🏞 Best Trekking Places Near Rishikesh for Weekend Getaway (2025 Guide)
Rishikesh, famously known as the Yoga Capital of the World, is not just about meditation and river rafting 🌊. Nestled at the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, it is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking treks in India. From lush green forests 🌿 to snow-capped peaks ❄️, Rishikesh offers trekking trails suitable for all levels — from beginners to seasoned adventurers.
Whether you are looking for a quick one-day trek, a family-friendly adventure, or a spiritual trek with scenic beauty, Rishikesh has something to offer. This comprehensive guide covers the best trekking places near Rishikesh for a weekend getaway, complete with itineraries, difficulty levels, costs, and pro tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.
📍 Why Choose Rishikesh for Weekend Treks?
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Easy Accessibility: Only ~230 km from Delhi, Rishikesh is easily reachable by road, train, and air (via Dehradun Airport).
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Variety of Treks: Short day treks, overnight camping, forest trails, waterfalls, and high-altitude adventures.
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Weekend-Friendly: Most treks can be completed in 1–3 days — perfect for busy professionals or weekend travelers.
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Adventure & Wellness Combo: Combine trekking with yoga, meditation 🧘, and even river rafting.
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Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the pristine Ganges, dense forests, Himalayan ranges, and spectacular sunsets 🌄.
1️⃣ Kunjapuri Temple Trek – Panoramic Sunrise Views 🌄
Distance from Rishikesh: 26 km
Trek Duration: 1 day
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time to Visit: October – March
🗺 Trek Overview
Kunjapuri Temple sits atop a hill overlooking the Himalayas. The trek is short but rewarding, ideal for beginners or travelers with limited time. The trail passes through villages, dense forests, and small streams, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise view over the snow-capped peaks.
🥾 Highlights
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Spectacular 360° Himalayan panorama
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Spiritual Kunjapuri Temple at the summit 🛕
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Easy trek suitable for families and beginners
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Photography paradise 📸
💰 Costs
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Trek Guide: ₹500–₹800
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Local Transport: ₹300–₹500 (Rishikesh to trailhead)
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Entry Fee: Free
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Begin trek at 4–5 AM to catch the sunrise
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Wear sturdy trekking shoes
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Carry water, light snacks, and a camera
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Avoid the monsoon season due to slippery trails
2️⃣ Neer Garh Waterfall Trek – Nature Lover’s Paradise 💦
Distance from Rishikesh: 5 km from the main town
Trek Duration: Half-day
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time to Visit: September – March
🗺 Trek Overview
Neer Garh Waterfall is a hidden gem close to Rishikesh. The trek is short but scenic, winding through forests, rocky paths, and streams. The waterfall itself is a natural pool where you can take a refreshing dip.
🥾 Highlights
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Ideal for beginners and families
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Natural swimming pool 🏊
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Lush green surroundings are perfect for photography
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Short and accessible for a half-day adventure
💰 Costs
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Entry Fee: Free
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Local Guide: ₹200–₹500 (optional)
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Transport: ₹100–₹300
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Wear comfortable shoes suitable for wet paths
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Carry a swimsuit and towel if planning to swim
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Post-monsoon months are the best time to see the waterfall in full flow
3️⃣ Rajaji National Park Trek – Wildlife & Wilderness 🐘
Distance from Rishikesh: 20–25 km
Trek Duration: 1–2 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: November – February
🗺 Trek Overview
Rajaji National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This trek allows you to explore dense forests, spot wildlife like elephants, leopards, and exotic birds, and experience camping in the wild.
🥾 Highlights
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Trek through dense forests 🌳
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Wildlife spotting opportunities 🦅🐾
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Camping amidst nature
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Ideal for photographers and adventure lovers
💰 Costs
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Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100
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Guide: ₹700–₹1000
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Camping Fee: ₹300–₹500
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Start early to maximize wildlife sightings
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Carry binoculars and a camera
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Follow park rules and maintain cleanliness
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Avoid trekking alone for safety
4️⃣ Kunjapuri to Neelkanth Trek – Extended Adventure 🌲
Distance from Rishikesh: 35 km
Trek Duration: 2 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: October – March
🗺 Trek Overview
This trek combines spiritual and adventure experiences, connecting Kunjapuri Temple with Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Along the trail, trekkers enjoy river views, lush forests, and quaint villages. Camping overnight under the stars adds a magical experience.
