experience the struggle between man and the furry of nature, then you must go for white water rafting. The powerful and furious Ganga is a force to be reckoned with as you try to stir your raft afloat. Watching a picture of my seventy-plus yoga teacher doing rafting motivated me to take up the challenge. I have an honest confession to make. I am not a risk-taker nor adventurous, so this was a giant leap of faith.
Our instructor was worried seeing so many novice first-timers and insisted that we follow his instructions to the T or face disastrous consequences. The 45-minute ride goes through a couple of sharp bends, and one must row precisely and in unison. Thankfully we managed well, and some of the adventurous lot in our group, including my teenage son, even jumped into the river for thrills. You can try your hand at numerous adventure activities like kayaking, cliff jumping, zip-lining, etc.
4. Admire the Graffiti at Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh
If you are an artist and love everything and anything creative, you must visit the Beatles Ashram. It is also called Chaurasi Kutia Ashram or ‘84 Hut Ashram.’ The Ashram has several dome-shaped caves covered with circular pebbles from the Ganga, where the faithful meditated. Under the community of The Beatles Cathedral Gallery, several artists from around the world have created some incredible murals and graffiti. On the ceiling of one of the caves is a psychedelic mural with the phrase, “When you look up at the sky and see a cloud, think of me”, Lennon to Yoko. A woman with a yellow bandana and chunky jewellery stares at us from a mural. A bare-chested wanderer with a flowing white beard and turban, Ravi Shankar playing the sitar, the Beatles with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a ferocious tiger- are subjects of other murals.
5. Take a Dip in Ganga
To wash one’s sins, a dip in the Ganga is customary for the faithful. Triveni Ghat is the confluence of the three most sacred rivers i.e., Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, where most people go for a holy dip. The Goa beach (yes, you read that right), near the Ram Jhula because of its sandy shores, is another popular spot for taking a dip in the Ganga.
6. Participate in a Spiritual Discourse at Parmarth Niketan Ashram
On one of the evenings, we visited the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, hoping to see the Ganga arti, found a spiritual discourse underway. The place was choc o block with devotees engrossed in the address. The Ashram has a statue of Hanuman tearing his chest to reveal Lord Rama and Sita. On a bridge opposite the Ashram is a statue of Lord Shiva with a serpent around his neck.
7. Shop for Some Retail Therapy
If you’re looking for spiritual books like the Geeta or Mahabharat or other religious texts, then Rishikesh has exclusive shops selling these. There are shops selling rudrakshas, jap malas, idols of gods and goddesses too. Those who like all things bohemian will find shops and kiosks selling boho bags and clothes, dream catchers, jewellery and lots more.
8. Savour Local Cuisine at Chotiwala Restaurant
All that walking and exploring will surely get you hungry, so do savour some food at the Chotiwala restaurant. A gentleman depicting Chotiwala in regalia of a dhoti, kurta and shawl with complete make-up and choti (ponytail) is seated on a throne during lunch hours as an attraction. The oldest restaurant in Rishikesh serves everything from South Indian to North Indian to even Chinese cuisisne and sweets.
9. Sign Up for a Yoga and Meditation Course in Rishikesh
The stresses of modern life can take a toll on one’s wellbeing. Yoga and meditation have profound health benefits. There are various ashrams where you can learn yoga and meditation.
10. Talk to Sadhu/Monk or Local in Rishikesh
If you want to listen to some stories, then befriend a local or a sadhu who will share interesting titbits. Many of the sages have pearls of wisdom or experiences to share that can be eye opening and inspiring.
You can do several other things at Rishikesh too, like camping and trekking, or visiting the temples, ashrams and sacred spots.
GETTING THERE
Nearest Airport to Rishikesh:
Dehradun, 18 km away, is the nearest airport to Rishikesh, with limited flights. The other options are Chandigarh Airport which is 235 km away or Delhi Airport which is 250 km away. You can then drive down from Delhi to Rishikesh.
Distances:
Delhi to Rishikesh: 250 km or 5 hours.
Dehradun to Rishikesh: 18 kms or 30 minutes.
Where to Stay in Rishikesh:
You have myriad options, from ashrams with free stays to dormitories, budget hotels, and premium hotels. We stayed at the Lemon Tree Hotel Premier, which provided a breathtaking view of the Ganga and ghats.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh:
The best time to visit Rishikesh is November to March. Summers can be hot and humid.
Entry Fees and Charges for Beatles Ashram:
The entry fees for Beatles Ashram is Rs. 150 for Indians and Rs. 600 for foreigners.
Charges for White Water Rafting in Rishikesh:
There are various options available in terms of the distance. The 9 km rafting from Bhramapuri to Ramjhula cost us Rs. 600 per head. We did our rafting through Jhanvi Adventure near Ram Jhula. +91-9760425020, +91-9412063082
Rishikesh Travel Tips:
Book for the adventure sports like bungee jumping in advance. We were told slots were full, so we were disappointed. Please carry your water bottles and wear comfortable walking shoes.