Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram where they had practised meditation here for weeks and created some beautiful songs. Ashram (was closed til Dec 2023) has been reopened to the public. It comes under Rajaji Tiger Reserve. The town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga. Entry fees to ashram complex ₹600 per person for foreigner, ₹150 for Indian, ₹75 for senior citizen, ₹40 for students (they must carry certificate from their institution).

Along with nearby Dehradun and Haridwar, Rishikesh is a useful gateway to the Uttarakhand Himalayas. The Northern Char Dham Yatra (Four Shrines Sacred Journey) ideally begins from Rishikesh.

Rishikesh Halal Travel Guide

Rishikesh - The Ganges River flowing through Rishikesh

The town's centre where the bus and train stations are is of little interest to most travellers. Further northeast are two bridges spanning the Ganges: Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. The main hubs of activity and interest are at the ends of these bridges.

Most accommodation options and restaurants are in Laxman Jhula, High Bank and Swarg Ashram.

You can stay at Paramarth Niketan, Banaprastha Ashram nearby to Ramjhula.

Travel to Rishikesh

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Rishikesh

Rishikesh is about 15 kilometers from Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, a small, quiet and renovated airport handling four Flights from Delhi. The runway is being extended and will possibly handle Flights from other metros. At present there are Flights only from Delhi, although Jet-Airways flies from Mumbai via Delhi too.

By car

Delhi airport to Rishikesh by vehicle is an excellent option for a hassle-free traveling, specially for foreign tourists who are traveling to India for the first time. It's a 6- to 7-hour journey. Prices vary from US$85 for an air-conditioned compact vehicle to US$125 for an air-conditioned SUV (but rates are much higher if you get these services from prepaid taxi booths at the airport).

By Rail

There are many trains from Delhi to Haridwar. Some of the better are: Shatabadi Express, Jan Shatabdi, AC Special Express, Mussoorie Express. A quiet branch line connects Haridwar to Rishikesh, but there are only about three slow trains daily. Normally, it is better to take the train to Haridwar and continue by bus (45 min, ₹20), by taxi (30 min, ₹650) or by shared auto-rickshaw (40 min, ₹25). However, travelling by train is recommended in peak seasons or during a 'mela' (fair) when bus routes are diverted in Haridwar whereas trains often run empty and the fares are low (just ₹4 for a passenger train service). You can take share rickshaws (vehicle brand name Vikram) towards Laxman Jhula (₹15) from Rishikesh station. You will have to cross Ram Jhula to reach Swarg Ashram on the other side of the Ganges.

• Passenger trains from Haridwar to Rishikesh (approximate travel duration, 1 hour):
• Haridwar–Rishikesh 05:20
• Haridwar–Rishikesh 10:30
• Haridwar–Rishikesh 17:25

Travel on a Bus in Rishikesh

From Delhi, Rishikesh is about 230 kilometers away and is well connected with buses. A bus journey may take about 5–7 hours (depending on the traffic) and costs you ₹130–350. An AC bus will cost ₹200–500. The right time to visit would be February, March, August-October. In July there is a festival called Savan where thousands of people flock to Rishikesh. Major roads are blocked and hotels are crowded. It is better to avoid travelling to Rishikesh during that time.

From Dehradun ISBT, a bus to Rishikesh costs ₹56 (as of Jan 2023) and takes around 1.5 hour.

How to get around in Rishikesh

GPS 30.1131|78.306 Auto-rickshaws (vikrams) are useful from the bus/train stations to get to either of the bridges (₹8) and for the southern side of the Ganges. Swargashram is pretty much pedestrian only, but it's compact and walkable (as is the whole of the town). For other auto-rickshaw journeys you should expect to pay around ₹15/km.

To visit eastern bank of Ganges, you have to walk across the suspension bridges or take ferry from Ram Jhula. Near the bank of Ganges, share jeeps and taxis are available to drop visitors at Neelkantha temple and waterfall. Overall, it’s more than 16 kilometers run by road to go from one side of river to another.

What to see in Rishikesh

Trayambakeshwar - Trayambakeshwar Temple, Laxman Jhula

• Bharat Mandir 30.100331, 78.287567 - One of the temples set up by 'Adiguru Shankaracharya' during the 12th century. This temple is a real tribute to Lord Vishnu and the idol of which is carved from a sole piece of Saligram.

• Gita Bhavan | 30.120605, 78.313539 - Place of Guru Shri Ram Sukh Daasji (the great thinker of his time) and popular among the Hindu Brahmin community. Twice a year people gather at this ashram to read the Ramayana together.

• Laxman Jhula 30.126297, 78.330165 - Built in 1939, Laxman Jhula is a ft 450 long iron bridge suspended over the Ganges River near Swarga Ashram.

• Neelkanth Mahadev Mela 30.0869281, 78.2676116 - One of the most sacred temples in Rishikesh. Located on hill over Swarg Ashram at a height of 1675 m. A religious fair is held during July–August when many disciples from different corners of India visit.

• Parmarth Niketan Ashram| 30.119113, 78.312209 - One of the few ashrams left in India where children get the Vedas education. A must-visit in the evening for the Pooja/Aarti, at 5PM in winter and 6PM in summer.

• Swarg Ashram | Shri 108 Baba kali Kamli Wale Swami Atam Prakash Ji 30.116483, 78.313095 - Swargashram (Heavenly Abode), as the name connotes, is a stunning location situated in picturesque surroundings at the foot of Himalayas on the left bank of the Ganges between Rishikesh and Laxman Jhula. It is the spiritual “ground zero” of Rishikesh, filled with a concentration of ashrams and temples. The areas is known for its healthy and satwik living environment. It is this spot where from ages of yore the famous yogis and rishis have been doing the Tapasya. Numerous mentions of this spot occur in the holy scripture Puranas.

• Trayambakeshwar Temple | Laxman Jhula 30.086928, 78.267611 It is 13 stories high, with different deities throughout.

• Triveni Ghat | 30.102861, 78.299716 - This is a bathing ghat. Every morning and evening, thousands of visitors bathe here and enjoy the Maha Aarti being performed. It is very soothing to sit on the banks of the river and enjoy the cool breeze from the river.

Best things to do in Rishikesh

• Take a holy dip in the Ganges, with reputed healing powers.
• Chota Char Dham season starts in summer and continues till the end of October. The Chota Char Dham is a Hindu pilgrimage route taking in four holy sites within Uttarakhand: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri (all sources of tributaries of the River Ganga) and Yamunotri (source of the Yamuna River).
• Check into an ashram to study yoga, meditation and Hindu philosophy.
• Get free yoga classes with top yoga teachers of the world's yoga capital and enjoy free concerts of live classical Indian music at the annual free Yoga & Music Festival.
• Astrology services like personal horoscopes and palm reading from Dr. Gaurav Agrawal and the astrologer B.P. Uniyal. There is also a centre for learning palmistry called " Indian Palmistry Institute]" near Police Station Laxman Jhula. You can book a session or ask for course at +91 9358549482 or by email You will have to provide your personal particulars like date and time of birth, city of birth etc. for the calculations and you can ask your personal queries and suggestions as per your chart. Palm reading costs ₹300 and the full chart horoscope cost around ₹500. You can also learn astrology here. You can book an appointment for a palm reading or horoscope session at Ganga Astrology Centre near German Bakery, Laxman Jhula. email bpuniyal47@ and phone no is 9897483488. You can also ask for your horoscope to be sent to your email.

• Soma Reiki centre | Near the Swargashram Taxi stand ☎ +91 98 97 73 26 79 Run by soma a local reiki master which is in Gita Ashram

• Maayaa International Healing School - Maayaa Healing | Near Dharam Raj Temple, Laxman Jhulla road, Paurhi, Rishikesh, India 30.123729, 78.329277 from Laxman Julla towards Dharam Raj Temple ☎ +919373052179 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 8PM US$75 - Maayaa offers sound healing, reiki, chakra healing, numerology, Tarot reading, physic counseling, aromatherapy, Kundalini meditation, dowsing, chakra balancing. Also these residential courses: sound healing teacher training course, meditation teacher training course, aromatherapy course, chakra plus crystal intensive program and yoga & meditation retreats.

• Divine School of Ayurveda (Dr. Mukesh Sharma and Dr. Vibha Sharma) - Ayurveda clinic | Laxman Jhula Road, Near Dharamraj Temple Below Maestro Galleria, Pauri Garhwal, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 30.123600, 78.329191 Reach Dharam Raj Temple on Laxman Jhulla ☎ +919868980101 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 7PM US$7.50 - Panchakarma, sound healing, astrology or Jyotishshastra, Ayurveda nutrition, yoga & Ayurveda retreat.

Outdoor activities

Rishikesh is very popular for its rafting on the River Ganga (Ganges). September–November and March-May are ideal for rafting. The rafting goes for several kilometres, and the path is interspersed with rapids, ranging from Level 1 to Level 5, in order of difficulty. At the end of the trip, you have the option of jumping some 20 feet from a ledge into the water. There are several local travel agencies, offering these rafting trips. The package usually includes an overnight camp on the banks of the river, with a brilliant and moderate trek among the hills in the morning. If one has time, courses in rafting are also offered.

• Bungee jump | 15km ahead of Rishikesh on Rishikesh-Neelkanth road ☎ +91 7830335577 You can try bungee jump at Jumpin Heights. It is a unique experience in India, a jump from 83 m just above a natural river and have the time of your life. Bungee for ₹2800 (including ₹300 transport from Laxman Jhula and back) and Fox Flying for ₹1800 (including ₹300 transport from Laxman Jhula and back)

• Camp Gold Coast | Beach no-17 B, Sing Talli- 7 Rishikesh - GPS: Deoprayag Highway 800 m from Byasi ☎ +91 9953636000 Camp Gold, one of the biggest rafting beach camps on the banks of River Ganges, is around 26 kilometers from Rishikesh. Rafting, kayaking, body surfing, trekking, camping are the major activities conducted in this camp.

• Camping can be enjoyed by anyone who likes to explore new places and likes the beauty and serenity of nature. Camping in Rishikesh on the Ganga beach offer an environment to wake up with the birds and swim in the fresh water of the river Ganges. Camping in Rishikesh is a very popular activity. The nearest camp is just across Goa Beach adjacent to Laxman Jhula. Call +91 9410540000
• Cliff jumping You are supposed to jump into cold water from a cliff! Yes, it sounds crazy but this is one thing which everyone can brag about back home. Of course you are wearing a life jacket and a helmet but still jumping from so high into the Ganges, which is murky so the bottom can't be seen, unlike jumping into a swimming swimmingpool where one can see the bottom and the water is static.

• Majestic Tour India - Shivpuri Market, Near Shivpuri Bridge, Badrinath Highway ☎ +91 9837258258 - Prices range from ₹1400 for camping and 9 kilometers easy rafting to ₹10,500 for a 3-night "Extreme Rafting Adventure" for corporate groups

• Nearby excursions There are many small excursion/sight seeing tours for half-day or one day. Like to Vashishtha cave, Kunjapuri temple (1700 m), Neer Gaddu Water fall, Mussorie, Haridwar. Guides and taxi can be booked in many travel agencies. For more information or booking you can also call at 9927213649 or 0135-2440111.
• Rappelling Climbing down with a rope is called rappelling. The group is taken to a spot where there is a cliff drop, experts with proper equipment who set up the gear first and then, one by one, everyone comes down. It's all about trusting your gear and following the instructions and then it's a lot of fun.
• Rock climbing This is also included at some of the camps but not everyone can do it as it requires a lot of strength and skill. The group is taken to a cliff side and with proper safety gear everyone is given a chance to climb the cliff side.

• Team 4 Adventure - @nture.com Team 4 Adventure House, besides Seema Dental College ☎ +91 9818995928 - ₹12,500 for 03 days basic whitewater kayaking course . They give a 3-day course in Whitewater sports|whitewater kayaking, starting near Rishikesh.

• Trekking There are a lot of soft treks in this region and good bird-watching.

• White water rafting - Offering rapids of Grade-I to V, this place has become a quintcrucial destination for the water rafting mongers.

Yoga

Rishikesh considers itself to be the yoga capital of the world. It's on offer everywhere, and most styles are represented. Yoga teacher training is offered at several places.

