Rishikesh is two cities in one: the Yoga Capital of the World for spiritual seekers, and a white-water rafting hub for adventure lovers. Here is your complete guide.
Rishikesh sits where the Ganga rushes out of the Himalayas onto the plains — 215 km from Bareilly, 290 km from Delhi. The town divides neatly into the spiritual lower town (Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula) and the adventure-packed upper town (Shivpuri, Byasi).
Adventure Activities
White-water rafting: The Rishikesh–Devprayag stretch is one of India's best. Grade 3–5 rapids. Best season: September to June (avoid monsoon). Full day (36 km) or half day (16 km) options available.
Bungee jumping: India's highest fixed platform bungee at 83m. Jumpin Heights, 22 km from Rishikesh. Book ahead — slots fill fast.
Camping & trekking: Dozens of camps along the Ganga between Shivpuri and Byasi offer 1–2 night riverside experiences.
Spiritual Rishikesh
Parmarth Niketan's evening Ganga Aarti is as spectacular as Haridwar's. The Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) where The Beatles meditated in 1968 is now open as a heritage space with fascinating wall art.
Getting There
Bareilly → Rishikesh: 215 km, approximately 4.5 hours by cab. For a combined Haridwar + Rishikesh trip, allow 2 days minimum.