Participating in a Ganges aarti ceremony in Rishikesh is a profound spiritual experience. These Hindu rituals, performed nightly at sunset on the riverbanks, involve offerings of music and fire to the Ganges, revered as the “mother” in Hindu culture.

At Triveni Ghat,  a traditional Ganges aarti ceremony unfolds with mesmerizing rituals. Bonfires may be seen in the distance, marking cremation rituals where ashes are scattered into the river, believed to liberate the soul from the cycle of rebirth.

During the ceremony, it’s customary to dip your feet in the Ganges and set afloat flower beds as offerings. Some participants opt for a full bath in the river for a more immersive experience, though caution is advised due to the river’s rapid flow and slippery banks.

For a contrasting experience, a day trip to the neighboring city of Haridwar is recommended to witness its aarti, which tends to be less oriented towards Western visitors. It’s advisable to be cautious of self-proclaimed holy men seeking donations, as not all may have genuine intentions.

3. Attending a Kirtan session

Attending a kirtan session in Rishikesh is a deeply immersive experience into the spiritual and musical culture of the region. Many small temples serve as venues where musicians perform kirtan, which involves lengthy call-and-response prayer chants accompanied by Harmoniums, Tablas, flutes, and other instruments. These sessions often continue late into the night, and while participation is generally welcomed, it’s respectful to seek permission with a silent nod before joining in.

4. Take Walk to Beatles Ashram

Another iconic stop in Rishikesh is the Beatles Ashram, officially known as the former ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. This sprawling 14-acre ashram gained global fame when the Beatles visited in 1968 to study transcendental meditation.

Despite their eventual separation from the Maharishi, the visit was creatively prolific for John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who wrote over 30 songs here, including most of The White Album. The experience also deeply influenced George Harrison both musically and spiritually.

After the Maharishi’s departure in the 1970s, the ashram fell into disrepair until it was reopened to the public in 2015. Today, visitors can explore the compound, including the domed meditation caves that inspired the song “Dear Prudence,” hike trails with views of the Ganges, and visit the meditation hall adorned with vibrant graffiti. Entry fees vary, with foreigners typically charged around $15 and Indians around $2.

5. Enjoy Outdoors 

Rajaji National Park: Located just a 90-minute drive away, Rajaji National Park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including over 500 elephants, as well as panthers, leopards, deer, and more. It’s also home to one of India’s tiger reserves, though tiger sightings are rare. The park offers accommodations for overnight stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its natural beauty.

Hiking Trails: Surrounding Rishikesh are numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty. Some lead to temples with breathtaking views of the town and the Ganges River. For those seeking longer treks, guided expeditions ranging from four to sixteen days into the Himalayas can be arranged through companies like Rishikesh Day Tour.

Rafting: Rafting down the Ganges has become increasingly popular. Half-day or full-day excursions offer thrilling experiences covering up to 36 kilometers of scenic river landscapes. It’s a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of the region while enjoying an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Bungee Jumping: For the ultimate thrill-seeker, Rishikesh offers bungee jumping from a purpose-built cantilever platform suspended from a cliff overlooking the Ganges. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the stunning surroundings from a unique perspective.

6. Crossing the Footbridges:

The narrow suspension footbridges of Rishikesh, like Lakshman Jhula (built in 1929, 59 feet high and 450 feet long) and Ram Jhula (built in 1986, spanning 750 feet), provide a pedestrian adventure. While Lakshman Jhula shakes underfoot and accommodates both pedestrians and occasional motorcyclists, Ram Jhula offers a longer but equally thrilling crossing.

7. Explore Rishikesh Town:

Often overlooked by pilgrims, Rishikesh town offers a bustling street market experience just minutes from serene ashrams. The market along Haridwar Road buzzes with restaurants, sweet shops, fruit and vegetable stalls, mechanics, and eclectic bric-a-brac shops. Don’t miss sampling the specialty sweets and fresh peanut brittle.

8. Socialize at Cafes:

Despite being a holy city with restrictions on alcohol and non-vegetarian food, Rishikesh boasts numerous cafes where travelers gather. Places like the Pumpernickel German Bakery near Lakshman Jhula offer excellent coffee, desserts, and stable free Wi-Fi. These cafes become hubs for exchanging travel stories, connecting on social media, and sharing journeys through picturesque India.

9. Embrace the Local Animals:

Animals are integral to Rishikesh’s daily life, coexisting with humans in various forms. From sheep and cows to dogs and the mischievous monkeys, encounters with these creatures are part of the town’s charm. While monkeys may be notorious for their antics, feeding leftover food to the peaceful dogs can be a gesture that aligns with local values of kindness and karma.