Things to Do While You Are in Rishikesh for Yoga Teacher Training
Widely regarded as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh is more than just a destination for deepening your asana practice or chanting Om Shanti. Nestled along the sacred Ganges River and surrounded by the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh offers a spiritually immersive experience for seekers from across the globe.
While you’re here for Yoga Teacher Training (YTT), explore the town’s dynamic blend of adventure, culture, spirituality, and nature.
Top Reasons to Visit Rishikesh for Yoga
1. Embrace the Outdoors in Rajaji National Park
Just 90 minutes from Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park is a wildlife sanctuary home to over 500 elephants, deer, leopards, and the occasional panther. You may even spot a Bengal Tiger if you’re lucky! On-site lodging allows overnight stays for nature lovers. Guided treks through the park or the surrounding Himalayan trails offer soul-stirring views.
2. Experience Himalayan Adventure
Rishikesh is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts:
- White-water rafting on the Ganges (half or full-day trips up to 36 km)
- Bungee jumping off a cliff-side cantilever
- Trekking to hidden temples with panoramic views
- Camping under starry skies with Himalayan backdrops
3. Walk Across the Iconic Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula
Cross the swaying Laxman Jhula, a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, dodging bikes, monkeys, and the occasional cow. For a similar thrill, try the longer Ram Jhula, built in 1986. These bridges are symbolic, scenic, and central to Rishikesh’s charm.
4. Explore the Local Bazaar & Sample Sweets
A vibrant street market awaits near Haridwar Road—offering everything from peanut brittle and fresh fruits to Ayurvedic shops and bric-a-brac stalls. It’s a sensory adventure that adds texture to your spiritual journey.
5. Unwind in Cafes with Fellow Travelers
Rishikesh is a vegetarian and alcohol-free city, but its cafes buzz with global energy. From organic smoothie bowls to free Wi-Fi and impromptu jam sessions, cafes here are perfect for meeting fellow yogis and sharing stories over chai.
6. Witness Wildlife and Karma in Action
Cows, pigs, sheep, and monkeys freely roam the streets. While monkeys may snatch your food, feeding stray dogs is a gentle act of compassion (and good karma).
7. Visit the Famous Beatles Ashram
Step inside the now-graffitied yet serene Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, where the Beatles wrote over 30 songs, many of which ended up on The White Album. Explore domed meditation caves and stroll through artistic ruins with river views.
8. Join the Ganga Aarti Ceremony
Held every evening at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, the Ganga Aarti is a spiritual ritual involving fire, chant, and devotion. Watch or participate as locals and pilgrims offer prayers to the sacred Ganges. For a more raw experience, take a side trip to Haridwar for a less touristy aarti ceremony.
9. Attend a Kirtan Gathering
Join in spontaneous Kirtan (devotional singing) sessions with harmoniums, tablas, and flutes at local temples. Participation is often welcome, just observe and join when the energy feels right.
10. Experience Ashram Life
Dive into traditional ashram living—spiritual retreats offering yoga, meditation, and lectures. Living in an ashram teaches discipline, simplicity, and inner focus—important traits for anyone undergoing yoga teacher training.
Why Do Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh?
- Train in yoga’s birthplace with access to traditional teachings from seasoned Indian gurus.
- Connect to yoga’s deeper roots—spiritual, cultural, and philosophical.
- Surround yourself with nature, silence, and sacred energy that supports profound transformation.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Start your transformation with the best yoga teacher training program in Rishikesh at Shree Hari Yoga. Learn the foundations of yoga from the source and elevate your practice to a professional level in the lap of the Himalayas.
