After exploring Rishikesh in different seasons over the past 6 years, I can surely recommend not to miss out on the city’s beautiful nights!
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My TOP 5 things to do in Rishikesh Night:
1. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan
One of the most iconic experiences in Rishikesh is the evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan Ashram. This aarti is a profound spiritual experience where you can witness the river being worshiped with fire, chants, and music. Whether you’re participating or just observing, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting Rishikesh.
2. Go for a Night Walk Along the Ganges
This walk isn’t just about the physical journey; it’s about soaking in the essence of Rishikesh at night. You might pass by locals performing their evening prayers, the faint sound of chanting from a distant temple, or simply the comforting silence of the river.
The ghats (the river banks), softly lit by lamps and the occasional flicker of candles from nearby temples, provide the perfect setting.
3. Join a Kirtan or Bhajan at a Local Ashram
One of the most enriching ways to spend your evening is by joining a kirtan or bhajan session at an ashram. These devotional singing sessions are usually repetitive and can go out all night long.
The purpose of bhajans and kirtans is to invoke devotion and a sense of connection with the divine. Whether you like to sing or just someone who enjoys music, participating in a kirtan is a great uplifting cultural experience, the lyrics are repetative so its easy to follow along.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Sivananda Ashram are great places to join a kirtan, but these gatherings happen spontaneously in many other places.
4. Enjoy a Riverside Bonfire
Some guesthouses and retreats organize riverside bonfires, offering a cozy atmosphere where you can relax, share stories, and enjoy the stars. The combination of the cool night air, the warmth of the fire, and the sounds of nature around you creates a perfect setting for winding down after a day of exploring.
most of the guesthouses that produce these events will be found in the hotelworld app, but you can join without staying ay the production hotel, just stay updated when and where the next one will happen.
5. Night Safari at Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park, just a 45-minute drive from Rishikesh, offers a night safari experience. On this trip, you might spot elephants, leopards, and black bears. To ensure a spot, its essential to book your safari in advance, as the park authorities regulate the number of visitors for safety and preservation reasons. There are many agencies scattered around Rishikesh for you to book through, i recommend first just talking to your hotel receptionist for more information or checking out the get your guide app that works great all over india.
More About Rishikesh In General:
The Different Areas of Rishikesh
Rishikesh is spread across different sections, each offering something unique. also visit the Rishikesh Full travel Guide for more details
- Laxman Jhula & Tapovan – Popular with travelers, full of cafés, yoga schools, and ashrams.
- Swarg Ashram – The quieter, more traditional part, home to many long-term spiritual seekers.
- Ram Jhula – More local and religious, with well-known temples and ashrams.
- Downtown Rishikesh – The main city area where locals live, away from the tourist zones.
The general Vibe & Atmosphere
Unlike other tourist destinations in India, Rishikesh maintains a calm, alcohol-free, and vegetarian-only environment due to its sacred significance. While it has become more tourist-friendly over the years, it still retains a deep spiritual essence, making it a great place for reflection, learning, and personal growth.
Arrive And Leave rishikesh
Transportation: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, 35 km) with flights from Delhi and other cities. Haridwar Junction (25 km) is the closest major train station, well-connected to the rest of India. By road, Rishikesh is 240 km from Delhi, taking 5–7 hours by bus or taxi.
Getting Around: Walking is the best way to explore Tapovan, Lakshman Jhula, and Swarg Ashram. Auto-rickshaws and shared Vikrams (tuk-tuks) are budget-friendly but limited at night. Scooter rentals are available for independent travel.
Where to Stay in Rishikesh: Types of Accommodation
- Budget Hostels & Guesthouses – Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers, these offer basic rooms, dorms, and social spaces. Expect simple amenities like Wi-Fi and hot water, but don’t always expect spotless maintenance or 24/7 service. Some hostels also have yoga classes and common areas for meeting other travelers. i reccomend the binfire hostels for meeting new people
- Mid-Range Hotels & Boutique Stays – These provide a comfortable mix of affordability and service. You’ll find private rooms with attached bathrooms, AC, in-house cafés, and some with river or mountain views. Many boutique hotels cater to yoga students and long-term travelers, offering calm environments with better cleanliness and hospitality than budget options. my favourite hotel, rishikesh valley has a private waterfall!
- Ashrams & Spiritual Retreats – Ideal for those seeking a yogic or meditative lifestyle. Rooms are usually simple, clean, and affordable, but services are minimal (basic beds, shared bathrooms, and fixed meal timings). Many ashrams require guests to follow rules, including early wake-up times, vegetarian food, and silence in certain areas. for first timers, i highly reccomend staying at parmarth niketan ashram.
