Rishikesh

Rishikesh sits where the Ganges leaves the Himalaya and reaches the plains. It is a pilgrimage town that became the yoga capital of the world after the Beatles came here in 1968, and it manages to be both at once. What there is to see The Ganga aarti at Parmarth Niketan each evening, when lamps are floated on the river and several hundred people sing. It is free, it is not a performance for tourists, and it is the thing most of our guests remember. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, the two suspension footbridges, with cafes, ashrams and temples on both banks. The Beatles Ashram, properly the abandoned Maharishi Mahesh Yogi site, now covered in murals and slowly returning to forest. White water rafting on the Ganges between September and June, in grades that suit beginners. Practical things worth knowing Rishikesh is vegetarian and alcohol-free by law. The old town across the bridges is closed to cars, so we drop you at the nearest point and collect you afterwards. Modest dress matters here more than in Delhi or Jaipur. Getting there and driving times Six hours from Delhi, one hour from Haridwar, and around three from Dehradun airport. It pairs naturally with Haridwar and is the gateway to the Char Dham and Mussoorie. How long to stay Two nights. One evening for the aarti, one full day for the bridges, the ashram and the river. When to come February to May and September to November. The monsoon swells the river and closes the rafting.Ask us about Rishikesh Tell us when you want to travel and how long you have. We come back with a route, the vehicle it needs and one price, usually within 24 hours. Our day rates are published in full, and your hotels stay your own choice. Get a price for your Rishikesh trip   See our car and driver rates