• Akshi Yogashala - Swarg Ashram 30.118944, 78.318204 on Akshi Road, near Hotel Raj Deep Swarg Ashram ☎ +91 9897654101 - 200-hour yoga teacher training Rishikesh: US$1350 (private) $1250 (shared) Akshi Yogshala is a certified school and is registered with Yoga Alliance USA, offering free scholarship 200-hour yoga teacher training course. Ashtanga Vinyasa, Hatha Yoga, Meditation & Pranayama are few of the methods taught in the courses. Learned & certified yoga instructors, Ayurvedic food and other Ayurveda cleansing practising.

• Ojashvi Yoga Shala - atri Kunj ☎ +91 9871858149 - Food & accommodation: US$600 - Ojashvi Yoga Shala is a registered yoga teacher training school with Yoga Alliance USA, engaged in the programms of yoga teacher training, promotion and coordination of yoga education, in all its aspects.

• Arsha Yoga Dham - Near Geeta Bhavan no. 3 behind Parmarth Niketan Ramjula ☎ +91 9411394058 | Opening Hours: 24 hours US$1400 - This school dedicates itself to helping people grow spiritually, mentally and physically with the help of yoga, meditation and pranayama, by way of courses like 200-hour yoga teacher training, 3-day or 7-day retreats, etc. Swami Atamganananda Giri preaches the requirement of yoga in our daily lives.

• Ashtanga Rishikesh | Topovan Laxman Jhula - Traditional daily Mysore style ashtanga with Louise Ellis. Louise is certified by Sri K Pattbhi Jois.

• Association for yoga and meditation, India - Ombasananda Satyanasana Mandir. Laxman Jula Near Sant Sewa Ashram ☎ +91 7500277709 | Opening Hours: 7AM–7PM US$770 Offers yoga courses which are residential as well as non residential for different durations such as 200, 300 and 500 hours which focus asana, pranayama, mudra, bandha, kriya, relaxation and meditation along with yogic anatomy and physiology, psychology and teaching methodology. Yoga teacher training here is accredited by the International Yoga Federation.

• Braham Yoga Rishikesh | Flat number 1 and 2, Ganga Niketan, Swargashram Trust 120 m left side of Ram Jhula bridge, Ram Jhula ☎ +91 9897285813 Managed by Aham Brahamasmi Yog Mandir Trust (Central Govt. of India) Aham Brahamasmi Yog Mandir Trust (ABYMT) is dedicated to promoting Yoga & health awareness for the general public. If you are beginner, an experienced practitioner, an athlete or a yoga instructor, you will find a programme to deepen your yogic training on your individual journey.

• Hatha Yoga School Rishikesh - Near Rani Mandir ☎ +91 -7017185217 | Opening Hours: 5:30AM Monday - 7:30PM - Hatha yoga school registered with Yoga Alliance USA offers 100-hour, 200-hour, 300-hour and 500-hour yoga teacher training for US$ 665 to 2425 (course fee includes food and accommodation) and also conducts short-term yoga courses for beginners and retreats through the year.

• Himalayan Yoga Academy - Lakkar Ghat, Shyampur 30.0538, 78.2559 ☎ +91-800-64-46-199 +1-888-2-78-10-78 Opening Hours: 6AM–9PM US$240–1,710 - Huge training center in the middle of Rice paddies. Yoga teacher training all levels, internationally recognized certification; registration with Yoga Alliance USA and Yoga Alliance International also available. The school has many yoga teachers under one roof – Sri Surinder Singh, Yogacharya Ashish Sharma, Yogacharya Kamal Bhatt, Yogacharya Sonu Yadav, Yogacharya Deepak Vandhavan, among others. The school offers residential and non-residential yoga teacher certification courses and intensive yoga courses at various levels. Himalayan Yoga Academy is involved in various charities. The most important, HYA offers training in methodologically-structured programs where student is at the center and learning is continuous, pedagogically.

• Institution for Higher Meditative Consciousness | C14 Ganga Vatika, Phase I, Muni-ki-Reti near Ram Jhula ☎ +91 933 1606 643 Certified yoga and meditation classes and Vedic teaching.

• Jivan Chakra Foundation | Ramjhula Road , near Geeta Ashram Swargashram Rishikesh ☎ +91-9997783875 - USD 1600 Hatha yoga teacher training by Yoga School Jivan Chakra Foundation offers 100, 200 Hour Yoga TTC. Registered with Yoga Alliance, USA.

• Mahatma Yoga Ashram | same side of the river as the German Bakery; go to the top of the steps by the German Bakery and turn right, walk down the hill and the signs will point the way

 A great little Ashram. It's far enough from the center of things to be quiet but close enough to still be a part of the scene. The staff are all incredibly kind and will help you to arrange anything from taxis to rafting.

}} - Meditation School India - Shree Mahesh Heritage | 153/4,Shree Mahesh Heritage, Behind atri Resorts, Badrinath Road, Tapovan. ☎ +91 9760061076 - contents= Meditation school conducts various healing, ayurvedic, panchkarma, reiki & specialities course of meditation - 300 hour meditation teacher training & 15 days meditation retreats with 7 days meditation for beginner program. It is suitable to new learners of meditation and advanced meditation practitioners who want to become meditation teachers. SMH- Rishikesh, is a Government of India registered meditation school.

• Nada Yoga School - Swargashram 20 m left from Ram Jhula Bridge Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 5PM ₹300/hr Nada Yoga School provides 200-hour yoga teacher training training courses, yoga retreats, nada yoga courses and yoga intensives with team of professioanl yoga teachers, ayurvedic doctors and nad yogis.

• International Yoga & Music Festival - Akash Ganga, Ganga Lane, Swarg Ashram from Ram Jhula bridge walk 50 steps to the left Opening Hours: Early November Free/US$990 Enjoy yoga classes and Indian classical music at the annual free yoga & music festival. The festival is a public event in Rishikesh hosting yoga teachers from India and some artists.

- Rishikesh Yog Dham - rishikeshyogdham1@ Mount View Cottage, Badrinath Road, Tapovan near Aryan resorts ☎ +91 9768689596 | Opening Hours: 7AM Monday - 8PM US$4 - Offers 200-hour yoga teacher training & yoga for beginners. Yoga learners who wish to become certified yoga instructors can apply to get international certification. Also, Muslim travellers can join drop-in classes.

• Rishikesh Yog Peeth - RYS 200, RYS 300 - Krishna Cottage, Swargashram, Ram Jhula 30.119808, 78.317586 near Chotiwala Restaurant ☎ +91 9557016661 - Yoga school registered with Yoga Alliance. Offers 200, 300 and 500 hour residential hatha yoga teacher training course in India (RYT 200, RYT 500 + additional 100 hr) for US$1,350 to 2850 (course fee includes food and accommodation) and also conducts short term yoga courses for beginners and retreats (1-2 weeks) throughout the year.

