How To Spend 3 Days & 3 Nights in Rishikesh? (2024)
Rishikesh and its pious atmosphere, with an adventure scent in the air, mesmerize the traveler. The pilgrim town, with its colorful landmarks, plenty of ashrams, and intricately carved temples, promises thrill, mythology, yogic practices, tranquility, peace, and spirituality.
The traditional cultural heritage can woo any visitor. Thus a few days in this beautiful town near the Himalayan foothills, surrounded by greens and Ganga waters, is worth every second. Why don’t you spend 3 days and 3 nights in Rishikesh, away from the city’s bustling crowds, and connect to nature?
How To Spend 3 Days & 3 Nights in Rishikesh?
Day 1 at Rishikesh
Eating at Ira’s Kitchen and Tearoom or the Pure Soul Cafe & Organic Kitchen is your decision, though both these places offer a sumptuous breakfast. A full stomach and a good mood are perfect ways to start an energetic and devotional day. Begin your journey from famous landmarks such as:
Lakshman Jhula-
Lakshman Jhula, an ancient suspension bridge across the Ganges, is one of the top attractions here. About 3 kms from Swarg Ashram and 6 kms from Rishikesh Railway Station lies this quaint historic bridge, a prominent tourist attraction in the town.
The present bridge is made of iron, though made originally in jute. In 1924, during floods, the rope bridge was washed away and replaced by sturdy iron in 1939. Legend says Lakshman built this significant landmark for his brother, Lord Rama, and sister-in-law Sita to cross the River Ganga.
The 450 feet long jhula, hanging 70 feet above the Ganges, connects the villages of Tapovan and Jonk in the Tehri Garhwal district. About 2 kilometers from Lakshman Jhula, near Sivananda Nagar, lies the Ram Jhula, another picturesque sight in Rishikesh.
The fabulous River Ganga, beautiful temples, and picturesque landmarks distinguish Rishikesh from the rest. Standing tall and distinct is the ancient Laxman Jhula, on the bucket list of every traveler coming to Rishikesh. There is a market around the area selling holy books, wooden artifacts, idols, handcrafted jewelry, rudraksha, bags, clothes, gems, health wellness products, travel souvenirs, and street foods.
Lakshman Mandir:
With breathtakingly beautiful wall engravings, sculptures, and exquisite wall art, the Lakshman Mandir is a place to enjoy serenity and calmness. This oldest temple, situated on the banks of the Ganga, has incredible interiors, paintings, and unusual sculptures. As per mythology, many believe that Lakshman sat down here and meditated to attain enlightenment.
The ancient temple is well known for its fabulous architecture. Though the structure is not too majestic, the historical significance and the divinity of the surroundings make it worth a visit. The Lakshman temple, with its fabulous interiors, stunning sculptures, and historic appeal, is situated in the Tapovan area near the Lakshman Jhula. The temple sees hundreds of people paying their respects to the Gods and Goddesses.
Tera Manzil Mandir:
The Tera Manzil Mandir, or the Trimbakeshwar Temple, is an appealing and attractive tourist spot in Rishikesh. This sacred pyramid-shaped multi-storeyed temple is situated on the holy banks of the river Ganga.
The quaint temple near the ancient Lakshman Jhula was established by Adi Shankracharya and had 13 floors. Each temple floor holds a series of nine temples dedicated to all gods and goddesses. On the top is the temple with the idol of Lord Shiva. Moreover, the mandir, with mesmerizing murals, and idols dedicated to several Gods and Goddesses, is about 6 kms away from the Railway station.
The beautiful architecture and the striking deities of this Tera Manzil or Kailash Niketan Mandir attract many devotees daily. The beauty of this temple is unmatched during the Maha Shivratri and Shravan Somvar festivals.
Are you feeling hungry after your spiritual tryst? You can take a break and eat a yummy hygienic lunch at VARR-temple food of India, the Chatsang, or Jal Jalebi & beyond.
Rishikesh, and its Ganga walks, are an unbeatable combination. People who tour the town make sure they spend a couple of hours taking serene walks to explore the divinity of the city. Go for this offbeat travel adventure and explore Rishikesh to the fullest.
Neer Garh Waterfall:
Neer Garh waterfall is about 5 kms from Lakshman Jhula, but you must trek to reach here. This famous natural waterfall is a sight to behold and stands tall and majestic near the Rishikesh-Badrinath Highway.
The water flowing in its full glory from the tall natural rocky cliffs is unbeatably attractive. Travelers are seen lounging on the enormous boulders, taking a bath, and playing in the narrow stream. There are two waterfalls, two bridges, and a few resting places near each other where tourists can relax and enjoy the sunshine and water. Adventure lovers often trek in the area and trudge through the narrow trails through the jungle. The beautifully colored butterflies fluttering and prancing around the different hues of flowers are mesmerizing. Hungry in the wilderness? Order noodles or chips from the vendors with your evening tea and enjoy the natural beauty.
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat:
The overcrowded Triveni Ghat is an auspicious spot, 1.5 kms from the railway station in Rishikesh. As the name suggests, Triveni Ghat is where three holy rivers, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, meet. Spread over a large area, this sacred ghat is jam-packed with pilgrims.
Many people dip in the Ganges’ holy waters to wash off negativity. Legend says Lord Krishna had come here after he had been pierced in the toe by a hunter’s poisonous arrow.
The river covered by a carpet of flower petals and thousands of sparkling oil lamps at night during the MahaAarti is eye-catching. If you want to attain salvation and wash off your sins, take a dip here and visit the temples to get an ethereal experience.
