9 top things to experience in the yoga capital of the world

Rishikesh, the sacred city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, will forever be linked to the Beatles and their 1968 visit to explore transcendental meditation.

Known as the self-proclaimed 'yoga capital of the world,' Rishikesh is considered the birthplace of yoga, a practice renowned for its mental and physical benefits.

But there’s so much more to explore than just flowing through vinyasas while chanting 'Om Shanti.'

Beyond being a spiritual haven for seekers, this Hindu pilgrimage site along the holy Ganges River has emerged as a popular destination for outdoor adventures.

To celebrate International Day of Yoga on June 21, here’s a simple to-do list for Rishikesh, perfect for exploring over several weeks or just a few days.

Immerse yourself in ashram life

Rishikesh is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of ashrams, which are spiritual retreats offering an immersive experience. Your stay starts with a 5 a.m. meditation session, followed by a sunrise yoga class, and continues with more yoga, chanting, lectures, and communal meals.

Be aware that heating and hot water can be inconsistent, especially between November and February, so plan accordingly.

Ashrams in Rishikesh vary, with some focusing on yoga, like the large Sivananda Ashram, while others center on meditation, such as Osho Gangadham and Ved Niketan Dham. For a more luxurious experience, Yog Niketan offers river views and a spa at a higher price point.

Most ashrams welcome drop-ins, which is perfect for those who enjoy satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and room service from nearby places like Hotel Yog Vashishth.

Join a Ganges aarti ceremony

Every evening at sunset, the Hindu aarti rituals are held by the riverbanks, where music and fire are offered to the Ganges, revered as the 'mother' in Hindu tradition.

It’s not unusual to spot distant bonfires, marking the cremation of a body whose ashes will soon be immersed in the river, part of a Hindu ritual believed to release the soul from the cycle of rebirth.

READ: India’s Hotel Death

Traditionally, dipping your feet in the Ganges and sending a flower float on the water is part of the experience. For those seeking a deeper connection, full immersion is also possible. Be mindful, though, as the river flows swiftly and the banks can be slippery with moss.

A day trip to Haridwar, a nearby city, offers a chance to compare its aarti ceremony, which is less tailored to western tourists. Just be cautious of deceitful holy men who may try to extract money for a 'donation.'

Join a kirtan session

Rishikesh is home to several small temples that double as venues for kirtan (extended call-and-response prayer chants) accompanied by instruments such as harmoniums, tablas, flutes, cymbals, and whatever else happens to be available.

These sessions can go on at any time, and participation is typically encouraged (though it’s polite to ask with a silent nod first).

Explore the Beatles Ashram

Originally the ashram of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, known for teaching transcendental meditation to celebrities like Mia Farrow, Mike Love of the Beach Boys, and Mick Jagger, it was the Beatles' visit in 1968 that truly put the Maharishi and Rishikesh on the map.

Although the Beatles distanced themselves from the Maharishi after their visit, Rishikesh proved to be a creative wellspring for John Lennon and Paul McCartney. They wrote more than 30 songs there, including much of The White Album, while the trip had a profound musical and spiritual impact on George Harrison.

MORE: The ‘Abandoned Beatles Ashram’ in Rishikesh reopens

Inside, you can explore the domed meditation caves that inspired 'Dear Prudence,' written about Mia Farrow’s sister who wouldn’t 'come out to play,' hike a trail offering stunning views of the Ganges, and visit the vast meditation hall adorned with vibrant graffiti.

Embrace the great outdoors

Just 90 minutes away, Rajaji National Park is home to over 500 elephants, along with panthers, leopards, deer, and even anteaters. The park offers accommodation for those who wish to stay longer. It's also one of India’s 48 tiger reserves, although spotting a Bengal tiger is rare — you're more likely to see a shooting star in the night sky.

READ: Top places to spot tigers in India

Rishikesh is surrounded by hiking trails, with some offering challenges and others leading to temples that provide breathtaking views of the town. You can book guided treks ranging from four to 16 days to the Himalayas with the Red Chilli adventure company.

Rafting has become a favorite activity, with half- or full-day excursions down the Ganges, covering up to 36 kilometers of stunning scenery.

For the ultimate thrill, try bungee-jumping from a purpose-built cantilever suspended from a cliff over the Ganges.

Cross one of the two massive footbridges

A more accessible outdoor adventure – yet still challenging – involves crossing one of Rishikesh’s two narrow suspension footbridges.

Completed in 1929, Lakshman Jhula stands 59 feet above the water, stretches 450 feet in length, and is only six feet wide. While primarily used by pedestrians, those crossing the bridge – which sways noticeably – must navigate through honking motorcycles, cyclists, and occasionally, cows or families of monkeys swinging from the cables.

Although its sister bridge, Ram Jhula, was built in 1986 and spans 750 feet, it offers just as much of an adventure.

Explore Rishikesh Town

Many pilgrims to Rishikesh overlook this vibrant slice of India, unaware that a lively street market is just minutes away from their peaceful retreats.

Rishikesh town is a chaotic mix of eateries, sweet shops, fruit and vegetable stalls, mechanics, and miscellaneous stores lining both sides of the bustling Haridwar Road.

Be sure to try the local specialty sweets, along with the fresh peanut brittle – both highly recommended.

Hang out at the cafes

As a sacred city, Rishikesh strictly prohibits alcohol and non-vegetarian food, making dining out a rather wholesome experience. While restaurants are abundant – with some offering international dishes with varying success – it’s the coffee shops that really come alive.

The Pumpernickel German Bakery near Lakshman Jhula doesn’t actually serve pumpernickel bread, but it does offer excellent coffee, along with a tempting selection of desserts and savory dishes.

Many travelers find themselves lingering at these cafes far longer than expected, thanks to the free and fairly reliable Wi-Fi. It's a great spot to swap stories with fellow travelers, connect on Instagram (a must-have for documenting your journey through photogenic India), and follow along on their adventures.

Get to know the animals

Like much of India, Rishikesh is home to a variety of animals living alongside humans, including sheep, cows, pigs, and dogs. Monkeys, in particular, have a habit of snatching food from unsuspecting passersby or even raiding hotel rooms when windows are left ajar – even when someone is inside.

While it’s wise to steer clear of the monkeys, sharing your leftovers with the docile dogs around town is a simple act that’s sure to bring good karma.