Rishikesh

Triveni Ghat is the most sacred bathing ghat in Rishikesh, located at the confluence of three rivers — Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Every evening at sunset, a spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place with dozens of priests performing synchronized fire rituals while devotional songs echo across the river. Hundreds of floating diyas (oil lamps) are released into the current, creating a river of golden light. It's one of the most moving spiritual experiences in India — deeply atmospheric even for non-religious visitors.

Rishikesh is India's undisputed white-water rafting capital, offering exhilarating rapids on the Ganges ranging from gentle Grade I rollers to heart-pounding Grade IV cascades with names like 'The Wall,' 'Roller Coaster,' and 'Golf Course.' Three main stretches cater to different experience levels, from the family-friendly Brahmapuri run to the adrenaline-pumping Marine Drive stretch that covers 24 km of river. The turquoise Ganges, flanked by forested Himalayan foothills, makes the setting as spectacular as the rapids themselves. Most trips include cliff jumping and beach stops along the way.