Rishikesh Tour Packages

All set to explore the divinity, serenity and spirituality of North India? Book Thomas Cook Rishikesh tour packages. Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, this majestic destination has a lot to offer. Not only is Rishikesh the Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, but also to inner peace.

Thomas Cook tour operators have curated well-thought-out Rishikesh travel packages. You get to experience the scenic beauty, the magnificent Ganga aarti, adventurous river rafting, trekking and more. An ideal choice for nature lovers, spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts, Thomas Cook has a Rishikesh trip package for all. Set out on the journey of self-exploration and adventure with Thomas Cook’s Rishikesh packages.

Introduction to Rishikesh

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a very beautiful city and a key highlight of Rishikesh tourism. The birthplace of Yoga, Rishikesh, is more than just the temples. It's a place defined by experiences. Set against the backdrop of the Himalayas and with the Ganga flowing around, Rishikesh is extremely beautiful. In fact, it is one of the top tourist and pilgrimage destinations in North India.

People from all over the world visit Rishikesh to practice yoga. There are multiple Ashrams in Rishikesh that teach philosophical studies, yoga, and other forms of wellness. Whether you seek a break from city life or want to learn yoga, you must visit Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is also one of the ancient cities of India. The mention of this holy city can be found in the Ramayana and the Skanda Purana. Not only is Rishikesh steeped in ancient mythology, but it is also a connection to modern-day music. The most famous connection of Rishikesh in modern day is The Beatles. During their time at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram, The Beatles composed around 48 songs.

Every year, thousands of tourists and devotees from all around the world visit Rishikesh to experience the place's aura. Locals consider Rishikesh to be the Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Adventure seekers visit Rishikesh to try white-water rafting and more. You can't miss out on exploring the lanes of Rishikesh, as it's here that you'll experience most of the culture and history of the place.

Witnessing the divine Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh is a soul-stirring experience. This is a serene destination of North India that you can't ever get enough of, no matter how many times you visit. Rishikesh is truly magical in the winter, with clear skies and free-flowing rivers. A Rishikesh trip is not only required for physical wellness (through yoga and Ayurvedic treatments) but also for your mind.

Why Choose Rishikesh for Your Spiritual & Adventure Getaway?

Every year, Rishikesh attracts lakhs of tourists. It's been a place of spiritual and peaceful growth for centuries. Not only the local people, but also old saints and sages have visited Rishikesh to meditate or just relax. The calming presence of the Ganga makes Rishikesh the best place to start your spiritual journey.

When you book Rishikesh tour packages by Thomas Cook, you'll be taken around some of the best places. You just need to budget your Rishikesh tour cost effectively so you can explore the place to its fullest. It's here that you get to establish a deeper connection with yourself.

So, some of the main reasons why you should choose Rishikesh as your next destination for a spiritual and adventure getaway include

History

There's a lot of history attached to Rishikesh. What you read on the internet may not be enough. You should take a Rishikesh tour to learn more about the place. Rishikesh derives its name from Hrishikesha, another name for Lord Vishnu, meaning "Lord of the Senses."

According to Hindu legends, Rishi Raibhya meditated in Rishikesh. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared in front of him. Since then, Rishikesh has become a popular destination for spiritual retreat seekers.

Yoga and Meditation

Do not miss out on trying yoga and meditation by the banks of the River Ganga in Rishikesh. Most Rishikesh travel packages include yoga and meditation on the River Ganga as an exclusive experience. You may visit Sivananda Ashram and Parmarth Niketan to attend guided yoga sessions.

If you want to achieve mental clarity, you should meditate by the banks of the River Ganga. The natural sound of birds chirping and flowing water will help you relax. It restores the balance in mind and body, allowing you to focus.

Wellness Tourism with Cultural Soul

Want to get the most out of your Rishikesh budget trip? Thomas Cook lets you experience the same. You can book a Thomas Cook Rishikesh trip package to experience the beauty of the place. There are no superficial experiences in Rishikesh- it's all natural and authentic.

Most of the luxury experiences you enjoy in Rishikesh are embedded in Indian culture and Vedic teachings during your trip. You must take a luxury Ganga cruise. Make sure to begin the same, respecting the Vedic traditions and learnings. The food served on the cruise is vegetarian, Sattvic food.

Planning Your Rishikesh Trip: Essential Information

Best Time to Visit Rishikesh

October to February is the best time to plan a Rishikesh tour. The winter months are peaceful, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 30 °C. While the days are pleasant, nights will be quite cold. Nonetheless, winter provides the perfect weather for outdoor sightseeing.

Booking a Rishikesh trip package during winter can be a magical experience. You can indulge in cultural and religious experiences or take a long stroll along the ghats. You should pack some warm clothes when visiting Rishikesh in winter. If trekking and hiking are part of your Rishikesh trip plan, make sure to carry the right footwear.

