Set at the foot of the Himalayas within Uttarakhand, India, Rishikesh combines spirituality, adventure, and natural attraction. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World” and a significant site for pilgrimage, Rishikesh is flocked by tourists from worldwide. The experiences here are endless, but here is a rundown of how you can pack in the best of things to do in Rishikesh in one day, complete with addresses for each spot.
Top Things To Do In Rishikesh In One Day
There are a plethora of things to do in Rishikesh in one day. Here is a well-curated list of the top things to do in Rishikesh to make your trip memorable.
1. River Rafting in the Ganges
River rafting in the Ganges is a not-to-be-missed experience for any adventure enthusiast. Rishikesh is one of the prime locations for white-water river rafting, with different grades of rapids for beginners and seasoned rafters. The excitement of the rapids, set against the splendour of the natural setting, is truly an experience that invigorates the soul.
Most operators near Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula offer exceptional rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining adventure packages. River rafting in Rishikesh is the perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty. With solid undercurrents and rapids, the Ganges River offers an ideal location for this adventurous action. Exiting through the rapids, people on the canal could feel this sport’s thrill and attraction amid the lush green hills.
Address: Multiple operators around Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
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2. Explore Vashishta Cave (Vashishta Gufa)
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Vashishta Gufa is some 25 kilometres from Rishikesh and is a tranquil place. The cave is named after Sage Vashishta, one of the seven great sages in Hindu mythology, and this is claimed to be where Sage Vashishta meditated. The lush greenery of the surrounding premises along the banks of the Ganges is so serene and peaceful. An equal adventure is a journey to Vashishta Gufa amidst panoramic views of the mountains and the river flowing through the river.
Inside the cave, the silence is pin-drop, occasionally broken by the gurgling Ganges. This place is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots and plunge into deep meditation.
Address: Vashishta Gufa, Rishikesh-Badrinath Road, Uttarakhand 249192, India
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
3. Have a Yoga Session at a Local Ashram
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Rishikesh is considered the “Yoga Capital of the World,” no trip is complete without a yoga session. Most ashrams and yoga centres offer drop-in classes suitable for both first-timers and experienced yogis.
Some prominent ashrams, like Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, and Omkarananda Ganga Sadan, conduct yoga classes. Each ashram has its atmosphere, so you can easily pick the one you like. Another essential feature of the place is the surroundings.
Address: Rishikesh is home to numerous ashrams, including Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, and Omkarananda Ganga Sad.
Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM
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4. Visit the Patna Waterfall
Another delight of natural beauty, located near Rishikesh, is the Patna Waterfall. You have to walk a very short distance along the forest to reach the waterfall, less crowded than most other areas of tourist interest.
The walk is an experience by itself, as you see the dense greenery on either side and the sounds of nature for company. Reaching the falls, you can rest, bathe in the cool water, and enjoy a picnic to your heart’s content. Such unspoiled beauty makes this Patna waterfall an excellent snap for nature admirers and shutterbugs. The trek to the waterfall is also average, exceptionally suited for various physical fitness levels, and provides superb views of the surroundings.
Address: Patna Waterfall, Neelkanth Road, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249302, India
Timings: Open 24 hours
5. Attend a Cooking Class at RoMiz Kitchen
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Taking a cooking class can be just the type of experience that one’s taste buds are looking for. Classes include hands-on exposure to traditional Indian cuisine cooked fresh with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Among the leading places conducting classes, Ayurpak Rishikesh and Cooking Masala top the list. In this class, you will get training in cooking different types of Indian dishes, starting from appetisers to main courses to sweet dishes.
Instructors often share exciting anecdotes and valuable tips on their legacy of fundamentals in the art of Indian cuisine and specifics about their spices. You get to enjoy the meal prepared after the session. The engaging way to learn more about Indian food and take home some new culinary skills is enjoyable.
Address: Rishikesh-Badrinath Road, Uttarakhand 249192, India
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
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6. See the Sunrise from the Kunjapuri Temple
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One of the most spectacular sunrise views in the region can be found at Kunjapuri Temple, located about 25 kilometres from Rishikesh. The temple stands at a height of 1,676 metres and offers panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks of the great Himalayan range and the surrounding valleys. Notably, the best time would be very early in the morning, when the sun rises to paint the sky in bright hues of orange and pink.
Kunjapuri Temple is reached after a short drive through a beautiful panorama and a short trek towards the temple, which is situated at 1645m. The temple is supposed to be 10,000 years old and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Watching the sunrise from Kunjapuri is a divine feeling, as it’s so enchanting, full of wonders, and peaceful. The best thing to kick-start your day in the morning is to give your spirit a real treat with such a sight.
Address: Kunjapuri Temple, Hindolakhal Road, Adali, Uttarakhand 249175, India
Altitude : 1645 metres
7. Visit Swarg Ashram
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Swarg Ashram is situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges. It is a quiet place that harbours several ashrams, temples, and centres for yoga. This place is meant for those seeking spiritual pursuits and serves as an ambient place for meditation, yoga, or relaxation.
The ashram complex is free from traffic, thus offering the rare privilege of a silent retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Several famous ashrams are found at Swarg Ashram: Gita Bhawan, Parmarth Niketan, gardens, a bookshop, and even a tea stall—an excellent place to stroll under the sun for yoga sessions or lounge around getting warm. The serenity and tranquillity of the place compose a perfect ambience for reflection and rejuvenation.
