Top 4 Best Trails for Trekking in Rishikesh: “Hikes around Rishikesh”

Rishikesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, is famous for adventure travel and spiritual retreats. With its peaceful surroundings, beautiful mountain views, and spiritual vibe, it is a great starting point for exciting trekking in and around Rishikesh in India.

Pilgrimage city Rishikesh, although today in the whole world is known by the name of International Capital of Yoga. But, in Rishikesh and surrounding areas there are many such tourist places and adventurous activities also, which attract tourists of the country and the world automatically.

Here there are many such trekking routes also, which tourists like very much. Among these, one trekking route is the ancient walking path of the Char Dham Yatra. This track, even though for many years remained in the womb of time, but now by the efforts of the district administration this trekking route got a new identity, which now is greatly attracting the tourists.

Overview: Trekking in Rishikesh

Trekking in Rishikesh allows you to explore stunning natural beauty, challenge yourself, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature lover.

From afar, Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula always keep giving the temptation to call you near. So if you are going to Rishikesh for the first time then definitely go to see this Jhula.

And after that move ahead because ahead is a very beautiful destination Garud Chatti, which is situated at a distance of about 9 kilometers from Rishikesh.

Near Rajaji National Park and on the banks of river Ganga, this place full of natural beauty will please you. To reach here one has to go on the way of Neelkanth temple but the green forests will force you to lose the way.

Miles long deserted roads, beside sad-like mountains, on one side below a deep gorge. Moving towards the destination, finding a deserted tea shop is very common. Going further you will reach Garud Temple near which also flows a river.”

Best Hikes Around Rishikesh

Rishikesh boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails in northern India. Explore these active adventure options to immerse yourself in nature and spirituality.

Tourist Places of Rishikesh and Surrounding Area

Triveni Ghat, Raghunath Temple, Rishi Kund, Aastha Path, Ancient Shri Bharat Temple, Chandreshwar Mahadev Temple, Veerbhadra Temple, Someshwar Temple, Veerbhadra Excavation Site, Janki Setu, Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, Swargashram, Chaurasi Kuti, Bhootnath Temple, Terah Manzil, Chaudah Manzil Temple, Henval Valley, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Narendra Nagar, Kunjapuri Temple, Shivpuri, Kaudiyala, Vyasi.

1. Neer Garh Waterfall Trek

• You start this short yet delightful hike near the Laxman Jhula area.
• The path leads you through lush forests, ending at the beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall.
• You enjoy small pools for a refreshing dip along the way.

2. Kunjapuri Temple Trek

• You ascend to the hilltop Kunjapuri Temple for panoramic Himalayan views.
• The trail begins from Tapovan or Hindola Khal, letting you witness sunrise if you start early.
• Locals and visitors alike trek here for spiritual and visual rewards.

3. Phool Chatti Waterfall Hike

• You embark on an easy trail from Garud Chatti Temple to reach Phool Chatti Waterfall.
• The hike provides tranquil forest paths with lesser crowds.
• You pause often to enjoy the sound of rushing water and spot birds.

4. Patna Waterfall Hike

• You trailblaze through forests from Rishikesh to the hidden Patna Waterfall.
• You find a cool cave and spring near the falls, perfect for exploration.
• The site offers solitude and lush greenery.

5. Nilkantha Mahadev Temple Trek

• Pilgrims and trekkers journey to Nilkantha Mahadev Temple from Swarg Ashram.
• The trail winds through jungle terrain and streams, captivating nature lovers.
• You gain both spiritual blessings and excellent exercise.

Enjoy the natural beauty and serenity along these vibrant hiking routes near Rishikesh.

Kunjapuri Trail

Short Treks in Rishikesh ( Small Treks in Rishikesh )

Explore the beauty of trekking in Rishikesh with these short and delightful treks! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these trails offer something for everyone. Let’s take a quick look at some of the fantastic small treks in Rishikesh:

Trekking of Kumartha Village

Next morning go on the walk of Kumartha village trek. How mountain villages are, its beautiful example you will be able to see in front. On the way many villages are seen which you can see closely.

After climbing about two kilometers through stony, narrow mountain path you will reach the village. Colorful, sticking-like houses, grains drying in front of the houses, cows and goats absorbed in their own tune.

Villagers also become very happy on seeing the tourists. Staying in the village is not easy but peace and tranquility better than here cannot be found anywhere.

