7 Day Himalayan Waterfall Hiking and Yoga Wellness Retreat in Rishikesh

Rishikesh Retreat Centre has built this week around combining yoga's calming effect with the adrenaline of adventure sports. The daily schedule includes two yoga sessions – one in the morning, one in the evening – so you get a real practice, not just a token class. The style is Hatha and Ashtanga, taught by Subhash, a local who trained in a Rishikesh ashram and has been teaching international students for years.

The adventure part is serious. There's a 3.5-km steep hike to a waterfall where you can swim in the plunge pool, a 15-km trek to Kunjapuri temple for a 360-degree view of the snow-capped Himalayas, and whitewater rafting on the Ganges – either a 16-km or 18-km stretch with rapids and cliff jumps. You'll also visit the Vashist Cave, where the sage Vashist is said to have meditated, and take part in the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the riverbank.

This isn't a silent retreat. The vibe is social and friendly, with a mix of ages and nationalities. The hosts, Vivek and Subhash, are known for being helpful and accommodating, especially with dietary needs. It's also one of the most affordable retreats in Rishikesh, so you get a lot for your money.

One thing to note – the hiking is genuine, with steep sections, but the pace is manageable for anyone with basic fitness. If you prefer a more relaxed version, you can opt for the sightseeing-focused retreat instead. But if you want to see the real Himalayan landscape, this is the one.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Daily yoga classes - Airport pickup from Dehradun Airport (DED) - Free pickup from Haridwar railway station / Rishikesh bus station - Transportation during the retreat - Group excursions and activities - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - WiFi connection - Unlimited filtered water and herbal tea

What's not included

- Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - AC use (charged extra) - Additional activities not in the itinerary