How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Rishikesh: Adventure, Yoga & More
- Neeraj Group of Hotels saarasia
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the Ganges, is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating weekend getaway. Whether you're seeking adventure, spiritual growth, or simply relaxation, this guide will help you make the most of your two days in this magical town.
Day 1: Morning - Start with Yoga & Spiritual Exploration
Begin your day at sunrise with a yoga session by the Ganges. Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram offer excellent morning classes for all levels. After yoga, visit Triveni Ghat to witness the morning aarti (prayer ceremony) where devotees float lamps on the river. Don't miss the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges - perfect spots for photography and enjoying river views.
Day 1: Afternoon - Adventure Activities
Post lunch, get your adrenaline pumping with Rishikesh's famous adventure sports. White water rafting on the Ganges is a must-do, with rapids ranging from grade I to IV. For something more thrilling, try the Flying Fox zipline - Asia's longest at 1.1 km, where you'll soar over the river at breathtaking speeds. Other options include bungee jumping (India's highest platform at 83m) or cliff jumping for water lovers.
Day 1: Evening - Sunset & Shopping
As the day cools, head to the Beatles Ashram (now called Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram) where the famous band stayed in the 1960s. The graffiti-covered ruins make for interesting exploration. Later, browse the local markets near Lakshman Jhula for spiritual books, handicrafts, and ayurvedic products. End your evening with a riverside dinner at one of the many cafes offering international and local cuisine.
Day 2: Morning - Nature & Wellness
Start your second day with a short trek to Neer Garh Waterfall, a peaceful spot perfect for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, visit Rajaji National Park for a jeep safari to spot elephants, tigers and numerous bird species. Return to town for a relaxing ayurvedic massage at one of the many wellness centers - the perfect remedy for tired muscles after yesterday's adventures.
Day 2: Afternoon - Cultural & Spiritual Experiences
Visit the iconic Tera Manzil Temple (13-floor temple) for panoramic views of Rishikesh and the surrounding mountains. Then explore the Gita Bhavan, a spiritual complex with beautiful murals depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures. If you're interested in meditation, many ashrams offer afternoon sessions that are open to visitors.
Day 2: Evening - Ganga Aarti & Farewell Dinner
Conclude your weekend by attending the famous Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. Hundreds of devotees gather for this beautiful fire ceremony as the sun sets over the river. For your final meal, try the organic cafes near Ram Jhula or enjoy a special dinner at one of Rishikesh's fine dining establishments.
Where to Stay: The Neeraj Luxury Hotels
For the best luxury hotels in Rishikesh near Ganga, consider The Neeraj Luxury Hotels. Their premium accommodations offer stunning Ganges views, modern amenities, and easy access to all major attractions. Known as a luxury wedding hotel in Rishikesh, The Neeraj also features beautiful venues for special occasions. Business travelers will appreciate their hotel with conference hall in Rishikesh, complete with state-of-the-art facilities.
Travel Tips for Your Weekend Trip
Best visited between September to June (avoid monsoon season)
Carry comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing for temple visits
Book adventure activities in advance during peak season
Try local specialties like aloo puri and lassi
Respect local customs - no alcohol or non-vegetarian food in the main town area
Budgeting for Your Trip
Accommodation: ₹1500-₹5000 per night
Meals: ₹200-₹500 per meal
Adventure activities: ₹1000-₹3000 per activity
Yoga classes: ₹200-₹500 per session
Local transport: Auto-rickshaws available for ₹50-₹100 per ride
Why Rishikesh is Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
Rishikesh offers the ideal blend of adventure, spirituality and relaxation - all within a compact area that's easy to explore in two days. The town's unique atmosphere, combining ancient traditions with modern tourism infrastructure, creates an experience you won't find anywhere else in India. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, Rishikesh has something special to offer every visitor.
From the thrill of flying over the Ganges on a zipline to the peace of morning yoga by the river, your weekend in Rishikesh will leave you refreshed and inspired. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and exciting activities makes it one of India's most rewarding short trip destinations. With good planning using this guide, you can experience the best of Rishikesh in just two days.
Also read: Top 10 Must-Try Adventures in Rishikesh
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