If you are looking for serenity, you should cosnider Rishikesh. Renowned as the Yoga Capital of the World, this enchanting town along the banks of the Ganges River attracts travelers from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re a soul-searcher, an adventure enthusiast, or a nature lover, Rishikesh offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. Here are 5 Best Places to Stay in Rishikesh:
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: For those seeking a truly authentic spiritual experience, Parmarth Niketan Ashram is an ideal retreat. Set amidst lush greenery overlooking the sacred Ganges, this ashram offers simple yet comfortable accommodation, daily yoga and meditation sessions, and spiritual discourses. The serene atmosphere and the opportunity to immerse oneself in traditional Vedic practices make Parmarth Niketan a haven for spiritual seekers.
Ananda in the Himalayas: Perched atop the hills overlooking Rishikesh, Ananda is a luxury wellness retreat that offers a blend of traditional Ayurveda, yoga, and spa therapies. Surrounded by pristine nature, this opulent resort provides elegantly appointed rooms, gourmet dining, and a range of holistic wellness programs. Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate your body, mind, or spirit, Ananda offers a sanctuary of serenity and indulgence.
The Glasshouse on the Ganges: Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, The Glasshouse is a boutique resort that seamlessly integrates luxury with nature. Surrounded by lush gardens and the soothing sounds of the river, the resort offers spacious and elegantly designed cottages, each with its own private sit-out area overlooking the river. Guests can indulge in yoga sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, or simply unwind amidst the tranquility of nature.
Dewa Retreat: Tucked away in the serene outskirts of Rishikesh, Dewa Retreat is a charming eco-friendly resort that offers a perfect blend of comfort and sustainability. The resort features tastefully decorated rooms and cottages, an outdoor swimming pool, and a multi-cuisine restaurant serving organic, locally sourced ingredients. With its focus on eco-conscious practices and holistic well-being, Dewa Retreat provides a peaceful haven for mindful travelers.
Zostel Rishikesh: Catering to the budget-conscious traveler, Zostel Rishikesh is a vibrant backpacker hostel located in the heart of the town. Offering both dormitory-style accommodation and private rooms, the hostel provides a social atmosphere where guests can connect with fellow travelers and participate in various activities such as yoga classes, river rafting, and trekking. With its laid-back vibe and affordable rates, Zostel is the perfect base for exploring the adventures of Rishikesh.
From spiritual retreats to luxury resorts and budget-friendly hostels, Rishikesh offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re seeking inner peace, outdoor adventure, or simply a rejuvenating escape amidst nature, Rishikesh promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected to the essence of the Himalayas.
Serene Locations and magnificent view of the Ganges in Rishikesh have always lured me. So when I got an opportunity to visit the yoga capital of the world, I was elated. We boarded the morning shatabdi and reached Haridwar by 11.30 AM where we were greeted by the driver from the hotel. The overcrowded Haridwar station did not deter our enthusiasm in reaching the holy city. We whizzed past the dense jungle of Rajaji National park and reached our destination in an hour.
Ganga Kinare, an apt name for a hotel in existence since 3 decades sits pretty amidst the holy city giving a panoramic view of the flowing Ganga river. Located on the banks of the awe inspiring, tranquil River Ganges, Ganga Kinare offers exquisite Yoga packages to experience spiritual rejuvenation with yoga and meditation.
Although the property is boutique, they have ensured to give amenities to guests like a small temple, a garden, Jacuzzi, a private ghat and a spa.
We were welcomed by the staff with a thaali and diya, a garland and wet towels. After devouring the welcome drink we were ushered to our room on the second floor. The hotel has The 38 river facing rooms that are a sheer bliss for those looking for peace, tranquility and splendor.
They are categorized into deluxe, premium, family and lotus suite. We were booked at the deluxe room, which was rather small in size.There is a queen size bed, sofa overlooking the Ganges and amenities like wardrobe, kettle and tea coffee sachets. After freshening up, we head for lunch at Jal & Jalebi.
Jal & Jalebi –
The multi cuisine restaurant is located on the ground floor. What I loved about this restaurant was the open space, roomy seating, plush and comfortable chairs and a panoramic view of the Ganges.
A few minutes later, a thaali was served with Garhwali cuisine – all dishes prepared in clarified butter. The buttermilk tasted amazing and so did the starters. We relished the dishes and devoured the meal. The restaurant also has buffet options; we enjoyed hearty breakfast buffet the next day that had cereals, English breakfast including cutlets, hash browns, pancake, porridge, hummus, pita bread along with seasonal fruit juices, tea and coffee. The breakfast outdoors is something we really enjoyed.
