BreakfastAloo puri
VegFluffy fried puris with spiced potato curry, the classic morning meal at sweet shops and dhabas near Triveni Ghat and the bazaar.
Best with: Jalebi and tea
What to eat in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a vegetarian town, and its food ranges from dhaba thalis and sweet shops to riverside cafes cooking for yoga students from around the world.
Breakfast
SnackKachori and aloo sabzi
VegCrisp, stuffed kachoris served with a tangy potato curry. A favourite quick bite in the main bazaar.
Best with: Lassi
DessertJalebi
SweetHot, syrupy jalebis fried fresh in the mornings and evenings at sweet shops across town.
Best with: Rabri or tea
Main courseAshram thali
VegSimple sattvic meals of dal, sabzi, rice and roti, cooked without onion or garlic in many ashram kitchens.
Best with: Buttermilk
DrinkLassi
VegThick sweet or salted yoghurt drink, often topped with cream. Welcome on hot afternoons.
Best with: After a walk by the ghats
Cafe foodFalafel and hummus plates
VegMiddle Eastern dishes are common in Tapovan and Laxman Jhula cafes, along with pancakes, smoothie bowls and wood-fired pizza.
Best with: Mint lemonade
Where to eat in Rishikesh
Tapovan and Laxman Jhula
Rooftop and riverside cafes serving Indian, Middle Eastern and continental food to yoga students and backpackers.
Best for: Cafes with river views
Swargashram and Ram Jhula
Ashram canteens and traditional eateries serving thalis, puris and sweets, in a calm, pedestrian area.
Best for: Simple vegetarian meals
Main bazaar and Triveni Ghat
Sweet shops, chaat and kachori stalls, and family restaurants near the bus stand and ghat.
Best for: Street food and breakfast
Food tips
- Rishikesh is vegetarian and alcohol-free; no meat, eggs or alcohol are sold.
- Many ashram meals are sattvic, cooked without onion and garlic.
- Drink filtered or bottled water and refill where cafes offer it.
- Cafes in Tapovan fill up at sunset; arrive a little early for river-view tables.
Food in Rishikesh: FAQs
Can I get eggs or non-veg food in Rishikesh?
No. Meat, fish and eggs are not sold in Rishikesh. Many cafes offer vegan and egg-free versions of continental dishes instead.
Where can I find cafes with a river view?
Most riverside cafes are in Tapovan and around Laxman Jhula and Bajrang Setu.
