If spirituality could be associated with a place, that place would be Rishikesh. With the rise of yoga and meditation culture, this once-small riverside town has become the beating heart of spiritual health and wellness.
In the last few decades, the city has grown from a Hindu pilgrimage site to an international spiritual centre… with so many travellers heading to Rishikesh, it begs the almighty question, where is the BEST place to stay in Rishikesh??
Well, my friends, the best place to stay in Rishikesh completely depends on YOU, your travel needs and of course, your budget. Whether you’re hoping to spend your stay in downward dog or taste some of the best food India has to offer… I’ve got you covered.
I had absolutely no clue where to stay in Rishikesh the first time I visited, I had to get up to speed pretty quick! After doing the hard work for us all, I’m here to share everything I learned. This guide will outline the four main Rishikesh neighbourhoods to help you to decide which is best for you.
Let’s get into it.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Rishikesh?
Rishikesh is very well-known amongst the yogi community and the traveller community! Loads of travellers on their own spiritual journey flock to the city like moths to a flame to get a taste of what this special town has to offer. It was easily one of my favourite places I visited while travelling in India.
There are a few key areas for tourists to stay in Rishikesh and in this article, I’m going to dive into everything you need to know about each. However, if you’re short on time, don’t you worry! I’ve collated my top places to stay in Rishikesh below.
LevelUp Plus Pinaaki Inn | Best Hotel in Rishikesh
In a beautiful mix of modern comfort and Indian hospitality, LevelUp Plus Pinaaki Inn is born. You only have to spend ten minutes at the property to appreciate its central location, stunning views, and spacious hotel-like suites.
But it’s the rooftop view that captured my heart. Overlooking the colourful rooftops of the inner city centre, this is one of those places that will make you appreciate the vibrant culture and scenery that Rishikesh has to offer.
Green View by Green Tree Hotels | Best Budget Hotel in Rishikesh
Consider staying in the Rishikesh neighbourhood of Swarg Ashram if you want to immerse yourself in the city’s spiritual essence. Green View by Green Tree Hotels is undoubtedly the best place to stay here.
Start your day with a healthy helping of breakfast before strolling over to some of the city’s most highly acclaimed Ashrams. On your return, you could even indulge in a wellness treatment at the spa on-site.
Ganges River View by Bella Boho | Best Airbnb in Rishikesh
If you’re heading to Rishikesh to practice yoga, it’s only right to stay by the river in this boho-chic apartment. The room has gorgeous wicker furniture, woven lights and an incredible covered terrace that overlooks a quiet part of the Ganges River.
If there is one thing, I can assure you, it’s that you’ll want to spend your days relaxing on the shaded daybed, doing yoga overlooking the river, and eating at the Al Fresco dining table at this apartment in Rishikesh. Dreamy.
Rishikesh Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Rishikesh
Tapovan
Tapovan is basically the heart and soul of Rishikesh – for tourists, at least. It’s located just north of the main city center, tucked between a bowl-shaped curve in the Ganges River.
Lakshman Jhula
Just across the aptly named Lakshman Jhula Bridge from Tapovan is a narrow neighborhood that follows the curving banks of the Ganges River. The area was named Lakshman Jhula after the bridge, which was named after a spiritual deity.
Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar
Ganga Nagar, Indra Nagar, and Palika Nagar are three neighboring neighborhoods in Rishikesh’s central area that are most popular with locals. You’ll find most local schools, banks, hospitals, and community centers here.
Swarg Ashram
Swarg Ashram is one of the most coveted areas in Rishikesh. It’s practically swarming with Ashrams and spiritual centers and is located right on the banks of the Ganges.
Without sounding too woo-woo, there is something inexplicably special about this ancient city. From the moment I arrived, I felt totally safe and supported – and that’s big coming from a solo female traveller!
Rishikesh’s spiritual essence is influenced by the holy Ganges River, which flows through the city, and numerous Ashrams that have helped enlighten some of the world’s most famous saints and sages. Yes – it’s as otherworldly as it seems.
