Rishikesh, a name that evokes images of ancient ashrams, holy rivers, and spiritual awakening, offers much more beyond its temples and yoga retreats. Nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, this sacred town hides a wealth of natural wonders — serene, untouched, and endlessly inviting. Among them, the waterfalls of Rishikesh are perhaps its most enchanting secrets, each offering a different shade of the region’s unspoiled beauty.

In this guide, we delve into the lesser-known side of Rishikesh — its waterfalls. A journey into shaded forests, mossy rocks, and crystal streams awaits those willing to look beyond the well-trodden paths.

1. Neer Garh Waterfall: A Journey into the Forest

Among Rishikesh’s waterfalls, Neer Garh Waterfall is the most accessible and yet retains its charm. Located just a few kilometers from the Laxman Jhula area, Neer Garh can be reached via a short trek that winds upward through a thick cover of trees and scattered wildflowers.

The trek itself is a gentle introduction to Rishikesh’s wilderness. Stone steps, wooden bridges, and fluttering prayer flags guide you through the lush valley. As you ascend, the sound of falling water grows louder, promising relief from the heat.

Upon reaching the main fall, visitors are greeted by two-tiered cascades plunging into clear pools. In summer, the water offers a cooling refuge, while in monsoon, the volume of water triples, turning the place into a roaring spectacle.

Although a café nearby offers simple refreshments, the best way to experience Neer Garh is to pack a picnic and find a quiet rock to sit on, letting the surroundings soak into your senses.

Pro Tip:

• Distance from Rishikesh: Approximately 6 km from Laxman Jhula.
• How to reach: Drive towards Neelkanth Road; park near the entrance and walk about 1.5 km.
• Nearest attraction: Tapovan (gateway to yoga retreats) and the Iron Suspension Bridge (Laxman Jhula).

2. Patna Waterfall: A Hidden Trail to Silence

Less known than Neer Garh, Patna Waterfall demands more effort, but the rewards are equally greater. Located near the iconic Garud Chatti Temple on the Neelkanth Road, the trek to Patna Waterfall begins unassumingly, with a small, sometimes overlooked path leading into the forest.

The trail is steeper and rougher compared to Neer Garh, winding uphill through sal forests. Along the way, the forest floor glows with scattered light, and if you are lucky, you may spot bright butterflies or the occasional langur watching from the treetops.

Patna Waterfall itself is more delicate than thunderous. During the dry months, it becomes a gentle curtain of water draping over moss-covered cliffs. In the monsoon, it transforms into a powerful sheet, spraying the surrounding rocks with a fine mist. The peacefulness here is profound. Most visitors come, sit in silence for long stretches, and leave feeling lighter somehow, as if the weight of the outside world had been washed away.

Pro Tip:

• Distance from Rishikesh: About 6.5 km from Laxman Jhula.
• How to reach: Drive or take an auto towards Neelkanth Mahadev Road; the trail begins a few meters before Garud Chatti Temple.
• Nearest attraction: Garud Chatti Temple and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (further up the road).

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3. Phool Chatti Waterfall: The Unknown Beauty

Farther down the Neelkanth Road, beyond the well-trodden stops, lies Phool Chatti Waterfall — an underrated gem few travelers know about. Reaching it requires persistence, as the trails are less marked and sometimes blend into the surrounding foliage.

What sets Phool Chatti apart is its setting. Surrounded by flowering trees and thick greenery, the waterfall is wide rather than tall, spilling over a series of rocky ledges before merging into small pools. It is ideal for those looking to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons in Rishikesh.

This waterfall, unlike the others, feels untouched. There are no cafes, no signboards, and no paved steps. Only the pure symphony of water, wind, and rustling leaves.

Pro Tip:

• Distance from Rishikesh: Around 7.5 km from Laxman Jhula.
• How to reach: Take the Neelkanth Mahadev Road; it is slightly further from the Garud Chatti area, near the Phool Chatti Ashram.
• Nearest attraction: Phool Chatti Ashram (offering yoga retreats in natural settings).

4. Garud Chatti Waterfall: A Short, Rewarding Walk

Closer to Rishikesh town, Garud Chatti Waterfall offers a short, family-friendly escape. Starting near the Garud Chatti Temple, the path to the waterfall is simple and shaded, making it perfect for visitors with limited time or those traveling with children.

While smaller in scale compared to Neer Garh or Patna, Garud Chatti has its own charm, especially during the rainy season when the streams surge and the rocks shimmer under the filtered sunlight.

The temple nearby adds a cultural element to the excursion, with legends connecting Garud Chatti to the mythological bird Garuda from Hindu tradition.

Pro Tip:

• Distance from Rishikesh: Roughly 5 km from Laxman Jhula.
• How to reach: Follow the Neelkanth Mahadev Road; the temple and trail are clearly marked after about 5 km.
• Nearest attraction: Garud Chatti Temple and the route onwards to Patna and Phool Chatti Waterfalls.

Best Time to Visit the Waterfalls of Rishikesh

The waterfalls around Rishikesh can technically be visited year-round, but the experience varies greatly with the seasons.

In summer, the waterfalls offer a refreshing break from the heat. Monsoon brings their most powerful and lush displays, though caution must be taken on slippery trails. Winter, with its clear skies and cool weather, makes trekking pleasant, even if the water flow is lighter.

Early morning visits are highly recommended regardless of the season, not only for the cooler temperatures but also for the chance to experience the forests and waterfalls in near solitude.

Read also: Exploring India’s Hidden Waterfalls

Essential Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Rishikesh

• Wear proper hiking shoes or sandals with strong grip, especially during the monsoon.
• Carry your own water and simple snacks; many trails have no amenities once you start walking.
• Respect the natural environment by not littering or damaging the plants.
• Be cautious after heavy rains, as trails can be slippery or blocked.
• If traveling with children, opt for easier routes like Garud Chatti or Neer Garh.
• Hiring a local guide for longer treks or hidden spots is a wise investment.

Read more: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple in Rishikesh

Exploring Beyond the Popular Trails

Adventurous travelers can explore beyond these known waterfalls. The forest roads beyond Phool Chatti and towards the Neelkanth Temple reveal smaller, seasonal cascades that spring to life after heavy rainfalls. While some are unnamed and require local knowledge to access, they offer an unfiltered glimpse into Rishikesh’s wild heart.

Several eco-resorts and homestays now organize waterfall trekking tours, combining the pleasure of exploration with responsible, sustainable tourism practices.

Conclusion: The Other Face of Rishikesh

Rishikesh, seen through the lens of its waterfalls, reveals a side often missed by the hurried traveler. Here, away from the chanting crowds and bustling riverbanks, the land whispers its ancient stories through the movement of water and the sway of the forest.

To sit beside a Rishikesh waterfall is to understand why this land has, for centuries, drawn seekers not just to its temples, but to its rivers, its trees, and its hidden springs. In these secret places, nature itself becomes a silent guru, offering lessons in patience, presence, and peace.

A journey to Rishikesh’s waterfalls is not just about sightseeing. It is about listening to the earth breathe.

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