1. Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand: 10 km from Rishikesh
Rajaji National Park is a famous wildlife sanctuary in Uttarakhand. It is among the best places to visit near Rishikesh for nature admirers and adventure seekers.
The park is spread across 820 square kilometres. The Rajaji National Park is famous for its rich biodiversity, including Asiatic Elephants, Bengal Tigers, leopards and over 300 bird species.
The surroundings are full of greenery, small rivers, and you can explore our Rishikesh Travel packages that include thrilling jeep safaris and guided tours through the park.
Rajaji National Park is one of the most popular places near Rishikesh for wildlife lovers and thrill seekers.
Location: Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 10 km
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Rajaji National Park is from November to June.
Highlights
- Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 300 bird species, Bengal tigers, leopards, gharials, and Asiatic elephants etc.
- A paradise for nature lovers, surrounded by lush greenery, the beautiful Ganges River, and the Shivalik Hills.
- Jungle safaris, trekking and camping are the adventure activities that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
- Presents a stunning backdrop for photography.
- The park remains closed during the monsoon season (July to October).
Things to do
- Engage in adventurous jungle safari and elephant safari, ideal for thrill seekers.
- Experience an exciting trekking journey with Camping, ideal for nature lovers.
- You can also indulge in birdwatching and witness over 300 vibrant species.
- Enjoy a peaceful nature walk, listening to chirping birds and inhaling fresh air.
- Capture the stunning landscapes with wildlife photography.
How to reach
- You can easily reach Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand, by road from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, etc.
- Hire a cab or a taxi to reach the Rajaji National Park.
2. Haridwar: 25 km from Rishikesh
Haridwar is a blissful retreat for travellers desiring spirituality and natural beauty, far from the hustle and bustle, into the Gateway to God.
Haridwar is one of the top places to visit near Rishikesh for magical spiritual experiences, witnessing the breathtaking Himalayas and the sacred Ganges River.
Haridwar is famous for therapeutic Ayurvedic treatments and yoga retreats. You can explore our Affordable Haridwar Travel packages. That also covers visits to the starting points of the Char Dham Yatra and the Kumbh Mela, attracting tourists from across the country.
Location: Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 25 km
Best time to visit: October to April
Highlights
- Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar is the most famous and sacred spot, known for attaining inner peace.
- Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar and Chandi Devi Temple are hill top shrines dedicated to Goddess Durga.
- Maya Devi Temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, where the navel and heart of Goddess Sati had fallen.
- Bharat Mata Temple is a unique temple, not dedicated to any deity but Bharat Mata, evoking the feeling of patriotism among Indians.
- For shopaholics, Moti Bazaar and Bara Bazar in Haridwar are great places to buy religious items, Ayurvedic products, herbal products and much more.
Things to do:
- Enjoy a holy dip in the sacred river Ganges to purify your soul and attain inner peace.
- Attend the magical Ganga Arti at Har Ki Pauri and connect with the divine.
- Seek blessings from Goddess Mansa Devi by taking a ropeway ride to Mansa Devi Temple.
- Offer prayers at Chandi Devi Temple. Reach there through trekking or a Ropeway.
- Feel the divine atmosphere at the Maya Devi Temple and pray for your well-being and protection.
- Shop for souvenirs for your loved ones from local markets such as Jwalapur market and Moti Bazar.
How to reach
- You can reach Haidwar via train, bus or taxi from major cities like Delhi or Dehradun.
- The nearest airport to Haridwar is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 35 km away.
3. Dehradun: 45 km from Rishikesh
Uttarakhand’s capital city, Dehradun, is listed among the most beautiful places to visit near Rishikesh and is a gateway to the Himalayas.
Dehradun is a popular hill station in India, famous for its pleasant weather, scenic beauty, peaceful vibes, lively cafes, authentic Garhwali cuisine and top tourist places.
So, plan a trip to Dehradun to visit the top tourist destination near Rishikesh for an escape into nature and peace.
Location: Doon Valley, Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 45 km
Best time to visit: September to February, March to June
Highlights
- Tapkeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Dehradun is the most famous temple of Lord Shiva, where the water droplets fall on the Shivling on their own.