How to Reach Rishikesh?

By Air:

Rishikesh doesn't have an airport of its own. The nearest airport to Rishikesh is Dehradun Airport. If you're booking Rishikesh tour packages with flights, you'll have to fly to Dehradun first. From Dehradun, you can hire a private taxi to reach Rishikesh. Alternatively, you can take the bus from Dehradun to Rishikesh.

By Train:

You'll have to take a train to Haridwar Junction to reach Rishikesh by rail. Train services to Haridwar are available from major cities across India, including Lucknow, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. It's a long trip to Rishikesh, but it's completely worth it.

By Road:

Rishikesh is well-connected to Delhi by road. It is connected to other major Indian cities via National Highway 58. You can book your Rishikesh trip package and set out on a road trip experience. Not only are buses from other pilgrimage sites to Rishikesh very frequent, but they are also very affordable. Jeep options to Rishikesh are also available via Dehradun.

Weather, Safety & Travel Tips

Rishikesh has pleasant winters and extremely hot summers. It is best to visit during winter when the nights are cool and the days are warm. Winter is an ideal time to try various adventure activities, with rafting as the main one. Depending on the weather, pack light woollen clothes and scarves. Trekking shoes are mandatory if you plan on an adventurous Rishikesh trip.

Here are a few safety and travel tips to follow on your Rishikesh tour packages:

• As for safety, you should be extra cautious when visiting Rishikesh during festivals.
• Although generally safe, petty crimes like theft do happen. So, you should be mindful of your things.
• You should book adventure activities such as bungee jumping, river rafting, and others only via reputable operators.
• If visiting Rishikesh during the summer, make sure to keep yourself hydrated and apply sunscreen.

Local Travel, Permits & Activity Guidelines

When travelling locally, you do get transfers on your Rishikesh trip package. You must carry your ID-proofs when travelling in Rishikesh. You don't need any special permits to go around in Rishikesh. However, you do have to be respectful of the local traditions and customs.

• Some key things to remember for your Haridwar trip are as follows:
• Always be respectful when meditating, practising yoga, and visiting temples.
• Be appropriately dressed for adventure activities. Do not wear baggy clothes.
• If trekking and hiking are a part of your Rishikesh tour plan, make sure to start early. This way, you will have sufficient time to explore the places around.

Curated Rishikesh Tour Packages by Thomas Cook

Overview of Rishikesh Tour & Travel Packages

Are you all set to explore the beauty of Rishikesh? You must book one of Thomas Cook's Rishikesh tour packages. Often referred to as the Adventure Capital, Rishikesh also offers ample opportunities for spiritual exploration. That's exactly the kind of experience Thomas Cook wants to offer.

The Thomas Cook Rishikesh travel packages are the perfect blend of spirituality and modernism. Not only do you get to immerse yourself in a culturally rich experience, but you also get to try a variety of adventure activities. In fact, you can choose an adventure Rishikesh trip package that takes you to the major destinations.

On your Rishikesh tour packages, you get to experience the beauty of majestic valleys, ancient monuments and historical temples. The colourful markets often cater to individuals' antique tastes. Whether you want a honeymoon Rishikesh tour package for couple or for a group tour with your family, Thomas Cook has a variety of them.

The Rishikesh travel packages cover accommodation, meals, sightseeing and transfers. Flights are optional in these packages, but open to customisation. These packages also offer the experience to dive deep into thrill and adventure. Therefore, some of the key adventure activities to try in Rishikesh include the following:

• River rafting
• Cliff jumping
• Rock climbing

The tour operators at Thomas Cook will arrange these activities in advance. Therefore, you don't have to wait in long queues to get your turn. Furthermore, because of how flexible the Rishikesh holiday package is, you get to pick and choose whatever interests you. We understand the unique requirements of all the travellers choosing us. We make sure to prioritise your needs and comfort. As long as you're comfortable on your Rishikesh tour, you'll have the experience of a lifetime.

With a variety of Rishikesh tour packages, you can do whatever you love- seek solace in a temple or get the adrenaline rush via adventure activities. These packages range from affordable to expensive, so you can select one that best suits your needs.

Package Categories – Family, Couple & Budget Trips

There are different types of Rishikesh tour packages by Thomas Cook. These include:

Family:

The Rishikesh tour packages for family are designed for families. It includes safety considerations for the senior citizens and activities for kids to experience. With comfortable accommodations and scrumptious meals, you can enjoy your trip.

Budget Tours:

Thomas Cook's Rishikesh budget trip is designed for solo travellers and adventure seekers. It's also an ideal choice for you if you're looking for a small getaway. It includes hotels, meals, and sightseeing activities.

Couples:

Top Attractions & Experiences in Rishikesh

The spiritual charm of Rishikesh can be felt in the places you'll be visiting. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, it exudes a unique charm. Because of its spiritual significance, Rishikesh is also known as the Yoga Capital of the World.

Below are some of the key attractions and experiences you must witness in Rishikesh:

Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula is one of the most scenically important places in Rishikesh. It is a very popular suspension bridge that should be a part of your Rishikesh tour plan. The location's history is related to the Ramayana. This is believed to be the spot where Laxman crossed the River Ganga on a jute rope. The surrounding hills and rivers offer a perfect destination for photographers.

Triveni Ghat

One of the most popular destinations to visit in Rishikesh is Triveni Ghat. It is the holy place where the waters of the Ganga, Saraswati and Yamuna combine. This is a key destination for sacred pilgrimage. You should visit Triveni Ghat in the evening to witness the beautiful Aarti. The lights and devotional rituals performed here will leave you in surprise. You'll witness the lively amalgamation of Hinduism coming together here.

Beatles Ashram

If you've been a fan of the Beatles, you must take a trip to the Beatles Ashram. This is a quaint ashram where the Beatles visited during their trip to India to meditate. The entire Beatles group flew to India in 1968 to meet Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. They practised meditation under his flagship.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Your Rishikesh tour is incomplete without a visit to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Surrounded by dense green forests on all sides, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple attracts tourists all year round. However, most tourists visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple mostly during the Shravan month and Maha Shivratri.

Vashishtha Cave

Sage Vashishtha is believed to have meditated in this holy Vashishtha Cave. There's a Shiva linga within the cave. It is one of the most prominent destinations to visit in Rishikesh. The cave is surrounded by nature and is slightly small. Therefore, it can accommodate only 12 people at once. The oil lamps and incense sticks are placed in the cave for visitors to practice meditation.

Neer Garh Waterfalls

You must trek to the two-tiered Neer Garh Waterfall. This place is known for its serene atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. The best part about visiting Neer Garh Waterfalls? You'll have to indulge in a short trek through the lush forests. The waterfalls form two pools. While the first tier has a small pool, the second tier offers a larger pool with a better view. Be extra cautious when trekking during the monsoon as the route can be slippery.

Things to Do in Rishikesh Beyond Sightseeing

Apart from sightseeing, there are plenty of fun things to do in Rishikesh, especially adventure activities. Below are some of the key things you must indulge in beyond sightseeing:

Take a Relaxing Ayurvedic Massage

Taking a vacation means relaxing. Well, what can be better than just taking a relaxing Ayurvedic massage? Ayurvedic treatments have been a part of Indian culture for centuries. When in Rishikesh, you should take part in calming therapies like Shirodhara or Abhyanga. You can also consult a few experienced Ayurvedic doctors on your Rishikesh trip.

Try River Rafting on the Ganges

There's a sudden drop in the Ganga's elevation in Rishikesh. Rishikesh is perfectly located where the Ganga narrows down and leaves the Himalayas, entering the plains. Flowing through the rocky gorges, there are multiple rapids. Going white water rafting in Rishikesh is one of the most adventurous things to try. The spectacular view of the Himalayan foothills is a scene you won't ever forget.

Join a Yoga Class

If you're visiting Rishikesh for a longer duration, why not join a Yoga class? While the Rishikesh trip package does offer a Yoga experience, you can also join a class. Several Ashrams located on the banks of the River Ganga offer yoga classes. It's a quiet, communal experience you won't find in the city. Joining yoga classes helps to build discipline. It also provides a gateway for self-reflection.

Boost Your Adrenaline with Bungee Jumping

Rishikesh is one of the very few places in India where you can try bungee jumping. Located in Mohan Chatti Village, the bungee platform is 83 meters high. While bungee jumping offers a significant adrenaline rush, it is not for everyone. October to March is the best time to go bungee jumping because of clear skies offering a great view of the surrounding region.

Eat a Special Traditional Thali

Rishikesh is where you must try the delicious North Indian thali. The ‘special’ thali has Indian dishes served in one meal. Different items are placed in different sections of the thali. You must try a regional speciality for a unique experience. Do not miss out on trying the delicious mountain-style or pahadi-style curries.

Go for a Jeep Safari on the Chilla Range

You should try the open jeep safari in Chilla Range. The Rajaji National Park is also situated nearby. To explore the local flora and fauna of the region, you must take a trip to these places. Well, you must dedicate half a day to the open-jeep safari to experience its beauty. The jeep safari is usually not a part of the Rishikesh tour cost for the package. Hence, you will have to pay for it on your own.

Set Out on a Trek

One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Rishikesh is to set out on a trek. As you walk along the paths, you'll be surprised to see the beauty of the Himalayas. There are several power-packed trek routes near Rishikesh that you must try. Do not forget to click some pictures to save these as memories.