• Rishikesh Valley - Neelkanth Temple Road cross Bairaj and drive towards Neelkanth Temple Road, 10 kilometers ☎ +91 9756964972 Eco health resort run by naturopath and Ayurveda health consultant, offers rejuvenation therapies thorough a blend of Ayurveda and nature care with healthy food. Calming and relaxing therapies of yoga and passive meditation.

• Rishikul Yogshala - Ved Niketan Ashram, Ram Jhula ☎ +91 9410900954 - Rishikul Yogshala is a registered yoga teacher training school that offers 200-hour yoga teacher training, 300-hour yoga teacher training, 500-hour yoga teacher training, Ashtanga yoga teacher training and Hatha yoga teacher training.

• Siddhi Yoga - Siddhi Yoga Rishikesh | Hotel Moksha, Village Jonk, near Geeta Ashram Taxi Stand, Swarg Ashram Near Ram Jhoola ☎ +91 97797-98051 | Opening Hours: 7AM–7PM Starts from ₹85,000 - Siddhi Yoga is a Yoga Alliance USA registered RYS200 and RYS300 School. At Rishikesh it offers multi style with Therapeutic, Vinyasa, Healing, Hatha and Alignment.

• Shakti Yoga Peeth - Swarg Ashram, Raam Jhula ☎ +91 9557895321 | Opening Hours: 24 hours Food & accommodation: US$1350 - - Offers intensive teacher’s training program through their 200-, 300- and 500-hour training program. The program follows the complete protocol as set by the Yoga Alliance, USA that certifies them to be a yoga teacher. Students are taught Ashtanga Vinyasa, Hatha Yoga, Meditation and Pranayama and other yoga forms.

• Tattvaa Yoga Shala Rishikesh | Rishikesh Swargashram Ram Jhula on tha way to Parmarthniketan near boat stand ☎ +91 9997277322 - US$1500 International standard yoga training centre by the Ganges River

• Ved Niketan Ashram | pax@ Swatgashram, Ram Jhula ☎ +91 9890404069 Yoga Iyengar general class and 15 days intensive Master One courses by Iyengar yoga certified teacher Yogi Prakash Dabhekar.

• Vedangas | Hotel Raj palace, geeta bhavan gate no 3, Swargashram ☎ +91 7830182277 Registered with Yoga Alliance USA. Offers 200-hour and 500-hour residential hatha yoga teacher training course (RYT 200) for US$1,150 and RYT 500 (course fee includes food and accommodation) and also conducts short-term yoga & Ayurveda courses and retreats (1~2 weeks) throughout the year.

• Vinyasa Yoga School - RYS 200 - Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India | Hotel Qube, Laxman Jhula 30.124408, 78.330862 ☎ +91 963-488-2112 | Opening Hours: 6:30AM Monday - 8PM US$1900 One of the only 200-hour Vinyasa yoga teacher training courses in Rishikesh. They offer courses every month, and the tuition includes a superior Muslim friendly room and bath in the Hotel Qube (with free WiFi, hot showers, and a security monitoring system), 3 yogic meals per day, and local sightseeing and adventures.

• Vishwa Shanti Yoga School | Vashisth Guest House Near Vanprasth Ash Part-2, Sawargashram ☎ +91 8057146497 Provides residential hatha yoga teacher training — 200-hour, 300-hour and 500-hour — and yoga retreats.

• Yoga School India - Omkarananda Bhawan, Laxman Jhoola Near Balaknath Temple ☎ +91 9808252230 | Opening Hours: 200 US$850 Yoga Alliance-approved yoga school for 200-hour, 300-hour and 500-hour yoga teacher training.

• Yoga Study Centre | Ganga Vihar, Haridwar Road ☎ +91 135 431196 - Free Bramacharya Rudra Dev, a senior Iyengar teacher and Rakesh Batra his disciple, conduct lessons in a rather militaristic style and students need to move quickly to keep up. Many western students appreciate his style and are able to feel the warmth behind his challenging adjustments. Students are a mix of local residents and Westerners. Donated mats and blankets are provided though if you are concerned about cleanliness you might want to bring your own. As with most Indian yoga schools, women should dress modestly. There are classes daily at the centre. 20-day intensive courses are held three times a year during February, April and September. The centre is closed from mid-December to mid-January and for March, May and June. The Yoga Study Centre is on the other side of town from the other ashrams, and from where most people stay. A constant stream of ₹3 shared rickshaws move up and down the primary street, and many go as far as the centre.

• Yoga Teacher Training by Rishikul Yogshala - Yoga Villa,Swargashrama, Ram Jhula ☎ +91 9410900421 - US$1500 Yoga Alliance-approved yoga school that offers 200 hour yoga teacher training, 300 hour yoga teacher training and 500 hour yoga teacher training as per the guidelines of Yoga Alliance, USA. The courses cover the comprehensive study of Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga and various other forms of yoga along with the meditation techniques and Ayurveda and Naturopathy.

• Yoga Vini Rishikesh - Trimbakeshwar Temple, Laxman Jhula - Registered yoga school which provides accommodation and meals. The ashram offers the 200-hour training session in Yoga Teachers Training Certificate (TTC) as per the guidelines of Yoga Alliance Association (YAA). This training includes the awareness, knowledge, tools & techniques of yoga, philosophy and culture of yoga.

• International Yoga & Meditation Society - Avdhoot Ashram, Railway Road ☎ +91 9466665678 |

| Price=US$1500 - International Yoga & Meditation Society (IYMS), is a not-for-profit 50-year-old yoga school on the bank of river Ganges, established by Avdhoot Ji Maharaj and his disciples in 1961. IYMS is a Yoga Alliance-approved Registered Yoga School (RYS) that offers TTC courses on 200 hours Ashtanga Yoga, 200 hours Hatha Yoga and 300 hours Advanced Yoga.

