Rishikesh in May: 12 superb reasons to visit

The holy town of Rishikesh is a 365 day holiday destination but the month of May is when the place comes alive with the summer holidays in schools and colleges which attracts families and youngster’s from all over the country.  Rishikesh, located in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, experiences a pleasant climate in May. Here are a few things to know about Rishikesh in May:

1. Yoga Capital of the World:

Rishikesh is renowned as the yoga capital of the world, and May is a great time to indulge in yoga and meditation retreats. Many ashrams and yoga centers offer special courses and workshops during this time.

Rishikesh is renowned as the “Yoga Capital of the World.” The pleasant weather in May makes it conducive for practicing yoga and meditation. Many ashrams and yoga centers offer courses and retreats where you can deepen your yoga practice or learn the basics.

2. Adventure Sports:

Rishikesh is a hub for adventure enthusiasts. In May, you can enjoy thrilling activities like white water rafting in the Ganges, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, and trekking to nearby scenic spots.

Rishikesh is known as the “Rafting Capital of India,” and May is an ideal time to enjoy river rafting. The water level of the Ganges river remains good, providing exciting rafting opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. You can choose from various rafting stretches, depending on your level of expertise.

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3. Beatles Ashram:

Rishikesh gained international fame as the place where the Beatles visited and learned transcendental meditation. The abandoned ashram where they stayed, known as the Beatles Ashram, remains a major tourist attraction.

4. Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh:

Witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the river Ganges is a soul-stirring experience. In May, the aarti takes place against a beautiful backdrop and offers a mesmerizing sight.

5. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:

Situated amidst the lush green Shivalik mountains, the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. May is a great time to visit this temple and seek blessings while enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.

Rishikesh is a spiritual destination with numerous temples and ashrams. You can visit famous temples like the Triveni Ghat, Bharat Mandir, and Parmarth Niketan. Participating in the evening Ganga Aarti (prayer ritual) at the banks of the Ganges is a must-see experience.

6. Rajaji National Park:

Located just a short distance from Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. In May, you can spot various animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and a wide variety of bird species.

Rishikesh is surrounded by the picturesque beauty of the Himalayas. You can explore the nearby trails and enjoy nature walks or short hikes. There are many scenic spots, such as Neer Garh Waterfall and Beatles Ashram, where you can spend some peaceful time amidst nature.

7. Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula:

Rishikesh is famous for its suspension bridges, Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. May offers pleasant weather to stroll across these bridges and enjoy panoramic views of the Ganges and surrounding hills.

8. Ayurvedic Treatments:

Rishikesh is known for its Ayurvedic treatments and therapies. In May, you can rejuvenate yourself by indulging in Ayurvedic massages, yoga therapies, and detoxification programs offered by various spas and wellness centers.

Rishikesh offers various Ayurvedic centers and spas where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. This can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate during your visit.

9. Cafes and Restaurants:

It boasts a vibrant food scene, with numerous cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. From traditional North Indian cuisine to international fare, you can indulge in a gastronomic delight in May.

10. A Dip in the Holy Ganges:

Taking a dip in the holy river Ganges is considered purifying and spiritually uplifting. May provides pleasant weather to participate in this sacred ritual and seek blessings from the divine.

11. Beatles Festival:

Every year in May, the place celebrates the Beatles Festival to honor the iconic band’s connection to the city. The festival includes music performances, storytelling sessions, film screenings, and art exhibitions.

12. Serene Environment:

Rishikesh offers a serene and peaceful environment, perfect for those seeking solace and inner peace. The calmness of the surrounding nature and the spiritual atmosphere make Rishikesh an ideal destination to relax and reconnect with oneself in May.

In May, Rishikesh starts getting warmer as summer sets in. The average daytime temperature ranges from 32°C to 40°C (90°F to 104°F), while evenings and nights are relatively cooler with temperatures dropping to around 20°C (68°F). It is advisable to carry light cotton clothing to beat the heat during the day and a light jacket or shawl for the evenings.