20 Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh – Temples, Waterfalls & Adventures (2025 Guide)

Nested in the foothills of the Himalayas along the holy banks of the River Ganges, Rishikesh stands out as one of India’s most spiritually and culturally vibrant destinations. Rishikesh, recognised as the 'Yoga Capital of the World,' attracts pilgrims, adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and nature lovers from all over the world. This small yet vibrant town is where ancient tradition meets serene landscapes, offering experiences that leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

Best 20 Tourist Places in Rishikesh

Whether you’re crafting your Rishikesh itinerary for a spiritual retreat, a thrilling escape into nature, or to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, here’s a comprehensive travel guide to the 20 best places to visit in Rishikesh.

• Laxman Jhula
• Triveni Ghat
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
• Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
• Shivpuri
• Ram Jhula
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram
• Tera Manzil Temple (Trimbakeshwar Temple)
• Kunjapuri Devi Temple
• Patna Waterfall
• Neer Garh Waterfall
• Vashishta Gufa (Cave)
• Swarg Ashram
• Gita Bhawan
• Rajaji National Park
• Kaudiyala
• Bharat Mandir
• Jumpin Heights
• Yoga and Meditation Centers

1. Laxman Jhula

More than merely a crossing over the Ganges, this legendary suspension bridge serves as a cultural landmark. Legend has it that Lord Laxman, brother of Lord Ram, crossed the river here on a jute rope, lending the place immense mythological significance. The panoramic views of the river, temples, and bustling riverbanks make it a photographer's dream. This is one of the top places to visit in Rishikesh, ideal for history and photography enthusiasts.

• Location: Tapovan, Rishikesh
• Timing: Open 24 hours
• How to Reach: Auto-rickshaw or on foot from the primary market
• Nearby Attractions: Tera Manzil Temple, Ram Jhula
• Nearest Restaurants: Little Buddha Cafe, 60's Beatles Cafe

2. Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is among the most spiritual sites in Rishikesh, where the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati converge. Every evening, devotees and tourists gather here for the enchanting Ganga Aarti – a spiritual ceremony featuring lamps, chants, and the sound of bells echoing across the water. It is one of the most must-visit places in Rishikesh for a profoundly spiritual experience.

• Location: Near Rishikesh Railway Station
• Timing: Open all day; Ganga Aarti at 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: A short walk or rickshaw ride from the city centre
• Nearby Attractions: Bharat Mandir, Parmarth Niketan
• Nearest Restaurants: Chotiwala Restaurant, Madras Cafe

3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Located 32 km from Rishikesh amidst the verdant forests of the Nar-Narayan range, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to legend, this is the location where Lord Shiva swallowed the poison that emerged during the ocean's churning, which turned his throat blue – hence the name Neelkanth. This is among the best places to visit in Rishikesh in 2 days, especially if you want to explore the surrounding forests too.

• Location: Near Manikoot Parvat
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• How to Reach: Taxi or private vehicle via forested roads
• Nearby Attractions: Patna Waterfall, Phool Chatti Ashram
• Nearest Restaurants: Roadside stalls and dhabas near the temple

4. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

A haven for music lovers and seekers of tranquillity, this ashram became globally famous after The Beatles stayed here in 1968. It is one of the more artistic and peaceful places to explore in Rishikesh. Today, it serves as a museum of sorts, filled with art, murals, graffiti, and old meditation huts that reflect the spirit of peace and introspection.

• Location: Inside Rajaji Tiger Reserve, near Ram Jhula
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• How to Reach: Walk or cycle from Swarg Ashram
• Nearby Attractions: Ram Jhula, Gita Bhawan
• Nearest Restaurants: Ayurpak, The Sitting Elephant

5. Shivpuri

If you're looking for thrilling things to do in Rishikesh, Shivpuri is your go-to spot. This adventure hub is renowned for its whitewater rafting, camping, and cliff-jumping activities. This is one of the most adventurous places to visit in Shivpuri Rishikesh, perfect for thrill seekers. The scenic stretch of the Ganges here is ideal for both relaxation and adrenaline-filled activities.

• Location: 16 km from Rishikesh on Badrinath Road
• Timing: Ideal during daylight; rafting typically from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• How to Reach: Taxi or bus from Rishikesh
• Nearby Attractions: Marine Drive Beach, Kaudiyala
• Nearest Restaurants: Rafting camp kitchens, Jungle Treats

6. Ram Jhula

Another iconic suspension bridge, Ram Jhula, connects Sivananda Nagar to Swarg Ashram and is lined with religious ashrams and spiritual centres. Walking here is a unique experience – the hum of chants, temple bells, and views of sadhus meditating along the Ganges make it unforgettable.