• Rishikesh Vinyasa Yoga School - Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training | Village Ghughtayni, Upper Tapovan Next to Rishikesh Resort,Off Badrinath Road ☎ +919958672399 | Opening Hours: 7AM to 8PM - Rishikesh Vinyasa Yoga School is in uphills road of Village Ghughtayni malli Tapovan.Vinyasa Yoga School is specialized for offering 200-hour Ashtanga & Vinyasa yoga teacher training course to global Rishikesh Yoga Vacation travelers. Here you get an expensive accommodation and yoga training with international certification. Most people who visit the Yoga school come with the purpose of becoming a certified yoga teacher. It is also known for giving Vedic yoga & meditation training under the branch of Mantra Yoga & Meditation India & Canada.

• Divine Yoga Academy - Hari Om Yoga Rishikesh | Tapovan Vatika Resort (Near Laxman Jhula Auto Stand), Rishikesh, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkhand ☎ +91 8171672711 - Divine Yoga Academy registered with Yoga Alliance, USA offering 200 hour, 300 hour and 500 hour yoga teacher training. Also offer yoga training courses for beginners and yoga retreats.

• Jeevmoksha Yoga Gurukul - Badrinath Highway, Yoga Street Tapovan ☎ +91-976-081-6686 | Opening Hours: 7AM–7PM US$1400 - Jeevmoksha yoga gurukul offers one month, 200 hour yoga teacher training or 200 hours of intensive hatha yoga teacher training program in compliance with the standards of Yoga Alliance (USA), which has set the guidelines for conducting the yoga teacher training courses through registered yoga schools(RYS) as per its curriculum.

• Hari Om Yoga Vidya School - Tavopan ☎ +91 8171 672711 - US$1190 - Offers one-month, 200-hour yoga teacher training or 200 hours of intensive hatha yoga teacher training program in compliance with the standards of Yoga Alliance (USA), which has set the guidelines for conducting the yoga teacher training courses through registered yoga schools (RYS) as per its curriculum.

• Chandra Yoga Meditation Ashram - Ganga Bhogpur Malla, Rishikesh - Cheela Dam Road 30.24269, 78.262189 ☎ +91 8057049232 - Registered yoga school under Yoga Alliance, USA, offers yoga teacher training and yoga retreats.

Music

• Bhuwan Chandra Music School & Store - bhuwan_b30@ Ram Jhula, Swaargashram, near Ram Jhula Bridge ☎ +91 9412029817 - ₹500/hr Run by a sitar player Bhuwan Chandra. Travelers can learn and buy sitar, tabla, harmonium, mantra chanting, and improve vocal skills.

• Mukeshji's Jungle Vibes | Shisham Jhari near Dayanand Ashram ☎ +91 9411312049 Make Australian didgeridoos, African djmbes and other musical instruments under the guidance of Mukeshji, while he regales you with his hilarious stories and takes you along with him in his Himalayan journeys.

• Pankaj Music School Ganga Vatika, Muni Ki Reti, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137 30.1217, 78.3068 100m left from Ram Jhula bridge, through Sivananda Memorial Arc ☎ +91 989 7108154 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 6PM ₹200/hr - Extremely proferssional artist Pankaj teaches sitar, harmonium, tabla and bansuri in different styles in a slow-paced, yet intensive way.

Temples and monasteries

• Shatrughan Mandir - Shatrughan Temple | Muni ki reti - One of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, established by Adi Sanchracharya in the 11th century. The only temple in India dedicated to lord Shatrughan, brother of Lord Ram.

• Sivananda Ashram, Ram Jhula, (on the north side of the Shivanand Jhula bridge). Sivananda Ashram does not offer guest accommodation to tourists, but is highly restrictive in its selection process (see its online guest accommodation application form at www.sivanandaonline.org). Sivananda Ashram is a highly-reputed monastic institution designed to perpetuate the spiritual teachings of its illustrious founder, Swami Sivananda, who in the last century sent his disciples all over the world to propagate the ancient tenets of Vedic philosophy. Sivananda Ashram has an outstanding library of spiritual and philosophical works in almost every language; its own press; four main temples in which pujas are performed several times a day; a charitable hospital and a home for the destitute and distressed; daily silent meditation from 5-6am, and evening satsang. Almost all religious festivals are celebrated and most programs are open to the public.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Rishikesh

As with most holy cities come tourist destinations there's a plethora of religious paraphernalia, affordable clothing aimed at foreigners, incense, bronze Shiva statues, etc. Unlike many other similar towns in India prices here are usually reasonable and you won't have to negotiate hard for a good price.

• Maayaa Eco Friendly Store Near Dharam Raj Temple, Laxman Jhula Road 30.123760, 78.329240 Walk from laxamn julla towards dharm raj temple ☎ +9193730 52179 | Opening Hours: 9AM Monday - 9PM - Many kinds of organic clothing made in India for men and women. Many types of devotional, spiritual, yogic, sattvic items. Wide variety of crucial oils for aromatherapy and Himalayan rock salt lamps and artifacts. A lot of books and music about yog and sadhna.

Halal Restaurants in Rishikesh

Non-vegetarian food has been banned in the city for many years. North and south Indian food is widely available, and there's no shortage of multi-cuisine backpacker cafes, especially in Laxman Jhula. What excites many foreigners are the delicious Ayurvedic and health food restaurants, perfect for an after-yoga meal. Many of the main lanes are lined with wooden push carts selling in-season fruit, veggies, popcorn, nuts, warm cookies and lots else, and you'll usually be quoted a fair price. The papayas here are particularly delicious. Try the famous Chotiwali Special/Janata or Delux Thali. It used to be an unlimited affair but now due to practical constraints the quantity is limited and extra helpings are charged. There are several eateries offering jalebis, imartis, samosas, and other Indian Snacks. If you haven't heard of these before, you should definitely try them.

• Chotiwala in Swarg Ashram claims to be the original, and serves up great Indian food including 5 different thalis. Meals starts from ₹100.
• Ganga Ayurvedic Food Place, (out beyond most of the ashrams, just past VED Niketan Ashram). Delicious food, lovingly prepared. One of the cleaner kitchens around; don't be afraid of the good salads. Also great for breakfast.

• Ganga View Restaurant from Laxman Jhula bridge, go to taxi stand passing the famous bell temples. After taxi stand walk another 20 meters Opening Hours: 8AM–11PM ₹10–200 Probably the best cooks in town and these guys will serve you any food you like. Be prepared to wait 40-90 minutes as the place is extremely popular.

