3 Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh – Hidden Gems & Famous Falls

Rishikesh is world-famous for yoga, spirituality, and the holy Ganges River, but beyond the riverbanks lies another side of this town—lush forests, scenic hikes, and beautiful waterfalls.
If you love nature, trekking, or cooling off in natural pools, exploring waterfalls in Rishikesh is a must.

Below is a curated list of the best waterfalls in Rishikesh, ranging from popular swimming spots to hidden forest cascades. I haven’t ranked them, because each waterfall offers a unique experience.

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Overview: Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh

• Ideal for short hikes and nature escapes

• Perfect for summer swims and photography

• Located inside forested areas near Rajaji National Park

• Suitable for beginners and casual hikers

Whether you’re searching for a secret waterfall in Rishikesh or a famous waterfall in Rishikesh, these three are the best places to start.

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Neergarh-Waterfall-In-Rishikesh

1. Neer Garh Waterfall Rishikesh (Neer Waterfall Rishikesh)

• Height: ~6–7 meters (20–23 ft)

• Hike Distance: ~1.5 km round trip

• Best for: Swimming, limestone pools, viewpoints

Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Rishikesh and also the nearest waterfall in Rishikesh for most travelers. Located close to Laxman Jhula, it is easily accessible and ideal for a half-day outing.

The waterfall has multiple tiers, each forming deep natural pools perfect for swimming. The lower levels are calmer, while the upper tiers are more lively with cafés and viewpoints. If you continue hiking beyond the top tier, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic mountain views.

👉 This is the best waterfall in Rishikesh near Laxman Jhula and perfect for first-time visitors.

2. Garud Chatti Waterfall Rishikesh

• Height: Multi-tiered, up to ~25 meters

• Hike Distance: ~4 km round trip

• Best for: Adventure hikes & natural showers

Garud Chatti Waterfall is a beautiful multi-tier cascade located on the southern side of Rishikesh, inside the forest zone near Rajaji National Park.

The trek to Garud Chatti is more adventurous than Neer Garh. After about 1.5 km of hiking, you reach the first cascade, but the real magic lies further up. Several hidden tiers await, each with shallow pools and refreshing waterfall showers.

👉 A great option if you’re looking for hidden waterfalls in Rishikesh and fewer crowds.

Suggested Read: Cooking Classes in Rishikesh – Explore Food Traditions

3. Patna Waterfall Rishikesh Uttarakhand

• Height: ~15 meters (49 ft)

• Hike Distance: ~3 km round trip

• Best for: Peaceful hike & scenic photography

Patna Waterfall Rishikesh is a lesser-known gem and one of the most peaceful waterfalls near Rishikesh. Located close to Garud Chatti, this waterfall gently flows down a limestone cliff into a shallow pool.

While swimming isn’t recommended here, the easy forest hike makes it ideal for families, solo travelers, and photographers. The tranquil surroundings and minimal crowds make it feel like a secret waterfall in Rishikesh.

👉 Perfect if you want a quiet nature walk rather than an adventure swim.

Waterfall in Rishikesh India – Quick Comparison

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Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Rishikesh

• Best time: March to June and September to October

• Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to slippery trails

• Wear trekking shoes with good grip

• Carry water & avoid plastic

• Start early to avoid crowds

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Final Thoughts

From the popular Neer Waterfall Rishikesh to the peaceful Patna Waterfall, these are truly the best waterfalls in Rishikesh for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a waterfall in Rishikesh near Laxman Jhula, a hidden waterfall, or scenic waterfalls near Rishikesh, these spots showcase the raw natural beauty of Uttarakhand.