From Delhi: 2-Days Rishikesh Trip with Rafting & Aarti

Experience the Spirit and Adventure of Rishikesh in Two Days

Imagine starting your morning in Delhi, then traveling to the spiritual town of Rishikesh, where you’ll find a blend of adventure and tranquility. For just $167 per person, this 2-day tour offers you a taste of river rafting, sacred ceremonies, and cultural exploration. Led by a highly-rated provider, JPT Worldwide Holidays LLP, this experience is perfect if you’re craving a quick but fulfilling escape into northern India’s holy and adventurous side.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances exhilarating activities like river rafting with moments of spiritual reflection, such as attending the Ganga Aarti. Also, the convenience of round-trip transportation from Delhi means you can focus on enjoying your trip without stressing over logistics. The only thing to consider is that the timing is quite packed, so be prepared for a busy schedule. This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Rishikesh—from its famous suspension bridges to its tranquil ashrams—without spending too much time away from Delhi.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending adventure with spiritual experiences
• Comfortable transportation included, with options for different travel styles
• Iconic landmarks like Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, and Parmarth Niketan Ashram
• Exciting activities such as river rafting and optional adventure sports
• Cultural immersion through the Ganga Aarti and local bazaars
• Suitable for active travelers but not recommended for very young children or those with certain health issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Rishikesh in Two Days: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-structured glimpse into Rishikesh’s most beloved sights and experiences, all wrapped into an engaging two-day package. It’s worth noting that the transportation is a major perk, whether you choose a cab, self-drive, Volvo, or train. From Delhi, the journey is typically smooth, and you’ll arrive in Rishikesh by late morning, giving you ample time to settle into your hotel and start exploring.

Day One kicks off with a series of iconic landmarks. The Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula are not just suspension bridges—they’re symbols of Rishikesh’s spiritual legacy and a great photo opportunity. These bridges connect different parts of the town and offer views of the Ganges that make you want to stop and soak it all in.

Next, a visit to Parmarth Niketan Ashram provides a peaceful environment where you can observe or participate in yoga and meditation sessions, or simply enjoy the tranquil gardens. We loved how the tour includes a short hike to Neer Garh Waterfall—a refreshing break from the busy town, where the sound of flowing water creates an almost meditative atmosphere.

In the evening, the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a highlight. This nightly ceremony is a mesmerizing display of devotion, with floating lamps, rhythmic chants, and a palpable sense of spirituality. It’s a moment of connection that many travelers describe as deeply moving. Afterward, exploring the local bazaar offers a chance to browse handmade crafts, spiritual souvenirs, and snacks, giving you a taste of Rishikesh’s vibrant local life.

Day Two begins with a light breakfast, then dives into the thrill of river rafting on the Ganges. The 9 km stretch from Shivpuri promises fun for those with some basic swimming ability and a sense of adventure. We appreciated that the tour includes transportation to Shivpuri, so you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

For those who want more adrenaline, optional activities like bungee jumping, flying fox, or a giant swing are available at Mohan Chatti—though these require pre-booking. Many reviews praise the professionalism of the guides and safety measures, which is reassuring when trying new adrenaline-pumping activities.

After a quick shower and freshening up, you’ll head back to Delhi, often feeling like you’ve packed a lot into just two days. The timing is tight but well-organized, making this tour appealing for those with limited holiday time but a desire for a meaningful experience.

The Highlights: Why This Tour Stands Out

River Rafting – The 9 km stretch on the Ganges at Shivpuri is a true highlight. Most reviews emphasize the thrill and safety, with plenty of opportunities for beginners to enjoy the rapids. Travelers note the guides are professional and attentive, making the adventure accessible and fun.

Spiritual Connection – Attending the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is a must. The ceremony’s rhythmic chants, floating lamps, and the flickering lights on the river create a profound atmosphere. Many find it a deeply moving experience, a moment to reflect amid the spiritual buzz of Rishikesh.

Iconic Landmarks – The Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula are not just physical structures but symbols of faith and history, offering sweeping views of the river and the hills. Exploring the ashrams, especially Parmarth Niketan, adds a layer of cultural depth.

Local Flavor and Optional Activities – The local bazaar is lively and authentic, perfect for picking up souvenirs or snacks. For thrill-seekers, pre-booked options like bungee jumping or flying fox add an extra dose of adrenaline, highly praised by those who tried them.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

The price of $167 is quite competitive for what’s included—transportation, activities, and a comfortable hotel stay. However, it’s essential to note that the schedule is quite packed, and some travelers mention that it’s a fast-paced experience. If you prefer a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed, especially with optional activities that need pre-booking.

Transport options are flexible, from cab to train, making it adaptable depending on your preference and budget. The private group setup ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention, which many reviews appreciated.

Physical requirements include a basic level of fitness for river rafting and optional adventure activities. The tour advises against it for children under 10, pregnant women, and those with back or heart problems, which is worth considering for your safety.

Cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility if your plans change.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a smart combination of adventure, culture, and spirituality at a reasonable price. The inclusion of key landmarks and activities means you won’t leave Rishikesh feeling like you missed out, yet the packed schedule ensures you get maximum value in just two days.

Many travelers found the guides professional and friendly, creating a safe environment for activities like rafting and adventure sports. The Ganga Aarti is often highlighted as a highlight, offering a chance to witness local devotion up close.

The accommodation, transport, and activities are well-organized, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those pressed for time. But if you prefer a slow-paced, deeply immersive experience, you might want to consider extending your stay or choosing a different, more relaxed tour.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers eager to experience both the spiritual essence and adventure of Rishikesh without spending too many days away from Delhi. It’s ideal for those with active spirits who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural moments alike. If you’re traveling with a moderate level of fitness and want to tick off iconic sights and thrilling activities in a compact timeframe, this tour fits perfectly.

However, if you’re looking for a very leisurely or deeply immersive spiritual retreat, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s also not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with health concerns, given the physical activities involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Delhi included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, with options like cab, self-drive, Volvo, or train, making for a convenient journey.

How physically demanding is the rafting?
River rafting on the Ganges requires a basic level of fitness and swimming ability. If you’re comfortable in water and enjoy a bit of excitement, you’ll be fine.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, activities like bungee jumping, flying fox, and giant swing are available at Mohan Chatti, but they need to be pre-booked and are not included in the base price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, water bottles, and comfortable clothes suitable for both sightseeing and water activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10 years, especially if they’re not comfortable with water or physical activity.

What is the accommodation like?
The tour includes hotel check-in upon arrival, but specific details depend on the package booked. Expect comfortable, basic lodging suitable for a short stay.

Do I need to pre-book adventure activities?
Yes, activities like bungee jumping and flying fox require advance booking to ensure availability.

To sum it up, this 2-day Rishikesh trip offers a compelling mix of adventure, spirituality, and cultural discovery. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full taste of what Rishikesh has to offer in a short window—perfect for those who enjoy active travel and meaningful moments. While the schedule is brisk, the balance of activities means you’ll leave with a memorable experience that combines the thrill of river rapids with the serenity of sacred ceremonies. For anyone seeking an authentic and value-packed escape into the Himalayan foothills, this tour deserves serious consideration.

You can check availability for your dates here: