When hearing about Rishikesh, it is obvious to imagine the flowing waters of the Ganges River, yoga schools, innumerable temples, and the huge mountains that offer countless opportunities for adventurous activities.
So, Rishikesh is not only the Yoga Capital of the World, it is also the paradise of an adventure lover and the mountains surrounding it have some of the most beautiful and scenic walks in India. And, when it comes to hiking places, Rishikesh ranks among the top places in the list.
Whether it is sacred temples on mountain ridges, or waterfalls in a remote spot in the green valley, the hikes in the area surrounding Rishikesh will offer stunning views and a close-to-nature experience.
Why wait? Just put on your boots, take your camera along, and check out the best hikes in Rishikesh that will leave you spellbound.
Table of Contents
1. Neelkanth Mahadev Trail from Ram Jhula
| Distance: | 16 Km (To and Fro) |
| Altitude: | 1,140 m |
| Difficulty Level: | Moderate |
| Time Taken | 7-8 hours (Up and Down) |
| Best Season: | October to March |
| Base Camp: | Ram Jhula |
Highlights
- The walk begins from Ram Jhula, a famous suspension bridge over the Ganges, and passes through thick forest and little villages.
- It is a steep trail which is rugged, but rewarding.
- On the way, you will also have the sights of the Ganges River and serene time in the woody forests.
- It is the spiritual journey to reach Neelkanth Mahadev Temple which is a sacred shrine of Lord Shiva and it also provides a view of the surroundings mountains at panoramic levels.
- The journey is ideal in case one wants to experience adventure, nature, and spiritual discovery.
2. Kunjapuri Temple Trek
| Distance | 26 km (To and Fro) |
| Time Taken | 9-10 hours (up and down) |
| Altitude | 1,650 m |
| Difficulty Level | Hard |
| Best Season | October to March |
| Base Camp: | Tapovan, Rishikesh |
Highlights:
- This is a steep hike that starts from Tapovan and ends at the Kunjapuri Temple. From there, one of the most breathtaking scenes of the Himalayan range can be viewed. En route you will cross villages like Dharkot and Kodarna.
- Sunrise hikes are especially in demand here, it is quite incredible to see how the first rays of the sun illuminate the mountains.
- It is a great place to meditate and enjoy the peaceful environment. Plus, the temple on the top make it a wonderful place.
- Perfect for a first time hiker or those who want a short yet scenic trek.
3. Neer Garh Waterfalls Trek
| Distance | 4 km (to and fro) |
| Altitude | 450 m |
| Average Time Taken: | 3-4 hours (up and down) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Time | All round year, avoid in Monsoon |
| Base Camp | Tapovan |
Highlights:
- A quick and pleasant walk that takes you to view scenic sights to the Neer Garh Waterfalls.
- The trail is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape into nature.
- You will also pass through dense forests on your way, which contributes to the peaceful atmosphere of the hike.
- It is an outstanding hike in Rishikesh that suits one who wants to have a quick adventure without climbing long routes.
4. Ram Jhula – Garudachatti Trail
| Distance | 13 km (point to point) |
| Altitude | 1,300 m |
| Time Taken | 7-8 hours |
| Difficulty | Hard |
| Best Time | October to March |
| Base Camp | Ram Jhula |
Highlights:
- Beginning from Ram Jhula, this path will lead you through forests, valleys and mini temples, which is a wonderful mix of nature and spirituality.
- The hike is worth its course due to the gradual climb and spectacular scenes of the valleys and peaks close by.
- You will pass by beautiful rivers and forests on the way, and possibly meet the local wildlife.
- It is a moderate-level trek, not too challenging and not too easy.
- It is the best option when you need to feel the nature and the spiritual air of the location.
5. Garudachatti – Neelkantha Mahadev Temple
| Distance | 10 km (One side) |
| Altitude | 1,800 m |
| Time Required | 4-5 hours (acsend) |
| Difficulty | Hard |
| Base Camp | Garud Chatti |
Highlights:
- It is a scenic walk that links Garudachatti and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and is an experience in itself.
- The route passes through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- The top temple is a serene and religious place to rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery around the area.
- It is the best place for trekkers who enjoy a moderate challenge with the bonus of reaching a sacred as well as tranquil spot.
6. Mini Gartang Gali Trek
| Distance | 5 km |
| Altitude | 1,600 m |
| Time Taken | 6-7 hours ( Drive and Hiking) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Time: | All season expect Monsoon |
| Base Camp | Rishikesh |
Highlights:
- It is a scenic walk on the mountains, offering stunning views and a quiet experience.
- Mini Gartang Gali is characterized by wooden bridge, unique trails, thick forests and peaceful atmosphere.
- The trail is an escape from the usual crowded hikes and is ideal when one wants to have a more adventurous experience in calm surroundings.
- It fits best to people who like to meet their inner self and follow the less-travelled paths.
8. Patna Waterfall Trek
| Distance | 3 km (To and fro) |
| Altitude | 450 m |
| Time Taken | 3-4 hours (up and down) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Bes Time | All year round, except monsoon |
| Base Camp | Patna Village |
Highlights:
- An easy hike that is ideal for beginners or families. This is a short trek that leads to the tranquil Patna Waterfall.
- The waterfall is veiled with green vegetation which gives it a calming environment that is ideal in a quick escape.
- In case you are short of time and yet you want to experience nature, this hiking is the combination of effort and reward.
- The water is cool and clear and the walk is an excellent way of taking a rest and relaxing.
Trekking in Rishikesh? Check the Top Tips!
- Hydrate Your Body: The weather can get very hot and especially during the summer season, so it is important to bring plenty of water with you.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The land may be either rocky or slippery in a forest. So, your hiking boots must be of good quality.
- Pack Light Smartly: Just pack what is necessary but do not forget some essentials such as snacks, first aid, sunscreen, hat, and a light jacket.
- Be an Early Bird: When going a long distance, it is better to get started early enough to miss the heat of the day and make the most out of the daylight.
- Be respectful to Nature: Rishikesh is a spiritual place and natural beauty. So, keep the trails clean and observe local instructions.
Wrap Up!
Rishikesh is not just a hub for yoga and meditation only, it is also an adventure playground for trekking lovers. Want to have a relaxing day off? Wishing for a religious pilgrimage to pray and worship? Or craving for a difficult hiking experience? Just check out the above-listed best hikes in Rishikesh and most scenic sites that will also provide you with nature’s beauty and spiritualism.
So, which path are you now willing to overcome? Let the journey begin!
Facing difficulty in arranging everything yourself? Don’t worry trekking experts are waiting to craft your itineraries at Himalayan Dream Treks. Contact them via:
- Email: info@himalayandreamtreks.in
- Phone: +91-80896 93825, +91-94565 46051
Frequent Queries!
1. Are there any treks in Rishikesh?
Ans: Yes, popular treks include the Kunjapuri Temple, Dashrath ka Danda, and Neelkanth Mahadev trek.
2. Which hill station is nearest to Rishikesh?
Ans: The nearest hill station is Narendra Nagar in Tehri Garhwal.
3. What is the shortest trek in Rishikesh?
Ans: The Dashrath Ka Danda trek is the shortest in Rishikesh.
4. Is 2 days enough for Rishikesh?
Ans: Yes, 2 days are enough to visit the major attractions in Rishikesh.
5. Is Rishikesh safe at night?
Ans: Yes, but it’s best to avoid shortcuts through forest paths at night.
6. In which month is Rishikesh less crowded?
Ans: Rishikesh is less crowded in March and April.
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