🥾 Highlights
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Spiritual and adventure experience
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Overnight camping under the stars ✨
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Trails through forests, rivers, and villages
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Scenic photography spots
💰 Costs
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Guide: ₹800–₹1200
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Camping: ₹500 per person
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Transport: ₹400–₹600
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Carry warm clothing for night camping
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Travel light with essential gear
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Capture sunrise and sunset moments 📸
5️⃣ Chandrashila Trek via Deoria Tal – Himalayan Majesty 🏔
Distance from Rishikesh: 90 km (Base: Ukhimath / Chopta)
Trek Duration: 3 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Time to Visit: April – June, September – November
🗺 Trek Overview
Chandrashila Trek is slightly longer but highly rewarding. The trek starts at Chopta and goes via Deoria Tal, a beautiful alpine lake reflecting the Chaukhamba peaks. The Chandrashila summit offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, making it one of the most popular treks near Rishikesh.
🥾 Highlights
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Alpine lake views at Deoria Tal 🏞
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Summit Chandrashila for stunning panoramic Himalayan views
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Moderate to challenging trek
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Camping opportunities for an overnight Himalayan experience
💰 Costs
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Guide: ₹1000–₹1500
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Accommodation (guesthouses/camps): ₹500–₹700 per night
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Local Transport: ₹800–₹1200
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Start early to avoid crowds at Deoria Tal
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Carry trekking poles and warm clothing ❄️
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Travel in a group or with a guide for safety
6️⃣ Neelkanth Mahadev Trek – Pilgrimage & Adventure 🛕
Distance from Rishikesh: 32 km
Trek Duration: 1 day
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best Time to Visit: November – February
🗺 Trek Overview
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is situated amidst dense forests and offers a unique spiritual trekking experience. The trek is moderately challenging but suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups.
🥾 Highlights
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Spiritual temple trek 🛕
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Dense forest trail with river crossings 🌊
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Moderate difficulty suitable for first-time trekkers
💰 Costs
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Guide: ₹500–₹800
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Transport: ₹300–₹600
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Entry Fee: Free
🏕 Trekking Tips
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Begin early to avoid the temple crowd
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Carry snacks and water
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Wear comfortable trekking shoes
🏕 Packing & Gear Tips for Weekend Treks Near Rishikesh
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Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes 🥾
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Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures
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Backpack Essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, first-aid kit
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Camping Gear: Sleeping bag, torch 🔦, light tent
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Optional: Trekking poles, binoculars, camera 📸
🌄 Best Time to Visit Rishikesh for Treks
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October – November: Post-monsoon trekking season 🌞
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December – February: Snow trekking at higher altitudes ❄️
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March – April: Early spring with blooming flora 🌸
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Avoid Monsoon: Slippery trails make trekking dangerous 🌧
💡 Tips for First-Time Trekkers
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Start with Easy Treks: Neer Garh, Kunjapuri
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Hire a Guide for Moderate Treks: Chandrashila, Rajaji
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Check Weather Forecast: Himalayan weather changes quickly ⛅
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Travel Light: Carry essentials only
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Stay Hydrated & Energized: Dry fruits, energy bars 🍫
❓ FAQs – Trekking Near Rishikesh
Q1: What is the easiest trek near Rishikesh?
A1: Kunjapuri Temple Trek and Neer Garh Waterfall Trek are ideal for beginners.
Q2: Are these treks suitable for families?
A2: Yes, most weekend treks like Neer Garh, Kunjapuri, and Rajaji National Park are family-friendly.
Q3: How much does a weekend trek cost near Rishikesh?
A3: ₹500–₹2000 per person, depending on trek difficulty and guide services.
Q4: Is it safe to trek solo?
A4: Yes, for easy treks. For moderate or challenging treks, it’s better to go with a group or guide.
Q5: What essential gear should I carry?
A5: Trekking shoes, warm clothing, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, trekking poles, and a camera 📸.
🔗 Final Thoughts
Rishikesh is not just a hub of spirituality; it’s a trekker’s paradise. Whether you prefer a short, easy trek like Neer Garh or a challenging adventure like Chandrashila, these treks offer stunning landscapes, refreshing air, and unforgettable experiences 🏞.
Plan well, carry your gear, and start early to make the most of your weekend trekking escape near Rishikesh. Your perfect Himalayan adventure awaits! ✨
