Best Places to Visit Near Rishikesh Within 50 KM: Nature, Spirituality & Hidden Gems
Rishikesh is not only a top destination for yoga and adventure but also a gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, offering quick access to several beautiful, offbeat, and spiritually rich destinations within a 50 km radius.
Whether you’re staying in Rishikesh for a short trip or exploring the surrounding region on a weekend getaway, here are some must-visit places near Rishikesh within 50 kilometers that you can cover easily by car, bike, or taxi.
1. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Spiritual Serenity on the Hills
- Distance: ~32 km
- Category: Spiritual/Historical
- Travel time: 1–1.5 hours (winding mountain road)
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is perched at an altitude of 1,330 meters. It’s believed to be the spot where Lord Shiva drank the poison during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). The journey here is just as beautiful — lush forests, winding roads, and breathtaking views.
Tip: Avoid weekends to escape heavy crowds. Combine with a jungle trek from Rishikesh if you’re adventurous.
2. Shivpuri – Rafting and Riverside Bliss
- Distance: ~19 km
- Category: Adventure & Camping
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes
Shivpuri is a small village north of Rishikesh, known as the starting point for white water rafting. But that’s not all — it’s a great place for riverside camping, kayaking, and zip-lining. Ideal for families, groups, and thrill-seekers alike.
Highlight: Try a night stay in a Swiss tent beside the river under the stars.
3. Patna Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in the Jungle
- Distance: ~13 km
- Category: Nature/Waterfall
- Travel time: 30 minutes + 20 min trek
Often missed by mainstream tourists, Patna Waterfall is located on the Neelkanth Road. To reach it, you’ll need to hike about 1.5 km through the jungle — totally worth it for the peace, bird songs, and cool misty spray of the falls.
Best time to visit: Post-monsoon (August to November) when the waterfall is at its full flow.
4. Vashishta Gufa (Cave) – Meditate Like the Sages
- Distance: ~25 km
- Category: Spiritual/Peaceful
- Travel time: 45 minutes
This ancient cave is believed to be where sage Vashishta meditated. Located on the banks of the Ganga, the cave is dimly lit and incredibly silent, making it ideal for meditation seekers. The peaceful environment around adds to the spiritual charm.
Combine with: Arundhati Mata temple and nearby Ganga ghats for a quiet riverside picnic.
5. Rajaji National Park (Chilla Range) – Wildlife in the Foothills
- Distance: ~9–12 km from Rishikesh main town (Chilla Gate)
- Category: Wildlife/Safari
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes
Home to elephants, leopards, deer, and more than 300 bird species, Rajaji Tiger Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise. You can book a jeep safari through the Chilla range to spot animals in their natural habitat.
Safari slots: Early morning (6–9 am) and afternoon (3–6 pm)
Closed during monsoon (mid-June to mid-November)
6. Byasi – River Rafting & Quiet Escapes
- Distance: ~30 km
- Category: Adventure + Quiet Retreat
- Travel time: 45 minutes
A peaceful town beyond Shivpuri, Byasi is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds of Rishikesh and still enjoy the adventure. It’s perfect for overnight stays, private riverbank dinners, or just enjoying the Ganga in solitude.
Good for: Solo travelers, couples, small groups looking for calm vibes.
7. Garud Chatti Waterfall – Quick Nature Trail
- Distance: ~6 km
- Category: Nature/Waterfall
- Travel time: 15–20 minutes + 15 min hike
Located en route to Neelkanth, Garud Chatti Waterfall is an easy-access trail that offers a refreshing escape. Though smaller than Patna, it’s still charming, especially during or right after the monsoon.
Carry: Trekking shoes, water, and a camera!
8. Kunjapuri Devi Temple – Sunrise Viewpoint with Spiritual Vibes
- Distance: ~28 km
- Category: Temple + Viewpoint
- Travel time: 1 hour
Perched at 1,645 meters, this temple offers panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the Ganga valley. Locals and travelers flock here for sunrise treks and spiritual vibes.
Tip: Book a guided trek that begins at 4:30 am — reach in time to watch the sunrise over the mountains.
9. Triveni Ghat – Evening Aarti and Holy Dip
- Distance: Within Rishikesh town (~3 km)
- Category: Spiritual & Cultural
While not “out of town,” it deserves a mention if you haven’t visited yet. The Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is one of the most soul-touching experiences in Rishikesh. Visit at dusk, offer prayers, and watch the diya lamps float down the Ganges.
Getting Around
Most places are accessible by:
- Private car or cab hire
- Scooter/bike rentals
- Local jeeps (less reliable, best for locals)
Avoid traveling after dark on mountain roads. Start early and pack light.
Final Thoughts
There’s much more to Rishikesh than just rafting and yoga. Within a 50 km radius, you’ll find temples, caves, waterfalls, wildlife, and adventure — all waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a photographer, an adrenaline junkie, or just a weekend wanderer, the places around Rishikesh have something unforgettable to offer.
Ready for the ride? Pack your bags — your next great escape is just around the corner.
