Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the sacred Ganges River, offers a plethora of trekking opportunities that cater to both novices and seasoned trekkers. Here are some of the top trekking destinations in and around Rishikesh:
Kunjapuri Temple Trek
This 14 km trek offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Swarga Rohini, Gangotri, and Banderpunch. The trek combines natural beauty with spiritual significance, culminating at the Kunjapuri Temple.
How to Get There:
- Located 25 km from Rishikesh, take a taxi or local bus to the base village and begin the trek.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 13 km (one way).
- Duration: 4-5 hours.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Best Things About the Trek:
- Stunning sunrise views of the Himalayan peaks.
- Panoramic views of the Ganga and Doon Valley.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kunjapuri Temple.
- Nature trails and local villages.
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Neer Garh Waterfall Trek
A short hike leading to the Neer Garh Waterfall, a popular spot for visitors seeking a refreshing experience amidst nature. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery and offers serene views.
How to Get There:
- Located 6 km from Rishikesh town, accessible via taxi to the base, followed by a short hike.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 3 km.
- Duration: 1-2 hours.
- Difficulty: Easy.
Best Things About the Trek:
- Scenic waterfalls and natural pools.
- Perfect for a refreshing dip and photography.
Nearby Attractions:
- Lakshman Jhula.
- Cafes with scenic views.
For more Information: Click Here
Patna Waterfall Trek
This trek leads to the Patna Waterfall, known for its limestone caves and lush surroundings. It’s a relatively easy trek, making it suitable for beginners.
How to Get There:
- Located 12 km from Rishikesh, take a taxi to the base and trek 1.5 km to the waterfall.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 1.5 km (one way).
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Difficulty: Easy.
Best Things About the Trek:
- Lush greenery and limestone caves.
- Quiet and peaceful surroundings.
Nearby Attractions:
- Rajaji National Park.
- Beatles Ashram.
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Garud Chatti Waterfall Trek
A short trek to the Garud Chatti Waterfall, offering a tranquil environment ideal for meditation and relaxation. The waterfall is especially vibrant during the monsoon season.
How to Get There:
- Located 4 km from Lakshman Jhula, accessible by a short hike from the main road.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 2 km (round trip).
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Difficulty: Easy.
Best Things About the Trek:
- Sounds of water amidst dense greenery.
- Ideal for meditation and relaxation.
Nearby Attractions:
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
- Adventure camps.
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Chandrashila Trek
A moderately challenging trek that takes you through lush forests and meadows, culminating at the Chandrashila peak, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
How to Get There:
- Drive from Rishikesh to Chopta (200 km), then trek to Chandrashila peak.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 9 km (round trip).
- Duration: 1-2 days.
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.
Best Things About the Trek:
- Breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
- Visit to Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple.
Nearby Attractions:
- Deoria Tal Lake.
- Sari Village.
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Valley of Flowers Trek
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this trek is known for its vibrant alpine flowers and stunning landscapes. It’s a moderately challenging trek suitable for both inexperienced and seasoned hikers.
How to Get There:
- Take a taxi or bus from Rishikesh to Govindghat (approx. 270 km), then trek to Ghangaria village, the base for the Valley of Flowers.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 17 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2-3 days.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Best Things About the Trek:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Vibrant alpine flowers and stunning landscapes.
Nearby Attractions:
- Hemkund Sahib.
- Badrinath Temple.
For more Information: Click Here
Nag Tibba Trek
A popular weekend trek that leads to the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range, offering sweeping vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas. The trek is around 10 kilometers long and is rated as being of moderate difficulty.
How to Get There:
- Start your journey from Rishikesh to Pantwari Village (approximately 85 km). Pantwari is the base village for the trek.
- The drive takes about 3-4 hours by taxi or private vehicle.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 16 km (round trip).
- Duration: 2 days.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.
- Best Time: October to March for clear skies and snow, April to June for pleasant weather.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of Bandarpunch, Kedarnath, and Gangotri ranges.
- A forest trail with oak and rhododendron trees.
- Camping under starlit skies at the Nag Tibba base camp.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mussoorie (optional stop en route to Pantwari).
- Pantwari Village and its serene local culture.
Tips:
- Carry warm clothing, especially during the winter season.
- The trek is suitable for families, including children.
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Har Ki Dun Trek
A mesmerizing valley trek renowned for its untainted beauty and abundant wildlife. The moderately strenuous 47-kilometer hike provides breathtaking views of the Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks.
How to Get There:
- Drive from Rishikesh to Sankri Village (approximately 200 km). Sankri serves as the base camp for the trek.
- The journey takes 7-8 hours by private vehicle or shared taxis.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 47 km (round trip).
- Duration: 6-7 days.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Best Time: April to June, September to November.
Highlights:
- Ancient villages such as Osla and Gangad.
- Spectacular views of Swargarohini and Jaundhar Glacier.
- Beautiful alpine meadows, dense forests, and streams.
Nearby Attractions:
- Sankri Village.
- Taluka Village, where the trekking trail starts.
Tips:
- This trek requires good physical fitness.
- Carry waterproof clothing, as the region experiences sudden rain.
For more Information: Click Here
Kuari Pass Trek
This kuari Pass trek offers a wonderful experience between snow-capped mountains and beautiful green meadows, with views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Kamet. The hike is around 20 kilometers long and is of average difficulty.
How to Get There:
- Drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath (approximately 270 km). Joshimath is the starting point of the trek.
- The drive takes 8-9 hours by private taxi or shared transport.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 33 km (round trip).
- Duration: 4-6 days.
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.
- Best Time: December to March for snow, April to June for lush greenery.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
- Forests of oak, rhododendron, and deodar.
- The charming villages of Auli and Gulling.
Nearby Attractions:
- Auli, a famous skiing destination.
- Joshimath and its cultural heritage.
Tips:
- The trek is ideal for beginners looking for Himalayan exposure.
- Carry a trekking pole for the steep ascent to Kuari Pass.
Roopkund Trek
A challenging yet rewarding journey that leads to the glacial lake of Roopkund, also known as Skeleton Lake, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The 15-kilometer walk includes both high ascents and descents.
How to Get There:
- Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung (approximately 270 km). Lohajung serves as the base camp for the trek.
- The drive takes 8-9 hours by private vehicle.
Trekking Details:
- Distance: 53 km (round trip).
- Duration: 6-8 days.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult.
- Best Time: May to June, September to October.
Highlights:
- The skeleton remains visible in the glacial lake during summer.
- Spectacular views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks.
- High-altitude meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal.
Nearby Attractions:
- Wan Village, known for its cultural richness.
- Lohajung, a small hamlet surrounded by dense forests.
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Tips:
- Ensure high-altitude acclimatization to prevent AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
- This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers due to the challenging terrain.
Tips for Trekking in Rishikesh:
- Preparation: Carry essential trekking gear, including comfortable shoes, water bottles, and sunscreen.
- Timing: The best seasons for trekking are pre-monsoon (March-June) and post-monsoon (September-November).
- Safety: Hire local guides for difficult treks and avoid trekking during adverse weather conditions.
- Permits: Check if permits are required for treks in protected areas.
- Respect Nature: Avoid littering and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Rishikesh offers trekking experiences that cater to all skill levels, from short and easy hikes to challenging mountain treks. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, spiritual sites, or Himalayan peaks, trekking in Rishikesh promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature.
