2 Days Itinerary for Rishikesh: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Guide
Rishikesh holds a special place in everyone’s heart. For Gen-Z, it’s the ultimate weekend getaway — rafting on the Ganges, café hopping, and chilling with friends while soaking in the vibe of the Ganga Aarti. For those spiritually inclined, it’s the gateway to the Char Dham, a sacred destination filled with temples, ashrams, and peace.
But with so much to do, how do you make the most of just 2 days in Rishikesh?
Here’s a simple day-wise breakdown
Day 1
If you’re planning a weekend trip, the first thing you need to do is book your tickets and stay. Transportation options include trains, sleeper buses, and more. For accommodation, backpacker hostels in rishikesh are a great option, affordable, comfortable, and perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
Start your first morning with a walk across the iconic Laxman Jhula, followed by a yoga session near the Ganga ghats, a refreshing way to begin the day. Then, take a walk to the streets of Rishikesh to find the perfect spot for the brunch. Options range from North Indian favorites like chole bhature, poori sabzi, and rajma chawal to authentic pahadi cuisine that feels like heaven.
After having your food, feel the energy for the next adventure river rafting! Evening rafting sessions are especially magical, with the sunset reflecting off the Ganges. Multiple rafting options are available, from 5 km to 35 km stretches. Whether you’re solo or with friends, operators offer group options so no one misses out on the thrill.
Day 2
Rent a scooty and begin your day by visiting the famous Beatles Ashram, where you can explore the vibrant graffiti and creative energy left behind since their visit in the 1960s.
Next, ride to Neer Garh Waterfall. A short trek through the forest leads you to this serene spot, the perfect place for lunch and some downtime by the falls.
By evening, head to the world-famous Triveni Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The rituals, chants, and atmosphere will leave you with an unforgettable spiritual experience.
End your night in one of the many riverside cafés, enjoying Italian or Chinese cuisine with a beautiful view of the river. This peaceful dinner is the perfect last memory of Rishikesh.
Rishikesh is the ultimate weekend getaway, a mix of adventure, spirituality, and relaxation. Weekends can get a little crowded at the popular spots, so plan accordingly. If rafting and treks aren’t your thing, you can always try activities like bungee jumping, short hikes, or simply café hopping with friends.
Two days and one night is just enough to capture the essence of Rishikesh and explore most of its famous spots.