Rishikesh has emerged as the adventure sports capital of India for activities like river rafting, bungee jumping and cliff diving. But did you know that Rishikesh also boasts of some spectacular one day trekking trails perfect for beginners? From scenic waterfall treks to rhododendron flower valleys, this epic guide covers everything you need to know before heading out on short 1 day treks near Rishikesh.
Why Go On Small Treks Around Rishikesh?
While multi-day mountain trekking requires advanced fitness levels, short 1 day treks from Rishikesh offer just the right blend of challenge and fun without being too demanding. Lasting 4-6 hours, these mini treks take adventure seekers through lush forests, gurgling streams and historic hilltop temples. You get to enjoy mesmerizing Himalayan views minus the effort needed for high altitude trekking. Easy accessibility and lower cost are other reasons for the rising popularity of beginner-friendly day treks near Rishikesh.
Top 5 One Day Treks Near Rishikesh
Kunjapuri Temple Trek
One of the most popular small treks near Rishikesh, the Kunjapuri trail takes you uphill through wooded forests leading to the Kunjapuri Devi Temple. Perched at a height of 1,400 meters, the temple complex offers sweeping 300 degree views of the Shivalik range and the Gangetic plains down below.
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
Best Time: Winters and spring
Neer Garh Waterfall Trek
This offbeat trail passing through sleepy hamlets and thick jungles culminates at the cascading Neer Garh Waterfall hidden deep in a forest ravine. For a truly secluded experience, the Neer Garh trek is your best bet.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
Best Time: Monsoon and winters
Dayara Bugyal Meadow Trek
While a bit further away from the city, the Dayara Bugyal trek offers a glorious high altitude meadow walk with phenomenal views of the Greater Himalayan peaks like Bandarpoonch. The starting point Barsu village itself looks straight out of a postcard with its traditional wooden houses and terraced farms!
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Point to Point
Best Time: March to June
Bhrigu Lake Trek
Named after the ancient Hindu sage Bhrigu, this sacred high altitude lake nestled at over 4,000 meters above sea level makes for an incredible day trek near Rishikesh. The final steep ascent requires a bit of scrambling but the glittering blue-green Bhrigu Lake surrounded by tall Deodar trees promises to take your breath away!
Duration: 7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time: May to June, September to October
Garud Chatti Waterfall Trek
Another relatively easy waterfall trek near Rishikesh, Garud Chatti offers walk through the Rajaji National Park forests culminating at a pretty cascade plunging from height of over 150 feet. It’s an ideal monsoon trek when the waterfall is in full glory!
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Best Time: July to September
When is the Best Time for Day Treks in Rishikesh?
Since most short trails near Rishikesh involve forest and waterfall walks, the post monsoon months from October to January is considered ideal. The Himalayan views are crystal clear while the forest comes alive in vibrant autumn hues. Late winter months of February-March are great for rhododendron blooms while pre-monsoon summer months promise a cool walk amid greenery. Heavy rainfall makes trekking risky during July-September. Avoid day treks on overcast or rainy days even during safe seasons.
Fitness Level Required for One Day Treks Near Rishikesh.