- For adventure seekers, Gucchupani Robber’s Cave is a must-visit destination. You walk through ankle-deep water, exploring its narrow passages.
- Sahastradhara Waterfall is a famous waterfall in Dehradun, known for its sulphur-rich water and healing properties.
- Dehradun Zoo is a famous tourist spot in Dehradun. It’s home to different animal and bird species, including crocodiles, deer, leopards, etc.
- Shikhar Falls is a hidden waterfall in Dehradun, loved by adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Things to do:
- Explore Robber’s Cave and feel the thrill of walking through its water-filled passages.
- Enjoy a rejuvenating dip at the Sahastradhara Falls and relax with your friends and family.
- Seek the blessing of Lord Shiva at the Tapkeshwar Temple and meditate.
- Engage in the famous George Everest House Trek and take shots of the scenic views.
- Enjoy paragliding, trekking & camping for an ultimate adventure in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
How to reach
- Dehradun is well connected to the main cities like Delhi, Lucknow and Chandigarh.
- You can reach Dehradun either by road, rail or air, depending on your convenience and budget.
4. Mussoorie: 70 km from Rishikesh
Are you looking for a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand? Mussoorie, also referred to as the “Queen of Hills”, is among the iconic places to visit near Rishikesh.
The Himalayan charm, colonial architecture, and local food are major attractions. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy Mussoorie Travel Packages that include trekking, ziplining, and rock climbing for a complete hill station experience.
Location: Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 70 km
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Highlights
- Kempty Falls is an iconic waterfall in Mussoorie, known for its beauty and refreshing ambience.
- Gun Hill is the second-highest peak in Mussoorie, famous for the stunning Himalayan views.
- Landour is an offbeat destination that is popular for its peaceful ambience, cosy cafes and stunning views.
- Ideal for couples and families, the Camel’s Back Road offers picture-perfect views of sunset and sunrise.
- Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie, from where you can closely look at the Himalayas through a telescope.
- Company Garden is a family-friendly tourist place in Mussoorie. It is ideal for picnicking and witnessing nature’s charm.
- For relaxing, taking photogenic photographs, and activities like boating, etc., Mussoorie Lake is a perfect place for you.
Things to do
- Take a refreshing dip at the Kempty Falls and relax in nature’s lap.
- Enjoy a ropeway ride to Gun Hill and enjoy the stunning natural views of Doon Valley and the Himalayas.
- Take a nature walk on the Camel’s Back road and enjoy peace around.
- Explore Landour and enjoy the famous coffee with your partner in cosy weather.
- Explore the lively Mall Road in Mussoorie and shop for your loved ones.
How to reach
- You can reach Mussoorie by a flight to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, a train to Dehradun Railway Station, or a bus/taxi from major cities like Delhi and Dehradun.
5. Devprayag: 70 km from Rishikesh
Devprayag in Uttarakhand is one of the finest places to visit near Rishikesh for a spiritual tour and a peaceful retreat.
Devprayag is famous for the enchanting confluence of the holy rivers forming the Ganges. You can also explore the Best Trekking Routes nearby, engaging in nature walks and serene treks to combine spirituality with adventure.
This famous town is among the top places to visit near Rishikesh for devotees seeking spiritual growth and inner enlightenment.
Location: Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 70 km
Best time to visit: October to June
Highlights
- Raghunath Temple is a popular ancient temple in Devprayag, dedicated to Lord Rama.
- Chandrabadni Temple is among the 52 Shakti Peethas. It is situated on a hilltop, offering magnificent Himalayan views and a spiritual ambience.
- Dashrath Shila holds a spiritual significance. It is believed that on this sacred rock, Lord Dashrath had meditated.
- Devprayag Sangam is the most popular religious spot where you witness the confluence of the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi.
- Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple is a temple of Lord Shiva, known for its spirituality.
Things to do
- Witness the magical confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers.
- Seek the blessings of Lord Rama at the Raghunath Temple.
- Visit the hilltop of Chandrabadni Temple in Devprayag.
- Explore the Dashrath Shila, a peaceful and spiritual spot.
