Language
The official language of India is Hindi, but English is also widely spoken in major tourist destinations like Rishikesh.
Currency
The currency of India is the Indian rupee (₹). You can exchange your currency at banks, hotels, and exchange bureaus in Rishikesh.
Distance
The distance from Doraha to Rishikesh is approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles).
How to Reach
There are several ways to reach Rishikesh from Doraha:
- By train: You can take a train from Doraha to Haridwar and then a bus or taxi to Rishikesh.
- By bus: You can take a bus from Doraha to Rishikesh directly.
- By car: You can rent a car and drive to Rishikesh. The journey takes about 6-7 hours.
Expenses
The cost of your trip to Rishikesh will vary depending on your budget and travel style. However, here is a general estimate of what you can expect to spend:
- Accommodation: ₹500-₹2,000 per night
- Food: ₹200-₹500 per day
- Activities: ₹500-₹2,000 per day
- Transportation: ₹500-₹1,000 per day
Best time to go
The best time to visit Rishikesh is during the spring (March-April) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant.
What to Eat
Rishikesh is known for its delicious vegetarian food. Here are some of the must-try dishes:
- Chole bhature: A popular Punjabi dish made with chickpeas and fried bread.
- Aloo paratha: A flatbread stuffed with potatoes.
- Samosa: A fried pastry filled with potatoes, peas, and spices.
- Thali: A platter of various dishes served with rice and bread.
Where to Go
Here are some of the must-visit places in Rishikesh:
- Ganga Aarti: A daily evening prayer ceremony held on the banks of the Ganges River.
- Laxman Jhula: A suspension bridge over the Ganges River.
- Swarg Ashram: A peaceful ashram located on the banks of the Ganges River.
- Vashishtha Guha: A cave temple dedicated to the sage Vashishtha.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
FAQs
- Is Rishikesh safe for tourists? Rishikesh is generally a safe place for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- Can I drink tap water in Rishikesh? It is not advisable to drink tap water in Rishikesh. It is better to drink bottled water or boiled water.
- What is the best way to get around Rishikesh? The best way to get around Rishikesh is by foot, bicycle, or auto rickshaw.
- Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance? It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Can I use my credit card in Rishikesh? Most restaurants and shops in Rishikesh accept credit cards. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash as well.