As I step into the new year, I find myself sitting at Kyarki Resort Tapovan in Rishikesh and reminiscing my many visits to this spiritual town nestled in the foothills of Uttarakhand. Located just a stone’s throw away from Delhi, Rishikesh is often the first choice for weekend getaways among Delhiites.
Although spring is the most beautiful time to visit, the truth is that Rishikesh has something special to offer in every season. Over the years, I have experienced it in spring, summer, monsoon and winter – each time the visit brings a new flavour of adventure and serenity. In this blog, I will share my experiences and suggest you the best things to do in Rishikesh in every season.
Best Things to Do in Rishikesh (Any Season)
Before diving into seasonal highlights, let’s set the stage with what makes Rishikesh unique. To me, the essence of Rishikesh lies in three things:
✨ Its serene landscapes
✨ Its timeless spirituality
✨ Its thrilling adventures
1. The Serene Landscape
Rishikesh is beautifully located at the threshold of the Himalayas. The sacred River Ganga, which flows through narrow Himalayan passages, finally finds space to spread wide here before continuing downstream to Haridwar and beyond.
A short drive away, you’ll find lush forests and green hills perfect for nature walks. About 70 km upstream lies Devprayag, the stunning confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers that officially form the Ganga. Day trips from Rishikesh to Devprayag — or even the towering Tehri Dam nearby — are absolutely worth it.
2. River Beaches in Rishikesh
Yes, you read that right — Rishikesh has beaches! The riverbanks with soft white sand make for peaceful hangout spots. Some popular ones within town include:
Ram Jhula Beach
Ganga Beach
Goa Beach (my personal favorite!)
Just a 5-minute walk from Lakshman Jhula, Goa Beach is secluded, surrounded by forests, and offers smooth white sands. I spent hours here simply sitting on rocks, strolling along the shore, and watching rafters float by as the sun set — pure magic.
Beyond town, you’ll also find:
Shivpuri Beach (rafting start point, near Vashistha Cave)
Neem Beach (rafting end point)
Kaudiyala Beach (40 km away, tranquil and untouched)
3. Rishikesh – The Spiritual Capital
Unlike most hill stations known for shopping, nightlife, and leisure, Rishikesh stands apart as a spiritual hub. Along with Dharamshala (home to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan Buddhist culture), Rishikesh is one of the few Indian destinations that draws seekers from across the globe.
Rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, it has become synonymous with yoga, meditation, and spirituality. Today, ashrams and yoga schools dot the town, making it the Yoga Capital of the World — a place where modern travelers and ancient wisdom meet.