Places to visit in Rishikesh

Trayambakeshwar Temple, also known as Tera Manzil Temple, is a significant and one of the most beautiful places to see in Rishikesh. Built by Adi Shankaracharya in the 12th century, it is located near the banks of the Ganges and is a 13-storey temple that houses multiple shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. 

Each floor offers a peaceful spiritual vibe along with scenic views of the river and hills. It’s not just a place of worship, but also a calm spot to unwind and enjoy Rishikesh’s spiritual atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking blessings or just admiring the views, this temple is a must-visit.

Surrounded by dense forests, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a sacred Shiva temple just near Rishikesh. It’s believed that Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison here, turning his throat blue, due to which it is named Neelkanth. In addition to being surrounded by mountains and surrounded by nature, the temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year, especially during Maha Shivratri and Shravan Month, which are holy months in the Hindu calendar. 

Apart from its spiritual value, the peaceful location and scenic drive make it one of the most serene places to visit in Rishikesh. It’s perfect for those looking to mix spirituality with a bit of offbeat travel in nature.

Neer Garh Waterfall in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is a picturesque two-tiered cascade known for its serene environment and crystal-clear waters. Easily accessible via a short trek through lush forests, the first tier forms a peaceful pool, while the second tier offers a more dramatic view with a larger pool.

The trek covers 3 kilometers in total, with a 1-kilometer hike to the first tier and an additional 2 kilometers to reach the second. Visitors can relax by the pools, take a refreshing dip, and enjoy the stunning views. It’s also a great spot for photography, capturing the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Gita Bhavan, founded by Swami Sivananda in 1936, is a sacred ashram on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh. The walls of the ashram are adorned with shlokas and depictions from the Bhagavad Gita, offering a serene space for meditation, devotion, and spiritual learning.

It radiates spiritual energy through daily bhajans, kirtans, satsangs, and Gita discourses. The serene Laxmi Narayan Temple and an ancient prayer-wrapped Banyan tree enrich the peaceful vibe. Its library, a valuable collection of Gita Press and rare manuscripts reflects 88 years of spiritual and literary heritage.

It offers over 1,000 , clean rooms with shared baths and nourishing sattvic meals, creating a serene and budget-friendly spiritual retreat. It also houses a free Ayurvedic dispensary, providing herbal remedies crafted from natural ingredients like amla and aloe vera and sacred Ganga water for all visitors.

Bharat Mandir, the oldest temple in Rishikesh, is dedicated to Lord Hrishikesh Narayan and was reinstalled by Adi Shankaracharya in 789 AD. Every year on Basant Panchami, this historic event is commemorated with a vibrant ritual procession. The temple is home to 250-year-old sacred trees representing the Tridev- The Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh and also houses a museum displaying excavated artifacts and Shaligram stone idols of Tirupati, Badrinath, and Hrishikesh Narayan.

This temple in Rishikesh is believed to be the very spot where Lord Vishnu appeared before Sage Raibhya and chose to reside as Hrishikesh Narayan, giving the city its name. It is also said that King Bharat and the Pandavas once worshiped at this sacred site, adding to its spiritual significance. Once a Buddhist monastery during Ashoka’s reign, the temple is mentioned in several Hindu scriptures like Ramayana and Mahabharat. On Akshaya Tritiya, 108 circumambulations and darshan of the Lord’s uncovered feet are believed to grant all wishes.

Vashistha Cave, located in Rishikesh, is a sacred meditation site where Sage Vashistha is believed to have meditated. Surrounded by nature, the cave houses a Shivlinga and can accommodate around 12 people on white mats. The gentle glow of oil lamps and the scent of incense create a serene space ideal for deep meditation and spiritual retreat.

According to Hindu mythology, Sage Vashistha who was one of the revered Saptarishis and a mind-born son of Lord Brahma.Chose this cave for deep meditation after being saved by Goddess Ganga from ending his life in sorrow. Enchanted by the area's serene atmosphere, his wife also remained there, and over time, the cave evolved into a spiritually significant and sacred retreat.

Located at an altitude of 5,500 feet above sea level, Kunjapuri Temple trek offers panoramic views of Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the Doon Valley to the south. It also provides breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayan ranges to the north. It is among the most popular one-day treks in Rishikesh, renowned for its stunning sunrise vistas. The trek also offers scenic trails through villages and dense forests, culminating in a refreshing visit to the beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall.

Kunjapuri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, marking the spot where Goddess Sati’s chest fell after her self-immolation. According to Hindu mythology, Sati’s body parts fell across different locations as Lord Shiva mourned her death, and these places became revered pilgrimage sites. The temple was established by Adi Shankaracharya, a great philosopher who revived the worship of Durga in this region.

Reaching the temple at dawn rewards visitors with the mesmerising sight of the first light breaking over the snow-capped peaks. Along this trek, you not only witness nature’s brilliance but also visit a centuries-old temple, blending adventure, serenity, and spiritual reflection in a single journey.

