Rishikesh has more to offer than a nirvana trip. This gateway to the Himalayas is best both for adventure enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet getaway

Explore the unusual at Rishikesh

If you’re working, you no longer have a luxury of going on a long vacation. But with the Capital surrounded by umpteen weekend destinations, vacationers have many options to choose from. One such good option is Rishikesh.

Just a sever hour drive away from Capital Delhi, this gateway to the Himalayas is a well-known religious destination in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. But not many know that the place is ideal for an adventurous or an absolutely quite holiday also. All you need to do is cover an extra 24 kms uphill from Rishikesh to reach Kaudiyala. This small town is a haven for adventure junkies and is equally good for those who want to enjoy a hassle – free, serene holiday.

To reach Kaudiyala, you may also take the Shatabdi Express train from New Delhi to Haridwar (about four and a half hours) and onward drive. The drive from Rishikesh to Kaudiyala is mesmerising because in this short stretch you’ll see the Ganges changing many hues. At some points, the road is so low that you can walk to the sandy banks.

There are enough options for lodging but chose something on the bank of Ganges. You can even try the cottages offered too. But nothing beats the thrill of staying in a tented accommodation with the river running next to you. Most of these places offer a package deal complete with rafting adventure, stay, meals and even option to have a bonfire by the riverside. You can also check out for local schools offering rafting courses, equipment and guides for organising the adventure on the river. There are high end options too.

For rafting enthusiasts, the best time to visit is from October to May.

Those wishing to spend some quite time can be offered hotels away from the main tow. Here, you go waling in the jungles, enjoy meals on the river-banks with water giving a perfect background score. There is nothing like experiencing the river minus its exploitation in big towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh. For more information, please write us at info@anantaramholidays.com