Fondly called as the Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh stands as one of the most esteemed pilgrimage destinations in the country and is an essential inclusion in Uttarakhand tour packages. Located along the banks of the sacred River Ganga, Rishikesh is celebrated for its serene beauty, spiritual significance, and diverse adventure sports. This sacred town is particularly popular among yoga practitioners, featuring a multitude of ashrams and yoga centers integrated into its picturesque surroundings. Additionally, Rishikesh is well-known for its ancient temples, sacred ghats, and bohemian cafes. Serving as a gateway to the Himalayas, the town draws numerous visitors seeking to experience its meditative atmosphere, complemented by the Ganges, while also partaking in adventure activities and Ayurvedic spa treatments. For those wishing to explore this hill station within a limited timeframe, we have developed a concise Rishikesh 2-day trip itinerary that highlights the essential attractions in Rishikesh.
Day 1 Places to Visit :
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a revered bathing ghat situated on the right bank of the River Ganges in Rishikesh. It is recognized as one of the most sacred ghats along the river Ganga, and among the most popular places to visit in Rishikesh. The name “Triveni” signifies the confluence of three significant rivers: Yamuna, Saraswati, and Ganga. Numerous pilgrims flock to this site to partake in a holy dip in the Ganges before exploring the renowned temples of Rishikesh, as it is believed that the waters of this ghat possess the divine ability to cleanse one’s heart and soul, liberating them from all sins. The Ganga Aarti or Maha Aarti an evening prayer performed here is the major highlight, attracting many devotees and visitors as part of Rishikesh tour packages. Additionally, individuals often release small oil lamps on boats crafted from large leaves into the sacred waters. These glowing lamps create a stunning spectacle in the evening. Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganga from Triveni Ghat.
Book Here : Rishikesh Pilgrimage Packages
Tera Manzil Temple / Kailash Niketan Temple
Tera Manzil Temple, also known as Kailash Niketan Temple, is a prominent landmark located on the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. This thirteen-story temple stands as one of the most important places of worship in the area. Unlike many other temples in Rishikesh that focus on a single deity, Tera Manzil Temple features numerous smaller shrines dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses. This unique aspect allows visitors to worship multiple deities simultaneously while exploring Rishikesh, among the most prominent places to visit near Delhi. Additionally, the temple’s top floor provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the sunset over the surrounding mountains. The temple draws a significant number of tourists, particularly during the festivals of Shravan Somvar and Maha Shivratri, as part of the Rishikesh tour from Delhi.
Book Here : Rishikesh Family Packages
Day 2 Places to Visit :
Lakshman Jhula
Lakshman Jhula is an iron suspension bridge spanning the Ganges River and serves as a prominent landmark in Rishikesh, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. According to local legend, Laxmana, the younger sibling of Lord Rama, traversed the Ganges at this location using a jute rope bridge. The original structure was destroyed during the floods of 1924, leading to the construction of the current iron bridge in 1939. This bridge measures 450 feet in length and is positioned 70 feet above the river. It links the Pauri district with the Tehri district. One can also visit a similar suspension bridge, known as Ram Jhula, in the nearby Sivananda Nagar area as part of Rishikesh Leisure Tour Packages. The bridge offers stunning views of renowned temples, ashrams, and the sacred River Ganga. Today, Lakshman Jhula has emerged as one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Rishikesh, not only due to its historical significance and spiritual importance but also because of the magnificent temples located in the vicinity.
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Neer Garh / Neer Gaddu Waterfall
Located along the Rishikesh – Badrinath Highway, Neer Gaddu, also known as Neer Garh Waterfall, is one of the renowned waterfalls in Uttarakhand and a must-see destination for tourists visiting Rishikesh. This waterfall features two tiers and includes two bathing pools. Visitors can access the smaller waterfall by trekking 200 meters from the road, where they can enjoy a refreshing dip in a small pool as part of the Rishikesh tour from Dehradun. A further trek of 1.2 kilometers leads to the larger, main waterfall, which boasts an expansive pool. The journey to the waterfall is an exhilarating experience, as it requires navigating through the jungle along narrow paths. There are two bridges spanning the waterfall, along with several resting areas. The area is adorned with butterflies of various species fluttering among the wildflowers, enhancing the charm of this picturesque location.
Must Visit : Waterfalls near Delhi
Rafting – Brahmapuri
With up to three grades of rapids and numerous rafting camps on the white sand beaches of River Ganga, Rishikesh is undoubtedly the hub of river rafting in India, and among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand, especially for adventure enthusiasts. The fast-pacing Ganges River is surrounded by the mighty Garhwal Himalayas making river rafting here a fun-filled yet thrilling experience. There are four stretches – Brahmapuri to Rishikesh (9 km), Shivpuri to Rishikesh (16 km), Marine Drive to Rishikesh (24 km), and Kaudiyala to Rishikesh (36 km). Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy river rafting down rapids ranging from grade 1 to grade 4 which come with queer names such as Three Blind Mice, Golf Course, Roller Coaster, Tee Off, Return to Sender, Double Trouble, and The Wall, the most challenging among all. June to September is the best time to indulge in white water rafting in Rishikesh, among the best pilgrimage sites near Delhi.
Book Here : Rishikesh Adventure Tour Packages
