Shivpuri, Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Kunjapuri Temple, Vashistha Cave, Neer Garh Waterfall, Rajaji National Park, Rishikund, Bharat Mandir, Tera
Manzil Temple, Kaudiyala-the list just keeps going, right?
So you’ve got just a day to tackle Rishikesh? No stress-this spot perched at 372 metres in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal is absolutely stacked with places to visit in Rishikesh in one day even if you’re just here for 24 hours. Dragging the family? Roped into a wild friends trip? Or maybe you’re here on a romantic escape? Trust us, Rishikesh never lets anyone down.
Start with Triveni Ghat - the evening aarti, there is something else. Then there's Lakshman Jhula (fair warning: it wobbles more than you'd expect), Neelkanth Mahadev Temple up in the hills, and if the kids are into animals, Rajaji National Park is perfect. Now, if you're with your gang and want some real action,
Shivpuri is where the fun happens, Neergarh Waterfalls is great for those perfect photos, Beatles Ashram has some wild street art, and Kunjapuri Temple gives you views that'll blow your mind.
But here's the thing - don't just stick to sightseeing. Try river rafting in Rishikesh (it's addictive), bungee jumping if you're brave enough, hot air ballooning, or just some easy treks. Oh, and Little Buddha Café overlooking the Ganges? Pure magic. After all this, why not continue the adventure with our Uttarakhand tour packages?
Explore the 15 Best Places to Visit in Rishikesh in One Day
You should definitely start with Laxman Jhula. Walking across this iconic suspension bridge over the Ganga gives you stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills. The area around the bridge is lively, with small shops, cafes, and temples lining the streets. It’s one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh in one day and a perfect spot for photography. Try to go in the morning to enjoy the calm atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
- Location: Tapovan, Rishikesh
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Famous For: Iconic iron suspension bridge over the Ganges, connecting the Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal districts.
Ram Jhula is slightly larger than Laxman Jhula and offers equally beautiful views. You can walk across the bridge while taking in the temples, ashrams, and shops along the way. It’s one of the top Rishikesh places to visit in 1 day, and you’ll find it peaceful early in the morning. Take a moment to pause on the bridge and watch the Ganga flow below-it’s relaxing and makes for great photo opportunities.
- Location: Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249137
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Famous For: The Larger iron suspension bridge over the Ganges, connecting the districts of Pauri and Tehri Garhwal.
You should visit Triveni Ghat, especially during the evening Ganga Aarti. The sight of lamps floating on the river while chants fill the air is magical. Even if you’re not religious, it’s one of the most spiritual places to see in Rishikesh in one day. Arrive early to grab a good spot near the river so you can watch the ceremony closely. The energy here is unlike anywhere else in the city.
- Location: Triveni Ghat, Mayakund, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201
- Timings: Open 24 hours; Evening Ganga Aarti at 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Famous For: Sacred bathing ghat where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers are believed to meet; renowned for the evening Ganga Aarti
4. Parmarth Niketan Ashram
At Parmarth Niketan Ashram, you can explore spacious gardens, attend a yoga session, or just enjoy the calm by the river. Couples often find this one of the places to visit in Rishikesh in one day for couples, because it’s quiet and serene. You can also witness the evening Ganga Aarti here, which is mesmerising. Take your time walking around and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere-it’s one of the most peaceful spots in Rishikesh.
The Beatles Ashram is unique and artistic. You can explore abandoned halls now covered in colourful murals and graffiti, making it one of the best places to visit in Rishikesh in one day. Take your time to walk through the rooms, admire the artwork, and photograph the murals. It’s quiet, creative, and offers a completely different experience from the temples and ghats. Even a short visit here can leave a lasting impression.
- Location: Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹150-₹200
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Famous For: Historical ashram where The Beatles stayed in 1968; now an open-air gallery with vibrant murals and graffiti.
Neer Garh Waterfall is a short trek from the main road, and the path is shaded by trees. Once you reach the waterfall, you can enjoy the refreshing mist and relax on the rocks. It’s one of the natural Rishikesh places to visit in 1 day, perfect if you need a break from busy streets and temples. Wear shoes with a good grip and carry water. A few minutes here can be very rejuvenating before heading to your next destination.
- Location: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249192
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon season (September to March)
- Famous For: Scenic waterfall offering a refreshing dip and trekking opportunities.