- Engage in trekking and nature walks for an exciting trip to Devprayag.
How to reach
- To reach Devprayag, you need to take a bus or taxi from Rishikesh or Haridwar, which are well-connected by road to Devprayag.
6. Dhanaulti: 65 km from Rishikesh
Dhanaulti is a blissful retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts looking for a peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and picture-perfect views of the Himalayas.
Dhanaulti is perfect for a weekend getaway with lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. Adventure lovers can participate in Adventure Activities such as ziplining, paragliding, and trekking.
Location: Tehri Garhwal District, Uttarakhand
Total distance from Rishikesh: 65 km
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Highlights
- Surkanda Devi Temple is one of the most sacred temples associated with Goddess Durga, situated on a hilltop.
- Deogarh Fort in Dhanaulti is an age-old fort, ideal for history lovers. This fort also has many Jain temples.
- Eco Park in Dhanaulti is ideal for nature lovers. It is filled with Pine, Oak and Deodar trees. It is divided into two sections, Amber and Dhara.
Things to do
- Engage in Dhanaulti Surkanda Devi Temple Trekking and seek the blessings of Goddess Surkanda.
- Adventure enthusiasts can participate in adventure activities like ziplining, paragliding, camping, etc.
- You can explore the fort and the temples around, with their sculptures of Tirthankaras.
- Enjoy sightseeing and capture the breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
- Visit the Eco Parks in Dhanaulti and try family-friendly activities there with scenic views.
How to reach
- You can reach Dhanaulti by road from Rishikesh (65 km, 2.5-3 hrs) via Mussoorie or Chamba.
- The nearest airport is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, which is 60 km away.
- The nearest railway station is at Rishikesh or Dehradun.
7. Tehri: 72 km from Rishikesh
Tehri is a popular town in Uttarakhand, famous for having one of the world’s tallest dams. Tehri is counted among the famous tourist places to visit near Rishikesh for adventure seekers and nature admirers.
You can engage in several water sports activities like scuba diving, Jet skiing, boating and a lot more, giving a refreshing touch to your Tehri tour with friends and family.
Location: Tehri, Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 72 km from Rishikesh
Best time to visit: Winter is ideal for snow lovers, and summer is great for sightseeing
Highlights
- Tehri Dam is one of the tallest dams in India. It is built over the sacred Bhagirathi river.
- Tehri Lake, a famous man-made lake known for activities like boating, jet skiing, etc.
- Jai Sem Nagraja Temple is a hilltop temple, dedicated to Nag Devta (Serpent God).
Things to do
- Witness the iconic Tehri dam and enjoy the scenic views around.
- Participate in water sports activities such as boating, Jet Skiing, and surfing in Tehri Lake.
- Offer prayers at the Sem Nagraja Temple to seek protection, prosperity and good health.
- For a thrilling experience, you can also enjoy scuba diving and camping by the Tehri Lake.
How to reach
- You can reach Tehri by road from Rishikesh (about 72 km) or Dehradun (around 100 km)
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (90 km), and the closest railway station is Rishikesh (76 km)
8. Kanatal: 75 km from Rishikesh
Kanatal is located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, at a height of around 2,590 meters (8,497 feet) above sea level. Kanatal is considered one of the peaceful places to visit near Rishikesh for tourists looking for a less crowded hill station in India.
Kanatal is surrounded by dense forests, apple fields and beautiful valleys, adding to the scenic charm of this place. One of the renowned places to visit near Rishikesh is for a vacation with family
Location: Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 75 km
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Highlights
- Kaudia Forest is surrounded by lush green oak and pine trees, small wildlife and refreshing air.
- Surkanda Devi Temple, a popular temple of Goddess Durga. It is one of 52 Shakti peethas.
- Tehri Lake can be visited via Kanatal to enjoy fun water activities such as scuba diving, boating, and more.
Things to do
- Engage in scenic trekking at Kaudia Forest under a professional guide and witness the beauty of Mother Nature.
- Seek blessings at the Surkanda Devi Temple and feel deeply connected to the divine.
- Try exciting activities at Tehri Lake, like the Banana ride and Kayaking with your family and friends.