Dinner at Varr – Temple food of India
This experience was by far the best experience while staying with Ganga Kinare. Few meters from Ganga Kinare lies their Indian specialty restaurant that is based on the concept of temple foods of India. While the décor wins hands down with the temple setting and décor, the rituals and hospitality at the restaurant gives this specialty restaurant 10 stars.
They begin with a small prayer just similar to offering prayers to the deity. With flowers in hands and holy water, the manager of the restaurant who is also a practicing pandit, initiates the divine process of chanting Vedic mantras while sprinkling holy water on us. The servers pour some warm buttermilk to aid digestion and place holy basil in the center of the thaali before serving dishes.
There is a plethora of dishes served us from different temples, each tasting divine and light to the palette. The dishes are flavorsome and pleasing to the palette. Each dish is served as prasadam at the temples, so there is no garlic or onion present in them; yet the taste and aroma re excellent.
The meal ends with a paan that is also served at the temple. There are plenty of reasons to visit this restaurant, but the most important is an auspicious aura that surrounds it. The place resembles a temple like atmosphere and you would feel so close to God while dining here.
The Ayur Ganga spa
After resting for an hour, we moved towards the spa to indulge in their therapeutic massages. While I opted for the abhyanga or the full body massage, my mother chose the shirodhara – great to detox the mind and relax the senses. The spa rooms have a decent size, well equipped with a wooden bed, slippers, gown; safe to keep valuables and steam room to de-stress and relax after the massage.
The massage was perfect, pressure points at the right place. After a relaxing massage, I dozed off. A few minutes later, I was gently woken up by the therapist who escorted me to the steam room.
The Ganga arti
Beyond the yoga packages and a multiple yoga sessions, the hotel offers guests to indulge in the daily morning and evening Ganga Aartis and also to take a dip in the holy waters any time of the day, with special arrangements made.
The in-house Mandir/temple in the plush garden of the hotel also caters to any special requests for performing pujas and religious ceremonies, beyond the daily rituals.
As a child you have always wanted to do things your parents would never allow – and that thing was probably jumping off something really high. Well, now your childhood dream can finally come true – only very safely so.
But for that you’ll have to travel to Rishikesh. Located at the ‘heavenly abode of Rishikesh is Jumpin Heights, that promises you the biggest thrill of your life, with the tag line – “GOT GUTS?”
After White Water Rafting and mountaineering, Rishikesh has now become the hot spot of the new take on adventure – Bungee Jumping.
It is located on the scenic Neelkanth Road, at Mohanchatti, 13 kms from Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh, that is 25 km from the Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and 230 km by road from New Delhi. The office of Jumpin Heights has a youthful appearance quite opposite from the peaceful city of Ganga. It has brilliantly colored walls that give you an open view to a breath-taking scenic view of mountains and waterfalls. A beautiful café with summer chillers and fresh sandwiches await you while you are getting all jittery before that giant jump.
Far from the maddening crowd, Jumpin’ Heights is run by Rahul Nigam, an ex-army officer after tremendous research in adventure activities with well-trained jumpers who are there all the time. He introduced the fantastic sport to challenge the fear factor and get that adrenaline rush. “Jumpin Heights started in October 2010 and became the first company in India to offer Bungee Jumping and The Giant Swing from an 83 meters cantilever platform.
Safety First
Jumpin Heights has almost 20 years of experience with special emphasis on safety and security. The masters from New Zealand themselves train the trainers and remain in constant touch with them so that no mishap occurs.
The activities of Giant swing and bungee are done by a cantilever platform built over a rocky cliff. It is very surprising to see men backing out compared to women from the platform; the ratio being 7:3.
The safety equipments included are harnesses that can bear a weight of around 2,000 kilos at one go. Safety standards offered by Jumpin Heights in India are incomparable to safety standards and practices followed in Australia and New Zealand.
Their trained staff looks at safety first with guidance from experienced Jump masters from these countries. The best part is the harness can bear a heavy weight person with ease.
Flying Fox
Adventure lovers are made to experience the Flying Fox as a warm up before trying the activities. As the roller coaster ride starts at a spine-chilling speed, the gush of air on the face makes the experience worthwhile.
Giant Swing – Swinging to another level
The next stage of the experience is Giant Swing where a person is tied up with a strong harness that can bear weight of upto 2,000 kg and jumps from the platform at a thrilling speed. Falling at such a high speed, from a height of 83 meters is definitely challenging and gives you a feeling of accomplishment. The person is made to swing to and fro and get a panoramic view of the lush greenery down below.