• Location: Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh
• Timing: Open all day
• How to Reach: Walk or rickshaw from nearby localities
• Nearby Attractions: Gita Bhawan, Sivananda Ashram
• Nearest Restaurants: The Ganga View Café, Zorba Organic

7. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

The largest ashram in Rishikesh, Parmarth Niketan, is globally recognised for its yoga, meditation, and spiritual programs. The ashram hosts daily satsangs, Ayurvedic treatments, and the internationally renowned International Yoga Festival every March.

• Location: Swarg Ashram
• Timing: Open 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (entry restricted during programs)
• How to Reach: On foot from Ram Jhula
• Nearby Attractions: Triveni Ghat, Beatles Ashram
• Nearest Restaurants: Ayurpak, Pure Soul Café

8. Tera Manzil Temple (Trimbakeshwar Temple)

This 13-storey temple is one of the most visually striking spiritual places in Rishikesh. Each floor has shrines dedicated to various deities. It’s one of the top places to see in Rishikesh, especially for its views and religious architecture. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Ganges, Laxman Jhula, and the surrounding landscape.

• Location: Near Laxman Jhula
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• How to Reach: Walk from the Laxman Jhula entrance
• Nearby Attractions: Lakshman Temple, Market area
• Nearest Restaurants: Café Delmar, Ramana’s Organic Café

9. Kunjapuri Devi Temple

Image Courtesy: Haridwar Rishikesh Tourism

One of the best offbeat places to explore in Rishikesh, Kunjapuri Temple, sits atop a hill about 27 km from the town. It is a Shakti Peetha and is particularly renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayan peaks. Early morning treks to the temple are popular among fitness and photography enthusiasts.

• Location: Hindolakhal, about a 1-hour drive from Rishikesh
• Timing: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• How to Reach: Taxi or trekking route
• Nearby Attractions: Surkanda Devi, Narendranagar
• Nearest Restaurants: Small roadside tea stalls, local dhabas

10. Patna Waterfall

Image Courtesy: Trip Tradition

Perfect for nature lovers, this hidden gem is a short trek from the road near Garud Chatti. During monsoon and winter, the waterfall is full and surrounded by lush greenery. It is a perfect inclusion in your list of places to visit in Rishikesh in one day if you love nature. It offers a peaceful retreat from the tourist-heavy spots.

• Location: En route to Neelkanth Mahadev
• Timing: Daylight hours only
• How to Reach: 1.5 km trek from the road head near Garud Chatti Temple
• Nearby Attractions: Neer Garh Waterfall, Neelkanth Temple
• Nearest Restaurants: Local shops and tea stalls are nearby

11. Neer Garh Waterfall

A must-visit place in Rishikesh for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, Neer Garh Waterfall is a serene escape nestled in the Himalayan foothills. This charming waterfall, ideal for a revitalising swim, is accessible via a brief hike through abundant foliage.

• Location: 5 km from Laxman Jhula
• Timing: Daylight hours
• How to Reach: Auto-rickshaw or on foot, followed by a short trek
• Nearby Attractions: Patna Waterfall, Tapovan
• Nearest Restaurants: Hill View Café, Oasis Restaurant

12. Vashishta Gufa (Cave)

A tranquil cave associated with the sage Vashishta, this meditation site offers an authentic spiritual experience. The natural silence within the cave is ideal for introspection and quiet meditation.

• Location: 25 km from Rishikesh on the Badrinath Road
• Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• How to Reach: Taxi or private car
• Nearby Attractions: Gular village, Ganga riverside
• Nearest Restaurants: Roadside cafes and ashram canteens are nearby

13. Swarg Ashram

Image Courtesy: Swargashra

One of the oldest ashrams in Rishikesh, Swarg Ashram is a peaceful, traffic-free zone that is ideal for spiritual walks, yoga practice, and enjoying the Ganga views. It’s dotted with temples, bookstores, and cafes.