- Capture the beauty of the Garhwal Himalayan range and lush greenery, such as banana rides and Kayaking,
How to reach
- Kanatal can be reached by road from Dehradun (about 75 km) or Haridwar (about 85 km).
- The nearest railway station is in Dehradun.
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).
9. Chakrata: 126 km from Rishikesh
Chakrata is ranked among the most popular offbeat destinations near Rishikesh for tourists looking for a serene getaway into nature’s lap.
This beautiful hill station is one of the charming holiday destinations near Rishikesh, surrounded by dense forests of oak, pine and deodar, which gives a refreshing touch to the travellers wanting an escape into nature.
Location: Dehradun District, Uttarakhand, India
Total distance from Rishikesh: 126 km
Best time to visit: November to June
Highlights
- Tiger Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Chakrata, cascading from a height of 300 feet. It is surrounded by stunning hills and a refreshing ambience.
- Budher Caves are a great tourist spot for spiritual seekers and history buffs. These caves are believed to have been built by the Pandavas.
- Deoban is a dense forest, ideal for witnessing nature’s charm and engaging in trekking.
- Lakhamandal Temple is an old Shiva temple showcasing an architectural masterpiece.
Things to do
- Engage in waterfall trekking to the Tiger Falls, a scenic hidden gem in Uttarakhand.
- Trek through the Budher Caves and explore the limestone formations for an adventurous activity.
- Indulge in trekking at the Deoban forest and capture the stunning landscapes.
- Offer prayers at the Lakhamandal temple and feel the divine energy around.
How to reach
- Chakrata can be reached by road from Rishikesh (126 km, 3-4 hours).
- You can also reach Chakrata by train to Dehradun (92 km away), followed by a taxi or bus ride.
10. Lansdowne: 128 km from Rishikesh
Looking for a perfect holiday destination, a charming hill station in Uttarakhand? Visit Lansdowne, ranked among the perfect offbeat places to visit near Rishikesh, India.
This hill station offers visitors many famous tourist attractions for a spiritual and peaceful trip with the best experience possible.
Location: Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand
Total distance from Rishikesh: 126 km
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Highlights
- Tip-in-Top (Tiffin Top) is an iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking Himalayan views, stunning sunset and sunrise shots.
- St. Mary’s Church is an ancient church that highlights British colonial architecture.
- Bhulla Tal Lake is a beautiful and family-friendly tourist spot. Famous for old-style swings, boating and peaceful ambience.
- The Garhwali Museum is a museum dedicated to the Garhwal Rifles regiment. It showcases their valour and achievements.
- Lansdowne War Memorial is another famous monument that exhibits the sacrifices made by the Garhwal Rifles.
Things to do
- Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Shivalik hills, refreshing ambience and peacefulness.
- Visit St. Mary’s Church and get immersed in the serene ambience.
- Enjoy picnicking, boating and relaxation with your family at Bhulla Tal Lake.
- Visit the Garhwali Museum, and you can watch the history of the Garhwal Rifles in the cinema area. It is shown on weekends.
- Feel the patriotic ambience at the Lansdowne War Memorial and pay respect to the ones who sacrificed their lives.
How to reach
- Lansdowne can be reached from Rishikesh by a 128-km drive.
- It takes nearly 4-5 hours by car or bus.
11. Chopta: 171 km from Rishikes
Chopta is adventurous with the Tungnath Temple trek. You can also experience our Chopta Travel Packages, which include the Chandrashila Peak trek and other scenic Himalayan routes for a breathtaking adventure.
Trekkers get an opportunity to trek to the famous Tungnath Chandrashila peak that offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba.Location: Rudraprayag district, Uttarakhand
Total distance from Rishikesh: 171 km
Best time to visit: March to June, September to February
Highlights
- Tungnath Temple is the highest Shiva Temple in the world. You reach here through trekking.
- Chandrashila Peak is a sacred peak that offers stunning Himalayan views of Nanda Devi, Mt. Trishul, etc.
- Madhyamaheshwar Temple is one of the sacred parts of Panch Kedar. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Lord Shiva’s navel is worshipped here.