• {{ eat
• German Bakery in Tapovan just above entrance to Laxman Jhula bridge, Tapovan side - Don't miss their super-popular spinach pie. Come at 10AM to get a piece.

• Little Buddha - Fine Nepali Food | Laxman Jhula Road in Laxman Jhula, look for a huge tree in the middle of the Laxman Jhula Rd. The restaurant is right against the tree. Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 10PM ₹10-150 One of the best known cafes in town. Here you can get delicious Nepali, Indian, European, and (Thai) Food for under ₹100 per dish. Three storeys, nice Ganga view.

• Little Italy, Swarg Ashram, (in the Green Hotel). Good Pasta, Pizzas, etc. Mains from ₹30.

• Moon Dance Cafe | Ramjhula Swargashram Area near taxi stand ☎ +91 91-9897270905 | Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 11PM ₹6-120 Italian, Mexican American, Indian, Tibetan, Nepali, Israeli settler cuisine with all food prepared with fresh water. Great choice of delicious meals. Be prepared to wait for at least 40 minutes.

• Mukti's Health Food, (a few hundred metres west of Shivanand Jhula bridge, overlooking the taxi stand/parking lot). A tiny place in a strange location, but very popular and excellent food at very reasonable prices. Homemade green Pasta, Indonesian gado-gado, and homemade frozen yogurt, apple pie or Chocolates cake for dessert.
• The Office. Has sweet samosas filled with mango, apple, banana and/or Chocolates as well as tasty masala chai.

• Pundit g ka rajasthani restaurant near Triveni Ghat - Has a very good variety of north Indian food.

• Red Night Restaurant, Open air, river-facing restaurant and terrace. 0135- 2440094
• Shiva-resort, a nice place away from the bustling market of Ram-Jhula towards Neelkanth road in Jonk village. A great place to have organic food and you also can stay there in a silent and pleasant place.
• The Welcome Center, (about a 10-15 minutes walk towards Haridwar from the Shivanand Jhula bridge). Hidden down off the road (but signposted), this is a little oasis of calm from the busy street. Great Ayurvedic food and teas. They also offer cooking classes, several types of yoga, etc. and sell natural incense, neti pots, yoga mats and the like. If you like the atmosphere, enquire about staying here as well.

• Zorba Organic Restaurant & Cafe - Near Dharam Raj Temple 30.123758, 78.329220 walk form Laxman Jhula towards Dharam Raj Temple ☎ +91 98164 92921 | Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 10:30PM - Serves Indian, Italian, Chinese, cafe-style, Tibetan and Israeli settler food. Vegetarian-friendly with vegan options, to eat Halal in or take out. Outdoor seating with view of the Ganges. No smoking, child-friendly.

Sitting around in dhabas and cafes is nearly mandatory here. In addition to the old standards like masala chai and lassis you can find a nice range of Ayurvedic teas. Some restaurants make up their own tonics to treat anything that may be ailing you.

There are two Italian-style/Seattle-style cafes focusing on Coffee.

Alcohol is banned and inappropriate, as Rishikesh is a holy city, although you can buy organic juice (8% alc) with your meal in one of the finer hotels.

• Tripti Restaurant is on main the Badrinath highway and is a good place to visit. It has a beautiful view and an airy restaurant area to sit and relax. The food is healthy and fresh and tasty. It is a common place for foreigners and vistiors to have a calm and quite break. Sitting on the terrace is another thing that you don't want to miss at "Tripti"

• Freedom Ganga Cafe - In Laxman Jhula, locate a tree in the middle of the road and turn down into a small lane next to an Ayurvedic doctor's office. Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 10PM ₹12-200 Offers strawberry smoothies, thick mango juice (ask for no ice), strawberry lassi, thick fresh pineapple juice. Drinks are served in 500 ml mugs.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Rishikesh

Rishikesh - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Rishikesh, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Rishikesh. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Rishikesh and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Rishikesh. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Rishikesh. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inRishikesh: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Rishikesh.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Rishikesh: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Rishikesh, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Rishikesh.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Rishikesh, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Rishikesh, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Rishikesh and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Rishikesh, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Rishikesh, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Rishikesh without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Rishikesh is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Rishikesh.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Rishikesh is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Rishikesh, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Rishikesh Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Rishikesh is filled almost entirely with hotels, with a few mid-range thrown in for good measure. Lakshman Jhula is popular with backpackers and has the cheapest accommodation, while Swarg Ashram is where the majority of the ashrams are located, and is a nice alternative. There's also a handful of accommodation options available in High Bank.

It's wise to book ahead in the peak tourist season, and during the Kumbh Mela in neighboring Haridwar.

Hotels in this range start at price as low as ₹100.

• Ananda Guesthouse Swargashram next to Krishna Cottage ☎ +91 9758164982 - ₹300-400 Clean and comfortable, new rooms with attached bath. Good value for the money and the owner is a great and helpful host.

• The lodge atrikunj | swargashram behind hotel rajdeep ☎ +91 9897123301 - ₹250-350. Rooms also available on monthly basis ₹6000-7000 per month. Check-in: any time / Check-out: noon Newly built neat and clean rooms with kitchen facilities in some rooms. Comfortable homely stay. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Service with smile.

• Green Hotel | Swargashram ☎ +91 135-2431242 - ₹100-1000 A large, popular place with a good restaurant.

• Hotel Ganga Ambience - Badrinath Road Tapovan Laxman Jhoola Opp Ace Glass Factory, 5 minutes walk from Police Check Post Tapovan ☎ +91 9258743996, +91 8126526646 Check-in: noon / Check-out: noon ₹600-1500 Clean, comfortable and a safe place to stay. AC and non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms, 24 hours hot water, balcony with mountain view, garden, vehicle parking, restaurant. Yoga lessons, river rafting and other adventure activities are also available on request. It's family-owned, and the host is very helpful and kind and stays in the same property.

• Hotel Hill Top Laxman Jhula ☎ +91 135-2434583 Rooms over looking the river and the mountains.

| prince=Double bed-room ₹600-750. Four bed-room with TV ₹1200.

• Hotel Ishan | Lakshman Jhula Decent rooms with Ganga views and balconies. From ₹200.

• Hotel Narayana Kunj | Swargashram ☎ +91 135-2440922, +91 135-2440822 - ₹300-600 They claim to have neat and clean rooms and good service.

• Hotel Surya Palace | Village Joink Ramjhula ☎ +91 1352440005 - ₹350-900 Opened 2010. Wifi. Rooms are big, clean and very comfortable.

