A quick and useful guide summing up the absolute best waterfalls in Rishikesh. From popular swimming holes to secluded forest pools, here are the 3 best Rishikesh waterfalls to visit.
Visiting waterfalls is undoubtedly not what draws most travelers to Rishikesh. Although it’s known more for its vibrant yoga scene and picturesque river views, I believe that Rishikesh is still an epic destination for adventure travelers.
In fact, Rishikesh’s natural beauty extends far from the banks of the Ganges and high into the forest-laden hills where epic hikes and waterfalls await.
In this blog post, I’ll outline the three best waterfalls in Rishikesh to visit on your next trip. I’ve also written individual posts for each waterfall to help you get more information on how to find them and what to expect.
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The Best Adventure Tours in Rishikesh
Looking for adventures in Rishikesh after checkout out these awesome forest waterfalls? The below list will have you covered for an epic time in India’s adventure capital!
- Whitewater Rafting Rishikesh – Awesome Marine Drive rafting trip down grade 3+ rapids on the Ganges River.
- Camping Adventure Multi-Day Tour in Rishikesh – Top-rated overnight tour in Rishikesh and is one of the best ways to meet other travelers
- Kunjapuri Temple Trek – Guided hike from Rishikesh to the incredible Kanjapuri Temple at the feet of the Himalayas.
The Best Waterfalls in Rishikesh
Without further ado, let’s get into the three best waterfalls in Rishikesh.
I haven’t ranked these waterfalls in any particular order. This is due to the fact each waterfall is fairly different from the next. It will depend on what you prefer, whether it be a secluded hike or a thriving swimming hole.
1. Neer Garh Waterfall
Neer Garh waterfall is perhaps the most well-known waterfall in Rishikesh. Located on the hills above the northern banks of the Ganges River, this multi-tiered waterfall offers some of the deepest swimming holes, and some of the most scenic limestone falls on this list.
This waterfall is great if you’d prefer a bit of variety, as some of the “hidden” lower levels are usually secluded.
However, once you climb up the concrete and dirt paths to the upper tiers, you’ll find cafes and crowds of people enjoying the vibe.
It’s also possible to continue hiking past the top level and high into the hills above for great views of the surrounding mountainscape.
2. Garud Chatti Waterfall
The next two Rishikesh waterfalls on this list are both located on the southern banks of the Ganges. While Garud Chatti Waterfall, is less popular than Neer Garh waterfall, it certainly can still draw a crowd.
Luckily, there are several levels to explore after reaching the first waterfall following a 1.5KM hike into the Rajaji Forest. The two main tiers have shallow pools that are great for swimming and enjoying a fresh waterfall shower.
3. Patna Waterfall
Found just a short distance from Garud Chatti waterfall, Patna waterfall is a less impressive, but less visited waterfall near Rishikesh.
Patna waterfall is a tall, limestone waterfall that trickles gently down a steep cliffside and into a shallow pool below.
This waterfall doesn’t offer much in terms of swimming, but the short hike through the Rajaji Forest makes the trip worthwhile. If you’re looking for a waterfall near Rishikesh that offers quiet and scenic vibes, this one might be for you.
Where to Stay in Rishikesh for Waterfall Adventures
After spending a few weeks relaxing and experiencing all of the epic things to do and see in Rishikesh, I ended up staying at a few different hotels and hostels. The main thing to look for in Rishikesh is the location.
Many backpackers including myself recommend staying in the Tapovan area. There are so many things to do in Tapovan, since this is the main tourist area in Rishikesh. It doesn’t matter too much whether you stay on the south side, or the north side, as everything is within walking distance.
- My favorite hostel in Rishikesh: Live Free Hostel – After checking out a few hostels, Live Free definitely had the best vibe. Complete with a courtyard and comfortable rooms, there is also a big downstairs hangout area where they have group cooking activities, rooftop yoga, and movie nights.
- Best budget private room: Hotel Yog – If you’d prefer to relax by yourself or as a couple, the Hotel Yog is one of the best budget hotels in the Tapovan area. Rooms are considered budget but are a little more expensive than the nearby hostels. However, at only around $20 a night for spacious rooms with mountain views, a continental breakfast and a rooftop terrace, you really can’t go wrong.
- Best-rated yoga resort: Rudram Hotel Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat – Looking to do a whole bunch of yoga in Rishikesh but still want to stay within the Tapovan area? This place offers yoga courses and free yoga sessions by the Ganges. The rooms are super comfortable and come with AC and mountain views.
Best Time to Go Waterfall Chasing in Rishikesh
Rishikesh has three main seasons; Summer, winter, and the monsoon.
Monsoon months: July to September
Summer: March to May
Winter: October to February
The general consensus is that the best time to visit Rishikesh is between the months of September to June. This avoids the monsoon months, where torrential rainfall is common. Typically, waterfalls are overflowing, tracks are muddy, and white water rafting is not really possible.
Also, note that April and May can also get a little hot. So, if you’re a bit shy of the heat, try visiting between September to March. March is also the time where the yoga festival kicks off, so this is easily the most popular time to visit Rishikesh.
Getting To The Rishikesh Waterfalls
It’s possible to walk to all of the falls listed above from the Laxman Jhula bridge in the Tapovan district of Rishikesh. I’ve listed detailed directions and hiking information on the individual blog posts, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding them.
However, if you’re not too keen on walking, you can rent a scooter for around 350-500 IR per day, or a Royal Enfield for about 1500 IR.
Alternatively, there are rickshaw drivers in Rishikesh that can take you the short journey to the waterfall treks for 150-250 each way.
More India Travel Guides and Blogs
I hope that this quick and easy guide to the top three waterfalls in Rishikesh has motivated you to get out and explore this incredible destination. For more travel guides and blogs, including itineraries and individual trips on your trip to India, make sure to check out the list below.
Otherwise, a good place to start for more ideas in Rishikesh is this guide to the Best Things to do in Rishikesh.
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Shubham Dobhal
Friday 11th of March 2022
Hi Olly,
Shubham here ... I am making a video on travel to Rishikesh, thats when I discovered the blog. Can I use it and mention you in credits also will be posting It on Instagram. If you have an insta account will tag you there as well.
Olly Gaspar
Friday 11th of March 2022
Hi Shubham,
Of course you can! Feel free to add the link in, send me the video once it's done on my instagram: @ollygaspar, and I'll watch!