Rishikesh is a magnet for travelers seeking more than just scenic views. Its unique combination of adventure, spirituality, and culture makes it an ideal destination for full-day tours that leave you with lasting memories. Whether you want to conquer the rapids on a private rafting trip, soak in Ganga Aarti ceremonies, or explore local temples and markets, Rishikesh offers options to suit every interest. One of our favorites is the full 35km private rafting experience, which not only provides exciting rapids like the Wall-IV and Three Blind Mice-III+ but also offers a sense of solitude away from the busy stretches.
Alongside adrenaline adventures, Rishikesh’s spiritual tours—like the sightseeing excursions with Ganga Aarti—offer a peaceful glimpse into local religious practices and iconic sites such as Lakshman Jhula and Parmarth Niketan Ashram. If you’re interested in exploring beyond the city, the full-day guided tour of Dehradun provides a deep dive into natural caves, temples, and monasteries. With such a diverse range of experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a memorable full day in Rishikesh.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best full-day tours in Rishikesh covers a wide spectrum, including adventurous river rafting Full Day 35km Private Rafting in Rishikesh, spiritual sightseeing with Ganga Aarti Rishikesh: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Ganga Aarti, guided cultural tours Rishikesh Full Day Guided Sightseeing Tour with Ganga Aarti, and off-the-beaten-path explorations like Dehradun Discovering Dehradun: A Full Day Guided Tour. There’s also an option for Scooter Tours Rishikesh: Full-Day Scooter Tour with Meals and tickets, perfect for those who want to see the city at their own pace.
Below, we break down each tour to help you decide which experience fits your interests, budget, and style.
1. Full Day 35km Private Rafting in Rishikesh
This full-day rafting trip is the ultimate choice for adventure lovers. Covering about 35 km of the Ganges, it combines excitement with moments of tranquility. The tour kicks off early and continues for roughly 6.5 hours, including exhilarating rapids like the Wall-IV—a challenging class IV rapid—and the Three Blind Mice-III+. The route also features a huge cliff jump that will test your nerve, available only on this longer stretch of the river.
What sets this trip apart is its solitude—the upper part of the river sees fewer operators, so you’ll float past quiet, untouched nature. The private aspect (up to 8 people per group) means you can enjoy a more personalized experience. The guide will share safety tips and help you navigate some of the most exciting rapids in the region. This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to spend a full day immersed in nature and adrenaline.
The cost is $300 per group, making it a fair deal for the length and quality of the experience. Reviews consistently praise the professional guides and the sense of adventure. Remember, this is a physically demanding tour, so good swimming ability and moderate fitness are recommended.
Bottom line: For a full day packed with exciting rapids and solitude, this private rafting trip is a top choice—especially if you love water-based thrill.
2. Rishikesh: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Ganga Aarti
This full-day sightseeing tour offers a rich immersion into the spiritual and cultural life of Rishikesh. Priced at just $35 per person, it provides excellent value for those interested in exploring the city’s most iconic sites. The day includes visits to Parmarth Niketan Ashram, famous for its Ganga Aarti, as well as the suspension bridges Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula.
The tour also features a trip to the Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band stayed in the 1960s, offering a glimpse into the town’s musical history. The highlight is witnessing the Ganga Aarti at sunset—a mesmerizing ritual involving floating lamps and devotional music that creates a serene atmosphere. You’ll also enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbanks, soaking in the spiritual ambiance.
This tour is perfect for travelers on a budget who want a broad overview of Rishikesh’s spiritual landmarks and culture. The guide provides insights into each site, enriching the experience. The tour’s moderate pace makes it suitable for most fitness levels and offers a meaningful, relaxed day.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, comprehensive introduction to Rishikesh’s spiritual side with memorable rituals and scenic spots.
3. Rishikesh Full Day Guided Sightseeing Tour with Ganga Aarti
At number 3, this guided tour emphasizes cultural depth and expert insights. For $54 per person, it promises a more personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide leading you through Rishikesh’s key attractions. The itinerary includes visits to the Bharat Mandir, Triveni Ghat, and Sivananda Ashram, where you can embrace holistic wellness.
The highlight, naturally, is the Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan, where your guide can explain the significance of the rituals, adding layers of understanding you might otherwise miss. Walking across Ram Jhula and Lakhman Jhula offers fantastic photo opportunities while allowing you to appreciate the engineering marvels of these suspension bridges.