• Jaipur Inn | Laxman Jhula - Single ₹900, double ₹1000 Nice rooms, some with a view and a good restaurant on the top floor that overlooks both the Laxman Jhula and the Ganges River.

• Krishna Cottage | Swargashram near Chotiwala Restaurant ☎ +91 135-2440193 - US$20/night Room price of US$20 per day includes 3 meals & free wireless internet. Also offers short term yoga and ayurveda courses/retreats (including Yoga Alliance certified 200 hour yoga teacher training) and budget vehicle and taxi rental services from Delhi airport to Rishikesh.

• Laxmi Yellow Guest House Near Anand Prakash Yoga Ashram, Badrinath Road Tapovan Laxman Jhoola 10 minutes walk from Police Check Post Tapovan ☎ +91 9760506761 Check-in: noon / Check-out: noon ₹250 - 400 Guest house with clean and comfortable rooms with attached kitchen, common kitchen and attached bathroom with 24 hours hot water, mountain view, in-house salad lounge & cafe. In-house reiki and crystal macrame workshops available. In-house salon for haircut by professional stylist. Yoga lessons, river rafting and other adventure activities are also available on request. The host is very helpful and kind and stays in the same property. The same owner also owns Yash Paying Guest House, which charges ₹400-500 for rooms and also offers them for monthly rentals. Contact info for Yash: , +91 9412146858, Mr.Yash, +91 9997887794

• Live Free Hostel - Laxman Jhula, Distt. Tehri Garhwal, Tapovan near Anand Dham ☎ +91 98717 99693 - 4-bed dorms for ₹399, doubles for ₹999 - Hostel with a rooftop and several terraces. Dorm, single and double rooms with all new beds and bedsheats. Staff sometimes takes tourists out on small daytours outside of town. Has Wifi.

• Lucky Hotel | Lakshman Jhula ₹300-1300 8-room hotel on the banks of the Ganges with a river view. A restaurant serving Indian and Chinese food is under the hotel.

• Mount Valley Mama Cottage High Bank The friendly hostess, Mama, makes wholesome breakfasts and scrumptious thali. Nice Ganga views and a good shower.

• Patanjali Yoga Center Ram Jhula Taxi Stand Iyengar Yoga lessons are available in a studio with modern equipment. Price Rooms ₹100 and up.

• Raj Resort - Raj Resort Rishikesh | Badrinath Road Tapovan 5 minutes walk from Police Check Post Tapovan ☎ +91 135-2434165, +91 9412917323 - ₹300 - 1500 Clean and comfortable AC/non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms, hot shower, balcony with mountain view, garden, vehicle parking, restaurant. Yoga lessons, river rafting and other extras are also available.

• Rishikesh Sadan and the Spiritual Retreat Guesthouse - Osho Mystery Meditation Center | Near RTO Checkpost, Aamkhala, Tapovan, Badrinath Highway next to Narayana Palace ☎ +91 9897810055 - ₹400-700 Clean and comfortable valley facing rooms near spring.

• Sai Ganga Cottage | Tapovan Badrinath Road Laxman Jhula Take rickshaw from Rishikesh Market to Sai Ganga Cottage, 10 min from Rishikesh market, very close to Ram Jhula bridge and waterfall ☎ +91 9997015534 - ₹500-2000 Check-in: anytime / Check-out: noon Family operated, beautiful rooms A/C and Non A/C available, water heater, delectable restaurant, cyber cafe, rafting and trekking packages, bus, air and train ticketing services available.

• Sarika The sanctuary | monu_joshi2004@ Swargashram next to Shiva Resort ☎ +91 9897270905, +91 8958302149, +91 135-2440157 - ₹200-300 Reported to be clean and comfortable.

• Shiva Resort | Swargashram - From ₹450-1000 Open rooms with balconies and garden. Also offers yoga lessons in the morning (7:00AM to 8:30AM ) & evening (5:30PM to 7:00PM), in-house pool, Internet cafe, Ayurvedic treatments and panchkarma centre.

• Shiv Shakti Guesthouse | Laxman Jhula near Sant Sewa Ashram ☎ +91 9756697614 - ₹300-500 Clean and comfortable rooms with attached bathroom. Some rooms have Ganges views and free Wi-Fi. There is also a travel point at reception.

• Tripti Hotel | Tapovan Laxman Jhula ☎ +91 135-2430212, +91 9897544408 - Non-AC rooms ₹600 Clean and comfortable. The owner is a great guy and helpful host.

• Vashishth Guest House | Swargashram Near Parmarth Niketan ☎ +91 135-2440029 - ₹300 - 650 Clean and safe place to stay with air conditioning, television, water heater, attached bathroom facilities.

• Yoga Niketan Guest House Near Ram Jhula. On the river, private ghat. Yoga classes take place in their main ashram above - a five-minutes uphill walk. Clean rooms on ground and first floors have private sit out with good view of the Ganges. Basic veg meals available on request or at the Ashram for ₹200 per day. Non Ac ₹500; AC ₹990.

Many ashrams also offer affordable lodging.

• Nirmal Ashram - Very close to Triveni Ghat - Mayakund, Nirmal Ashram is famous for its service to humanity. Free food, medical treatment, education to poor people are a few of the services which Nirmal Ashram provides. Free food is served to everybody who comes to the ashram.

• Sant Seva Ashram Laxman Jhula ☎ +91 135-2430-465 Budget rooms on the banks with a great view from ₹250-700. Long stays allowed. Booking can be done only 1 or 2 days in advance. Homely restaurant attached.

• Sri Ved Niketan Ashram Swarg Ashram From the Bus Stand, take the road toward Parmarth Niketan ☎ +91 9456710941 - Rooms ₹150-400 - Spacious yoga hall of the International Vishwaguru Meditation and Yoga Institute and huge and serene lush green court yard offering hatha yoga, meditation, teacher training course 200 hours and 15 days intensive course of hatha yoga, etc.

• Nakshatra Resort - Nakshatra Resort | Ratta Pani Neelkanth Road Rishikesh (Uttarakhand ☎ +91 9917289990 - Nakshatra Resort offers a wide variety of carefully designed, fun-filled adventurous expeditions. Our portfolio of outdoor activities includes Camping, River Rafting, Trekking in the Himalayas, Rock Climbing, Rappelling, etc.

