Rishikesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas at the confluence of the Ganga and Chandrabhaga rivers, is a small town chardham tour package in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand, close to Haridwar. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is renowned for its spirituality, adventure activities, ancient temples, and vibrant cafes. It serves as a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Rishikesh gained worldwide fame in the 1960s after The Beatles visited the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, now known as The Beatles Ashram, which attracts tourists from around the globe. Despite its tranquility, Rishikesh is also known for its adventure sports like whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and camping along the Ganga. Additionally, it is a gateway to many Himalayan treks.
As a religious town on the holy banks of the Ganga, Rishikesh has numerous ashrams where spirituality, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda are taught. Given its religious significance, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are prohibited. The evening aarti on the banks of the Ganga is a serene event, typically less crowded than similar ceremonies in Varanasi or Haridwar. Rishikesh hosts the International Yoga Festival in the first week of March, drawing yoga enthusiasts from around the world.
Areas of Rishikesh
Rishikesh is divided into two main areas: the downtown area known as Rishikesh town, home to the popular Triveni Ghat, and the area 2 km upstream from Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, where most ashrams, cafes, accommodations, and tourists can be found. Haridwar and Rishikesh are the first Indian cities to be given the title of “twin national heritage cities.”
Yoga and Spirituality in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is known globally for its wide variety of yoga and meditation classes. The numerous temples, holy ghats, and peaceful surroundings char dham yatra 2025 provide a calming environment for the body and soul. The town’s many yoga ashrams are a popular destination for those seeking rejuvenation and a break from the stress of daily life. Whether it’s the evening aarti at Triveni Ghat or the simple culture of the ashrams, Rishikesh offers a unique spiritual experience.
Adventure Sports in Rishikesh
In recent years, Rishikesh has become a hub for adventure sports, offering a range of activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, zip-lining, waterfall trekking, kayaking, and rock climbing. The availability and pricing of these activities vary by season, providing a range of thrilling experiences. More than 100 operators offer full and half-day rafting trips, and some provide multi-day rafting trips with camping along the Ganga. Most companies also offer all-inclusive Himalayan treks to nearby locations.
History of Rishikesh
Rishikesh’s history is steeped in myth and legend. One story tells of Sage Raibhya Rishi performing penance on the banks of the Ganga, char dham yatra after which Lord Vishnu appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh, giving the town its name. Another legend involves Lord Lakshmana crossing the Ganga on a rope bridge, which became known as Lakshman Jhula. The original jute bridge was destroyed in a 1924 flood and later rebuilt, now serving as a major tourist attraction.
Food and Cafes in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is strictly vegetarian due to its religious significance, with non-vegetarian food and alcohol prohibited. The cuisine is mainly North Indian, but you can also find South Indian, Italian, Nepali, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Ayurvedic food is also popular, with many outlets offering a variety of teas and dishes inspired by yoga and Ayurveda. The street food scene in Rishikesh includes local favorites like jalebi, imarti, samosas, popcorn, and fresh seasonal fruits. To sample a variety of local dishes, try a “thali,” which includes several dishes on one platter.
Rishikesh is home to a vibrant cafe culture that reflects the town’s spiritual and adventurous ethos. These cafes often overlook the Ganga or ancient temples, providing a relaxing atmosphere. Some popular cafes include:
- Devraj Coffee Corner (“The German Bakery”): Known for its scenic location near Lakshman Jhula, with a stunning view of the Ganga.
- Oasis Cafe: Offers a luxurious dining experience near The German Bakery.
- Ramana’s Organic Cafe: Provides a beautiful view of the Ganga and a welcoming ambiance.
- Little Buddha Cafe: A treehouse-style cafe with a unique design and delicious food.
- Cafe Karma: Known for its relaxing atmosphere and tasty vegetarian dishes.
These cafes contribute to the diverse and welcoming culture that makes Rishikesh a unique destination for spirituality, adventure, and relaxation.