Address: Swarg Ashram, near Ram Jhula, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304, India
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
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8. Explore Rishikesh Market
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Your eyes will be greeted with lots of colour and vibrancy here. Quite a lively place, this market stocks varieties like cloth, ornaments, handicrafts, souvenirs, and other items. This is an ideal place to purchase a few more unusual items to take back home as gifts.
The added touch is that multiple local delicacies and street snacks can be found all over the market. Sample some traditional Indian snacks such as samosas, chaat, and jalebi, and maybe get a glass of tasty masala chai. Indeed, the market is chaotic with a mix of colours, goods and food items, but it is worth visiting when in Rishikesh. During the night hours, the area is bustling with people, and it is a beautiful chance to engage with the locals and get into the groove of the place.
Address: Near Triveni Ghat area
Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM
9. Explore the Gita Bhawan
Gita Bhawan is the biggest and most famous ashram in the Swarg Ashram area. It is properly maintained and clean, with a quiet atmosphere inside. Pilgrims visiting this holy place are provided with free boarding and lodging. The ashram has separate meditation, yoga, and spiritual lecture halls. The ashram walls are adorned with beautiful paintings of Hindu mythology scenes and reflect the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings.
Gita Bhawan also accommodates a full-stack library with a vast collection of spiritual books and scriptures. Set on the riverside, the ashram’s ambience leads to complete peace and tranquillity, making it perfect for meditation and relaxation. It’s a nice place to spend time in quiet reflection and deep dive into the spiritual teachings of Hinduism.
Address: Gita Bhawan, Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh,
Timings: 4 AM to 8 PM
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10. Visit Rajaji National Park
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Very close to Rishikesh is Rajaji National Park, which is also a wildlife destination. This park falls under three districts: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal. This wildlife destination is uneven, with varied flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and many other species of birds. There is harvesting biodiversity that can reveal itself through jeep safaris, and nature walks in the park.
The jeep safari includes traversing dense forests and open grasslands, which offer a glimpse of wildlife in its natural surroundings. The place is also excellent for birdwatching, as more than 315 species of birds have been recorded in this area. The serene environment and the natural beauty of Rajaji National Park make it an ideal destination for nature-loving people and the adventurous.
Address: Rajaji National Park, Chilla Range, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249205, India
Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
11. Visit the Rishikesh Sivananda Ashram
Sivananda Ashram, known as Divine Life Society, was founded by Swami Sivananda Saraswati. It is one of the most reputed ashrams in Rishikesh, and its premier goal is to spread spiritual knowledge and practices. Daily yoga and meditation classes, spiritual discourses, and a silent atmosphere for self-contemplation are some activities performed in this ashram.
It is one of Rishikesh’s most significant spiritual and philosophical book libraries. The library is ideal for anyone seeking to delve into yoga, Vedanta, and spirituality. The ashram also has a beautiful temple and a quiet, serene student meditation hall. After my visit, I had a profound spiritual experience.
Address: Sivananda Ashram, Shivanandanagar, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192, India
Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM
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12. Watch Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
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End your day with Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. This daily-cum-nightly event, occurring at sunset, has been just mind-boggling and spiritually re-energising. Thousands of devotees gather on the banks of the Ganges as continuous hymns and prayers fill the air. Oil lamps floating on the river amid chanting and bells ringing bring a mesmerising view and peaceful environment. It is the perfect way to end your day at Rishikesh, filled with peace and spiritual contentment.
The sun dips below the horizon, and at Parmarth Niketan, the Ganga Aarti bursts with grandeur and soulfulness as the glow of oil lamps along the banks of the Ganges lights up the setting and the sounds of devotional songs fill the air. The ashram’s young students perform the aarti in traditional attire, and the whole ceremony is a visual and auditory feast. It is such an incredible sight when hundreds of lamps float on a river, symbolising the prayers and wishes of the devotees.
Address: Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Near Ram Jhula, Swargashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249304, India
Timings: 6 PM to 7 PM
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From the serene Triveni Ghat and the iconic Lakshman Jhula to the adventurous Neer Garh Waterfall and ending with the spiritual haven Parmarth Niketan Ashram, every moment is alluring here. Its uniqueness lies in offering peace and excitement at the same time. Whether you’re here for spiritual solace, cultural insights, or thrilling adventures, Rishikesh will leave you with unforgettable memories and a promise to return to this tranquil and energetic embrace. Now that you know about things to do in Rishikesh, Plan your trip to Rishikesh to experience spiritual and cultural solace and enthralling adventures.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Rishikesh In One Day
Is river rafting in Rishikesh safe for beginners?
Yes, river rafting in Rishikesh is generally safe for beginners. There are different levels of rapids, and professionals ensure safety with proper equipment and instructions. However, all the precautionary measures instructed by the instructors should be taken.
Can I visit the Beatles Ashram without hiring a guide?
Yes, you can visit the Beatles Ashram grounds by yourself. It's a do-it-yourself kind of place, and most people there do a self-guided exploration of the grounds. But if you take a guide, it gives you so much more insight into the background and history of the place.
Do the temples in Rishikesh have entrance fees?
Most temples in Rishikesh follow the rule of free entry. Still, some specific places, such as the Beatles Ashram, maintain a low fee at the entrance for maintenance and conservation purposes.
What kind of accommodation options are available in Rishikesh?
Accommodation in Rishikesh includes budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, luxury resorts, and spiritual ashrams. Some accommodate simple, clean rooms at a negligible rupee cost or via donation.
Can I take photographs of all the tourist places in Rishikesh?
In general, photography is permissible in most tourist spots. Practising photographers are also requested not to disturb the privacy of any place or the sanctity of all religious places and to seek permission for the same in cases of need, particularly in ashrams and temples.
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