Mid-range

There are two Government Tourist Lodges. Their rates range from ₹600 to ₹2000.

• Bharat Bhumi in the town.
• Sisham Jhari on the banks of the Ganges.

• Explore Himalaya Resort | Badrinath Road, Village Shivpuri ☎ +91 9212514779 - ₹2500–2800 AC/Non-AC rooms with attached bathrooms, hot shower, balcony with mountain view, garden, vehicle parking, restaurant. Yoga lessons, meditation or massage, trekking trips, water sports, river rafting are all available.

• Hotel Ganesha Inn | Laxman Jhula Road ☎ +91 2442024 -

• Hotel Ganga View 355 Haridwar Road 30.102356, 78.292447 on National Highway 58 ☎ +91 999720244 Check-in: noon / Check-out: noon ₹1500-₹2499 Situated on the outskirts of the city with a river view.

• Hotel Grand Tapovan | Village Bhawani, Tehri Garhwal, Shivpuri Badrinath Road ☎ +91 8954482001, +91 7310794646 - ₹4000-8000 Check-in: noon / Check-out: noon - A 3-star hotel with a garden; also has a decent restaurant. Rafting, camping, trekking and bungee jumping can be arranged. Also arrange school and business day trips, Haridwar day trips, etc.

• High Bank Peasant's Cottage - Tapovan ☎ +91 9837055578 - A small boutique family guest house, away from the hustle and bustle. Located peacefully on the edge of the reserve forest in the lower Himalayas overlooking the town.

• Hotel Prasanna Inn | Near Dayananda Ashra Near the river line, in some quiet and serene surroundings. Rooftop yoga.

• The Riviera | Shivpuri, Rishkesh ☎ +91 9990234386 - ₹3500–5000
• Tapovan Resort | Laxman Jhula ₹1650-1850 A newer hotel with good rooms and a garden. Also has a decent restaurant.

• Vna Tapovan | Laxman Jhula Badrinath Road ☎ +91 8449100888, +91 8449300888 - ₹1950–₹2950 Check-in: noon / Check-out: noon A quiet hotel with an informative, helpful staff. Rafting, camping, trekking and bungee jumping can be arranged.

• Ganga Beach Resort | Shesdhara, Tapovan, Laxman Jhula Road 3 kilometers from Rishikesh & on the right river bank of Ganga ☎ +91 135-2442018 - Exquisite setting on the Ganges, surrounded by forested hills.

• Hotel Ganga Kinare - 0135-2435243 | @otels.com 237 Virbhadra Road ☎ +91 8447404441-2-3 - ₹3000-6000 On the banks of the Ganges, with a private ghat (bank), this boutique hotel overlooks Rajaji National Park. A couple of rolling lawns host morning yoga sessions and spiritual lectures. Various heads of states and celebrities have stayed here. The hotel houses a riverside cafe 'Rangoli' and a multi-cuisine dining lounge. Some years before it used to be the venue of international yoga week also.

Stay Safe

A holy city it may be, but Rishikesh draws more than its fair share of criminals and con men. Don't walk around alone at night and beware of the motives of sadhus offering one-on-one tutoring. There is also a gem stone hoax going on in at least one gem store: They ask you to bring the stones to your own country to a "buyer" who doesn't exist.

Watch where you step: After sundown it is pitch dark, so bring a light. Watch out for the sometimes brash food stealing monkeys too. They mostly "operate" on and around the foot bridges, and if you look them in the eyes they become aggressive, but rarely/never attack unless you carry food. Sadhus and police officers carry sticks to keep monkeys and cows/oxen at a distance. The brown monkeys are aggressive; the grey big languors are nicer. The greys sometimes steal food from tourists (not on the bridges), but mostly because their size scares the tourist and they don't bite you to get food.

Be alert if an ox is on your path: They are mostly harmless, but after dark they are sometimes nervous. Especially on the narrow foot bridges, you should try to read their body language before a close encounter.

Try not getting involved with any local guide who is offering you services. They are mostly con men and goons.

Travel Next

By Rail

Travel agents in Swarg Ashram and Lakshman Jhula can book train tickets for onward journeys; much easier than going to Rishikesh train station to buy a ticket. Some may sell you a ticket from Raiwala, a small stop between Rishikesh and Haridwar, but this station, while closer, is tiny and trains only stop for a few seconds - better to board at Haridwar.

• Ordinary / Passenger Trains from Rishikesh
• Rishikesh–Delhi 07:00
• Rishikesh–Haridwar 08:55 ₹10/-
• Rishikesh–Bandikui 12:20
• Rishikesh–Haridwar 15:20 ₹10/-
• Rishikesh–Haridwar 19:30 ₹10/-
• Express:
• Rishikesh - Jammutawi 16:15

Travel on a Bus in Rishikesh

Several travel agencies scattered around Swarg Ashram and Lakshman Jhula can book luxury buses to common destinations like Delhi (₹250-₹500), Jaipur, Pushkar and Varanasi. Public and private buses from Rishikesh to other destinations in Uttarakhand and on the plains leave from the main bus station on the south side of Chandrabhaga bridge.

Buses to northwest destinations including Devprayag, Srinagar and Kedarnath may pass through Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, however you will be more likely to get a seat at the bus station in Rishikesh town.

By shared taxi

Shared taxis to destinations within Uttarakhand leave from Natraj Chowk, 1km from the Rishikesh bus station.

Nearby destinations

• Dhanaulti - 84 kilometers away, offering an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. If you want to get away from the city crowd then just head towards the Dhanaulti.
• Mussoorie - 77 kilometers away, it is one of the most visited hill stations in India. Mussoorie is surrounded by green hills and rich in flora and fauna. For that reason Mussoorie is called ‘queen of the hills’.
• Rajaji National Park - 20 minutes' drive. Founded in 1983, it was created by integrating three different sanctuaries: Motichur Sanctuary, Chilla Sanctuary and Rajaji Sanctuary. The park is nicely placed in green hills and foothills of the Shivalik mountain ranges.
• Shivpuri - one of the most visited places around Rishikesh, 10 kilometers away. It is the hub for adventure sports like river rafting, camping and trekking.
• Yamunotri - Yamunotri is 215 kilometers away from Rishikesh. One of the major tourist attraction is Yamunotri temple at a height of 4,421 m above sea level.

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