How to Plan Your First Trip to Rishikesh: Complete Beginner’s Guide

Planning your first trip to Rishikesh? Whether you’re drawn by yoga, the Ganga, or just a need for peace, this complete beginner’s guide will help you make the most of your visit. From when to go and where to stay, to what to pack and do — here’s how to plan your first trip to Rishikesh for an unforgettable experience.

Best Time and Weekday to Visit Rishikesh

If you’re wondering how to plan your first trip to Rishikesh, timing matters.

Best Months: February to mid-May and mid-September to November are ideal. Avoid June–August (monsoon season) unless you love rain and fewer crowds.
Best Weekday to Visit: Aim for Tuesday to Thursday. These mid-week days offer fewer crowds, cheaper stays, and more peaceful experiences at attractions like Ganga Aarti or yoga classes.

Where to Stay in Rishikesh (Budget & Luxury Options)

Budget Travelers
For backpackers, students, or solo travelers, Rishikesh has some amazing hostels and guesthouses.

Shiv Shakti Hostel – Popular among international backpackers.
Live Free Hostel – Clean, safe, and centrally located.
Moustache Rishikesh – Affordable and vibrant with a youthful vibe.

Luxury Travelers
If you’re looking for more comfort or a wellness retreat:

Aloha on the Ganges – A riverside resort with stunning views.
Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa – For a luxe Himalayan experience.
Divine Resort & Spa – Mid-luxury, with excellent spa services.

What to Pack for Rishikesh

Light cotton clothes, yoga wear
A good pair of walking or trekking shoes
Reusable water bottle
Power bank, universal charger
A light jacket (for evenings)
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen

Pro Tip: Pack modest clothing. Rishikesh is spiritual, and many places (like ashrams or temples) require covered shoulders and legs.

What to Do on Your First Visit to Rishikesh

If you’re researching how to plan your first trip to Rishikesh, your itinerary should include these unmissable experiences:

Attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan : A magical spiritual ceremony held every evening on the banks of the Ganges. Get there by 5:30 PM to find a good spot.
Visit Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula : These iconic suspension bridges offer great views and are packed with local eateries, cafes, and temples.
Join a Yoga or Meditation Class : Start your spiritual journey. Many ashrams offer drop-in sessions for beginners:
- Parmarth Niketan
- Sivananda Ashram
- Phool Chatti Ashram
Go River Rafting (Seasonal) : Adventure lovers can try white-water rafting from Shivpuri to Rishikesh (available October to June).

Explore the Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia) : Discover the ruins where The Beatles meditated and wrote many iconic songs. Now a peaceful, graffiti-covered forest retreat.

Take a Café Crawl: Try vegan and organic treats at:

- Little Buddha Café
- The 60s Café
- Pure Soul Café & Organic Kitchen

1. Go on a Nature Hike : Short hikes to waterfalls like Neer Garh or Patna Waterfall are perfect for beginners.

Where to Shop

Rishikesh has great flea markets around for :

Yoga mats and organic clothes
Rudraksha malas and spiritual books
Ayurvedic oils and handmade soaps

Local Tips for First-Time Visitors

No Alcohol or Meat: Rishikesh is a spiritual city, so alcohol and non-veg food are restricted.
Cash is Useful: While digital payments are common, keep some cash for local vendors.
Respect Local Customs: Remove shoes before entering temples and ashrams.

Getting to Rishikesh

By Air: Fly to Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), just 20 km away.
By Train: Reach Haridwar (well-connected) and take a cab or auto.
By Road: Regular buses from Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar.