Pre-Trip Checklist: Rishikesh

Detailed Planning Timeline

Navigate your travel preparations with this organized timeline.

Step-by-Step Readiness

Break down your journey into manageable stages.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages. Apply for e-Visa/regular visa.

Flights & Accommodation

Secure international flights. Book major accommodation, retreats, yoga courses.

Health Consult

Consult doctor for vaccinations and health precautions.

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights (Dehradun) or train tickets (Haridwar).

Insurance & Tours

Purchase Travel insurance. Arrange high-demand tours/activities.

Document Copies

Make digital (cloud/email) and physical copies of essential documents.

Week Before

Confirm & Pack

Reconfirm all bookings. Pack bags based on climate/dress codes.

Financial & Apps

Inform bank. Load essential apps. Withdraw local currency.

Home Care

Arrange pet/plant care, mail, security. Pay bills. Share itinerary.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain bookings need early attention for a smooth trip.

Prioritize Early

International and domestic flights.
Accommodation (especially ashrams, retreats).
High-demand adventure activities like bungee jumping.
Train tickets for popular routes and classes.

Pre-Trip Research

Informed travel begins with thorough research.

Research Pillars

Familiarize yourself with Indian culture and customs.
Read up on the history and spiritual significance of Rishikesh.
Understand the weather patterns for your travel dates.
Review health and safety advisories.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure everything is in order at home for peace of mind.

Inform Contacts

Share itinerary with family/friends.
Provide flight details.
Give accommodation information.
Outline a rough itinerary.

Home Management

Arrange for pet care.
Arrange for plant care.
Manage mail during your absence.
Pay any bills due.

Security Checks

Lock all doors and windows.
Consider using timers for lights.
Ensure home security measures are active.
Test alarms if applicable.

Digital Document Safety

Create a digital folder with scans or photos of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and insurance. Save it to cloud storage and email it to yourself. This backup is very valuable.

Arrival & Departure

These steps ensure a seamless arrival and departure from Rishikesh.

First Steps Upon Arrival at Delhi/Dehradun Airport

1
Immigration
Have your passport and e-Visa printout or sticker visa ready.
2
Baggage Claim
Collect your luggage. Verify your baggage tags match your claim ticket.
3
Currency Exchange/ATM
Withdraw Indian Rupees from an ATM or exchange currency.

Orientation & Transport

SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival if not done earlier.
Transfers
From Dehradun (DED) airport, a pre-paid taxi. From Haridwar railway, shared auto/taxi.
Orientation
Settle in, hydrate. Locate nearby ATMs, pharmacies, restaurants.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.

Arrange shipping through reputable services.

Pre-departure Timing

Allow 2 hours for DED check-in, 3-4 hours for DEL.

Factor in travel time to airports/stations.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your return flight details.

Pack strategically, keep essentials accessible. Settle all outstanding bills.

Smart Backup

Make a digital folder with scans or photos of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and insurance.

Other Practical Considerations

A few additional points for a well-rounded trip.

Connectivity & Charging

Consider a local SIM card for better rates and data.
Carry an universal adapter for charging devices.
Power outages are possible; a power bank is wise.
Download offline content for entertainment.

Health & Safety Reminders

Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from the sun.
Apply insect repellent, especially in evenings.
Carry any personal prescription medications.
Consider a mask for dusty areas if sensitive to air quality.

Emergency Planning

Be prepared for unexpected situations.

Emergency Details

Emergency Contacts:112 (All-in-one)
Police:100
Ambulance:102
Tourist Helpline:1363

Navigational Comfort

Download offline maps for areas without internet.
Familiarize yourself with basic routes and landmarks.
Walking maps for exploring specific areas like the ghats.
Look for clear signage in tourist zones.

Final Check

Double-check your passport's validity and visa status before heading to the airport.

Ensure all pre-booked services are confirmed.

Pre-Trip Checklist