Rishikesh, India: A 3-day budget adventure

Experience the spiritual and adventurous side of India on a budget-friendly journey to Rishikesh.

21 June 2023

Rishikesh is a popular destination in India for those seeking to explore spirituality, yoga and adventure sports. The city offers affordable accommodations, street food and local transport making it an excellent destination on a limited budget. Visit the temples, take a dip in the Ganges river and experience local life in Rishikesh.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Hotel Vedas Tapovan offers great budget accommodation with a rooftop restaurant and yoga classes
  • Visit Triveni Ghat, a holy spot where locals come to bathe in the Ganges and offer prayers
  • Take a stroll on the pedestrian-only suspension bridge named Laxman Jhula
  • Explore the Beatles Ashram where the Fab Four stayed in 1968 and indulge in some meditation
  • Indulge in local street food at Chotiwala and try the aloo puri or chole bhature
Day 2

Adventure and Spirituality

  • Experience an early morning Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram and seek blessings
  • Book a rafting trip on the Ganges and feel the thrill of navigating the rapids
  • Trek to Neer Garh Waterfall through the scenic Rajaji National Park
  • Visit the world-famous Yoga Institute and learn yoga and meditation techniques
  • Treat your taste buds to authentic North Indian thali at Bistro Nirvana or Madras Cafe
Day 3

Serenity and Souvenirs

  • Drive 25 km out of town to visit the Vashishta Gufa, a peaceful meditation cave in a serene forest
  • Head to Ram Jhula Market for souvenir shopping and pick up colorful scarves, handicrafts and incense
  • Try the lip-smacking pahadi cuisine at Rajasthani Bhojanalaya or Devraj Coffee Corner
  • Wind down with a sunset ceremony at the Trimbakeshwar Temple and soak in the calming vibe
  • Sip on some herbal tea while enjoying scenic views from Bistro Nirvana's rooftop.
  • Rishikesh offers a perfect blend of adventure and spirituality that one should not miss. Embrace the local culture, rejuvenate your body and soul and bring home goodies that will keep alive your memories of this beautiful town.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Rishikesh by plane is to fly into Dehradun Airport and then take a taxi or bus to Rishikesh. The airport is about 35 kilometers from Rishikesh and the journey takes about an hour. Airlines that fly to Dehradun airport include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

Car

The best way to get to Rishikesh by car is to drive from Delhi to Rishikesh. The journey takes about 6-7 hours and the route is well-connected by roads. You can either hire a taxi or drive your own car.

Train

The best way to get to Rishikesh by train is to take a train to Haridwar Junction Railway Station and then take a bus or taxi to Rishikesh. Haridwar Junction is a major railway station and is well-connected to many cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

Boat

There is no direct way to reach Rishikesh by boat as it is not connected by waterways. However, you can take a boat ride on the Ganges river in Rishikesh to experience the scenic beauty of the place.

Bus

The best way to get to Rishikesh by bus is to take a direct bus from Kashmere Gate ISBT in New Delhi. The journey takes about 6-7 hours and there are many bus operators that provide this service.

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