Rishikesh's Rishikund is a beautiful ancient pond located near Raghunath Temple in the city of Rishikesh, which has an important spiritual, mythological, and cultural significance. It is said that the saint Kubz was blessed by the goddess Yamuna, who filled the tank with divine water in the shape of a fish. 

Today, it remains a spiritual site for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. The calm waters mirror the temple structure nearby and offer a peaceful setting for prayer or meditation. It’s a quiet gem that is away from the busier attractions and offers a chance to connect with the deeper, timeless side of Rishikesh.

Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh, is a religious and beautiful spot for visitors to pause and reflect on themselves. Located on the banks of the beautiful Ganges, Muni ki Reti means “Sands of Sages from the tradition of Sages (Munis) performing spiritual practices on its sandy shores. It is believed that King Bharat performed penance here. The area is replete with several Hindu temples, yoga centres, and ashrams. 

For visitors looking forward to capturing the essence of Hinduism, this is one of the best places to see in Rishikesh. Since it is a well-known pilgrimage, several devotees, in addition to tourists, can be seen participating in rituals, taking dips into the holy waters of the River Ganga.

Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh is a serene spiritual center founded by Swami Sivananda in 1957 as an international Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center. Located along the banks of the Ganga, it offers visitors a peaceful space to practice yoga, meditation, and learn about Indian philosophy. The ashram follows a disciplined daily routine and promotes a simple lifestyle focused on inner growth.

The Sivananda Ashram promotes the core wisdom of yoga that can be incorporated into our daily life. This quiet retreat offers daily satsangs, spiritual discourses, and opportunities for inner growth. It is the perfect place for those who want to reconnect with their spiritual side.

Omkarananda Ashram is a serene spiritual retreat situated on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh. Known for its peaceful ambiance and focus on Vedanta, yoga, and classical Indian arts, it attracts visitors seeking a deeper spiritual experience. The ashram hosts daily aarti, meditation sessions, and structured yoga classes through the Patanjala Yoga Kendra. 

The Omkarananda Ashram is also home to the Omkarananda Institute of Music and Dance, offering cultural enrichment. Whether you're a devotee, a student of Indian philosophy, or a traveler in search of calm, the ashram offers a wholesome and enriching environment in the heart of Rishikesh.

Founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in the 1960s, Swami Dayananda Ashram is a prestigious center for the study of Vedanta, Sanskrit, and Vedic chanting. Also known as Arsha Vidya Pitham, it offers a unique blend of traditional teachings and modern techniques. The ashram hosts 3-month and 3-year Vedanta programs, along with family retreats and Swami Dayananda Memorial Retreats.

The ashram is also home to the Lord Sri Gangadharesvar Temple, where daily pujas are performed. The lecture hall, with a scenic view of the Ganga, accommodates up to 250 people for seminars and classes. The well-stocked library houses a vast collection of spiritual texts, while the dining hall provides nutritious, sattvic meals, fostering a nurturing and peaceful environment for all.

Founded in 1966 by Swami Rama, Sadhana Mandir is a tranquil retreat located along the banks of the Ganges River in Rishikesh. Designed as a peaceful sanctuary for spiritual seekers, it offers a quiet, natural setting ideal for deep meditation and inner growth. 

The ashram hosts various transformative retreat programs like 3-4 days, 5-7 days, and 8-16 days retreats. It also includes the Art of Joyful Living program, a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern understanding that nurtures inner peace. Activities include guided meditation, yoga nidra, digestive breathing, and devotional bhajans and kirtans. The accommodation options include both shared and single rooms, all simple and comfortable to support focused practice. Guests are served wholesome, sattvic vegetarian meals daily, prepared according to yogic principles to nourish the body and mind during the retreat experience.

Nestled in Rishikesh, Brahampuri, the Osho Ganga Dham Ashram is a spiritual retreat founded by Osho to inspire mental peace and harmony. Surrounded by the majestic Shivalik Hills of the Himalayas, the ashram provides a serene connection to nature. Dedicated to personal transformation, it offers meditation, wellness programs, and the teachings of Osho, guiding individuals to deepen their connection with their inner selves.

It offers diverse meditation practices, including Dynamic, Kundalini, Nadabrahma, Mystic Rose, and Gourishankar. The ashram provides comfortable accommodations in Ganga Kutir, Krishna Kutir, Janki Kutir, and Shabri Kutir, with single and double rooms.

Vishwa Shanti Yoga School in Rishikesh is dedicated to sharing authentic yoga practices worldwide. Established to provide traditional yoga education, it blends ancient wisdom with contemporary teachings, fostering physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. 

It offers 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training courses. The 200-hour course covers basics, the 300-hour delves into advanced techniques and philosophy, while the 500-hour combines both. These courses offer  a comprehensive journey to become a confident and mindful yoga instructor.

Vishwa Shanti Yoga School offers 1-week and 15-day Yoga Retreats, focusing on yoga, meditation, Ayurvedic massage, and detox. Ayurveda Retreats include consultations, therapy, Panchakarma detox, and yoga. Accommodation includes double-bedded rooms with attached bathrooms, Wi-Fi, diet meals, plus organic bags, textbooks, t-shirts, and a Neti pot for a holistic experience.

