Rishikesh is open all year, but it feels very different from one season to the next. Here’s what to expect, and what to plan around it.
October to November
Just after the monsoon the air is clear, the hills are still green and the days are warm without being hot. Rafting usually reopens in this period (see our Rishikesh Adventure Weekend). It’s one of the most comfortable times to visit, and the autumn window of the Char Dham Yatra is still open.
December to February
Sunny days and cold nights. Mornings on the balcony are crisp and the valley is often misty at dawn. Bring warm layers; we keep blankets at reception too. This is also snow season higher up: our Auli Snow Holiday starts from Rishikesh.
March to June
The days warm up quickly and this is the busiest stretch for rafting and camping. The International Yoga Festival, held in Rishikesh every March, brings practitioners from around the world. From May the Char Dham temples open, and treks like Chopta, Tungnath and Chandrashila are at their best.
July to September
Monsoon season. The river runs high, rafting pauses, and the hills turn deep green. It’s quieter and good value, and it’s when the Valley of Flowers is in bloom, but check road conditions before you travel into the hills beyond Rishikesh.
Whatever the season, message us on WhatsApp and we’ll tell you what the weather is doing this week. Getting here? Read how to reach Tapovan.
