Rishikesh, also known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, is a picturesque town in the Garhwal region of the northern state of Uttarakhand, situated at the confluence of the Ganges and the Chandrabhaga rivers. October is the best time to visit the town because of the good weather and beautiful temperatures for both recreation and religious activities. The weather is chilly and the atmosphere is clear making it suitable to visit this serene place.
In this enchanting October, 10 tourist attractions close to Rishikesh present various opportunities to enhance your trip. They range from spiritual retreats and holy temples to natural waterfalls and calm caves, such places are suitable for both meditation and active recreation. Whether it is the yoga and meditation that interest you or the adventurous thrilling activities Rishikesh in October offers a perfect chance to explore the beauty of the place and its rich spiritual history.
Top 10 Places to Explore Around Rishikesh in October:
1. Mussoorie
Mussoorie, popularly called the ‘Queen of the Hills’, is approximately 35 km away from Rishikesh and is well-known for British-era architecture, rich greenery, and spectacular vistas of the Greater Himalayas.
October is quite comfortable with the climate, and tourists can visit some of the famous sites like Kempty Falls, a beautiful place for a picnic with waterfalls, Gun Hill, which is reached by a cable car and Mall Road for shopping and local food.
Tip: It is advisable to visit Kempty Falls early in the morning in order to avoid large crowds. To watch the sunset, go to Gun Hill by cable car and for delicious local Tibetan food, there is Mall Road.
Mussoorie Tour Packages
- 2 Nights 3 Days Mussoorie Itinerary
- 4 Days Mussoorie & Dhanaulti Trip
- 5 Days Haridwar Rishikesh Mussoorie Tour
2. Dehradun
Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand and is approximately 45 km away from Rishikesh and has a good history and scenic views. There are Robber’s Cave (Gucchu Pani) – a natural cave with a stream that is excellent for a trek and a picnic; Sahastradhara which is famous for its curative sulphur water springs and is beautifully located for a nature trail; and Mindrolling Monastery which is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery famous for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Tip: Put on your waterproof shoes while in Robber’s Cave and then visit Sahastradhara in the evening for the view. You should also visit the murals at Mindrolling Monastery.
3. Haridwar
Located just 20 kilometres away from Rishikesh, Haridwar is one of the seven most sacred places of pilgrimage in India. People can watch the beautiful Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, where people come to offer prayers to the river Ganga. October is also a spiritual month and the weather is also a little cool.
Tip: Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri starts early in the evening so better reach a bit earlier. While in Delhi, you should not miss out on local food and this includes kachoris and aloo puri from the street vendors.
Haridwar Travel Packages:
4. Kunjapuri Temple
Kunjapuri Temple, which is 25 km away from Rishikesh, is a temple of Goddess Durga which has a splendid view of the Himalayas. The temple is one of the most famous trekking sites and it is most beautiful early in the morning when the sun rises. In October, the sky is clear to make this trek even more exciting.
Tip: It is advised to plan to be in the temple before the sun rises to capture the beautiful views of the Himalayas. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for the trek.
5. Neergarh Waterfall
Neergarh Waterfall is another offbeat destination that is located nearly 5 kilometres away from Rishikesh. The hike to the waterfall is beautiful and not very steep, so it is suitable for people with children. This is a beautiful place to relax and take photos because, in October, the waterfall is still filled with water from the monsoon season.
Tip: It is advisable to visit the place early in the morning or in the evening. Take sneakers for the relatively easy but sometimes slippery walk.
6. Vashishta Gufa (Vashishta Cave)
This is a calm cave that is about 20 kilometres from Rishikesh and is said to be the place where Sage Vashishta used to meditate. The surroundings are calm, and thus, it is perfect for meditation and other spiritual practices. October is a good time to take a break from the busy life of a city and enjoy the calmness of the surroundings.
Tip: It is best to go early in the morning if you want to have a quiet time for meditation. Visit the cave and then take a break at the nearby Ganges River.
7. Rajaji National Park
Located around 30 kilometres from Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park is a wildlife park that allows jungle safaris and bird watching. The park has elephants, tigers, leopards and different kinds of birds. Monsoon season starts in July and ends in October, and after that, the wildlife becomes more active, so it is suitable for nature lovers.
Tip: Book safaris in advance. Early morning is most appropriate for bird watching and wildlife watching.
8. Sivananda Ashram
Sivananda Ashram is another one that is situated in Rishikesh itself and is a well-known spiritual organization that provides yoga classes as well as meditation sessions. Tourists are allowed to engage in activities like chanting and yoga in addition to the serene environment provided by the river side of the Ganges.
Tip: Go to free yoga classes and kirtans. Be sure to get to meditation sessions early, especially in the morning.
9. Tapovan
Located only 10 kilometres from Rishikesh, Tapovan is a perfect place for practising yoga and meditation. This area offers many trekking trails and wonderful places for rest, as it is located near the forests and mountains.
Tip: Ideal for yoga break or short hiking. Take time to relax along the river.
10. Chamba
Chamba is a small town situated at a distance of about 50 Km from Rishikesh and is famous for its natural beauty and historical significance. Tourists can also visit other archaeological sites such as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple or indulge in a hiking trip in the nearby hills. October is one of the best months to be outside because the weather is cool and crisp.
Tip: Visit such temples as Lakshmi Narayan and go on hiking along the trails that are not very popular among tourists. October is cool and therefore perfect for outdoor activities.
Conclusion
October is a good time to be in Rishikesh because one gets to see the natural beauty and religious places of interest without the crowd. There are many interesting and beautiful places to visit, including famous suspension bridges Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, Vashishta Gufa and Neergarh Waterfall, etc. Check out these ten places you should not miss near Rishikesh with Tusk Travel to enjoy this bewitching month.
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