From just about any neighbourhood in the city, you’ll hear the undertone chanting of Ohms reverberating through the hills. But it’s not all ‘shavasanah’ and sound baths here; Rishikesh is loved for its blend of natural and scenic, cultural, and spiritual attractions.
If you’re visiting for the first time, I recommend staying in Tapovan. You can think of this multifaceted neighbourhood as the spiritual city’s centre, close to the main Ashrams, the Ganges, and the surrounding hills.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Across the Lakshman Jhula Bridge from Tapovan is a small southern neighbourhood called Lakshman Jhula. While the city is typically affordable, especially when you’re converting from USD, this is one of the best places to find a cheap hostel in Rishikesh.
Ganga Nagar and Indra Nagar are two small areas in the heart of Rishikesh. This is where most locals and expats live. It’s busy but a bit less touristy than Tapovan, making it the best place to stay in Rishikesh when travelling with family.
It’s true – this entire town is dedicated to spirituality, Ashrams, and intentional living, but if there is one place that outdoes the rest regarding yoga retreats in Rishikesh, it’s a small area known as Swarg Ashram. In fact, it’s in this very neighbourhood where the Beatles spent a few weeks doing some inner reflecting of their own.
No matter which neighbourhood you choose to stay in, you’re bound to come out a little more enlightened.
Rishikesh’s Four Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
In a city with so much spiritual significance and natural beauty, the places to stay here really have a lot to live up to. From the tourist haven of Tapovan to the Ashram-dense Swarg Ashram, here are the top areas worth staying in Rishikesh.
1. Tapovan – Where to Stay in Rishikesh for Your First Time
Tapovan is basically the heart and soul of Rishikesh – for tourists, at least. It’s located just north of the main city centre, tucked between a bowl-shaped curve in the Ganges River. You’ll find everything here, from authentic markets and restaurants to beach bars and cafes inspired by the West.
I say this is the best place to stay in Rishikesh for first-time visitors because it’s home to many famous Ashrams, yoga, Ayurveda and spiritual retreats in India. But this is also the easiest place to find accommodation.
You’ll find everything from fancy hotels to low-key homestays, friendly hostels, and even some self-catering Airbnbs in Tapovan. And on top of that, you’ll never be too far from one of the famous waterfalls or hikes in this Rishikesh neighbourhood.
LevelUp Plus Pinaaki Inn | Best Hotel in Tapovan
Walking distance from the Patanjali International Yoga Foundation and the Himalayan Yog Ashram, it’s safe to say that this little hotel is located right in the buzz of Tapovan.
Other than the spacious, spick-and-span rooms, my favourite thing about this hotel is the shuttle service that can zoot you throughout the city or to the airport.
Yogvan Luxury Apartments | Best Apartment in Tapovan
Private apartments in the heart of Rishikesh? While I won’t go so far as to say these are the most luxurious apartments in town, they are certainly comfortable, affordable, and well-maintained.
The property is spacious and well-equipped for a long-term stay, and I could happily spend a month calling this spot home. And more importantly, the apartments are affordable enough to do so.
MountAbode Homestay | Best Homestay in Tapovan
It’s hard to describe a place like MountAbode. If you want to experience mindfulness and spiritual zen at its best, this mountaintop homestay overlooking the valley is the place to do it.
Being surrounded by nature is said to help calm the soul, and after a few nights here, you’ll agree. Homecooked vegetarian meals, hikes, and yoga practices make this homestay to stay in Rishikesh feel almost dreamlike.
Things to See and Do in Tapovan
Photo: Samantha Shea
- Trek through the mountains along the Gangotri-Tapovan trek
- Spend an evening at the Ganga Aarti for a spiritual ritual
- Join a guided walking food tour through the city
- Spend a day at the pools at Aloha on the Ganges
- Go river rafting on the Ganges River
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Lakshman Jhula – Best Place to Stay in Rishikesh on a Budget
Just across the aptly named Lakshman Jhula Bridge from Tapovan is a narrow neighbourhood that follows the curving banks of the Ganges River. The area was named Lakshman Jhula after the bridge, which was named after a spiritual deity.
