Lakshman Jhula
Iconic suspension bridge over the Ganges
Lakshman Jhula
The most famous landmark of Rishikesh, this 137-metre iron suspension bridge spans the Ganges at a height of 21 metres. Legend says Lord Lakshmana crossed the river here on a jute rope. Originally built in 1929, the bridge was closed to traffic in 2020 due to structural concerns but remains an iconic symbol of Rishikesh.
30-60 minutes
Free
High
Morning or sunset for best views
Open 24 hours (currently closed for pedestrian crossing due to structural concerns)
Highlights
Lakshman Jhula
Ram Jhula
Pedestrian suspension bridge connecting ashrams
Ram Jhula
Built in 1986, Ram Jhula is a 228-metre suspension bridge connecting Swarg Ashram on one side to Sivananda Ashram on the other. It offers stunning views of the Ganges and surrounding hills, and is flanked by major ashrams and temples on both banks.
20-30 minutes
Free
Moderate
Morning or evening
Open 24 hours
Highlights
Ram Jhula
Triveni Ghat
Sacred confluence and evening Aarti site
Triveni Ghat
The most sacred bathing ghat in Rishikesh, located at the confluence of three holy rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. The evening Ganga Aarti here is a mesmerizing spiritual experience with fire offerings, chanting, and floating diyas on the river.
1-1.5 hours
Free
High
Evening for Ganga Aarti
Open 24 hours. Evening Aarti: 6:00-7:00 PM
Highlights
Triveni Ghat
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
Where the Beatles found inspiration in 1968
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
Officially known as Chaurasi Kutia, this abandoned ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi became world-famous when The Beatles visited in 1968 to study Transcendental Meditation. Now reopened as a heritage site within Rajaji National Park, the crumbling meditation domes are covered in vibrant Beatles-themed graffiti art, making it a unique blend of spiritual history and street art.
1.5-2 hours
₹150 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)
Moderate
Morning for good light on graffiti
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Highlights
Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)
Parmarth Niketan
Largest ashram in Rishikesh with evening Aarti
Parmarth Niketan
The largest ashram in Rishikesh with over 1,000 rooms, Parmarth Niketan sits on the banks of the Ganges and is known for its beautiful evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Founded in 1942, it offers yoga, meditation, and spiritual programs. The ashram hosts the annual International Yoga Festival every March.
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Moderate
Evening for Ganga Aarti
5:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Evening Aarti: 6:00-7:00 PM
Highlights
Parmarth Niketan
Sivananda Ashram (Divine Life Society)
Historic ashram founded by Swami Sivananda
Sivananda Ashram (Divine Life Society)
Founded in 1936 by Swami Sivananda, the Divine Life Society ashram is one of the most respected spiritual institutions in India. Located near Ram Jhula, it houses a temple, library, Ayurvedic pharmacy, and the Sivananda Ashram museum. The ashram continues to be a center for yoga, Vedanta, and spiritual study.
1-2 hours
Free
Low
Morning for meditation sessions
5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Highlights
Sivananda Ashram (Divine Life Society)
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Sacred Shiva temple in the Garhwal hills
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Nestled in the dense forests of the Garhwal hills at 1,330 metres, this ancient temple marks the spot where Lord Shiva is believed to have consumed the cosmic poison during Samudra Manthan, turning his throat blue (Neelkanth). The 26km drive from Rishikesh through winding mountain roads is itself a scenic experience.
Half day (including travel)
Free
Moderate to High
Morning, weekdays to avoid crowds
6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Highlights
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Kunjapuri Temple
Sunrise viewpoint with Himalayan panorama
Kunjapuri Temple
A Shakti Peeth temple perched at 1,676 metres offering spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayan peaks including Chaukhamba, Banderpunch, and Swargarohini. One of the 52 Shakti Peeths where parts of Goddess Sati's body fell. The pre-dawn drive followed by the sunrise is a transformative experience.
3-4 hours (including travel)
Free
Low
Sunrise (leave Rishikesh by 4:30 AM)
Open 24 hours (arrive by 5:30 AM for sunrise)
Highlights
Kunjapuri Temple
Neer Garh Waterfall
Refreshing two-tier waterfall near town
Neer Garh Waterfall
A beautiful two-tier waterfall located just 5km from Lakshman Jhula. The waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs into natural pools where visitors can take a refreshing dip. The short trek through forested paths makes it a popular half-day escape from the town. Best visited during or just after monsoon when the water flow is strongest.
2-3 hours
₹30
Moderate
Monsoon and post-monsoon (July-October)
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Highlights
Neer Garh Waterfall
Rajaji National Park
Wildlife sanctuary with elephants and tigers
Rajaji National Park
Spread over 820 sq km across the Shivalik ranges, Rajaji National Park is home to Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, and over 400 bird species. The park offers jeep safaris and nature walks through diverse habitats — from sal forests to riverine areas. The Rishikesh entrance provides easy access to the Chilla range.
Half day (one safari)
₹150 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners). Jeep safari: ₹2,500-3,500
Low
November to June, early morning for wildlife
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed July-October)
Highlights
Rajaji National Park