Rishikesh—famous for yoga, ashrams, and the holy Ganges—is also a dream destination for photography enthusiasts. Especially during sunset, this Himalayan town transforms into a golden paradise where the sky, water, and spirit converge.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best sunset spots in Rishikesh for photography lovers, complete with insider tips, angles, and even affiliate gear links to elevate your golden hour game.
Unlike typical urban sunsets, the sunset spots in Rishikesh offer a unique blend of nature, spirituality, and serenity. As the evening sun reflects over the flowing Ganges and chants echo in the air, your camera will capture more than a photo—it will capture a feeling.
1. Parmarth Niketan Ghat – Sunset with Spiritual Energy
Best For: Capturing the Ganga Aarti, golden fire reflections, and crowds.
Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to include the lamps, the setting sun, and the river.
2. Lakshman Jhula – Silhouettes & Bridge Drama
Best For: Capturing bridge lines, sunset flares, and motion blur of people walking.
Tip: Shoot from the nearby temple or riverbank for symmetry.
3. Triveni Ghat – Flames and Reflections
Best For: Long exposure shots of aarti ceremonies and diya-lit waters.
Tip: Go just after sundown to capture the glow of fire and the deep blue sky.
4. Neer Garh Waterfall Trail – Panoramic Peace
Best For: Wide valley views and jungle-framed sunsets.
Tip: Hike up early to scout your composition.
5. Beatles Ashram – Creative Colors and Shadows
Best For: Artistic golden light with urban ruins and graffiti.
Tip: Use a prism filter to add light streaks and lens flares.
6. Ram Jhula – Heritage Meets Sunset
Best For: Monks walking across the bridge with sunburst backdrops.
Tip: Try a slow shutter speed to add motion blur.
7. Kunjapuri Temple – The Ultimate Himalayan Sunset
Best For: A full 360-degree view of the Himalayas, perfect for landscapes.
Tip: Ideal for time-lapse and dramatic skyline compositions.
8. Goa Beach – Hidden Gem with Golden Light
Best For: Quiet portraits and mirror reflection photos.
Tip: Use this location for silhouette couple shots or drone footage.
9. Phool Chatti Ashram – Peaceful Sunset Riverbanks
Best For: Capturing solitude, flowing river, and ashram lifestyle.
Tip: Use minimalist framing and wide-open aperture for dreamy depth.
10. Rishikund & Patna Waterfall Trails – Forest Sunset Trails
Best For: Framing sunlight through dense foliage and water splashes.
Tip: Film a reel or vlog with a stabilizer for fluid visuals.
Pro Tips for Sunset Photography in Rishikesh
- Timing: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM is ideal
- Settings: ISO 100–400 | f/8–f/11 | Use tripod for shutter < 1/30 sec
- Ideas: Use reflections, silhouettes, and foreground objects
Essentials for Your Sunset Shoots
Gear | Why You Need It |
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Travel Tripod | For low-light and long exposure stability |
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Wide Angle Lens | Capture full Ghat scenes and landscapes |
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Polarizing Filter | Cuts reflection and enhances sky contrast |
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Portable LED Light | Illuminates low-light scenes near aartis |
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ND Filters | For artistic long exposures during sunset |
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Gimbal for Phones | For smooth reels or vlogging while walking |
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Drone with 4K Camera | Capture river and bridge scenes from above |
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The top 10 sunset spots in Rishikesh are not just locations—they’re experiences. Each one tells a different story, whether it’s the echo of a conch shell during aarti or the quiet rustle of trees on a trail. Pack your camera, time your golden hour perfectly, and let the light work its magic.