Top 20 Places to Visit in Rishikesh – Complete Sightseeing Guide

Rishikesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Uttarakhand and a wonderful combination of spirituality, adventure, nature and Himalayan beauty. Located beside the holy Ganga and surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, the city attracts pilgrims, adventure lovers, yoga enthusiasts, families, couples and international travellers.

Rishikesh is widely known for its yoga and meditation culture, while activities such as river rafting, trekking and other adventure sports have made it one of India’s most popular adventure destinations. The city is also famous for its ashrams, suspension bridges, Ganga Aarti and the historic Beatles Ashram.

If you are planning a trip to Rishikesh and wondering what to see, this guide covers the 20 best places to visit in Rishikesh.

1. Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is one of the most famous spiritual attractions in Rishikesh. Located along the banks of the Ganga, it is an important pilgrimage spot and a popular place to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the city.

The evening Ganga Aarti is the main attraction here. As lamps are offered to the river along with devotional chants and music, the ghat becomes especially beautiful.

Best for: Ganga Aarti, spirituality, photography and peaceful evenings.

2. Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is one of the iconic landmarks of Rishikesh. The suspension bridge provides beautiful views of the Ganga and surrounding hills.

The areas around Ram Jhula are also popular for ashrams, temples, cafes, local shops and riverside experiences.

Best for: Photography, sightseeing, walking and exploring the spiritual side of Rishikesh.

3. Lakshman Jhula

Lakshman Jhula has long been one of the most recognizable landmarks of Rishikesh. The historic suspension bridge area is associated with the religious traditions and legends of the city.

The surrounding area is filled with temples, cafes, shops and spiritual centres, making it an interesting place to explore.

Best for: Photography, sightseeing and exploring local attractions.

Travel Tip: Check the latest local access arrangements before visiting, as bridge access can change.

4. Beatles Ashram

The Beatles Ashram, also known as Chaurasi Kutia, is one of the most unique attractions in Rishikesh.

The Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation. Today, the site is known for its meditation huts, old structures and colourful artwork and graffiti.

It is an excellent place for photography and for travellers interested in music, history, art and spirituality.

Best for: Photography, history, art and Beatles fans.

5. Parmarth Niketan

Parmarth Niketan is one of the best-known ashrams in Rishikesh and is located beside the Ganga.

The ashram is associated with yoga, meditation, spiritual activities and wellness. Its riverside setting provides a peaceful environment away from the busy parts of the city.

Best for: Yoga, meditation, spirituality and peaceful experiences.

6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Located in the forested hills near Rishikesh, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is an important pilgrimage destination dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The journey to the temple takes you through scenic mountain landscapes, making the excursion interesting for both pilgrims and nature lovers.

Best for: Temple visits, spirituality, mountain views and photography.

7. Kunjapuri Temple

Kunjapuri Temple is situated on a hilltop near Rishikesh and is particularly popular for its panoramic Himalayan views.

An early morning visit can provide beautiful sunrise views, while the journey itself offers an opportunity to enjoy the surrounding mountain landscape.

Kunjapuri is also associated with trekking and hiking experiences around Rishikesh.

Best for: Sunrise, trekking, photography and spirituality.

8. Swarg Ashram

Swarg Ashram is a peaceful spiritual area located along the eastern bank of the Ganga.

The area is home to numerous ashrams, temples and yoga centres. Visitors can explore the narrow lanes, riverside areas and spiritual establishments while experiencing a quieter side of Rishikesh.

Best for: Yoga, meditation, spirituality and peaceful walks.

9. Bharat Mandir

Bharat Mandir is one of the oldest and most important temples in Rishikesh. Located close to Triveni Ghat, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The temple is an important part of the religious heritage of Rishikesh and is worth including in a sightseeing itinerary.

Best for: Spiritual tourism, history and temple visits.

10. Gita Bhawan

Gita Bhawan is a well-known spiritual centre near the Ganga and the Ram Jhula area.

The complex is associated with spiritual activities and is known for artwork and illustrations depicting stories from Indian epics. Its location also makes it easy to combine with other attractions around Swarg Ashram and Ram Jhula.

Best for: Culture, spirituality and peaceful surroundings.

11. Shivpuri

Shivpuri is one of the most popular adventure destinations near Rishikesh.

It is particularly famous for white-water river rafting and riverside camping. The rafting stretch from Shivpuri towards Rishikesh is among the most popular rafting experiences in the region.

Best for: River rafting, camping, adventure and groups.

12. Byasi

Byasi is a scenic destination located along the Ganga, around 30 km from Rishikesh.

It has become a popular hub for rafting and water-based adventure activities. The route between Rishikesh and Byasi also provides beautiful views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Best for: Rafting, camping and nature lovers.

13. Neer Garh Waterfall

Neer Garh Waterfall is a popular natural attraction near Rishikesh and a good option for travellers who want to spend some time away from the busy tourist areas.

The surrounding forest and walking trails make it suitable for a short nature excursion.

Best for: Nature, short hikes, photography and relaxation.

14. Tera Manzil Temple

Tera Manzil Temple, also known as Trayambakeshwar Temple, is a distinctive multi-storey temple near the Ganga.

The temple’s multiple floors contain different shrines, making it an interesting place to explore while sightseeing around the Lakshman Jhula area. Incredible India lists Trayambakeshwar Temple among Rishikesh’s major attractions.

Best for: Temple visits, architecture and river views.

15. Rishikesh River Rafting

River rafting is one of the biggest reasons adventure lovers visit Rishikesh.

The Ganga offers several rafting stretches with varying levels of difficulty. Shivpuri and Byasi are particularly popular areas for rafting activities.

According to Uttarakhand Tourism, September to June is considered the best period for rafting, subject to river conditions and operational restrictions.

Best for: Adventure lovers, groups and thrill seekers.

Safety Tip: Always choose an authorised rafting operator and follow the instructions of your rafting guide.

16. Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park is an excellent option for travellers interested in wildlife and nature.

The park’s forest landscapes and diverse wildlife provide a different experience from the temples, ashrams and adventure activities of central Rishikesh.

Best for: Wildlife, nature, photography and safari experiences.

17. Sivananda Ashram

Sivananda Ashram, associated with the Divine Life Society, is an important spiritual centre in Rishikesh.

The ashram has a strong connection with yoga, Vedanta and spiritual learning. It is particularly interesting for visitors who want to explore the deeper spiritual heritage of Rishikesh.

Best for: Yoga, meditation and spiritual learning.

18. Vashishta Cave

Vashishta Cave, also known as Vashishta Gufa, is a peaceful spiritual attraction situated along the Ganga outside the main tourist area.

The cave and its natural surroundings provide a calm environment for meditation and quiet reflection.

Best for: Meditation, spirituality, nature and peaceful experiences.

19. Ganga Riverside

The Ganga itself is one of the biggest attractions of Rishikesh.

There are several riverside areas where visitors can sit, enjoy the mountain scenery, take photographs and watch the river flow through the Himalayan foothills.

For a more peaceful experience, look for designated and safe riverside areas and always follow local safety instructions.

Best for: Relaxation, photography, sunsets and nature.

20. Waterfall Trek

Rishikesh is surrounded by hills and forest landscapes, making it a good destination for short hikes and waterfall excursions.

Waterfall trekking provides an opportunity to experience the natural side of Rishikesh beyond temples and adventure sports. Uttarakhand Tourism also highlights waterfall trekking among the popular outdoor experiences around Rishikesh