Events in Rishikesh 2026 with Rishikesh Vibes
Rishikesh—widely known as the Yoga Capital of the World and the spiritual gateway to the Himalayas—is much more than a destination for meditation and retreats. It is a living, breathing spiritual town where festivals are not just celebrated but felt deeply. In 2026, Rishikesh welcomes travelers with a rich calendar of spiritual festivals in Rishikesh, cultural celebrations, soulful music gatherings, and thrilling adventure events in Rishikesh, each rooted in tradition and divine energy. Set against the serene flow of the holy River Ganga and surrounded by the Himalayan foothills, festivals in Rishikesh are quieter, more soulful, and deeply meaningful. Unlike loud, commercial celebrations seen elsewhere, most spiritual festivals in Rishikesh are observed with devotion, discipline, meditation, and simplicity—making the experience deeply personal and transformative for visitors. At RishikeshVibes.com, we help you explore the most meaningful things to do in Rishikesh in 2026, whether you are a spiritual seeker, a culture lover, or an adventure enthusiast. From sacred rituals by the river to high-energy river sports, these events also help you understand the best time to visit Rishikesh for festivals, depending on what kind of experience you seek.
Let’s explore the most important festivals and events that truly define Rishikesh in 2026, revealing why this sacred town continues to attract hearts from around the world.
1. Maha Shivaratri
Date: February 15, 2026
Highlights: Night-long prayers, bhajans, fasting, temple pilgrimages
Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with deep devotion in Rishikesh, making it one of the most powerful spiritual festivals in Rishikesh. Temples across the town, including Neelkanth Mahadev, resonate with chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” throughout the night. Devotees observe fasting, meditation, and night-long vigils to honor Lord Shiva. The spiritual energy during this festival is intense yet serene, drawing seekers who wish to experience devotion in its purest form. Visiting Rishikesh during Maha Shivaratri offers a rare opportunity to witness faith, discipline, and spiritual awakening.
2. Beatles Festival
Date: February 14-16, 2026
Highlights: Music performances, art workshops, yoga sessions
The Beatles Festival is an ode to the legendary band’s stay in Rishikesh in 1968, when they came to learn meditation. Events take place near the Beatles Ashram, blending music, art, and spirituality. It reflects how Rishikesh inspired global spiritual movements through music.
3. International Yoga Festival
Date: March 1-7, 2026
Highlights: Yoga workshops, meditation sessions, spiritual discourses, cultural evenings
One of the most prestigious events in Rishikesh, the International Yoga Festival takes place every March at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. This week-long event attracts yoga practitioners, spiritual seekers, and wellness enthusiasts from across the globe. Practicing yoga on the banks of the holy Ganges, amidst the tranquil Himalayan surroundings, makes this an unforgettable experience for participants.
4. Holi – The Festival of Colors
Date: March 4, 2026
Highlights: Natural colors, devotional music, ashram celebrations
Holi in Rishikesh is calm, joyful, and spiritual. Instead of loud music and chaos, celebrations take place mainly in ashrams and community spaces, where people play with natural colors, sing kirtans, and celebrate unity. Many ashrams organize spiritual Holi with mantra chanting, organic colors, and shared meals. It is a beautiful experience for travelers who want to enjoy Holi without losing its sacred essence.
5. Phool Dei – A Celebration of Spring
Date: March 14, 2026
Highlights: Flower offerings, folk songs, community blessings, traditional sweets.
A beautiful folk festival of Uttarakhand, Phool Dei welcomes spring with a ritual of scattering flowers at the doorsteps of homes. Children sing traditional songs, and families offer sweets, symbolizing prosperity and harmony.
6. Rishikesh Music Festival
Date: April 9-11, 2026
Highlights: Live music, sound healing, meditation, folk and classical artists.
This festival brings together music and spirituality. Artists from folk, classical, and contemporary backgrounds perform alongside sound healers and meditation guides. The focus is not entertainment alone, but healing through sound.
7. Ganga Dussehra
Date: June 5, 2025
Highlights: Ritual dips in the Ganges, evening aarti, lamp offerings, Vedic chants.
Ganga Dussehra celebrates the descent of the holy Ganges to Earth. Devotees take ritualistic dips in the river, believing it washes away their sins and purifies their souls. The ghats of Rishikesh are illuminated with thousands of oil lamps (diyas), while chants and prayers fill the air, making this festival a deeply moving experience.
8. Kanwar Yatra
Date: July 22 – August 19, 2025
Highlights: Pilgrimage journey, chanting of “Bol Bam,” Shiva temple offerings.
One of the most vibrant religious events in Rishikesh, the Kanwar Yatra sees thousands of saffron-clad devotees (Kanwariyas) carrying sacred Ganga water to offer at Shiva temples. Pilgrims undertake this arduous journey barefoot, chanting with unwavering devotion, making Rishikesh a hub of faith and spirituality.
9. Sawan Festival – Devotion in Monsoon
Date: July-August 2025 (entire month of Shravan)
Highlights: Temple rituals, fasting, evening aartis at Triveni Ghat, Shiva worship.
The monsoon month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Rishikesh witnesses an influx of devotees offering prayers at Shiva temples. The lush green surroundings add to the charm, making it a spiritually enriching experience.
10. International Kayak Festival
Date: November 20-22, 2025
Highlights: Kayaking competitions, adventure sports demonstrations, expert workshops.
For adventure enthusiasts, the International Kayak Festival is one of the most exciting events in Rishikesh. This competition brings together top kayakers from around the world to test their skills in the challenging rapids of the Ganges, showcasing the adventurous side of Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is more than just a spiritual haven; it is a melting pot of cultural, religious, and adventure-driven events. Whether you are looking to deepen your yoga practice, immerse yourself in spiritual devotion, experience Uttarakhand’s vibrant traditions, or seek thrilling adventures, the city has something for everyone. Plan your visit around these spectacular events in Rishikesh to witness its true essence and create memories that last a lifetime.
If you are passionate about exploring more about Rishikesh and Uttarakhand, stay tuned to Rishikesh Vibes for more travel insights, event updates, and cultural highlights!