Rishikesh is quickly making its way to many traveler’s destination dreams for its offerings of yoga and spiritual teachings, and adventure along the sacred Ganges river. No matter what you’re traveling for, these top 10 things to know before going to Rishikesh will help prepare you for your exploration in Northern India’s most famed destination.
After having spent over a month in this city, I can honestly say it was one of my favorite destinations in Asia so far! The ability to learn so openly and connect with like minded people is a special part of Rishikesh’s charm, and the amazing and affordable food tops it all off.
Table of Contents
1. Yoga Capital of The World
Rishikesh’s connection to yoga is rooted in the ancient practice that originated over 5,000 years ago. Scripts speak of sages and yogis who meditated along the sacred Ganges, seeking enlightenment.
This rich history, coupled with its breathtaking natural setting, has transformed Rishikesh into the global epicenter of yoga today, drawing seekers and practitioners from around the world to experience the essence of this timeless practice.
Today, there are hundreds of schools available to learn the practices of teaching yoga, sound healing, meditation, reiki, pranayama, mantra and chanting, Ayurveda, philosophy, Vedic astrology, and so much more!
2. Adventure Capital of India
While many visitors venture to Rishikesh for the spiritual teachings available, just as many Indian tourists visit for the adventure!
The city’s location amidst the Himalayan foothills provides exploration in the mountains and rivers for the adrenaline seekers. From the rafting the rapids of the Ganges River, to the challenging cliffs ideal for rock climbing, Rishikesh caters to a diverse range of adventurers.
Rishikesh is also home to India’s tallest bungee jump, and a perfect place to stay if you’re interested in doing a wildlife safari. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot a wild Asian Elephant or elusive Tiger (from the safety of a safari jeep).
3. Be prepared for the local paparazzi
The photographers are everywhere, and the subject is you! Many tourists in Rishikesh are from other parts of India, and they may have never seen a foreigner before. During my visit in July (low season), I never had less than 5-10 selfie requests a day, so get used to it!
Ultimately, you have to protect your personal space and boundaries. It’s okay to take a few photos for them to have some memories, but you definitely don’t need to. If you like being under the radar and avoiding the attention, a headscarf and sunglasses go a long way.
Or, take the tactics of my friend and charge 100 rupees per photo ($1)! She mostly charged the men, and made enough for a few free coffees while bringing light and enjoyment to the daily occurrence.
'No' doesn't always mean No in India. However, a stern 'Abhi Nahi' (Ahbee Nay) will be better received - it is Hindi for 'not now / no'
4. ATM's are Unreliable
Many places in Rishikesh do take card, but not everywhere! Always keep some cash on you when traveling, you never know when you’re going to need a taxi ride, quick meal, or a drop in class with your new-found yoga buddies.
There are 3 ATM’s in Tapovan (north side of the river), and 1 ATM in Ram Jhula (south side of the river). All of them have failed me at least one time within the month, so beware! If a location doesn’t accept card, they probably accept Paytm transfers, which you can set up beforehand so you’re never limited.
5. Vegetarian Only
Here in Rishikesh, you won’t be finding any chicken wings or burgers. As the homeland of yoga and a destination for Eastern spiritual practitioners, it is a vegetarian city.
While vegetarian food is everywhere, it is not the same for vegan food options. Many restaurants will have great vegan options, while others will require a rough translation with the staff… and still may be non-vegan.
6. Dry City
To further maintain the sacredness of the region, it also restricts the consumption of alcohol within city limits. There are a few bottle shops on the outskirts of the city, but the cleanse is refreshing, especially with the satisfying street-made chai teas.
The ban on alcohol doesn’t impact the accessibility of other substances in the city… if you know what I mean 😉
7. Get an eSIM
On the note of preparedness, set yourself up with an eSIM before you arrive without data. The city is chaotic – filled with bikes trying to pass cows laying in the street, slow moving tractors and tuk-tuks trying to take you for a ride.
Know where you’re going with ease, with an easy-to-install eSIM. Learn more about the intricacies of international phone plans so you can stay connected while saving money, wherever you go.
Between the main eSIM providers, I found:
Use code 'TAYL58RX' for Nomad eSIM, or 'TAYLOR8492' for Airalo eSIM to save $3!
8. Take Preemptive Probiotics
…and you still might get sick.
India isn’t known for its food hygiene, in fact it’s quite the opposite. A majority of foreigners do get some type of food sickness here. The new spices, ways of preparation, and sanitation can definitely throw your body for a loop. Prepare in advance with some probiotics, or else you’ll end up like the 12 people in my yoga training that got sick in the second week.
Luckily, there are loads of Ayurvedic and pharmaceutical stores around to stock up on anything you might need. Ginger chews, activated charcoal, and some electrolytes go a long way!
9. Be Aware of the Spiritual Scams
If you’re coming to Rishikesh, it probably is focused a bit around eastern spirituality, yoga, healing, and learning. And while it’s great to have your big eyes ready to accept what is meant for you, not everything is legit.
A good rule of thumb is if someone is seeking you out to ‘help heal you’ for free, there is a cost… it’s just not money. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sexual either, but the blurry lines and vulnerability can easily make your experience feel a bit skeptical.
There is a lot of beautiful things to discover in Rishikesh, but it’s probably not a ‘shaman’ named Aman who approaches you in a western cafe to ‘heal your lower chakras and work through the traumas of your relationship’… I met 6 other girls with that experience, so watch yourself and your friends!
10. Don't Trust the Monkeys
Monkeys always look so cute… until they swing down to steal your sunglasses and bargain to trade for food, or run at you with their teeth bared for looking at them wrong. All monkeys should garner caution, but these monkeys are downright criminals.
In all seriousness:
- Never look a monkey (specifically the macaques) in the eyes. It is a threat and they never turn down a challenge.
- Stay far away from a mama with her baby.
- If you’re carrying something in a plastic bag, it’s fair game to steal since it’s probably fruit. Always have a bigger big to store things in out of sight.
- Never feed the monkeys! Not just for your safety, but also for theirs. Try to let the wildlife stay as wild as possible.
There are 2 species of monkeys in Rishikesh: The Rhesus Macaques (evil incarnate), and Grey Langurs (spiritual teachers of peace). Do not feed either, and don't even look at the macaques.
Summary - 10 Things to Know Before Going to Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a perfect destination for every traveler – the affordable prices, scenic views of the Himalayan foothills, the spiritual energy that surrounds the Ganges, and the people that make you feel welcome and at peace.
There is so much to explore in the area that one could never get bored here. And, with such a heavy focus on internal growth and exploration, you can find wonder and curiosity without ever leaving the comforts of an ashram or school you choose to spend your time.
Whether you’re a wanderlust explorer or a spiritual seeker, these 10 things to know before going to Rishikesh should help you prepare your journey into Northern India’s most famous region.
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