Rishikesh, often referred to as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is a spiritual and adventure-filled destination nestled in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, beside the sacred Ganges River. This vibrant city offers a perfect blend of spirituality, nature, culture, and adventure. A Rishikesh tour promises a transformative journey, whether you’re seeking inner peace, exploring ancient temples, practicing yoga, or embarking on thrilling outdoor activities.
Spiritual and Cultural Experiences:
- Triveni Ghat: Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a daily ritual at sunset, where devotees gather for prayers, songs, and offerings.
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram: A place for meditation and yoga, this ashram offers spiritual teachings and retreats, allowing visitors to connect with their inner selves.
- Temples and Spiritual Sites: Visit sacred temples like the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and Raghunath Temple, which are rich in history and religious significance.
Day 01 :
Arrival and Spiritual Exploration
Morning:
- Arrival in Rishikesh: Check-in to your hotel or ashram. After refreshing, start your journey with a serene atmosphere.
- Visit Triveni Ghat: Begin your day with a peaceful visit to Triveni Ghat, a sacred place on the banks of the Ganges. You can watch the morning rituals or simply relax by the river.
- Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat (optional): If you arrive early enough, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evening, a spiritual experience filled with chants and lights.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy a healthy vegetarian meal at a local café or ashram, many of which offer Ayurvedic food.
- Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Explore this well-known spiritual retreat that offers yoga and meditation sessions. You can attend a class or simply stroll through the peaceful grounds.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a significant pilgrimage spot. Located about 12 km from Rishikesh, it can be a peaceful drive or trek.
Evening:
- Yoga Session: End the day with a sunset yoga session at your ashram or a nearby yoga center. Rishikesh is famous for its yoga practices, and this will be an immersive experience.
- Dinner: Choose a quiet café near the river for dinner with a view of the Ganges.
Day 02 :
Adventure and Nature Exploration
Morning:
- River Rafting on the Ganges: After breakfast, embark on an exciting white-water rafting session. The Ganges near Rishikesh offers rapids for all levels, from mild to adrenaline-pumping. Enjoy the thrill while surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- Breakfast at a riverside café: Enjoy a light breakfast along the river, relaxing after the rafting experience.
Afternoon:
- Trekking to Kunjapuri Temple: Head to the Kunjapuri Temple, situated about 30 minutes from Rishikesh, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Ganges River. You can either drive or trek up the path for some exercise and stunning views.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic or have lunch at a local restaurant in the area.
Evening:
- Visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula: Explore the iconic suspension bridges of Rishikesh—Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. Take a walk along these bridges and visit the nearby temples, such as the Swarg Ashram.
- Shopping and Exploring Local Markets: Head to the local markets to shop for spiritual souvenirs, handcrafted items, clothing, and jewelry. You can also try some local snacks and sweets.
- Sunset by the Ganges: Finish your day with a peaceful moment by the river, watching the sun set over the hills.
Dinner: Try some traditional vegetarian food in one of the local restaurants, many of which focus on organic and health-conscious cuisine.
Day 03 :
Wellness and Departure
Morning:
- Sunrise Yoga and Meditation: Start the day with a morning yoga session by the river. Many ashrams offer sunrise yoga, providing the perfect start to your day in Rishikesh.
- Breakfast: After yoga, enjoy a wholesome breakfast at a café or ashram.
- Visit the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia): Explore the famous Beatles Ashram, a former ashram that became popular when The Beatles visited in the 1960s. It's an intriguing blend of nature and art, with murals and graffiti scattered around the abandoned buildings.
Afternoon:
- Adventure Sports (optional): For adventure lovers, you can opt for bungee jumping, cliff jumping, or a visit to the nearby Rishikesh Flying School for a zip-line or flying experience.
- Lunch: Enjoy your last meal in Rishikesh at a local vegetarian or organic restaurant.
Evening:
- Relax by the Ganges: Spend your final moments relaxing by the river, reflecting on the experiences of the last few days.
- Departure: Check out of your accommodation and head back to your onward journey.
cost inclusion
- Accommodation:
- Stay at a hotel, ashram, or guesthouse (based on package) with breakfast included.
- Option for eco-friendly or riverside accommodations for a more immersive experience.
- Transportation:
- Airport/Railway Station Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off from Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) or Rishikesh Railway Station to your accommodation.
- Local Sightseeing: Transportation for local sightseeing, including visits to Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Laxman Jhula, and other attractions, in an air-conditioned vehicle or similar.
- River Rafting (if included): Transfers to the rafting point and back to the hotel (if applicable).
- Meals:
- Breakfast: Daily breakfast at your accommodation or designated restaurants.
- Lunch and Dinner: Depending on the tour package, some meals may be included at select spots or restaurants. Vegetarian meals are generally a focus in Rishikesh.
- Activities:
- Yoga Classes: Daily yoga sessions at an ashram or yoga center, as part of wellness packages.
- Ganga Aarti: Participation in the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
- River Rafting: If included in your tour, all rafting equipment and guides.
- Trekking and Temple Visits: Transportation to and from trekking sites like Kunjapuri Temple, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, etc.
- Entry Fees: Entrance fees to temples, ashrams, and the Beatles Ashram (if included).
- Guides and Assistance:
- Professional Tour Guide: A certified guide for sightseeing and local excursions, providing insights into the history and culture of Rishikesh.
- Local Assistance: 24/7 local support for any needs or emergencies during the tour.
cost exclusion
- Travel to/from Rishikesh:
- Airfare, train fare, or bus tickets to reach Rishikesh (unless specified in the package).
- Personal Expenses:
- Shopping, souvenirs, and personal items like toiletries, cosmetics, etc.
- Tips and gratuities for hotel staff, guides, drivers, or restaurant service.
- Meals Not Specified:
- Any meals other than breakfast (such as lunch and dinner), unless explicitly mentioned in the package.
- Drinks, snacks, and food at cafes or local eateries that are not included in the itinerary.
- Adventure Activities (Optional):
- Optional activities like bungee jumping, cliff jumping, zip-lining, paragliding, or wildlife safaris. These activities are not included unless specifically added to the package.
- Additional costs for rafting if it’s an optional activity, not part of the base package.
- Travel Insurance:
- Any travel insurance or medical coverage for the trip, unless provided separately by the travel agency.
- Any Additional Expenses:
- Extra costs arising from delays, cancellations, or unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extended stay, emergency medical care, etc.).
- Charges for special requests such as room upgrades, spa treatments, or extra services at accommodations.
- Visa Fees (for international tourists):
- Any visa-related expenses if traveling from outside India.
- Fuel and Toll Charges (if applicable):
- Additional charges for fuel, tolls, or road taxes for private transportation (if not included in the package).