The surroundings resound with the peaceful chants of hymns, bhajans, and prayers, along with bells and beating drums. Once here, you can pay a quick visit to the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir and Geeta temple because they are located near the Triveni Ghat. End the day by having a sumptuous dinner at Las Brisas, Sitting elephant, or Shivani’s Café.
You will find plenty of multi-cuisine eating joints when you reach the town. Pick your favorite, and then head for a peaceful night at your hotel.
Day 2 in Rishikesh
It’s a bright and beautiful day for lots of fun and spiritual activities. Let’s begin!
Morning Yoga at Ganga Ghat :
Yogic asanas rejuvenate the body from deep within. Restore strength, gather energy for the whole day, and kick–start the day with Yoga at a serene retreat. It is a well-known fact that if you want to be physically and mentally fit, you must keep your mind and body balanced with Yoga. There is no better place to be in. So, start your day with Yoga in a peaceful and fantastic location. Gather your full power pack of energy at the riverside while you breathe in the fresh air. You can avail yourself of plenty of one-day or two-day yoga sessions.
River Rafting:
Rishikesh, the adventure capital, is an ideal place to indulge in thrilling river rafting in India. The river rafting spread over 36 kms begins from Kaudiyala and commences at Lakshman Jhula. Depending on the kind of adventure preferred, you have to pay approx anything between Rs 400 to Rs 1300.
About 8.5 kms from the Railway station in Rishikesh, on Badrinath road, is the Brahmapuri Rafting point, ideal for adventure sports. If you want a safe but exciting package, then this is where you need to book your seat. The packages offered are suitable for school kids and family members. You can also go rafting at Shivpuri!
Not only will the people enjoy the rafting, but they can also participate in various activities such as volleyball, camping, cliff jumps, bonfire, body surfing, etc.
Bungee Jumping:
Can you imagine a better way of exploring nature and witnessing the tranquility of Mother Nature from up close? Bungee jumping is for you. If you want an adrenalin rush and to feel the serene calmness of the greens, flowing river, and the glorious backdrop as you slip down from a 55-meter high point, then go for this exciting adventure activity.
Well, this is called “guts,” and that too for a reason!! Bungee jumping is a popular “people’s favorite” adventure sport in India, under the patronage and expert instruction of skilled, trained New Zeeland teachers. The authorities have hired experts, especially for this activity, to pay extra attention to the new learners.
Rishikesh, its serenity, and your courageous spirit are to be cherished. The bungee jumping height is around 83 meters, i.e., approximately two hundred seventy-two feet above the land. But don’t worry. Safety gears, proper equipment, skilled techniques, and qualified instructors are at your service. Indulge in an enthralling Bungee jumping ride, earn your “Dare to jump” certificate, and get some photographic prints of your jump.
Besides this, you can take part in Off-trail trekking along the waterfall and catch superb views of the valley. After this adventurous day, you need to rest and grab good food before retiring for the night. Take advantage of Chotiwala if you crave vegetarian food. You can also eat at Beatles Café and tasty vegan dishes at the Tatty café. Rishikesh has you covered, and there is so much to offer. Walking along the beaches of the Ganges and the ghats has a unique charm, so why not digest that food and prepare for another exciting day?
3rd Day in Rishikesh:
Parmarth Niketan Ashram:
After breakfast, visit the Parmarth Niketan Ashram for meditation and Yoga. The Ashram is a spiritual center where Yoga, meditation, and prayers are conducted. If you enroll for one of the sessions, you can relish the simple and tasty lunch without paying a penny. We promise you will feel like a new person when you step out of the Ashram. Once your food souls are satisfied, you can start for the next landmark.
The Beatles Ashram:
You may have crooned to the Beatles songs plenty of times, but there is an exciting thing about the band. They have been to Rishikesh in India in 1968 to spend time in peace and learn meditation and Yoga. They stayed at the “Beatles Café” near the Swarg Ashram. Please pay a visit to see the building and the area around it.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:
This temple is dedicated to Nilkanth Bhagwaan, also known as Lord Shiva. The most impressive point is the unique and distinct architecture inspired by the Dravidian style. The temple stands in its royal glory amongst beautiful lush green vegetation, a large forest, and mountain ranges.
Muni ki Reti:
This holy place, or “sand of the sages,” is inspired by monks who have meditated here. It is a popular place for people who prefer Yoga and meditation for a spiritual aura and positivity.
Walk Along the Astha Path:
Another name for the glorious Astha Path is the Marine Drive, which attracts considerable footfall because of its beauty. Tourists love to take a stroll along this walking path along the Ganga River. Beautiful but solid ramparts have been constructed to ensure the safety of the walkers.
Sunset at the Ganga Beach:
End your trip by witnessing one of the mesmerizing sunsets near Ram Jhula. Ganga Beach is a long stretch with river access that is one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches you will ever see! The most fantastic evening you will spend in Rishikesh will be spent on white sand, with the turquoise Ganga river flowing and chants of Ganga Aarti and Ram Jhula twinkling in the background as the sun sets.
As the Ganga Aarti finishes, it’s time to return to the hotel. Take a bite at Pure soul, Shree Ram Restaurant, or the Ganga Beach Café, or dine at your resting place. Carry back the memory of twinkling incensed lamps and the incandescent atmosphere. The sparkle will leave an undeniable impact on the mind forever and ever!
Haridwar and Rishikesh are two bustling, riverside pilgrim towns at the foothills of the holy Himalayas. These towns are considered sacred in India and home to packed ashrams, colorful local landmarks, and scenic temples overlooking the Ganges. Most travelers spend a few days experiencing the natural beauty of this riverside town, but you can have the best three days and three nights in Rishikesh, so why not go for it?