Shivpuri is ideal if you enjoy adventure. It’s popular for river rafting and camping, making it one of the places to visit in Rishikesh in one day. Even if you’re not rafting, walking along the river and enjoying the forested surroundings is refreshing. You can watch groups navigate the rapids, which is exciting and fun. If you have more time, try a short rafting session-it adds adventure to your one-day itinerary.
- Location: Rishikesh
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Varies by activity (e.g., rafting)
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
- Famous For: Adventure activities like white-water rafting, camping, and bonfires.
8. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is tucked away in the forested hills. Visiting here gives you a spiritual experience and is one of the places to visit in Rishikesh in one day. You’ll find devotees climbing the steps to offer prayers, and the surrounding forest makes the area very peaceful. The air is fresh, and the temple feels calm compared to the busy city. Make sure to carry water and snacks if you plan to walk up the hill.
Kunjapuri Temple is famous for its sunrise views of the Himalayas. Arriving early allows you to see the first rays of the sun light up the mountains. It’s one of the most scenic places to visit in Rishikesh in one day. Take a few minutes to enjoy the calm atmosphere, have a cup of tea at a nearby stall, and soak in the stunning view. It’s a perfect start to your day before heading to temples and ghats in the city.
Vashistha Cave is small and quiet, believed to be where Sage Vashistha meditated. Spending a few minutes here can be very calming, making it one of the most serene places to see in Rishikesh in one day. The cave is surrounded by nature, and the nearby river adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes for the short trek, and take a moment to reflect or meditate-it’s a refreshing break from busy sightseeing spots.
If you love wildlife, you should include Rajaji National Park in your day. Even a short visit lets you spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds. The forested roads are peaceful, and the fresh air adds to the experience. It’s one of the exciting places to visit in Rishikesh in one day if you want a break from temples and cafes. Go early in the morning for the best chances to see wildlife. Even a quick drive through the park is refreshing and gives you a glimpse of Rishikesh’s natural beauty.
- Location: Uttarakhand
- Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹200-₹500 (varies by activity)
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Famous For: Wildlife sightings, including elephants and tigers; nature trails.
Rishikund is a small sacred pond near Raghunath Temple. You can spend a few minutes here meditating, reflecting, or just enjoying the quiet. It’s one of the hidden places to visit in Rishikesh in one day, away from the crowds. Pilgrims come here to offer prayers, and the calm waters make it a peaceful stop. Walking around the pond gives you a sense of how spiritual and serene Rishikesh can feel. Take your time here-it’s perfect if you want a short break before moving to busier attractions.
- Location: Mayakund, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249201
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime
- Famous For: Sacred pond near Raghunath Temple; peaceful environment for reflection.
Bharat Mandir is one of the oldest temples in Rishikesh, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You should visit to experience its historic charm. The small courtyards and traditional architecture give you a sense of the city’s past. It’s one of the historic places to visit in Rishikesh in one day, and even a brief visit lets you feel the calm inside. Arrive in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft sunlight on the temple walls. It’s a peaceful spot for photography and reflection.
Tera Manzil Temple, also called Trimbakeshwar Temple, has 13 storeys, and climbing to the top gives you a panoramic view of the Ganga and the city. It’s one of the Rishikesh places to visit in 1 day that combines spirituality with sightseeing. Walking through each floor, you’ll see different idols and temples. Even if it’s a little crowded, the top floor is worth it for the view. It’s a unique experience in Rishikesh, especially if you want a mix of devotion and sightseeing.
- Location: Shiv Chowk, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime
- Famous For: 13-storey temple offering views of the Ganges and surrounding areas.
Kaudiyala is another great adventure spot if you enjoy river rafting and camping. It’s less crowded than Shivpuri but equally scenic. Spending an hour or two here is enough to enjoy the river, watch people raft, or even try a short rafting ride yourself. It’s one of the top places to visit in Rishikesh in one day if you want some thrill and natural beauty together. Walking along the riverbank and listening to the water flow is also very relaxing.
In one day, the places to visit in Rishikesh in one day allow you to experience spirituality, nature, and adventure. From the calm ghats and temples to waterfalls and rafting spots, Rishikesh has something for everyone.
Couples can enjoy riverside cafes and peaceful ashrams, while adventure lovers can try rafting at Shivpuri or Kaudiyala. With careful planning, your one-day trip can be memorable and fulfilling. Rishikesh truly gives a glimpse of India’s culture, nature, and spirituality in just 24 hours.