Guests comment that the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. The pace is relaxed, and the focus on spiritual and cultural stories helps you connect more deeply with the city.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a guided, in-depth cultural tour with an emphasis on spiritual understanding.
4. Discovering Dehradun: A Full Day Guided Tour
For travelers ready to explore beyond Rishikesh, this full-day guided tour of Dehradun offers a comprehensive cultural and natural experience. Starting at 8:30 AM, your guide takes you to Robber’s Cave—a remarkable limestone formation where you can walk through a narrow stream inside the cave—an adventure in itself. Next, you’ll visit the Tapkeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, set beside a seasonal river, offering spiritual serenity.
The tour continues with visits to the Mindrolling Monastery, which showcases Tibetan Buddhist architecture and art. After enjoying a regional lunch, you’ll explore the Forest Research Institute, a colonial-era building with sprawling grounds. The tour’s 6-8 hour duration makes it a full immersion into the local culture and natural beauty.
Rated a perfect 5.0, this tour is praised for its expert guide and well-planned itinerary. It’s best suited for those interested in history, nature, and religious sites, with a good balance of walking and sightseeing. The $61 fee includes all entrance tickets, making it a good value for a full day of exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect if you’re keen on combining nature, history, and spirituality in a single day outside Rishikesh.
5. Old & New Delhi City Tour–Choose Half or Full Day Experience
While not in Rishikesh itself, this Delhi tour offers a different kind of full-day experience—perfect for travelers heading to or from the capital. It includes visits to Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Lotus Temple. The tour can be tailored for half or full days, with options to explore Mughal architecture and modern monuments, along with a tuk-tuk ride through Chandni Chowk.
If you’re looking to add a city contrast to your Rishikesh trip, this tour highlights India’s diverse historical and religious sites. It’s best suited for those with limited time who want a quick but comprehensive city overview.
Bottom line: Not part of Rishikesh but an excellent option if you’re combining your trip with Delhi’s vibrant urban scene.
$37 per person
6. Rishikesh: Full-Day Scooter Tour with Meals and Tickets
For travelers craving freedom and flexibility, this full-day scooter tour offers an active way to see Rishikesh. Starting early, you’ll ride through the town, stopping at iconic sites like Betas Ashram, Bhootnath Temple, and Parmarth Niketan. The tour includes meals and tickets, enhancing convenience.
The highlight is the sunrise at Kunjapuri, known for panoramic views of the Himalayas, followed by breakfast at Narendra Nagar. The evening features the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, where you can participate or simply enjoy the spectacle. This tour suits those comfortable on a scooter who want to explore at their own pace, combining sightseeing with local cuisine and spiritual rituals.
Priced at $207 per person, this option offers a unique, hands-on experience. Reviews note the thrill of riding through Rishikesh’s streets and the opportunity to see sights that are less accessible by car.
Bottom line: Best for adventurous travelers who want a mix of exploration, local food, and spiritual experiences in one day.
$207 per person
How to Choose
When deciding among these full-day tours, consider your budget, interest in adventure versus culture, and fitness level. If you’re after adrenaline, the private rafting Full Day 35km Private Rafting in Rishikesh offers unmatched excitement. For a spiritual immersion, the guided sightseeing Rishikesh Full Day Guided Sightseeing Tour with Ganga Aarti provides a meaningful experience. Those wanting to explore beyond Rishikesh should consider the Dehradun tour Discovering Dehradun.
If your schedule is flexible and you love customized exploration, the Scooter Tour Full-Day Scooter Tour combines adventure, scenery, and spirituality. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable Sightseeing Tour, while those interested in depth and local insights might prefer the guided cultural tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like October to March, when Rishikesh draws most visitors.
Final Thoughts
Rishikesh offers a diverse range of full-day experiences suited to different interests and travel styles. If you’re craving adventure and adrenaline, the 35 km private rafting trip is hard to beat for excitement and solitude. For those drawn to spiritual rituals and iconic sights, a sightseeing or guided tour will deepen your understanding of this unique town. And if you want to truly explore at your own pace and involve some activity, a scooter tour offers freedom and fun.
Whatever you choose, these tours provide a great way to see Rishikesh beyond a quick visit—so consider your interests, budget, and fitness level, and book early to secure your spot. Rishikesh’s magic comes alive through these experiences, leaving you with stories to tell long after you leave.
[Enjoy your trip in Rishikesh, and don’t forget to check the weather and book your tours in advance for the best experience.]