Although small, this riverside neighbourhood is home to some of Rishikesh’s best hostels and guesthouses. Affordable homestays are also common, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants lining the streets here, too. If you’re budget-backpacking your way around India, you’ll love this little town.
Although narrow, the land rises quickly from the river to the mountains behind Lakshman Jhula, so most properties here have stunning views of the Ganges. It’s a beautiful place to visit in India.
Shri Ganga View Guest House | Best Cheap Guest House in Lakshman Jhula
India knows a thing or two about hospitality, and there is always something special about staying in a guest house here. While this isn’t the traditional guest house you might expect, it will surely give you the local Rishikesh experience for a SUPER decent price.
goSTOPS Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhula | Best Hostel in Lakshman Jhula
GoSTOPS might be one of my favourite hostels in India. You’ll struggle to find a place with views as epic as this spot, which overlooks the colourful town, Lakshman Bridge, and Ganges River.
The best spot to catch the view is on the rooftop terrace (don’t miss the sunrise and sunset from here!), where you will almost always meet a new friend at this hostel in Rishikesh.
Ganga View at Neelkanth Road | Best Homestay in Lakshman Jhula
Towering over Rishikesh and the Ganges at Neelkanth Road, this homestay is another that offers great value for money in Lakshman Jhula. It might not be the Ritz, but it has clean rooms, awesome views of the Ganges River and Rishikesh, and is even pet-friendly. Yep, you can bring ya furry friend with you!
Come stay here to find out why waking up to the sound of the rushing Ganges is the fast lane to inner peace and serenity.
Things to See and Do in Lakshman Jhula
Photo: Samantha Shea
- Join a heritage walking tour through the neighbourhood
- Walk over the famous Lakshman Jhula bridge
- Travel to the Kunjapuri Mata Ancient Temple and join a sunrise hike
- Appreciate the beauty of the 13-story Hindu temple of Trimbakeshwar
- Spend a day on Goa Beach or Little Goa Beach
- Join a yoga practice by the Ganges
- Trek to the iconic Rishikesh View Point
3. Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar – Best Area in Rishikesh For Long Stays
Ganga Nagar, Indra Nagar, and Palika Nagar are three neighbourhoods close together in Rishikesh’s central area that are most popular with locals. You’ll find most local schools, banks, hospitals, and community centres here.
Since it’s mostly a place of permanent residency, there aren’t as many hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels around here to stay in. That said, it’s one of the better places to find long-term accommodation, and if you’re investing in a month-long spiritual adventure, you’ll want to check out these neighbourhoods.
Kalakriti Homestay | Best Homestay in Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar
If it’s a local experience you’re after, it’s a local experience you will get at the Kalakriti Homestay by the Triveni Ghat.
Bedrooms are simple and clean with only the necessities. But the best thing about this homestay is the warm and friendly staff who will be glad to help you get to know the area a bit better.
Four Bedroom Ganges Villa | Best Villa in Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar
Thirteen people can make themselves at home in this massive villa. What I love most about the house is that it’s super authentic, with local art, furniture, and traditional marble tiled floors. It almost feels as if you’ve done a home swap with an Indian family.
The homeowners can also arrange different experiences at the house, ranging from a BBQ grill evening to yoga sessions.
Ganges River View by Bella Boho | Best River View Apartment in Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar
Bella Boho brings boho chic interiors into central Rishikesh. But it’s not the wicker furniture and woven lights that make us book this spot time and time again; it’s the incredible covered terrace that overlooks a quiet part of the Ganges River.
If there is one thing, I can assure you, it’s that you’ll want to spend your days relaxing on the shaded daybed, doing yoga overlooking the river, and eating at the Al Fresco dining table at this apartment in Rishikesh.
