The “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh, is well-known for its adventure sports, Ganga Aarti, and ashrams. But what’s behind the tourist route? The adventurous traveler will discover many undiscovered treasures in the foothills of the Himalayas, where peace, unadulterated nature, and ethereal charm remain unspoiled. This is your guide to Rishikesh’s most stunning but lesser-known locations.
Kunjapuri Temple (Sunrise Point)
Location: 25 km from Rishikesh
Best Time to Visit: Early morning
While Kunjapuri Temple is known among locals, many travelers miss this divine sunrise point. At 1,645 meters, it offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, and Chaukhamba. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is one of the 52 Shakti Peeths.
🚶‍♂️ Adventure Tip: Trek down from the temple to Rishikesh via Neer Garh Waterfall—it’s a scenic 9 km downhill path through forests and villages.
Patna Waterfall
Location: 12 km from Rishikesh on Neelkanth Road
Best Time to Visit: July to November
This hidden waterfall requires a short hike of about 1.5 km from the main road near Garud Chatti. It’s lush, serene, and often skipped by commercial tours. The name “Patna” has nothing to do with the city—it’s derived from the local village nearby.
🌱 Nature Note: During monsoon, the water gushes powerfully and is surrounded by lush green trails, making it perfect for photographers.
Vashishta Gufa (Cave)
Location: 25 km from Rishikesh on Badrinath Road
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
This sacred cave is where Sage Vashishta meditated for years. It’s quiet, dark, and deeply spiritual. Inside, the atmosphere is meditative, making it perfect for seekers and those who want to disconnect and go inward.
Nearby Gem: Just a few meters ahead is the Ganga beach called Swarg Ashram Beach, perfect for silent reflection or a riverside picnic.
Goolar Village
Location: 16 km from Rishikesh
Best Time to Visit: All seasons except heavy monsoon
Want to experience rural Garhwal life? Goolar is a peaceful village nestled among lush fields and gentle hills, away from the yoga crowds. You can stay in eco-homestays, enjoy organic meals, and go for long walks among mustard fields and forests.
🍲 Cultural Note: Villagers are known for their hospitality. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for tea!
Chilla Forest and Ganga Canal
Location: Rajaji National Park, about 18 km from Rishikesh
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Often overlooked in favor of Jim Corbett Park, Chilla Range of Rajaji offers jeep safaris, elephant sightings, and birdwatching minus the crowds. The Ganga Canal passing through is a beautiful spot to walk, bike, or simply sit by in silence.
Wildlife Alert: You can spot elephants, leopards, spotted deer, and many migratory birds.
Garud Chatti Waterfall
Location: 4 km from Laxman Jhula
Best Time to Visit: August to March
Smaller but less visited than others, this is a multi-tiered waterfall tucked behind a quiet trail. It’s perfect for those looking to meditate or bathe in cool spring water in peace. It’s also on the way to the Neelkanth Temple.
How to Reach: A short hike from the Neelkanth road after crossing the Garud Chatti temple.
Jhilmil Gufa – The Hidden Cave of Mystics Near Rishikesh
Distance from Rishikesh: Approx. 18–20 km Neelkanth Road
Jhilmil Gufa is a sacred cave tucked away in the dense forests of the Neelkanth Valley near Rishikesh. Known only to a few seekers and spiritual travelers, it is believed that ancient sages meditated here for centuries. The cave exudes deep peace and solitude, making it an ideal retreat for meditation, silence, and introspection.
Unlike Vashishta Gufa, which has become relatively known, Jhilmil Gufa remains untouched, raw, and quiet, surrounded by thick forest, chirping birds, and a natural trail that feels like a journey into another realm.
Travel Tips for Hidden Gems
Transportation: Rent a scooter or taxi for offbeat places; buses don’t reach most hidden spots.
Timing: Visit early morning or on weekdays for solitude.
Respect the Environment: Avoid littering; many places are sacred or ecologically sensitive.
Stay: Look for homestays or eco-lodges in Tapovan, Phool Chatti, or Goolar.
