Best 10 Places to Visit Near Rishikesh for Tourist

Rishikesh is a beautiful destination located in the state of Uttarakhand, India, known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. If you're looking to explore places near Rishikesh, there are several stunning destinations within a few hours' drive. Here are the top 10 places to visit near Rishikesh for tourists:

1. Haridwar: Located just 20 kilometers from Rishikesh, Haridwar is one of the holiest cities in India. You can witness the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri and explore various temples and ashrams.
2. Dehradun: The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is about a 45-minute drive from Rishikesh. It offers attractions like the Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, and the Forest Research Institute.
3. Mussoorie: Known as the "Queen of Hills," Mussoorie is approximately a 2-hour drive from Rishikesh. Enjoy panoramic views from places like Kempty Falls and Gun Hill, and take a stroll on Mall Road.
4. Shivpuri: Located about 16 kilometers from Rishikesh, Shivpuri is famous for its river rafting and camping activities. It's an excellent place for adventure enthusiasts.
5. Rajaji National Park: Just a short drive from Rishikesh, this national park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species. You can enjoy jungle safaris here.
6. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: Situated around 30 kilometers from Rishikesh, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is nestled amidst lush green hills. The trek to the temple offers scenic views.
7. Vashishta Gufa: Located around 25 kilometers from Rishikesh, this is a sacred cave where Sage Vashishta is said to have meditated. It's a serene and spiritually significant spot.
8. Kunjapuri Devi Temple: About 25 kilometers from Rishikesh, this temple offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks during sunrise or sunset. It's a great place for trekking and spirituality.
9. Chamba: A scenic hill station about 60 kilometers from Rishikesh, Chamba is known for its lush greenery and serene surroundings. It's a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
10. Tehri Lake: Approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Rishikesh, Tehri Lake is a stunning reservoir formed by the Tehri Dam. You can enjoy boating and water sports or simply relax by the lake.

These are just a few of the many wonderful places to explore near Rishikesh. Whether you're interested in spirituality, adventure, or natural beauty, the region has something to offer for every traveler.

How to cover these places

To cover the mentioned places near Rishikesh efficiently, you can follow a well-organized itinerary. The duration of your trip will depend on the time you want to spend at each location and your specific interests. Here's a sample itinerary that covers these places:

Day 1: Rishikesh Local Attractions

• Start your trip by exploring the local attractions in Rishikesh.
• Visit the famous Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges.
• Explore the ashrams along the banks of the Ganges, such as Parmarth Niketan and Swarg Ashram.
• Attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan.

Day 2: Haridwar

• Drive to Haridwar (approximately 1-2 hours).
• Spend the day exploring Haridwar's attractions, including Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, and Mansa Devi Temple.
• Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri in the evening.

Day 3: Dehradun

• Head to Dehradun (about 45 minutes to 1 hour by car).
• Visit attractions like Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, and the Forest Research Institute.
• Explore the local markets and try Dehradun's famous cuisine.

Day 4: Mussoorie

• Drive to Mussoorie (approximately 2-2.5 hours from Dehradun).
• Visit popular spots like Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel's Back Road, and Mall Road.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty and local food.

Day 5: Shivpuri

• Return to Rishikesh and then proceed to Shivpuri (around 1 hour).
• Engage in river rafting or camping activities in Shivpuri.
• Overnight stay at a campsite by the river.

Day 6: Rajaji National Park

• Visit Rajaji National Park (about 1 hour from Rishikesh).
• Go on a jungle safari to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings.
• Return to Rishikesh for the night.

Day 7: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and Kunjapuri Devi Temple

• Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (about 1.5 hours from Rishikesh).
• Explore the temple and enjoy the trek to nearby viewpoints.
• Proceed to Kunjapuri Devi Temple (about 30 minutes from Neelkanth Mahadev Temple).
• Watch the sunrise or sunset from Kunjapuri Devi Temple and start your descent.
• Return to Rishikesh for the night.