Bungee Jumping
The Bungee Jump is the last stage of the adventure trio. Sometimes there are people who back out in the last moment. Standing at the platform is not as easy at it seems so there are people who just prefer to give it up even after paying the full amount.
The jumper is made to wear a nylon rope on the ankle, a safety helmet and hand guards who then jumps from an 83 meter height. Two trainers are always beside the jumper, coaxing and comforting the jumper who is made to look in the front at a red board on a tree. And then all you that can be heard is the heart beat and feel of nerves squealing in fear. While you are assisted by supporting trainers by your side all that is required is inner determination of just letting go!
After the deadly count of Five, four, three, two one…..the jumper jumps off who lets out a blood curling scream and then realize you are still alive and triumphant. The bungee rope gives the body a jerk; so while the jumper is just hanging there upside down; all that can be seen in front is a scenic beauty of two hills caressing a stream. After the Jump, the jumpers are lowered down to a drop zone right inside the river, which only has 2 ft of water, followed by a trek to the café in the Jumpin Heights office. The jumpers can celebrate their victory with a relaxing drink of a hot cappuchhino.
Adrenaline pumping details:
Activities that set your heart racing are Bunjee jumping, The Giant wheel and the Flying Fox.
Combo – 1 has Bungee and Swing @ Rs 4000/- per person – $ 90 per person· Combo – 2 has Bungee + Flying Fox @ Rs 3500/- per person – $ 80 per person· Combo – 3 has Swing + Flying Fox @ Rs 3500/- per person – $ 80 per person· Trilogy Combo – has Bungy+Swing + Flying Fox @ Rs 5000/- per person – $ 110 per person.
Details
Locations – Goa and Rishikeh
Timings – 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.
Season – The Jumping season starts from October to May and is shut down from June to September during monsoons.
Dining – It has a classy café, where one can watch the dare devil stunts experienced by people live on the plasma screens. One can gorge on scrumptious snacks and coffee too while gazing at the serene environment around.
Jumping Heights is not just about the experience at that moment but the unique sense of confidence and memories one takes back afterwards.
Souvenirs like T-Shirts, Caps, Mugs, Key Chains, Fridge Magnets and Coasters are given to the jumpers along with a certificate that congratulates them. Jumpers can also buy their jump video DVD’s and photos taken during their activity.
Tourists around the world are in the impression that places like Rishikesh is meant for meditation. While thinking about that place, a picture of a holy hermit crosses their minds. Well let me tell you Rishikesh is not just that. It’s a lot more.
Adventures galore –
Rishikesh is flooded with numerous fun filled activities. You can pick and choose from several activities like bungee jumping, white water rafting, rappelling, trekking, camping and much more.
White water rafting –
Rishikesh is the perfect hub for white water rafting. All you have to do is when you check in a hotel, you can ask for the concierge to book yourself for a rafting experience.
The raft usually takes about 7 to 8 people, so even if you are going solo, you can bond well with other people and make new friends. The best season to visit Rishikesh is between March to September. The cost to have a thrilling ride is between 1500 to 2000, but the experience is worth it.
Bungee jumping –
if you love heights, head towards Rishikesh to experience that adrenaline rush. Jumpin Heights has trained people from Australia with the finest equipments who encourage you to try the deadly stunt. The height from a cliff does seem difficult in the first place but once when you actually do it, it’s worth taking the risk.
Rappelling –
Ever wanted to try coming down from a mountain like a monkey? Try Rappelling in Rishikesh. The cool sport is so addictive it makes you fall in love with life again.
Trekking –
If you love nature, you must visit Rishikesh for the cascading greens. The bountiful nature has a calming effect on the mind as you walk past dense forests while listening to the murmuring sounds of nature’s living beings. Getting lost in the wilderness is the most fabulous way to discover oneself.
Camping –
you have always stayed in exotic hotels during vacation. Now try something different this time? There are many campsites that are located next to the river. These campsites offer basic necessities and are far from luxury. You can stay in one of the tents and gaze at the stars on a full moon light. The breathtaking beauty of the silent sky speaks in volumes as you gaze at the stars in silence. An affair with the natural beauty will remain etched in your mind forever.
Please Like and Share
Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa, Rishikesh – Luxury amidst nature
Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa, Rishikesh is a perfect destination for the wellness traveler. The quaint resort offers a luxury experience in a nature-rich setting for those seeking healing through solitude and therapeutic massages.
Introduction
Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa is surrounded by gigantic mountains and lush green surroundings. Developed to ensure sustainability that’s achieved through its intelligent design and ethos, the hotel exudes comfort and luxury to travelers. The architecturally well-ventilated rooms are further permeated by the cool hillside breeze.
