There are plenty of places to visit and things to do in Haridwar and Rishikesh. These places offer a perfect blend of spirituality, nature and adventure. You can visit sacred sites like Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, and Lakshman Jhula, experience Ganga Aarti, explore ashrams, and enjoy adventurous activities. Both the destinations have excellent connectivity with convenient public or private transport. So, you can have a great holiday, filled with memorable experiences in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Haridwar and Rishikesh are fascinating in their own right, and for a multitude of reasons. As a traveler, you’ll generally associate to Haridwar as an out-and-out pilgrim destination, while Rishikesh gets viewed as a place where you can camp and go for rafting. There’s no denying that that’s true, but both these places are so much more than what meets the eye.
Often termed as twin national heritage cities, both these places have a lot in store for the traveler in you. While Haridwar lets you soak in its religious aura, Rishikesh presents a different proposition altogether with a great mix of recreation of sightseeing. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh:
What are the Top Places to Visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh?
- Recommended itinerary
- 3-Day itinerary
- 5-Day itinerary
- Why should you visit Haridwar?
- Top places to visit in Haridwar
- Mansa Devi temple
- Har ki Pauri Ghat
- Sapt Rishi Ashram
- Why should you visit Rishikesh?
- Top places to visit in Rishikesh
- Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula
- Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram
- Neelkanth Manadev Temple
- Triveni Ghat
- Rafting
- Hidden gems around Haridwar and Rishikesh
- Useful information you must know
- Getting around Haridwar and Rishikesh
- Public transport
- Private transport
Recommended Itinerary
3-Day Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight Stay |
| Day 1 - Haridwar |
|
Haridwar |
| Day 2 - Haridwar to Rishikesh |
|
Rishikesh |
| Day 3 - Rishikesh |
|
- |
5-Day Extended Itinerary
If you have more days to explore tourist attractions in Haridwar and Rishikesh, you can follow a relaxed itinerary. Spend 2 days in Haridwar and 3 days in Rishikesh. On Day 1 in Haridwar, attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri and meditate on the riverfront. On Day 2, explore the local markets and ancient temples. Reserve Day 3 for relaxing on the Ganga Ghats in Rishikesh. And, spend Days 4 and 5 sightseeing and enjoying adventure activities.
Why should You Visit Haridwar?
Haridwar is the spiritual centre of Uttarakhand. You should visit here for its spiritual ambiance, Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, ancient temples, and serene riverside experiences.
Top places to visit in Haridwar
Witnessing thousands of devotees who come here every year to pay their respect to Ganga, Haridwar is where you can sense devotion and spirituality in the air. Many people visit the religious city to take a dip in the holy waters in order to wash away their sins. Since Haridwar has gradually become a spiritual and cultural centre for people, it is a good idea to opt for one of the tour packages for Haridwar. Instead of just confining you to one spot, these packages let you discover the city bit by bit.
Mansa Devi Temple
Credited as one of the most famous attractions in Haridwar, the Mansa Devi temple can be visited in a cable car, which provides you a breathtaking view on the way. Dedicated to Goddess Mansa, the temples consist of two main idols of the goddess, both located in the area of the main temple.
Bara Bazaar
Located on the railway road, Bara Bazaar is a famous shopping hotspot in Haridwar. Since you are in a religious city, you will find several pooja items in the market. You can also buy handicraft articles as souvenirs. Other things that you can find in Bara Bazaar are churan and Rudraksha seeds. You can also buy delectable milk sweets at this place.
Har ki Pauri Ghat
Har ki Pauri Ghat is a holy bank of Ganga where you see several people taking a dip. The ghat offers a fascinating view at sundown, right at the time when the Ganga aarti begins. The flamed torches and the chiming bells make for an enthralling experience at that instant. After the aarti ends, the sight of the floating diyas in the serene holy waters lends a sense of calm and makes for a spellbinding sight.
Sapt Rishi Ashram
Situated 5 kms away from the city, the Sapt Rishi Ashram is a must-visit place when in Haridwar. Permeating an old-worldly charm, the ashram is a Sanskrit learning point. It is named Sapt Rishi Ashram because this is that very place where Bhardwaja, Atri, Vishwamitra, Jamadagi, Gautam, Vashisht, and Kashyapa once meditated. Located very close to the banks of River Ganga, the ashram has stunning environs surrounding it.
Why should You Visit Rishikesh?
Rishikesh is famous for its yoga retreats, adventurous activities, and holy shrines. You should visit here to cover iconic landmarks like Lakshman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and Triveni Ghat for spiritual and peaceful experiences. And, if you are an adventure seeker, Rishikesh is ideal for river rafting, cliff jumping, and bungee jumping.
Top places to visit in Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the birthplace of Ayurveda, is a city that offers a stimulating blend of grand temples, architectural wonders, and adventure sports. The city is literally dotted with ashrams, many of which are popular tourist places of Rishikesh. From rejuvenating meditation sessions to the spectacular Ganga aarti, the city has a lot in store.
At the same time, Rishikesh is a magnet for adrenaline junkies and spirituality seekers. It offers a much-needed respite to visitors. There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in Rishikesh, which is not the least bit surprising when you consider the remarkable beauty it has. However, in order to fully explore the holy city, you must go for Rishikesh tour packages.
Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
Laxman and Ram Jhula are the 450 feet long iron suspended bridges that are a highlight of Rishikesh. Located 4 km from Rishikesh railway station, these architectural wonders are significant pilgrimage spots and find their name in the best places to visit in Rishikesh. After you have visited these bridges and reveled in their beauty, you can then pay a visit to Ram temple, Trayambakeshwar temple, and Laxman temple which are situated in close proximity, and are among the famous places in Rishikesh.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram
In the 60s, the Beatles visited the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram. Since then, this ashram has garnered a lot of acclaim and is one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh. The tranquility of this place will leave you speechless. You can visit the ashram for a meditation session which is sure to offer you a great spiritual experience.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is one of the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva, and easily among the best places to see in Rishikesh. Many devotees visit the temple for a bath in the freshwater spring inside.
Triveni Ghat
Situated alongside Ganga, the Triveni Ghat is one of the popular tourist places in Rishikesh. On visiting the ghat, you will see numerous pilgrims bathing in the waters. At this very ghat, the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati takes place.During the evening aarti, you feel a spiritual aura all around the place which transports you to a different place altogether.
Rafting
A trip to Rishikesh will never be complete if you do not head out for rafting. It calls out to the adventure-junkie in you; it is an experience that is certain to enthrall. What’s important here is that you follow what the instructor says, and keep yourself safe while at it.
What are the Hidden Gems Around Haridwar and Rishikesh?
- Kanatal: Popular for camping and mesmerising Himalayan Mountain view.
- Khirsu: An offbeat place to visit near Haridwar and Rishikesh, which is famous for apple orchards.
- Landour: A beautiful place to visit around Haridwar and Rishikesh, which has a colonial era charm.
Useful Information You Must Know
- Haridwar and Rishikesh are spiritual centres in India. So, it is important to dress modestly in these destinations.
- You should always pack your bags according to the season to have a comfortable travel experience. Always check the weather forecast for your travel dates to pack weather-appropriate clothing.
- It is important to note that most restaurants and cafés in Haridwar and Rishikesh have vegetarian food. You can also enjoy street food like kachoris, Kaanji vada, and chole bhature at these destinations.
How to Get Around in Haridwar and Rishikesh?
Public as well as private transport, such as bus, cab, or shared taxi are available to visit in and around popular places in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Public Transport
You can use state buses to visit top places around Haridwar and Rishikesh. These buses connect major towns and are a great budget-friendly option. Shared taxis are also available for short distances, especially to travel from Haridwar to Rishikesh. The auto-rickshaw service is readily available to get around the tourist attractions in these destinations.
Private Transport
Hiring a private cab or taxi is great for exploring places to visit near Haridwar and Rishikesh. It gives flexibility, comfort, and convenience. If you own a private vehicle, then self-driving is another option. You can explore these destinations at your own pace and also visit offbeat places near Haridwar and Rishikesh, such as Khirsu, Chakrata, and Kanatal.
There is no dearth of places to visit in either Haridwar or Rishikesh. It is an experience that intertwines sanctity with adventure, a combination that can interest even the most ardent of travellers. You just have to plan it well.
FAQs
Q1. Are Haridwar and Rishikesh worth visiting?
Yes, Haridwar and Rishikesh are worth visiting destinations. These are famous for their spiritual atmosphere, sacred Ganga Aarti, and ancient temples. Many tourists go to Rishikesh for yoga retreats and thrilling adventure sports like river rafting. As there are many sightseeing places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh, they are great destinations for a weekend trip or leisure holiday.
Q2. How many days are enough for Haridwar and Rishikesh?
3–4 days are enough for visiting Haridwar and Rishikesh. You can cover important spots like Har Ki Pauri, Lakshman Jhula, and Beatles Ashram. Besides sightseeing, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in the evenings. If you are an adventure enthusiast, then you can enjoy river rafting and trekking in Rishikesh. Also, the local markets in Haridwar and Rishikesh are great to buy souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Q3. Are Haridwar and Rishikesh safe for solo travellers?
Yes, Haridwar and Rishikesh are safe spiritual destinations in Uttarakhand. Every year, tens of thousands of tourists, including solo travellers, visit these mesmerising places. Both the places are focused on tourism, yoga, and spirituality. Also, the crime rates are low in Haridwar and Rishikesh. So, you can comfortably travel to these destinations. However, it is important to avoid isolated areas at night and respect local customs to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Q4. What is Haridwar and Rishikesh famous for?
There are many famous places to visit in Haridwar and Rishikesh. They are known for their spiritual and cultural significance. Haridwar is a pilgrimage site, where devotees visit to attend the sacred Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri and explore numerous ancient temples. Rishikesh is known as the Yoga Capital, where tourists go to yoga retreats, meditation centres. It also has many sightseeing places, such as the iconic Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Triveni Ghat. Rishikesh is also popular for its adventure activities like river rafting.
Q5. When should I avoid visiting Haridwar and Rishikesh?
Haridwar and Rishikesh are year-round destinations. However, they receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. So, you should check weather updates before visiting between July and September. During peak festivals like Kumbh Mela, these destinations are overcrowded. However, with proper travel planning, you can still enjoy your visit.
65 videos
Post your Comment
Please let us know your thoughts on this story by leaving a comment.