• Location: Across Ram Jhula
• Timing: Open all day
• How to Reach: Walk across Ram Jhula
• Nearby Attractions: Parmarth Niketan, Beatles Ashram
• Nearest Restaurants: Pure Soul Café, Ganga Beach Café

14. Gita Bhawan

Image Courtesy: Euttaranchal

A spiritual and educational complex, Gita Bhawan houses a vast library of Hindu scriptures and offers free accommodations for pilgrims. Its riverfront steps are ideal for reflection and prayer.

• Location: Swarg Ashram area
• Timing: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• How to Reach: Walk from Ram Jhula
• Nearby Attractions: Sivananda Ashram, Ram Jhula
• Nearest Restaurants: German Bakery, The Ganga View

15. Rajaji National Park

A perfect day trip from Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park offers wildlife safaris and birdwatching amidst rich biodiversity. Expect sightings of elephants, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species.

• Location: Chilla Range, 18 km from Rishikesh
• Timing: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Closed during monsoon)
• How to Reach: Taxi or local tour operators
• Nearby Attractions: Gohri Range, Haridwar
• Nearest Restaurants: Resorts and forest rest house eateries

16. Kaudiyala

Image Courtesy: Ticati

Adventure seekers love Kaudiyala for its Grade IV rapids and scenic campsites by the Ganges. It’s one of the top whitewater rafting stretches in India and is also great for nature walks.

• Location: 36 km from Rishikesh
• Timing: Rafting available from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• How to Reach: Taxi or a tour operator vehicle
• Nearby Attractions: Shivpuri, Marine Drive
• Nearest Restaurants: Camp kitchens, eco-lodges

17. Bharat Mandir

Founded by Adi Shankaracharya, this ancient temple is the oldest in Rishikesh and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It holds historical and religious significance, with sacred relics and festivals celebrated throughout the year.

• Location: Near Triveni Ghat
• Timing: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• How to Reach: Walk from the city centre
• Nearby Attractions: Triveni Ghat, Rishikund
• Nearest Restaurants: Chotiwala Restaurant, South Indian Café

18. Rishikund

Image Courtesy: Haridwar Rishikesh Tourism

A sacred pond believed to have been blessed by the River Goddess Yamuna, Rishikund is a peaceful and lesser-known spiritual site surrounded by temples, including Raghunath Mandir.

• Location: Near Triveni Ghat
• Timing: Open all day
• How to Reach: Walk from Bharat Mandir
• Nearby Attractions: Bharat Mandir, Triveni Ghat
• Nearest Restaurants: Local eateries and food stalls

19. Jumpin Heights

Image Courtesy: Sterling Holidays

For thrill-seekers, Jumpin Heights offers India’s highest bungee jump (83 meters), along with a giant swing and flying fox. Run by ex-Army officers, safety and adrenaline are guaranteed. It is an adventurous favourite on the list of places to visit in Rishikesh for couples who love adrenaline.

• Location: Mohan Chatti, 25 km from Rishikesh
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
• How to Reach: Shuttle buses or taxis from Tapovan
• Nearby Attractions: Kunjapuri Temple, adventure camps
• Nearest Restaurants: On-site café and nearby dhabas

20. Yoga and Meditation Centers

Rishikesh's soul lies in its yoga schools and wellness retreats. From beginner drop-in classes to certified teacher training, places like Sivananda Ashram, Phool Chatti Ashram, and Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram offer transformative experiences. It is one of the most enriching places to visit in Rishikesh at night, especially for full-moon meditations.

• Location: Various across Tapovan, Swarg Ashram, and the outskirts
• Timing: Depends on the course or drop-in class
• How to Reach: Walk, cycle, or rickshaw
• Nearby Attractions: Ram Jhula, Beatles Ashram
• Nearest Restaurants: Health cafes like Café Karma, The Office Café

Final Thoughts: Your Journey Through Rishikesh

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple seeking a romantic mountain escape, or a group of thrill-seekers, these places to visit in Rishikesh offer something magical for everyone. From ancient temples and mystical caves to whitewater rapids and serene waterfalls, these top places to visit in Rishikesh will awaken every part of your soul.

Plan wisely and choose from this curated list based on your trip length — there are unforgettable places to visit in Rishikesh in one day and even more immersive places to visit in Rishikesh in two days. For those headed toward outdoor adventure, don’t miss the thrill-packed places to visit in Shivpuri Rishikesh. And if you're travelling with your partner, the peaceful ghats and cafes are the perfect places to visit in Rishikesh for couples. Let the spiritual energy and natural beauty of Rishikesh transform your journey.