Ever since The Beatles visited Rishikesh in the February of 1968, this charming hill town along the Ganges has been a paradise for travellers. Famed as the Yoga capital of India, Rishikesh has always attracted backpackers, who come here to unwind at the white sand beaches of Shivpuri. If you are planning a staycation sometime soon, these hostels in Rishikesh come highly recommended. By Karan Kaushik
10 Hostels in Rishikesh for the free-spirited traveller
goSTOPS Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula
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Nestled 350 metres from the Lakshman Jhula. goSTOPS boasts a cosy ambience replete with classy interiors. The hostel has an amazing rooftop with a scenic view and a lovely seating area · The hostel rooms offer rewarding views of the surrounding hills of Rishikesh. They also conduct rafting trips for their guests. You’d love the vibe of the hostel’s common area and cafe. Also on offer here are indoor games like pool and foosball, a projector for movie screenings, an open balcony, and a garden with two hammocks and a bonfire facility.
Where: Hotel Akash Continental, Badrinath Road, Tapovan, Rishikesh
Zostel Rishikesh
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This vibrant backpacking spot is perhaps the most-loved hostel in Rishikesh. Zostel is located between the Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula. The property features a common social area where you can enjoy games like foosball and pool. Then there’s the mini library with a decent collection to keep you occupied. The rooms are as luxurious as they come while the dorms are great for those looking to make new friends.
Where: Bhandari Swiss Cottage, Bhirketh By-Pass Road, Tapovan, Rishikesh
The Hosteller Max
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A favourite among couples, The Hosteller Rishikesh Max is loved for its zen vibes, charming interiors, and proximity to major landmarks and dining places of the holy town. While the Patanjali International Yoga Foundation is only 200m from here, the Lakshman Jhula is 600m. They offer air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and good WiFi connectivity. Reviewers have only good things to say about the hosts at this hostel.
Where: 171, Lakshman Jhula, Tapovan, Rishikesh
Madpackers Rishikesh
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If you are quite the bohemian at heart, look no further than Madpackers Rishikesh. The hostel is all about indulging in some fun activities and making friends for life. The hostel features shared dorms as well as private rooms that ensure a comfy and memorable staycation. They are firm believers of responsible tourism. The boho vibes here gel well with the spirituality of Rishikesh.
Where: Jaipur Inn, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh
Moustache Rishikesh Luxuria
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One of the leading hostels in India Moustache has its presence in Rishikesh too. Their hostel is located 5km from the Triveni Ghat. It features a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, and free WiFi. The best part though? They have an indoor pool, live music gigs at night, and family-friendly rooms as well. Every room comes with a wardrobe, private bathrooms, and a private sit-out. They have a billiards table, a dart board, and other indoor games. The hostel offers an American or vegetarian breakfast.
Where: Next to Deecon Valley Apartment, Tapovan, Rishīkesh
Blue Jay Hostel
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A favourite among all hostels in Rishikesh for students, Blue Jay Hostel lies 300m from the Patanjali International Yoga Foundation. On offer here are a lovely terrace, a shared lounge, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, and free WiFi. In the mood for a fun-filled karaoke night with your mains? The folks at Blue Jay Hostels got your back. They also offer an airport shuttle service to Dehradun, for an additional charge.
Where: Opposite Ayur Park, Near SBI Bank Jonk, Badrinath Road, Tapovan, Rishīkesh
Live Free Hostel
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Picture yourself challenging your bestie for a game of billiards on a fine Saturday afternoon after you have devoured a wholesome American breakfast. If that sounds kinda perfect, give Live Free Hostel a chance to host you. Located at a short distance from the Ram Jhula, this hostel features a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, free WiFi, and private parking.
Where: Laxman Jhula Road, Near Anand Dham, Tapovan, Rishikesh
Joey’s Hostel
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Joey’s Hostel is located at a kissing distance from the Patanjali International Yoga Foundation and the iconic Lakshman Jhula. They have spacious and well-decorated rooms which feature a private bathroom. Some of the rooms also come with a kitchen with a microwave. Other features of Joey’s Hostel include a shared lounge, free WiFi, free private parking, and a terrace with stunning mountain views. Oh, and they serve continental for breakfast.
Where: Badrinath Marg, Opposite Balak Nath Mandir Laxman Jhula, Tapovan, Rishikesh
Shalom Backpackers
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Another popular hostel in Rishikesh for solo travellers, Shalom Backpackers offers adult-only accommodation. The hostel includes a restaurant, a garden and a terrace. The rooms here feature private bathrooms with showers and some also come with a patio. Free WiFi and continental breakfast are available too. They have a 24-hour front desk. This hostel is located pretty far from the Lakshman Jhula and Triveni Ghat, which lie at 9km and 5km distance from here.
Where: Laxman Jhula Paidal Marg Tapovan, Rishīkesh
Karwaan Hostel
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And last on our list of hostels in Rishikesh is Karwaan Hostel. Located near the Patanjali International Yoga Foundation, this hostel comes with a restaurant, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a peaceful terrace. They offer free WiFi, meeting and banquet facilities, and daily evening entertainment. Every room at this hostel is air-conditioned and equipped with a work desk and a private bathroom, while some also feature a balcony. They serve continental and buffet breakfast. There’s a billiards table too.
Where: Plot No. B-4, Deecon Valley, Tapovan, Rishikesh
Feature and hero image courtesy: goSTOPS Rishikesh
Related: Plan Your Next Wellness Holiday At These Yoga Retreats In Rishikesh