Welcome to Rishikesh, a city nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, where spirituality meets wonderment. In this guide, we unveil 7 unique and best places to visit in Rishikesh, giving you a curated experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you seek tranquillity by the Ganges or wish to go down a Boho culture trip, Rishikesh has something for every traveller..
Altitude: 7500 feet ASL.
Best time to visit Rishikesh: The most beautiful time to visit Rishikesh is between November end to February end, or the winter season.
Commuting to Rishikesh: You can reach Rishikesh via Dehradun in about 50 minutes, in a taxi or a bus. Taxis cost between ₹1000 to ₹1400.
You can also travel to Rishikesh from Haridwar in a taxi or bus. The cost and time remains almost the same.
Commuting in Rishikesh: Rent a Scooter for somewhere between ₹400 to ₹600 per day. Rishikesh is a crowded city and scooters are one of the easiest mode of transport. Rickshaws are also available at every corner for your connivence.
Travel through the heart of this spiritual haven, the yoga capital of the world and check out these top 7 places to visit in Rishikesh.
1. Beatles Ashram or Chaurasi Kutia
Go down a musical memory lane with an unforgettable trip to the Beatles Ashram. The Ashram was built in 1961 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Many famous people including the Beatles lived in the Ashram to practice transcendental meditation; thus, the name ‘Beatles Ashram’. Don’t be surprised if you are unable to find a sign that specifically says “Beatles Ashram”; this is a loving, colloquial name given to Chaurasi Kutia.
The Ashram closes at 4 pm sharp, so take out at least 2 to 3 hours for this gem of a spot. Check out the insanely cool graffiti art and sculptures.
The Beatles Ashram is a picturesque and cultural haven for travellers.
How to get to the Ashram:
Cross Janaki bridge either on foot or on a scooter to reach a big white sign that says Beatles Street. Cross the sign and go straight into the tiny lanes. You will reach Chaurasi Kutia, which is now part of a nature center being developed by Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
Entry Fee:
200 for Indians and 1200 for foreign nationals.
Love the Beatles? Check out our web story Dedicate one day to Beatles in Rishikesh
2. Kyarki Sunset Point
Watch a breathtaking sunset from the Kyarki sunset point, located on top of a hill near the Neegrah Waterfall road in Kyarki. Rishikesh has an abundance of cafes and spiritual places, however, this off-beat spot is something you should add to your list of places to visit in Rishikesh.
Go to the unexplored sunset point from Tapovan, either by walk or a scooter. The jungle trek to the sunset point is an incredible experience.
Partner with local travel companies or hostels for a guided tour.
3. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Explore the divine Ganga Aarti in Parmarth Niketan Ashram that takes place daily between 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Get lost in the magical aura of the prayers being offered to Goddess Ganga. To reach Parmarth Ashram, cross Ram Jhula by foot (you cannot take a scooter on it) or use Janaki Bridge to cross by foot or scooter.
In Rishikesh, if your goal is to witness the Ganga Aarti, we highly recommend you to check for any special occasions before visiting Parmarth Niketan Ashram. There are days when the Ashram Ghat is specially lit with large-scale Aartis being performed. You might even spot celebrities offering prayers to the holy Ganges.
4. Chotiwala
Chotiwala is not just a restaurant but an experience in itself. The much-loved restaurant was originally set up in Swarg Ashram over 60 years ago. The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian food options, including a fast-food menu on the main floor, and a fine-dine menu on the first floor.
The famous “Chow Mein” is a must-have if you visit Chotiwala. Don’t forget to take a photograph with the Mascot ‘Mr. Chotiwala’ himself, sitting at the entrance. You can reach Chotiwala by crossing the Ram Jhula and walking into Swarg Ashram.
Another branch ‘Chotiwala by the Ganges’ has opened on the opposite side of Swarg Ashram. To experience authentic vibes, visit the OG Chotiwala at Swarg Ashram.
5. Tapovan
Tapovan is divided into two parts – Upper Tapovan and Lower Tapovan. Upper Tapovan is the hilly area behind lower Tapovan.
At Tapovan, meet like-minded people and experience a vibrant Boho culture. Most cool cafes, hostels, yoga retreats are present in Tapovan.
Get great views of stunning forests and mountains from Tapovan. Find diversity and meet people from different countries to make cultural exchanges.
Here are 5 cafes in Tapovan that you should not miss.
- Ira’s Kitchen and Tea Room: Outdoor seating with trees everywhere. Try their Bombay Sandwich and Egg Bhurji… an absolute delight!
- Bodhi café: A great place to try Israeli food and continental options.
- 60s café: Dine to the tune of the Beatles at this ‘Beatles-themed’ café with gorgeous interiors.
- Brewmaster Coffee: Casual and informal; grab a quick and delicious cup of coffee at this neighbourhood café.
- Pure Soul café: An organic and healthy option. Check out their vegan and gluten free dishes.
6. Sand Beach
Cross Ram Jhula and take a walk along the banks of the holy Ganges, on the Parmarth Ashram side of the river. You will reach the stunning Sand Beach. Watch the sunset from the Sand Beach and combine this trip with the Parmarth Niketan Ashram Aaarti.
Visit the Sand Beach on a Weekday for a less-crowded and pleasant experience.
7. Triveni Ghat
Explore this old and sacred ghat, which was home to some of the first Ganga Aartis in Rishikesh. Located in the heart of Rishikesh, with easy accessibility, Triveni Ghat is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh. To reach the ghat, cross streets filled with vibrant and bright shops. Pick up souvenirs from Rishikesh to remind you of a memorable trip. Find secluded walk-ways near the ghat, take a stroll and feel the cool evening breeze.
Where to Stay in Rishikesh?
Check out Hosteller Tapovan, a fantastic place to meet new people and explore the off-beat side of Rishikesh.
Visit Hostelworld, and find other hostels in Rishikesh, with both budget and luxury options.
Love to travel? Then why stop at Rishikesh?
Check out our blog 6 Amazing places to visit in Dehradun here.
