15 Things to do in Rishikesh

The city of Rishikesh is in the stunning alpine state of Uttarakhand, a place so calm that it may move the gods. It has a rich cultural history that merges with the modern city and is frequently referred to as the Gateway to the Garhwal mountains. People can engage in a wide range of activities in Rishikesh, from Bungee jumping to dining at some unique cafés.

1. River rafting:

Rafting at Rishikesh is amazing because of its proximity to the Himalayan Mountains and the Ganga river's passage through the city. The popularity of the sport is increasing everyday. The activity satisfies the urge for an adrenaline rush that every adventure seeker has. It’s more exciting because of the Ganga's cool waters.

• Price: INR 1500 to INR 3000 per person

River rafting in Rishikesh

2. Bungee jumping:

Bungee jumping also known as bungy jumping is leaping off a railing's edge while wearing a suspended harness. Up to the point at which it has fully extended, the harness starts to recoil. The astounding 84-metre-high bungee leap in Rishikesh is the tallest in all of India. Bungee leap demands a basic level of fitness, pregnant women and anyone with high blood pressure should avoid participating in it.

• Price: INR 3550 to INR 4000 per person

Taking the leap of faith

3. Take a ride on a Giant swing:

Bungee jump and huge swing are two activities that are frequently carried out from the same platform. The key distinction between bungee jumping and swinging is that although bungee jumping involves a free fall, swinging has a motion similar to a pendulum since the ropes and harness are attached to a fixed location. The activity is accessible all year long.

• Price: INR 3700 to INR 4000 per person

Soaring high with giant swing

4. The Flying fox:

Flying fox also known as zip lining entails sliding along a horizontal drop from two attached points. The entire procedure imitates a flying fox's movements, therefore the name. It is carried out across the Ganges (and the rapids) at Rishikesh by a number of tour companies.

• Price: INR 2000 to INR 3000 per person

Ziplining adventure

5. Camping at the banks of river Ganga:

One of the many unexplored activities available by the city is camping by the Ganga river. Camping along the banks of the River Ganges offers a unique experience to immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural beauty of this sacred river. One can witness the bright sunrise and sunset over the Ganges which cast a magical glow on the landscape.

• Price: INR 500 to INR 3000 per person

Camping at the banks of river Ganga

6. Trekking:

Rishikesh is located in a charming valley and is surrounded by stunning plants and animals. Hence, it is the ideal location for hiking. You may trek to nearby locations that are just as lovely as Rishikesh, such as Gangotri, Kedarnath, or Badrinath, or you can walk to the foot of the Himalayas. The greatest time to go trekking in this area is during the summer because the winters may be very chilly.

• Price: INR 5500 to INR 9900 per person

Conquering the mountains in Rishikesh  

7. Jump off a cliff:

As the name implies, this pastime is jumping into the Ganga from a cliff that is 20 to 50 feet above the ground. This is a burst of adrenaline and not for the weak-hearted ones. Show your buddies how daring you are. People are allowed to leap into the Ganga river at Rishikesh with tight supervision. Therefore, if you choose to visit the Ganga, leap off the bluff to make it an unforgettable experience.

• Price: Is usually free of cost with river rafting package

Taking the plunge into the sacred Ganges

8. Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat: 

One of India's holiest rivers, the Ganga, has long been revered. The aarti ritual that is carried out at the Triveni Ghat shows how devoted the residents of Rishikesh are. Every evening, the neighbourhood is illuminated by the aarti, which is a very magnificent sight to behold. After dusk, a number of diyas (lamps) are launched into the holy river in leaf boats. The Ganga aarti in Rishikesh allows one to experience true spirituality.

• Drive time from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Approximately 20 mins

Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat

9. Visit the Beatles ashram:

Contrary to what most people may believe, The Beatles have a more extensive history with Rishikesh. The Beatles visited Rishikesh multiple times because of a special kind of attraction to it. They developed and wrote several of their songs here. Although it is now deserted, the Ashram still contains a wealth of memoirs and artwork that provide insight into the Beatles' time in India and their interactions with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

• Drive time from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Approximately 10 mins

The spiritual heart of Rishikesh

10. Get an Ayurvedic massage:

It is difficult and exhausting to explore the entire city. You can have a relaxing Ayurvedic massage to feel more energised and calm, which will ultimately renew your soul. In the middle of the city, there are a few renowned massage parlours that will make you feel calm. Additionally, herbal and scented oils used during an Ayurvedic massage help you relax and relieve stress from both your body and mind.

• Price: INR 1000 to INR 5000

Finding balance and rejuvenation in Rishikesh

11. Try yoga:

Rishikesh has long incorporated yoga into its culture. In Rishikesh, there are numerous practitioners who are willing to instruct you in this workout and activity. Yoga practice is not only beneficial for the body, but it also helps to quiet the mind and promotes clarity of thought. People from all over the world come to Rishikesh to practise yoga because it is the world's centre for discipline. Famous centres include Rishikesh Yogpeeth and Anand Prakash.

• Price: INR 200 to INR 1000

Yoga and the Rishikesh, a perfect pair

12. Go to Lakshman jhula 

Legend has it that Laxman from the Ramayana epic built a rope bridge to cross the Ganga river with Lord Ram and Lady Sita. According to legend, the Lakshman Jhula was built in the same location. In the evenings, you can take a stroll on the bridge and feel the brisk air. Since it connects Rishikesh's two most significant sides, the bridge bustles with activity during the day.

• Drive time from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Approximately 2 mins

Crossing the sacred Lakshman Jhula

13. Explore a range of cafes 

Rishikesh not only has a long cultural heritage, but it also has some of the best cafes. The food at these eateries will far exceed your expectations and be truly amazing. Cafe Royale is a must visit if you are looking for amazing food with a mesmerising view of Ganga. Other cafes one should try could be The Little Buddha cafe, Om Freedom cafe, Ganga view cafe, etc.

• Prices: INR 400 to 600

Coffee with a view

14. Rajaji national park 

One of India's most well-known national parks is the Rajaji National Park, situated in the state of Uttarakhand. The park is renowned for having the most elephants kept indoors and for the well-known elephant safari on the pitch-black grounds.

• Drive time from The Hosteller Rishikesh, Ganges: Approximately 4 mins

Spotting feathered friends in Rajaji

15. Taste the local cuisine: 

One of the oldest restaurants in Rishikesh, the Chotiwala one opened its doors in 1958. The restaurant serves some traditional Garhwali cuisine and is situated on the banks of the Ganga river. In addition to being delicious, the food in this location is renowned for its nutritious content. There will likely be a 30-minute wait for a table here. In addition, the well-known Chotiwala mascot greets guests at the restaurant's entrance.

• Price: INR 500 to 700

A family at the entrance of restaurant Chotiwala

Conclusion

Whether you want to submerge yourself in Indian culture or try adrenaline-thrill-seeking activities, you can experience it all in one place ‘Rishikesh’. You can also try yoga and ayurvedic massage at Rishikesh for a tranquil escape. Looking for a budget-friendly stay? Book your stay at The Hosteller Rishikesh Ganges and The Hosteller Rishikesh Upper Tapovan at your convenience. Both the hostels offer two distinct experiences for backpackers. The Hosteller Rishikesh Ganges, located near the banks of the Ganges River, provides easy access to the river's spiritual and recreational activities. On the other hand, The Hosteller Rishikesh Upper Tapovan, nestled in the serene surroundings of the Tapovan area, offers a peaceful and secluded experience.

The Hosteller Rishikesh Ganges