Welcome, fellow wanderers and travel enthusiasts, to the enchanting journey through my Rishikesh diaries, Aakash here.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is not just a destination; it’s a spiritual haven, an adventure seeker’s paradise, and a yogi’s sanctuary all rolled into one. Join my unforgettable four-day escapade in this vibrant city with four friends.
Day 1: Arrival in Rishikesh
Our journey began with the excitement of exploring the spiritual and adventurous haven of Rishikesh. Boarding a bus from Kashmiri Gate, Delhi, we embarked on a scenic ride towards our destination. Also, the round-trip cost for the bus is Rs. 1180 per person.
Upon reaching Nepali Farm in Rishikesh, we hailed a cab to our hotel, eager to start our adventure. After settling in, we relished a delicious dinner, readying ourselves for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Discovering Rishikesh’s Hidden Gems and Waterfalls
Waking up to the serene vibes of Rishikesh, we set out to uncover its hidden gems. So, our first stop was the enchanting Goa Beach. A peaceful spot near Ram Jhula. After a few hours of relaxation, I set off on a hike to discover the secret waterfall, which is approximately 5–6 km from Goa Beach. Also, the journey was invigorating, with every step offering breathtaking vistas. Returning to our hotel by evening, we indulged in relaxation followed by a hearty dinner.
Day 3: Trekking to Neelkanth Temple
I kicked off my day bright and early into Rishikesh’s spiritual aura. We embarked on an early morning trek to Neelkanth Temple, which was a famous 25-kilometre trek. After a hearty breakfast, I commenced my trek at 7:00 AM from Janki Setu, the starting point of the Neelkanth Trek.
I arrived at Neelkanth around noon, and it took about an hour for the darshan. After that, I opted for a jeep ride back, costing me Rs. 120 for one way. However, if you book a round trip, it’s Rs. 200 per person.
Once back at the hotel by 3:00 PM, I took some time to rest. At 6:00 PM, I headed to the ghat near Ram Jhula to witness the mesmerising night of Ganga Aarti.
Pro tip:
- You can follow the route using Google Maps or tag along with locals for guidance.
- Also, it’s advisable to trek in a group due to encounters with langur monkeys and other wildlife along the way.
- Moreover, be prepared for occasional network issues, a common occurrence during the journey.
Day 4: Thrilling River Rafting and Departure
No trip to Rishikesh is complete without the adrenaline rush of river rafting. So I headed to Janki Setu, where many rafting companies are located. Also, the cost for river rafting was Rs.1500 per person for a 16-km Shivpuri trek, but prices vary depending on the season. You can negotiate with them. Moreover, they provide safety equipment, including life jackets. Before starting the ride, they brief you on safety rules and what to do during the rapids. Likewise, the rafting journey with the guide takes around 02:30 hours for a 16-kilometre trek after completing the rafting.
They’ll drop you back at your pickup location. During rafting, you need to hand over your phones to their waterproof bags. My river rafting ended around 1:00 PM, after which I caught my bus to New Delhi and headed back home.
Pro tip: They offer to shoot your rafting video with their GoPro camera for an additional charge.
Unveiling Rishikesh’s Accommodation options
Staying at Hotel Moksha near Janki Setu proved to be a convenient choice, offering easy access to nearby attractions. Also, with a budget-friendly stay of Rs. 500 per person. Moreover, we enjoyed the comfort and proximity to Rishikesh’s main sites.
Exploring Rishikesh in March:
The trip takes place in March in Rishikesh during the spring season, known for its mild weather, which is perfect for exploring the natural beauty and adventure activities the area has to offer.
What to pack for Rishikesh in March:
- Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for mild spring weather. Include comfortable tops, t-shirts, shorts, and pants.
- Also, bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals for exploring the town.
- Moreover, carry a small backpack or daypack to hold your essentials while exploring Rishikesh, such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera.
Travel Tips for the Soul-Seeking Explorer of Rishikesh:
- For transportation within Rishikesh, renting a bike for as low as Rs. 499 or taking cabs and rickshaws provided flexibility and convenience.
- No need to worry about food; there are plenty of Indian and Western restaurants available.
- Also, I recommend taking a yoga class, as it can have a direct impact on your soul.
- Exploring Rishikesh’s natural wonders came with minimal expenses, such as a nominal waterfall ticket priced at Rs. 50.
The total trip budget is Rs.5,000 per person. Overall, our 4-day itinerary in Rishikesh seamlessly blended adventure and spirituality, leaving us with cherished memories and a longing to return to this enchanting destination.
Want unforgettable adventures? Sowl’s travel stories will ignite your wanderlust- https://sowl.in/stories
Safe travels, adventure seekers!!!