Suggested Read – Cooking Classes in Rishikesh- Learn Explore and Live 

1. Waterfalls Trek 

Some of the best waterfall treks in Rishikesh are in the dense jungles of Rajaji National Park, offering a perfect example of jungle trekking. These trails lead to hidden waterfalls within the park. If you enjoy hiking, waterfall trekking in Rishikesh is an exciting activity. Some popular waterfalls trek in the national park are:

• Neer Garh Waterfall Trek
  A 3 km walk from Lakshman Jhula and 6 km from Tapovan, the Neer Garh trek offers a quiet morning hike in Rishikesh. It’s more challenging than other nearby waterfall treks and is one of the most popular in the area

• Garud Chatti and Phool Chatti Waterfall Trek

  On trekking 3 km uphill from Garud Temple, there is Garud Chatti Waterfall. This place is very beautiful and here water falls from about 50 feet height. The roar of water, chirping of birds, the teasing of wind with huge trees — such an atmosphere that hours of time pass just like that. In the time of rain, the beauty of this place becomes full.

• Patna Waterfalls Trek
  This short, 30-minute hike from Rishikesh town offers a pleasant walk with beautiful scenery peeking through the thick jungle.

Suggested Read – Vashistha cave- The best known for meditation in Rishikesh

2. Sunrise Trek

The Kunjapuri sunrise trekking in Rishikesh is a popular half-day hike located right in the heart of the city. The trek takes you to the Kunjapuri Temple, perched at 1645 meters, offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, Haridwar, and the Doon Valley.

To start this trek, take the road from Narendra Nagar to Hindola Khal, from where it’s another 5 km trek to the temple. Being a sacred place for Hindus, the temple sees many devotees year-round, especially during Navratra.

• Difficulty of Trekking in Rishikesh: Moderate
• Duration: One Day Trekking in Rishikesh
• Trail Distance:  12 kilometers One way

Suggested Read –Mauni Baba Cave – A Living Cave in Rishikesh

3. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple Trek

The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated at 1330 meters. This 14 km trek offers a wonderful hiking experience in Rishikesh. The path to the temple is surrounded by dense forests and a variety of flora, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

• Difficulty of Trekking in Rishikesh: Moderate
• Duration: One Day Trekking in Rishikesh
• Trail Distance: 24 kilometers roundtrip

Patho Village Trek

Difficulty of Trekking in Rishikesh: Easy
Duration: 4 hours roundtrip
Trail Distance: 8 kilometers roundtrip

The Patho Village Trek is a short, easy hike that takes about 4 hours for the roundtrip. Covering 8 kilometers, this trek leads you through scenic trails and terraced fields. You pass by secret waterfall , Shiva Temple and enchanting beautiful valley.  You’ll get to experience the traditional lifestyle of the villagers, making it a delightful and enriching journey.

4- Kota Village Trek

Difficulty of Trekking in Rishikesh: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Full-day

The Kota Village Trek offers a chance to experience the rustic beauty of the Himalayan foothills. This full-day trek is suitable for all levels, providing a moderate challenge. As you trek to Kota Village, you’ll be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the locals. You can savor delicious local cuisine and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region. The trek allows you to connect with nature of Rajaji National Park, making it a memorable experience for all.

Popular Places To Go Trekking Near Rishikesh

Here are some of the best trekking places near Rishikesh that offer a surreal experience:

Kuari Pass Trek

• • Discovered by Lord Curzon, the Kuari Pass Trek includes Auli, a popular ski resort.
  • Best done in winter, the trek reaches an altitude of 4425 meters.
  • The trek is 38 km long and takes about 5 days to complete.
  • Starting from Joshimath, trekkers can enjoy views of Mt Kamet, Mt Chaukhamba, Mt Trishul, and Nanda Devi.

Chandrashila Trek

• • Located in the Chopta-Chandrashila-Deoriatal region, this 6-day trek is popular in Uttarakhand.
  • Known for its winter scenery, it reaches 4000 meters above sea level.
  • The trek is challenging and not recommended for beginners.

Valley Of Flowers Trek

• • Combined with Hemkund Sahib, this trek begins at Ghangaria base camp.
  • The trek takes about 4 days from Govindghat and covers 3200 meters.
  • The valley is filled with a variety of flora species, offering a mesmerizing experience.

Trek To Surkanda Devi Temple

• • Located 87 km from Rishikesh in Tehri District, at an altitude of 9500 feet.
  • A short 2.5 km uphill trek with lush green surroundings.
  • Ideal for those seeking a religious outing and scenic beauty.

Camping and Trekking in Rishikesh

Staying in a camp near Rishikesh offers the best trekking experience, with the added benefit of adventure activities:

Camp Aquaforest

• • Located in a natural setting with Swiss tents.
  • Activities include trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, cliff jumping, and river rafting.
  • Tariff: INR 2500 per person per night onwards.

Camp Rapidfire

• • Situated by the Ganga river, offering peace away from the city’s bustle.
  • Features buffet dinners and campfires.
  • Tariff: INR 4500 per person per night onwards.

Camp Gold Coast

• • Offers continental breakfast, free private parking, and organized tours.
  • Ranked as one of the best camps in Rishikesh by the Ganga river.
  • Tariff: INR 6500 per person per night onwards.

Best Time to Trek Near Rishikesh: