Uttarakhand Uttaranchal, India
Budget-friendly, popular with backpackers and solo travelers. They dorm beds and sometimes private rooms. Hostels often common areas, cafes, and organized activities, making them good places to meet other travelers. Many have a relaxed, social vibe.
Family-run establishments with simple to comfortable rooms. They often a more personal touch than larger hotels. Many guesthouses are near the Ganges River or tucked away in quiet lanes, with a peaceful atmosphere.
Traditional spiritual centers. They accommodation, often in exchange for participation in daily rituals, yoga, and meditation. Some charge a nominal fee. Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram, and Phool Chatti Ashram.
These properties a range of amenities, from standard rooms to suites. Facilities often include restaurants, room service, and sometimes swimming pools or spas. They a more conventional and comfortable stay.
Dedicated centers focusing on yoga teacher training, meditation, Ayurveda, and holistic healing. They often full-board accommodation and structured programs. These retreats are for those who seek a focused experience on personal well-being.
Limited availability through platforms like Airbnb. These more privacy and the convenience of kitchen facilities, which can be for longer stays or for families. More common in larger Indian cities, but a few exist in Rishikesh.
While not as prevalent or formally organized as homestays in other parts of India, some local families rooms for visitors. This a glimpse into local life and culture. Inquire through local contacts or small-scale tour operators.
Some river rafting operators riverside camping experiences. These are typically located a short distance upstream from Rishikesh (e.g., in Shivpuri). This option popular during the rafting season and connects closely with nature.
Rishikesh is broadly divided by the Ganges River. Two main pedestrian bridges, Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula, connect the areas. Each neighborhood has its own character.
The main road connecting Rishikesh city center to the bridge areas. It has more traffic and is less pedestrian-friendly than the specific bridge zones. You will find larger hotels and some commercial establishments here.
The local commercial hub. It bustles with markets, shops, and local eateries. This area caters more to local residents than to foreign tourists. It offers a more authentic local experience. Prices for goods and services are often lower here.
Read recent reviews of any accommodation before booking. Conditions and service quality can change, and reviews current insights from other travelers.
For ashrams and retreats, direct booking often authenticity and accurate program information.
For budget guesthouses, especially off-season, polite negotiation sometimes works for longer stays.
Here are examples of accommodation types and areas suited for different travelers.
Budget: ₹400 - ₹800 / night
Budget: ₹300 - ₹1500 / night (often incl. Food/yoga)
Budget: ₹800 - ₹3000 / night
Budget: ₹3000 - ₹10000+ / night
Look for hostels like Zostel Rishikesh (Hostelworld) or Blue Jay Hostel in the Tapovan area for social vibes and good connectivity. Many basic guesthouses near Ram Jhula also affordable rooms, often with shared bathrooms, a clean and simple stay.
Options like Hotel The Moksha or Hotel Natraj Rishikesh (Booking.com) a good balance of comfort and amenities. Hotel Ganga Kinare is a well-regarded riverside hotel a comfortable stay and good views. Seek out places in Muni Ki Reti or quieter parts of Tapovan for a peaceful mid-range experience.
Hotels with family rooms or suites are practical. Resorts like Aloha on the Ganges often swimming pools and activities suitable for children, with entertainment and space. Properties slightly away from crowded areas for children.
Hostels opportunities to meet other travelers. Ashrams a structured environment for spiritual exploration and community. Guesthouses are good for privacy while remaining affordable.
Many ashrams long-term residential programs at reduced rates. Guesthouses often discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. Some serviced apartments also for rent.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Has accommodation alongside daily yoga, meditation, Ganga Aarti. Sivananda Ashram: Traditional yoga and Vedanta teachings. Phool Chatti Ashram: Focuses on Hatha Yoga retreats.
These properties luxurious amenities, often with beautiful river views, infinity pools, and comprehensive wellness programs. They are typically located slightly outside the main bustling areas for tranquility.
For families, hotels with family rooms or suites are practical. Resorts like Aloha on the Ganges often swimming pools and activities suitable for children, entertainment and space.
Accommodation prices can increase significantly, sometimes doubling or tripling, during peak season (Oct-Apr). Prices also surge during major festivals.
For ashrams and many yoga retreats, it often works best to book directly through their official websites. OTAs (Booking.com, Agoda) good for hotels/guesthouses.
Read recent reviews of any accommodation before booking. Conditions and service quality can change, and reviews current insights from other travelers.
