10 Awesome Places to Visit In and Around Rishikesh

Rishikesh is known as a spiritual center located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Full of yoga centers, ashrams and Ayurvedic retreats, Rishikesh attracts many spiritual seekers from all over the world.

It is one of few places India, with its no-meat and no-alcohol allowed rules. Here, the words live in harmony with nature, become more meaningful. I decided to stay in Rishikesh a bit longer to deepen my understanding of Ayurvedic massage, but also to discover some great places in Rishikesh.

Here is a list of 10 best places to visit in Rishikesh.

1.Patna Waterfall

There are many things to do in Rishikesh, but when the hot comes and the heat hits the streets, there is only one thing in your mind! A refreshing cool water stream! Even, August is known for being a rainy month in Rishikesh, the sun appeared very often this year. When it happened, I used to take my scooter and head to Patna waterfall, my favorite in this area! It lies just 14km away from the town in the Patna village.

When you reach the place, you need to hike about 800m up the hill, which takes around 20min. It is such a peaceful place, especially in the morning, when you are just with yourself. There is a little pool hidden in the rocks, where you can take a dip!

2. Kunjapuri Devi Mandir Temple

The are many places to visit in Rishikesh, but this one just stole my heart!

Kunjapuri temple is located just 15km away from Rishikesh at a height of 1676 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for pilgrims, especially in the New Year, as it is dedicated to the goddess Sati – Lord Shiva’s first love and wife.

Kunjapuri temple is also known as the best place in Rishikesh to see the sunrise! It offers incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas. The picturesque view of lush green hills bathed in sunlight is a feast for the eyes!

3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple 

I arrived to the Neelkhanth temple during Maha Shivratri. The traffic, chaos on the streets and shockingly large amount of devotees. Way too much for me! However, I had the luxury of being with some friends from Rishikesh, so I could sit comfortably at the back of the scooter and enjoy the ride. Neelkhanth temple is dedicated to the greatest Lord Shiva, who is considered as the most powerful God of the Hindu pantheon. It is located about 12km away from the town and as I mentioned before, you can easily get there by scooter. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to see the colorful temple in all its glory, as it was covered during my visit. What a pity!

4. Beatles Ashram

The great Beatles Ashram! Can you imagine that 50 years ago, the Beatles came here to stay in peace, practice meditation and yoga! Inspired by this place, they wrote 48 songs including Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except Me, My Monkey and Dear Prudence! Today, the Ashram is open for everyone keen to learn and explore this sacred place! This is definitely one of the most peaceful places to visit in Rishikesh.

5. Triveni Ghat

Every evening around 6.30 pm, many devotees as well as tourists arrive to Triveni Ghat to attend the Gaya Aarti ceremony. The spiritual ritual takes place by the holy Ganges river and it is dedicated to the Gods and everyone who participates in this ritual. When the sun goes down, the priests stand in the front of the river and the ceremony starts. Its hard to describe what you see, smell and hear!

I was mesmerized by the perfect blend of lights, religious songs, colors, prayers and ceremonial bells. It is simply an unforgettable experience. Triveni Ghat is one of the most authentic places to visit in Rishikesh. It left me with feelings of peace and joy.

6. Vashistha Cave

Vashistha Cave is a popular place among devotees keen to stay in peace and give yourselves time to deepen mediation practise. There is also a small ashram called Vashistha Ashram which is located near the cave. It is located 22km away from Rishikesh on Badrinath road. Once you reach the point, you need to go 200 steps down to get to the cave. One of the most peaceful and mysterious places to visit in Rishikesh! Photography is not allowed in this area, so I can’t share with you more photos.

7. Abandoned bridge

You can spot this abandoned bridge on the way to the Vashistha Cave. Being here in early morning just gave me goosebumps! The goddess Ganga is believed as deeply sacred by Hindus and I honestly always feel the holistic spirit of this river.

8. Laxman Jhula Bridge

When talking about the best places to visit in Rishikesh, I couldn’t forget about the most famous point! The 450-feet long Laxman Jhula bridge! This colorful suspension bridge was probably the most frequent place, I have visited, as it connects Pauri district with Tehri district. When walking to my morning yoga classes or my favorite bakery, I used to cross the bridge.

9. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

Parmarth Niketan is the biggest and the most popular ashram in Rishikesh. Located on the barks of the holy Ganges, it provides truly sacred atmosphere. Thousands of pilgrims come here each year to attend prayers, yoga and meditation classes as well as Gaya Aarti ceremonies.

10. Jai Mata Tara Temple

I would call it the Rishikesh’s best kept secret, as the little peaceful oasis is rarely known among tourists and even locals. The temple is situated on a hilltop to which lead spectacular white stars. At the top is just silent. So pure and pleasant! Standing in the shadow of the popular Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is forgotten by the World. And I think, it should stay like that. It is my favorite places to visit in Rishikesh!

What are your favorite places to visit in Rishikesh? Please, leave a comment below.

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