Rishikesh

Rishikesh is not just a destination for me — it’s a recurring chapter in my travel diary. Whether it’s a quick weekend detox or an extended stay, the charm of this quaint town by the Ganges never fades. Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is a beautiful mix of spirituality, adventure, and laid-back riverside vibes. Every single time, it has something new to offer.

Getting There: My Usual Train Journey

My journey typically begins with a morning chair car train from Delhi to Haridwar. It’s my preferred choice — comfortable, affordable, and scenic enough to set the mood. From Haridwar, I take a shared auto to Rishikesh. If you’re in no hurry, you can hop on a shared auto or taxi and soak in the changing landscapes along the way.

There are several ways to reach Rishikesh from Delhi — bus, train, or car.

• By bus: Overnight Volvo buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate.

• By train: Haridwar is the nearest railway station, about 20 km away. From there, a shared auto or taxi gets you to Rishikesh.

• By car: Driving is great if you’re in a group. A drive of about 6–7 hours (240 km) through NH334 offers a scenic change from Delhi’s rush to the calm of the hills. My pro tip — leave Delhi before 5 AM to avoid traffic and reach by breakfast.

Where I Stayed

I have a little travel ritual — I never stay at the same place twice in Rishikesh. From cozy riverside hotels to vibrant hostels with backpackers swapping stories, I’ve tried them all. This keeps each visit unique — sometimes I’m watching the sunrise from a private balcony, sometimes I’m sharing it with new friends in a hostel common room. If you’re staying near the old town, be ready for a bustling atmosphere. Tapovan, on the other hand, is much quieter — perfect for unwinding.

Things You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Ganga Aarti – Beyond Parmarth Niketan

The Ganga Aarti is an unmissable experience, but here’s my tip: Parmarth Niketan is crowded, so I prefer watching the aarti from the other side of the river. It’s calmer, the view is just as magical, and you’ll have more space to soak it in.

2. Café Hopping – My Personal Favourite: Ganga Café

Over the years, I’ve eaten my way through Rishikesh, but one place I keep going back to is Ganga Café. Sitting on a terrace with views of the river, sipping chai, and digging into their grilled sandwich and pasta platter is a joy. Of course, there’s no shortage of great cafes here, so feel free to explore.

3. Click with the Giant Shiva in the Ganga

This towering statue of Lord Shiva, sitting serenely amidst the flowing river, is a photo stop you can’t miss.

4. Exploring the Town

• Laxman Jhula is not functional as of 2025, and many hostels are in this area - so plan your accommodation accordingly.

• The old Rishikesh is a bustling maze of shops, sadhus, and street food.

• Tapovan offers more peace and open spaces — ideal if you want quiet evenings but you may not get shared transport beyond one point.

5. Evening Traffic Tip

Do not use your own vehicle in the evenings. The town can get choked, and walking lets you truly feel the vibe while enjoying some peace. There is no dearth of shared transport though!

Best Time to Visit

February to mid-June and September to November are ideal, with pleasant weather for both adventure activities and spiritual retreats.

Final Thoughts

For me, Rishikesh is not just a destination. From the food at Ganga Café to the calming hum of the river, every visit leaves me a little lighter and a lot happier. If you haven’t been yet, make it your next destination.

Beyond Rishikesh – Coming Up Next!

In the next blog, I’ll share about the nearest places you can visit from here — short drives that lead to waterfalls, temples, and mountain trails.