Rishikesh is small, but where you sleep changes your trip. Some areas are quiet and green, others are loud and close to everything. Here’s the honest comparison we give guests who ask where to stay in Rishikesh.
Tapovan: best all-rounder
Tapovan sits on Badrinath Marg above Laxman Jhula. It has most of the yoga schools, the best cafés and views of the hills, and it’s about 15 minutes’ walk from the river. It suits yoga students, couples, backpackers and anyone staying more than two nights. This is where Alpine Retreat’s mountain-view rooms and dorm are.
Laxman Jhula: in the middle of it all
Right by the bridge: temples, shops and crowds. Good for a first short visit, but it’s busy from morning to late evening and parking is hard.
Swarg Ashram and Ram Jhula: spiritual and quieter
Across the river, around the ashrams and Parmarth Niketan, where the famous Ganga aarti is held. Many lanes are walking-only, which makes nights peaceful but arrivals with luggage slower.
Rishikesh town and Triveni Ghat
Close to the bus stand and Yog Nagari Rishikesh railway station. Practical for pilgrims passing through on the Char Dham Yatra, less charming for a holiday.
Shivpuri and the rafting camps
About 16 km upriver. Tents and cottages on the terraces above the Ganga, bonfires, rafting from the doorstep. Great for groups for one night; see our camping guide.
Quick picks
- Yoga or a long stay: Tapovan.
- First visit, one night: Tapovan or Laxman Jhula.
- Pilgrimage in transit: town, or Tapovan if you want a calmer night.
- Adventure group: a Shivpuri camp for one night, then Tapovan.
- Families with a car: a hotel with parking, like ours in Tapovan.
Frequently asked
Which is the best area to stay in Rishikesh?
For most visitors Tapovan: it’s quieter than Laxman Jhula, full of cafés and yoga schools, has views of the hills and is a 15-minute walk from the river.
Is Tapovan far from Laxman Jhula?
No. Tapovan is directly above Laxman Jhula; most hotels are 5 to 20 minutes’ walk from the bridge.