Rishikesh Trip Cost, Budget Planning & Itinerary Guide

• The cost of the Rishikesh trip will vary depending on the package you choose. A Rishikesh holiday package can cost between ₹12,100 and ₹76,000 per person. The extremely expensive tour cost is mostly for group tours. These packages are longer and offer a more comprehensive experience of a visit to Rishikesh.
• To get the best out of your Rishikesh tour, you need to budget your trip properly. Below are some of the key tips to budget your trip:
• If you're travelling solo, you must choose a Rishikesh trip package that covers the activities you want to explore. Some packages cover adventure activities, whereas others cover just temple visits. Don't pay for extra services that you won't need.
• The best way to spend less is to stick to a budget. While booking one of the Rishikesh tour packages, you should decide how much you're willing to spend on the trip. Make sure to stick to your budget and avoid spending money on souvenir shopping and activities.
• Book your budget-friendly Rishikesh holiday package with Thomas Cook for an exclusive experience. Since you already get accommodation, meals and sightseeing experiences within the package, you don't need to spend extra.
• There are a variety of activities in Rishikesh that you can enjoy at no additional cost. You should try those. For example, you can attend the Ganga Aarti at the beautiful Triveni Ghat or just relax by the banks of the River Ganga. Rishikesh offers a lot of scenic beauty that you can't ever get enough of.
• Plan your Rishikesh tour during the shoulder season. March to April is an ideal time with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Therefore, you can enjoy adventurous activities and also seek some solace.
• For a better experience on your Rishikesh trip, consider exploring independently. You can meet some local people along the way, especially sages who'll explain to you about the history of the place. This is far better than going on a guided tour.
• The itinerary of your Rishikesh trip usually outlines all the details of your package. From the places you'll be visiting to the accommodation and meals, make sure to capture information about it all. Go through your itinerary first and then plan your trip on a budget accordingly.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Rishikesh Tour

• The Rishikesh tour is worth trying once in a lifetime. However, the only key thing is planning it correctly. Below are some tips to follow for a smooth Rishikesh tour experience:
• The hostel culture in Rishikesh is very strong. If you're a solo traveller, you should try living in the hostel for once. Most of the hostels are located in areas such as Tapovan and Laxman Jhula. These hostels offer great facilities and comfort, so that you won't have any issues. A stay here can reduce your Rishikesh trip cost.
• Many people take a trip to Rishikesh to experience the beauty of sound healing. When you're in Rishikesh, you must try it too. Most centres use Tibetan singing bowls and gongs to balance energy and calm your nervous system. The vibrations interact with your body's energy, thus healing you.
• Rishikesh is the religious and spiritual centre of India. Therefore, during your Rishikesh tour, you must respect the local traditions and customs. You should be quiet inside the temples and not take pictures of places where it is prohibited.
• When visiting temples in Rishikesh, dress modestly. Both women and men should wear fully covered clothing. It is very important to show respect for religious customs and traditions.
• Rishikesh is very popular for its wide range of cafes. During your visit to Rishikesh, you'll likely want to visit these places. In fact, most of these cafes are very popular on Instagram. Before visiting any such cafes, you'll have to check their reviews online. After all, you wouldn't want bad food or worse experiences.
• Book Rishikesh travel packages for the weekdays. The cab and airline fares are usually cheaper on weekdays. Demand increases on weekends, which will eventually lead you to spend more on your trip. Plan your Rishikesh tour carefully to save money.
• Beware of monkeys if you're carrying food packets and water bottles. You'll mostly find monkeys near Ram Jhula. Avoid openly throwing snacks at them or swinging your phone, as they're likely to take it away. Practice caution so that you don't face any challenges during your trip.

Why Book Your Rishikesh Tour Package with Thomas Cook?

If you want a stress-free, fun Rishikesh trip, you must book a Thomas Cook package. With comprehensive information, the Rishikesh trip package ensures you have a culturally immersive and enriching experience. Thomas Cook offers personalised itineraries and the flexibility to customise your plan.

Here's why you must book a Rishikesh holiday package by Thomas Cook:

Globally-reputed Brand:

Thomas Cook is a globally renowned brand with experience in trip planning. Being the pioneers of modern tourism, Thomas Cook offers well-planned itineraries for Rishikesh travel packages. Every package is designed to give you a seamless experience.

Curated Experiences:

Get the benefit of curated experiences on your Thomas Cook Rishikesh trip package. All the activities are hand-picked, offering a blend of spirituality and adventure. Whether you wish to attend the Ganga Aarti or go river rafting, Thomas Cook has a tour plan for you.

Stress-free Planning:

Booking Rishikesh tour packages offers a comprehensive, stress-free planning experience. From hotels to food and even local experiences, everything is covered in the trip package. You just need to pack your bags and visit to enjoy the spiritual ambience and natural beauty.

24*7 Support:

Thomas Cook’s expert team is available 24*7 to assist you. Each package is designed for an exclusive experience. However, if you face any challenges, the tour operators will walk you through the process.