Rishikesh & Haridwar, Northern India

Rishikesh and Haridwar are twin spiritual cities in Uttarakhand, India, situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Known for their spiritual significance, yoga retreats, and adventure activities, these cities attract pilgrims, yogis, and thrill-seekers from across the globe.

 

Rishikesh

Must-Visit Places

  1. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula

    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Highlights: Iconic suspension bridges, panoramic views of the Ganges, and bustling markets.
    • How to Get There: Located in Rishikesh; accessible by auto-rickshaw or walking.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.

  2. Triveni Ghat

    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Highlights: Evening Ganga Aarti, serene ambiance, and holy dips.
    • How to Get There: 2 km from Rishikesh Bus Stand; accessible by rickshaw or walking.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; Aarti starts at 6:00 PM.

  3. Parmarth Niketan Ashram

    • Entrance Fee: Free; donations accepted.
    • Highlights: Yoga classes, Ganga Aarti, spiritual discourses.
    • How to Get There: Near Ram Jhula; accessible by walking or rickshaw.
    • Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

  4. Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

    • Entrance Fee: ₹150 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners.
    • Highlights: Art-filled meditation halls, connection to The Beatles.
    • How to Get There: 2 km from Ram Jhula; accessible by rickshaw or walking.
    • Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

  5. Neer Garh Waterfall

    • Entrance Fee: ₹30 per person.
    • Highlights: Scenic trekking trail and pristine waterfalls.
    • How to Get There: 5 km from Rishikesh; hire a cab or trek.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

  6. Shivpuri (Rafting Point)

    • Entrance Fee: Depends on the rafting package (₹600–₹1,500 per person).
    • Highlights: River rafting, camping, and kayaking.
    • How to Get There: 16 km from Rishikesh; accessible by cab or bike.

How to Get Around Rishikesh

  1. Walking: Ideal for exploring ashrams, ghats, and markets.
  2. Auto-Rickshaws: Affordable and convenient for short distances.
  3. Bikes and Scooters: Rent from local vendors for ₹300–₹500 per day.
  4. Cabs: Suitable for visiting nearby attractions like Shivpuri.

Popular Local Food in Rishikesh

  1. Aloo Puri: Available at roadside dhabas.
  2. Chotiwala Restaurant: Famous for traditional thalis.
  3. Ayurvedic Tea: Herbal teas at local cafes.
  4. Kachori: A popular snack filled with spicy lentils or potatoes.
  5. Vegan and Organic Meals: Served at Pure Soul Café and Little Buddha Café.

Top Nightlife Spots in Rishikesh

Nightlife in Rishikesh revolves around serene Ganga Aartis and meditation retreats.

  • Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan and Triveni Ghat: Free entry; starts at 6:00 PM.
  • Café Live Music: Enjoy acoustic evenings at Little Buddha Café.
  • Camping under the Stars: Available near Shivpuri; packages start at ₹1,500.

Haridwar

Must-Visit Places

  1. Har Ki Pauri

    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Highlights: Evening Ganga Aarti, spiritual ambiance, and sacred bathing ghat.
    • How to Get There: Located in Haridwar city; accessible by walking or rickshaw.
    • Opening Hours: Open 24 hours; Aarti starts at 6:00 PM.

  2. Mansa Devi Temple

    • Entrance Fee: Free; ₹120 for ropeway.
    • Highlights: Panoramic views of Haridwar, sacred shrine of Goddess Mansa Devi.
    • How to Get There: Accessible by cable car or a steep trek.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  3. Chandi Devi Temple

    • Entrance Fee: Free; ₹150 for ropeway (combined ticket with Mansa Devi).
    • Highlights: Sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi Devi.
    • How to Get There: Accessible by cable car or trek from Haridwar.
    • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  4. Shantikunj Ashram

    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Highlights: Spiritual workshops, meditation sessions.
    • How to Get There: 6 km from Haridwar Railway Station; accessible by auto-rickshaw.
    • Opening Hours: 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

  5. Rajaji National Park

    • Entrance Fee: ₹150 per person.
    • Highlights: Wildlife safaris, elephants, and leopards.
    • How to Get There: 10 km from Haridwar; hire a cab or auto.
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

How to Get Around Haridwar

  1. Walking: Best for exploring temples and ghats.
  2. Auto-Rickshaws: Easily available for short distances.
  3. Cabs: Hire for visiting Rajaji National Park or nearby attractions.

Popular Local Food in Haridwar

  1. Kachori and Jalebi: Popular breakfast combo.
  2. Chotiwala Restaurant: Known for vegetarian thalis.
  3. Lassi: Refreshing drink available at roadside stalls.
  4. Peda and Barfi: Sweets available at local sweet shops.

Top Nightlife Spots in Haridwar

Nightlife in Haridwar focuses on spiritual activities.

  • Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: Free entry; starts at 6:00 PM.
  • Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Available at Shantikunj Ashram.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Ideal weather for sightseeing and spiritual experiences.
  • Avoid Summers: Hot and humid weather.

Festivals Celebrated

  1. Kumbh Mela (Every 12 years): Largest religious gathering.
  2. Kanwar Yatra (July–August): Pilgrimage dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  3. Diwali (October/November): Grand celebrations along the Ganges.

Where to Take Lessons

  1. Yoga

    • Parmarth Niketan (Rishikesh): Offers yoga and meditation classes.
    • Fee: ₹1,000–₹2,500 per session.

  2. Cooking

    • Cooking Studios (Rishikesh): Learn Indian cuisine in local workshops.
    • Fee: ₹1,500–₹2,000 per session.

  3. Gym

    • Modern Fitness Gyms: Available in both cities with daily and monthly packages.
    • Fee: ₹500 per day or ₹3,000 per month.

Both Rishikesh and Haridwar offer a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and culture, making them must-visit destinations for travelers of all kinds.