Spiritual Rishikesh
Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat
The main town ghat holds a lively aarti at sunset, with lamps floated on the river.
Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
A large ashram on the Swargashram bank with a musical evening aarti by the river.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Popular Shiva temple in the forested hills about 30 km by road, busiest in the month of Shravan.
Sunrise at Kunjapuri
A hilltop Devi temple about 25 km away with views over the Doon valley and, on clear days, Himalayan peaks.
Trayambakeshwar Temple
The 13-storey temple beside Laxman Jhula, with shrines on every floor and river views from the top.
Adventure
White-water rafting
Runs from 9 to 36 km with grade II to IV rapids. Shivpuri is the classic choice for first-timers.
Bungee, flying fox and swings
Commercial jump sites in the hills near Mohan Chatti and Shivpuri. Check age, weight and health rules before booking.
Riverside camping
Camps around Shivpuri combine rafting with a night by the river. Camping rules change, so stay with licensed operators.
Neer Garh Waterfall
A short uphill walk from the Laxman Jhula road to a series of small pools and falls.
Sightseeing and wellness
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's old ashram, with meditation huts and Beatles murals. Usually open about 10 am to 4 pm.
Bajrang Setu and the bridges
The new glass-floored Bajrang Setu at Laxman Jhula, plus Ram Jhula and Janaki Setu, link the two banks.
Yoga classes and courses
Drop-in classes at ashrams and schools, and longer teacher-training courses. The International Yoga Festival is held in March.
Vashishta Gufa
A quiet meditation cave on the Badrinath road, about 25 km upstream, next to a sandy river beach.
Rafting stretches in Rishikesh
| Stretch | Distance | Time on river | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brahmpuri to Rishikesh | ≈ 9 km | 1-1.5 hrs | First-timers, families |
| Shivpuri to Rishikesh | ≈ 16-18 km | 2-3 hrs | Most visitors |
| Marine Drive to Rishikesh | ≈ 22-24 km | 3-4 hrs | Those wanting more rapids |
| Kaudiyala to Rishikesh | ≈ 36 km | 4-5 hrs | Fit, experienced rafters |
Rafting on the Ganga runs from about September to 30 June and stops in the monsoon. In 2025 it reopened on 27 September after a safety check by the tourism department. Book only with licensed operators; most set a minimum age.
Things to Do in Rishikesh: FAQs
What is Rishikesh famous for?
Yoga and ashrams, the evening Ganga aarti, white-water rafting, its suspension bridges and the Beatles Ashram.
Which rafting stretch is best for beginners?
Shivpuri to Rishikesh (about 16 km) is the most popular for first-timers. Brahmpuri (about 9 km) is shorter and gentler.
Where is the best Ganga aarti in Rishikesh?
Triveni Ghat in town has the busiest aarti; Parmarth Niketan on the Swargashram bank is calmer and more musical. Both start around sunset.