With polished flooring, elegant furnishings and the use of reclaimed wood, Summit by the Ganges creates a contemporary ambience that complements its nurturing essence.
I found the design to calm my central nervous system down as I started to melt into each day with a great sense of ease. I could really find the time to just reflect, read a book or absorb the beautiful nature around me.
How to Reach
The nearest airport is Dehradun Airport located approximately one hours’ drive from the resort. You can also reach the place by road as the connectivity and condition is good.
Staff
Summit by the Ganges has a very committed and hospitable staff. I personally felt that my space was carefully respected, and my complete experience of the staff was memorable. From the moment you walk towards the reception, to the restaurant where servers serve you with full attention and comfort, the staff here is very loving and well trained. Each time you walk inside the room it is already cleaned and as fresh as new.
Accomodation
Summit by the Ganges consists of 33 rooms all facing the ganges river – they are categorized into Deluxe Rooms, Premium Rooms, Suites with Balcony, and Terrace Suites. Every room embraces floor-to-ceiling patio doors that open to a beautiful scenic view. Our terrace private balcony room had the most astounding view of the mountains and the ganga river. The rooms are clutter-free and persuade you to soak in nature. For a fuller view of the mountain make sure you request a suite with private balcony.
The peaceful surrounding helped to improve my sleep by increasing the body’s natural production of melatonin. At night you can hear the pleasant tropical sound of the fast flowing ganges that serve as a sleep-inducing white noise.
If you love peace and quiet like me, then you will love the rooms here. Walking around in the resort is an enjoyable experience in its own. Everything is within an easy access – restaurants, spa, and recreation room.
Dining
mde
The restaurant is the focal point with stunning views. The dining experience for me was a real highlight since food has such an impact on our health and it certainly contributed to the holistic experience.
The food here is delicious. Each meal offers variety with adaptations in style. We loved the grilled chicken and sole fish – a delicacy that is served in a continental style and matches well with expectations. The Indian meals are as delicious – do try their mixed vegetables, malai kofta, lentils and biryanis.
The desserts are also worth indulging. The meals can also be enjoyed in the fresco setting of the restaurant where you get to enjoy cool breeze and the sound of water gushing – but just be cautious of the monkeys there.
The Aania Spa
The Spa at Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa is small but intimate and treatment rooms have all the facilities of a functional spa. A wide-range of treatments are available that include Ayurveda and Aromatherapy, alongside popular international treatments. We tried the aromatherapy massage and foot reflexology and loved the experience.
My therapist was very skilled, being both attentive and experienced. She always checked with me that I was happy with everything.
Activities
Nature walks are included down to the river or towards the forest and village approximately 4 Km round trip. My tour guide, a native of the village shared his knowledge of the rich diversity of his native place and breeding of cows. I enjoyed a hot cup of tea made from fresh milk. The taste was completely different.
They are other activities that you can enjoy while staying with them – white water rafting, kayaking, flying fox and ganga arti on personal request.
The arti should definitely be experienced as it is done near the ghat which is few steps down from the resort. The space is private and the pandit does a ceremonial procession by the hand of the guests. It is a phenomenal experience as you feel closer to God and completely surrender yourself the mystical procession.
Local sight-seeing
Tapovan in Rishikesh has a very moderate climate so you can see an array of wildlife, including monkeys, birds and insects. While there are gigantic mountains you can climb, you can also frequent the Tapovan or Rishikesh market to buy clothes or artifacts. There are beautiful waterfalls that you can visit on the way to Tapovan.
Another highlight is if you are into temples and mystical places , you can find an array of the most astounding temples.
Highlights
Staying at Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa was very peaceful for so many reasons. For me, I loved the morning yoga routine on my private balcony or feeling the soft sand in my feet on the ghats in the evening. The undisturbed ganga view was mesmerizing throughout the day and I could simply tune in to the soothing sound of nature.
The therapeutic massages are so tranquil with soothing music running in the background. The display of birds chirping and swooping in the air every day was relaxing and pleasing to the nerves.
Recommendations
Although you might want to enjoy with your friends and play the music, you are encouraged to relax your mind and listen to the sounds of birds and the sound of the gurgling water. It is also advisable to keep your room doors locked at all the time since notorious monkeys can easily open the handle and pick your personal valuables from your room.
Summary
Summit by the Ganges Beach Resort and Spa met my expectations with its stunning views, gorgeous rooms, delectable food and warm hospitality. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway in natural surroundings that offers a chance to strip back over-indulgent luxury to settle and unwind, you’ve found the right place.
