Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) FAQs In 2024

10 FAQS on Rishikesh

What is Rishikesh famous for in terms of tourism?

Rishikesh is renowned for its spiritual and yoga retreats, adventure sports like white-water rafting, camping and hiking, and its significance in Hinduism as a pilgrimage town. The Beatlesâ€™ visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogiâ€™s ashram in the 1960s, now known as The Beatles Ashram, also contributes to its fame.

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from September to November and from March to early May when the weather is pleasant for river rafting, camping, and other outdoor activities. Summers are quite hot, and winters can be chilly, especially at night.

Yes, Rishikesh hosts many temples and spiritual places. Popular ones include the Triveni Ghat for the evening 'Ganga Aarti', Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Niketan, and Bharat Mandir. The city is also dotted with numerous ashrams that offer yoga and meditation classes.

Rishikesh offers several adventure activities, such as white-water rafting on the Ganges, cliff jumping, bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights, flying fox, giant swing, kayaking, and trekking in the nearby Himalayan foothills.

Absolutely, Rishikesh is suitable for families offering a mix of relaxation, spirituality, and adventure. Families can engage in rafting suited for beginners, partake in cultural experiences, and visit attractions like the Neer Garh Waterfall, Rajaji National Park, and Vashishta Gufa.

Rishikesh caters to a wide range of tourists with accommodations that include luxury resorts, budget hotels, hostels, guest houses, and riverside camps. There are also several ashrams that provide simple rooms and a spiritual environment for those interested in yoga and meditation retreats.

Rishikesh is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, about 35 kilometers away. Rishikesh has its own railway station, and it's also well-connected by bus with major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar.

As a sacred town, Rishikesh observes strict vegetarianism, and alcohol and non-vegetarian food are prohibited. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or ashrams. Be respectful of religious rituals, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious ceremonies.

While it is not strictly necessary to have a guide, hiring one can enhance your experience especially if you want in-depth knowledge of the history, culture, and spirituality of the place. For adventure activities, professional guides are recommended for safety.

Rishikesh celebrates several Hindu festivals with great fanfare, including the International Yoga Festival in March, which attracts yoga enthusiasts from around the world. The Maha Shivaratri Festival and the Ganga Dussehra are also major events celebrated in the city.