Things to See and Do in Ganga Nagar / Indra Nagar / Palika Nagar
- Join a Rishikesh nightlife tour
- Practice yoga at OmYogStudio Yoglife
- Go river rafting with Rishikesh River Rafting
- Cleanse your chakras at the Tani Waterfall
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Grab an eSIM!4. Swarg Ashram – Best Area in Rishikesh For Yogis
Swarg Ashram is one of the most coveted areas in Rishikesh. It’s practically swarming with some of the best Ashrams, spiritual centres and yoga retreats in India. It is located right on the banks of the Ganges. I must say, finding accommodation here isn’t easy, but it is doable.
The area is yet to be populated with Airbnbs and hostels like other neighbourhoods, which is a big part of what makes it so desirable. You can practically feel the spiritual energy flowing through the air here. Or maybe it’s the dong of the gongs from the Ashrams…
Green View by Green Tree Hotels | Best Hotel in Swarg Ashram
With only a handful of reliable places to stay in this small neighbourhood, Green View by Green Tree Hostels is the best of the best. If you’re visiting for the International Yoga Festivals, this hotel is perfectly located.
Its winning feature might be the ayurvedic spa, which offers authentic treatments, including the Shirodhara warm oil ‘head nourishing’ treatment. Whether from here or elsewhere in Rishikesh, I highly recommend you try this treatment while in town.
Vashishth Guest House | Best Guesthouse in Swarg Ashram
If you’re wondering where to stay in Rishikesh’s Swarg Ashram area, I’ve got you covered. This guesthouse looks like a standard budget hotel room in pictures, but in reality, it is so much more. Firstly, traditional hotel rooms are few and far between in Rishikesh. So, if a familiar and clean room is all you need, this is the place to stay.
But for me, it’s the location of this guesthouse that gets me excited. It’s one of the few hotels located right in central Swarg Ashram, and it’s even budget-friendly.
Things to See and Do in Swarg Ashram
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Take a day trip and trek to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
- Spend some time at the Beatles Ashram
- Walk along the Ram Jhula pedestrian bridge to visit the Shatrughana Temple Ghat
- Visit the Bhootnath Temple in Rishikesh
- Explore the Rajaji National Park
- Practice yoga at the Ashish Yoga studio
- Relax in the sunshine at Ganga Beach
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Rishikesh
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rishikesh
Take it from us, India can sometimes be a dangerous place. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Rishikesh…
Delhi belly, Tuk-tuk accidents, encounters with angry monkey and even angrier locals – we have (just about) survived them all! Therefore it is well worth investing in good travel health insurance before you leave home to help cover the costs in case you do need to spend some time getting acquainted with the Indian medical and healthcare system.
These days, I only ever use SafetyWing for my travel insurance needs. While they only offer a ‘bare bones’ cover for things like trip interruption and cancellation, they excel in the health care cover they can provide and offer a number of policies to suit all travellers.
Best of all, they operate a fixed fee, monthly subscription model so you can start and stop the rolling cover whenever you like.
What To Pack For Rishikesh
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rishikesh
And that’s a wrap! I can’t say I wasn’t a little confused the first time I visited Rishikesh myself, so hopefully, this has cleared up the basics and given you a few top options for where to stay in Rishikesh.
In summary… Lakshman Jhula is ideal for those who want to be close to iconic landmarks. Swarg Ashram offers a peaceful haven for yoga fans and spiritual visitors. Tapovan combines gorgeous landscapes with modern tourist conveniences, and Ganga Nagar is a great option for a local residential experience.
If you’re after a unique Rishikesh experience, stay a little off-the-beaten-track at MountAbode Homestay. To leave things on the same ‘woo-woo’ note we began with, the views from this homestay are enough to make you dig deep into your soul and find a renewed sense of peace and wonder.
If you’re heading to Rishikesh on a spiritual journey, I hope you find what you’re looking for <3
Photo: Ralph Cope
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around India.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Reshikesh.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Yoga Retreats in India instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the beautiful places to in India to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for India.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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