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Where to stay in Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a holy town on the Ganges at the foothills of the Himalaya, known as a world centre of yoga. It stretches along both banks of the river around the suspension bridges, so most visitors choose between the busier Laxman Jhula and Tapovan area and the ashram district of Ram Jhula and Swarg Ashram.
Tapovan and Laxman Jhula
Tapovan, above Laxman Jhula, has many yoga schools, guesthouses and cafes with river views. It is lively and international, with easy access to the bridge area. Cars can reach most hotels on the main road side.
Ram Jhula and Swarg Ashram
On the eastern bank, Swarg Ashram is a car-free area of ashrams, temples and ghats. Parmarth Niketan holds the evening Ganga aarti on the riverbank. Ashrams and simple guesthouses here are peaceful, and you cross the river on foot.
Riverside resorts north of town
North of Rishikesh, along the road towards Shivpuri, riverside resorts and wellness retreats look over the Ganges in the forest. Rafting starts from this stretch. You need a car or taxi to reach town.
One thing to think about
Laxman Jhula bridge has been closed to traffic in recent years for safety reasons, and new bridges have been built; check the current crossing points near your hotel. Rishikesh is a vegetarian, alcohol-free town by tradition.
Other places to stay in India: Oberoi · Trident · The Leela
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Rishikesh are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Common questions
When is the best time to visit Rishikesh?
From about September to November and from February to April the weather is pleasant. Rafting runs in these seasons and stops during the monsoon from July to August, when the river is high. The International Yoga Festival is usually held in March.
Can I take yoga classes in Rishikesh?
Yes. There are hundreds of yoga schools and ashrams offering drop-in classes, retreats and teacher-training courses. Ask about the style and the teachers' experience, and read recent reviews. Many ashrams also offer simple accommodation with daily classes and meals.
How do I get to Rishikesh?
The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant, about 35 kilometres away. Trains run from Delhi to Haridwar, about 25 kilometres away, and some continue to Rishikesh's Yog Nagari station. Buses and taxis from Delhi take around six hours.
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