Maa Yoga Ashram is a serene wellness retreat in Rishikesh that offers Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation for complete healing. Located close to the Ganges, it offers peaceful surroundings and a wide range of therapies, including Panchakarma detox and personalised health consultations. The ashram is popular among both Indian and international travelers looking for meaningful retreats.

With expert-led yoga sessions and holistic treatments, it’s the perfect place to find inner peace in nature’s embrace. Whether you're here for a few days or weeks, the ashram makes for one of the most serene places to visit in Rishikesh for spiritual and physical well-being.

Rishikesh School of Yoga was established to deliver authentic yogic teachings and promote holistic well-being. The school offers a variety of programs, including 100-hour, 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training Courses.It also provides specialized courses in Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, Praana Sadhana, Aerial Yoga, and Sound Healing.

The courses are designed to welcome practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced students. Beyond the structured courses, the school provides daily yoga and meditation sessions, pranayama practices, and workshops on yoga philosophy and anatomy. Students also have opportunities to participate in local cultural experiences, such as attending the Ganga aarti ceremony and engaging in kirtan sessions.

The Vyasa Yoga Peeth in Rishikesh is a well-known yoga school that offers a great experience in classical Hatha and Ashtanga yoga. Situated close to the Ganges, it provides a spiritual escape with training programs, wellness retreats, and a yogic lifestyle. Students from all over the world are welcome at Vyasa Yoga Peeth, and they learn from well-trained and experienced instructors. 

Everyone has to follow a structured routine and enjoy a satvik diet. The Vyasa Yoga Peeth’s calm and peaceful environment makes it a perfect place to relax and reflect. Whether you’re pursuing a certification or want a simple rejuvenating retreat, Vyasa Yoga Peeth is the perfect

Shiva Yoga Peeth in Rishikesh is a peaceful yoga ashram offering internationally recognized yoga teacher training courses. Located close to the banks of the Ganga, it connects traditional yogic wisdom with modern teaching methods. Shiva Yoga Peeth is ideal for beginners and advanced practitioners both, with experienced instructors, satvik meals, and clean, comfortable lodging. Students here are taught in a manner that yoga and meditation become their part of their daily life, providing a peaceful and soulful reflection.

Along with daily yoga practice, students explore philosophy, anatomy, and meditation. Whether you're here for certification or personal growth, Shiva Yoga Peeth is one of the most refreshing places to visit in Rishikesh.

Parmarth Niketan is a serene spiritual retreat located on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh. This well-known ashram offers a peaceful setting for yoga, meditation, and quiet reflection. 

The daily Ganga Aarti is a moving experience as visitors gather to watch the evening ceremony filled with soft music, prayer, and glowing lamps. The surroundings are lush and calm, with the gentle sound of temple bells in the background. 

With simple lodging and warm hospitality, Parmarth Niketan welcomes travelers who seek a place to disconnect from the bustle of life and reconnect with themselves.

Rishikesh Adventure Park, located in the serene town of Rishikesh, combines the thrill of adventure with the beauty of nature. Often included in Rishikesh tour packages, it is a must-visit spot for travelers looking to experience the best of adventure in their trip.

It offers thrilling activities like reverse bungee, tyre wall climbing, slithering, rock climbing, giant swing, and ziplining. Challenge your precision with archery, or relax with a game of snooker. 

In addition, it is also packed with other thrilling activities, including white-water rafting on the Ganges, where adventurers can navigate exciting river rapids, and go-karting on tracks designed for speed and fun. For adrenaline junkies, these experiences offer the perfect dose of excitement. After a day full of adventure, visitors can relax with a serene camping experience under the stars, unwinding in nature’s calm and enjoying the peaceful side of Rishikesh.

Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram in Tapovan, Rishikesh, is known for offering authentic yoga training in India. Akhanda Yoga combines hatha yoga, kundalini, pranayama, meditation, and vedic philosophy. This holistic, integrated practice fosters physical, mental, and spiritual growth, offering a deeply transformative experience.

The ashram offers courses for all levels including 200-hour, 300-hour, and 100-hour Kundalini teacher training. It also includes full moon silent meditation and yoga retreats that include gentle asanas, yoga nidra, pranayama, and agni hotra. Akhanda Yoga programs are available online offering the traditional and holistic teachings from home. The annual Akhanda Yoga Festival celebrates this holistic practice with workshops, chanting, and community gatherings. Accommodation features single and shared rooms with AC, and sattvic meals to nourish the body and mind.

Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, located near the Ganga River in Rishikesh, is a peaceful destination for yoga learners and spiritual seekers. It is known for its traditional Indian yoga practices and Ayurveda therapy, offering a complete wellness experience. The foundation was established in 2001 as Yoga Ashram and Retreat Centre Rishikesh, and provides certified courses in Hatha Yoga, yoga therapy, and teacher training under expert guidance. 

The calm atmosphere, surrounded by Himalayan beauty, creates a serene space for deep practice and healing. If you're planning a longer stay to reconnect with your body and mind, this is one of the most enriching places to visit in Rishikesh.