Waterfalls Near Rishikesh — A guide to Neer Garh, Patna and Garud Chatti falls. This guide to waterfalls near rishikesh covers what to expect, when to go, and how to plan your visit.
Rishikesh’s Waterfall Circuit
The forested hills around Rishikesh hide several seasonal and perennial waterfalls, most reachable on a short walk from a road drop-off point. They’re a popular half-day addition to a longer trip, especially for travellers who want a break from river activities without leaving the area.
The Main Waterfalls
- Neer Garh Waterfall — the closest to town (near Laxman Jhula), reached by a short, easy forest trail; has a shallow pool suitable for wading
- Patna Waterfall — a two-tiered fall a little further out, quieter and less crowded than Neer Garh, with a slightly longer approach walk
- Garud Chatti Waterfall — set near an old temple along the route between Laxman Jhula and Neelkanth Mahadev, often combined with a temple visit
Best Time to Visit
Waterfalls are at their fullest just after the monsoon, from September through November, when water levels are high but trails have dried out enough to walk safely. They shrink noticeably by peak summer (April-June), though they rarely dry out completely. Visiting during the monsoon itself is discouraged, as the trails become slippery and flash flooding is a real risk in narrow gorge sections.
Visiting Tips
- Wear shoes with good grip — the rocks near the pools are often wet and slick
- Carry a change of clothes if you plan to wade or swim
- Avoid climbing on wet rocks near the top of the falls, where footing is least stable
- Combine two nearby falls (like Neer Garh and Garud Chatti) into a single half-day outing to save on transport
Good to Know
- Neer Garh is the easiest waterfall near Rishikesh to reach, a short walk from a road drop-off near Laxman Jhula.
- Patna Waterfall is quieter and sees fewer visitors than Neer Garh, with a slightly longer approach trail.
Getting There
Neer Garh Waterfall is closest, a short drive from Laxman Jhula followed by a 20-30 minute walk. Patna and Garud Chatti waterfalls lie a little further along the road toward Neelkanth Mahadev and are usually visited by taxi or rented scooter from central Rishikesh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee to visit the waterfalls?
Neer Garh and similar falls typically charge a small entry fee at the trailhead, which usually goes toward path maintenance and basic facilities.
Can I swim at these waterfalls?
The shallow pools at the base are generally fine for wading and casual swimming outside monsoon season, though it’s worth checking current conditions locally, since water levels change through the year.
How far is Neer Garh waterfall from Laxman Jhula?
It’s one of the closest waterfalls to town, reachable by a short drive followed by a walk of roughly 20-30 minutes through forest.
For official travel advisories and permits, see the Uttarakhand Tourism department site.
Related Guides
- River Rafting in Rishikesh: The Complete Guide
- Where to Stay in Rishikesh: Hotels & Resorts Guide
- Ganges Riverside Camping Near Rishikesh
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