Day 8: Chamba and Tehri Lake

• Drive to Chamba (approximately 2 hours from Rishikesh).
• Explore the picturesque hill station of Chamba.
• Continue your journey to Tehri Lake (about 1.5 hours from Chamba).
• Enjoy water sports or simply relax by the lake.
• Return to Rishikesh in the evening.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can adjust the duration of your stay at each place based on your preferences. Make sure to check the current opening hours and entry requirements for each attraction before your trip, as they may vary. Additionally, consider factors like the weather and road conditions when planning your visit to these places.

Best Travel Option to visit these places

The best travel options to visit the places near Rishikesh will depend on your budget, preferences, and group size. Here are some travel options you can consider:

1. Taxi: Renting a private taxi or hiring a taxi is a convenient and flexible option, especially if you're traveling with a group or family. It allows you to move at your own pace and explore these destinations comfortably.
2. Self-Drive: If you're comfortable driving in hilly terrain and have the required permits, you can rent a car and drive yourself. This option offers flexibility and the ability to explore at your own pace.
3. Local Buses: Uttarakhand Road Transport Corporation (UTC) operates a network of buses connecting Rishikesh to many of these destinations. This is a budget-friendly option, but schedules may not always align with your plans, and buses can be crowded.
4. Private Tour Packages: Consider booking a guided tour package that covers these destinations. Many tour operators offer comprehensive packages that include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of various attractions.
5. Shared Taxis/Tempo Travelers: In some areas, you can find shared taxis or tempo travelers that offer a cost-effective way to travel between destinations. Keep in mind that these may not be as comfortable as private vehicles.
6. Train and Local Transport: You can take a train to nearby cities like Haridwar or Dehradun and then use local transport options like buses or taxis to reach your desired destinations. This can be cost-effective but may require some planning and transfers.
7. Motorcycles/Scooters: If you're an experienced rider and hold the necessary licenses, renting a motorcycle or scooter can be an adventurous way to explore the region. Be cautious about road conditions and safety.
8. Cycling: For the more adventurous traveler, cycling between these destinations is an option, but it's physically demanding and requires careful planning.
9. Hiking/Trekking: If you're an avid trekker, you can incorporate trekking into your itinerary to visit places like Kunjapuri Devi Temple or Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Ensure you have the appropriate gear and permits.

Before making your choice, consider factors like your budget, the size of your group, your comfort with local transportation, and the specific attractions you want to visit. Keep in mind that road conditions in hilly areas can be challenging, so choose transportation options that align with your level of comfort and adventure.

GTC Cabs is best for Uttarakhand?

GTC Cabs is a suitable option for your trip in Uttarakhand, consider the following:

1. Reviews and Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from travelers who have used GTC Cabs' services in Uttarakhand. This can provide insights into the quality and reliability of their services.
2. Fleet and Services: Check the types of vehicles they offer, whether they have a variety of options to suit your group size and preferences. Ensure that they provide the specific services you need, such as airport transfers, local sightseeing, or long-distance travel.
3. Pricing: Compare the pricing of GTC Cabs with other transportation providers in the region. Keep in mind that pricing can vary based on the type of vehicle, distance, and any additional services offered.
4. Safety and Licensing: Verify that the company and drivers are properly licensed and insured. Safety is a critical consideration when choosing a transportation provider.
5. Availability: Confirm the availability of their services for your travel dates and destinations within Uttarakhand. Some providers may have limited coverage in certain areas.
6. Customer Support: Assess the quality of customer support and responsiveness in case you encounter any issues or need assistance during your trip.
7. Additional Services: Inquire about any extra services they offer, such as guided tours, airport pickups, or customized itineraries.

To make an informed decision, it's advisable to contact GTC Cabs directly, ask for more details about their services, and request a quote based on your specific travel plans. Additionally, you can seek recommendations from fellow travelers or consult travel forums and websites for updated information and reviews on transportation options in Uttarakhand.