Things to do
- Participate in the sacred Tungnath Temple trek and seek divine blessings of Lord Shiva.
- Continue your trek to Chandrashila Peak and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
- Get a divine sight of one of Lord Shiva’s Panch Kedar forms.
- Visit local markets and cafes
How to reach
- There are direct buses for Chopta from Rishikesh or Haridwar.
- You can take a bus from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Ukhimath or Guptkashi.
- After reaching Ukhimath, you can hire a taxi to reach Chopta.
12. Auli: 255 km from Rishikesh
Auli is one of the most popular skiing destinations in India, offering world-class ski slopes, skiing resorts and other winter adventure activities with stunning views of the Himalayas.
Auli is one of the top winter destinations to visit near Rishikesh to enjoy the winter festival, snow activities, and nature’s beauty, all in one place.
Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
Total distance from Rishikesh: 255 km
Best time to visit: Winter Season
Highlights
- Auli Ski Resort is a world-class skiing destination in India. It offers various other thrilling snow activities such as snowmobiling, snowboarding, etc.
- Nanda Devi Viewpoint is the second-highest peak in India. It is famous for its stunning beauty and spiritual significance.
- Auli Artificial Lake is the highest man-made lake in the world. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Auli.
- Gurso Bugyal is ideal for nature walks and to connect deeply with nature. It offers 360° views of Dronagiri, Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks.
- Chattrakund Lake is a small lake near Auli, ideal for relaxing and capturing scenic shots.
Things to do
- Engage in snow adventure activities such as skiing, snowboarding, etc.
- Capture the sunset and sunrise views at Nanda Devi Viewpoint.
- Relax and engage in a nature walk by the Auli Artificial Lake.
- Enjoy and take beautiful shots of the scenic Gurso Bugyal and its surroundings of majestic peaks like Mt. Trishul, Nanda Devi, etc.
- Enjoy picnicking by the Chattrakund Lake and find peace in nature.
How to reach
- You can reach Auli from Rishikesh by road, covering a distance of approximately 255 km.
- It takes around 8 to 10 hours to reach Auli from Rishikesh.
FAQs
Which are the best places to visit near Rishikesh for a weekend trip?
For a weekend getaway from Rishikesh, you can explore Neer Garh Waterfall, Vashisht Cave, Rajaji National Park, Beatles Ashram, and Kunjapuri Temple. These spots are perfect for nature walks, short treks, and spiritual experiences.
Which are the best places to visit near Rishikesh in December?
December in Rishikesh is ideal for visiting Rajaji National Park for wildlife spotting, Kunjapuri Temple for sunrise views, and nearby villages like Tapovan for calm winter walks. The weather is cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Which are the best places to visit near Rishikesh in May?
In May, when temperatures rise, head to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, waterfall trails like Neer Garh, and river spots like Shivpuri for river rafting. The greenery is at its peak, offering scenic photo opportunities.
Which are the best places to visit near Rishikesh in June?
June is great for rafting in Shivpuri, trekking to Kunjapuri or Patna Waterfall, and exploring the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal to avoid the summer heat.
What are some beautiful villages near Rishikesh?
Some picturesque villages include Tapovan, Kanwali, Neer Garh village, and Guptkashi, offering serene landscapes, riverside views, and a traditional Himalayan vibe.
What are the top tourist places near Rishikesh within 50 kms?
Within 50 km, don’t miss Rajaji National Park, Neer Garh Waterfall, Kunjapuri Temple, Shivpuri, and the Beatles Ashram. These are perfect for day trips, short treks and adventure activities like camping and rafting.
What are the top tourist places near Rishikesh within 100 kms?
Within 100 km, you can explore Mussoorie, Haridwar, Dehradun, Dhanaulti, and Chakrata, which combine scenic beauty, adventure sports, and spiritual experiences.
What are the top 12 places to visit near Rishikesh?
A curated list of must-visit spots includes:
- Rajaji National Park
- Neer Garh Waterfall
- Kunjapuri Temple
- Shivpuri
- Beatles Ashram
- Tapovan
- Kanwali
- Patna Waterfall
- Haridwar
- Mussoorie
- Dhanaulti
- Chakrata
0 Comment