Top 3 places to go in Rishikesh Market

So what can you do on your "yoga day-off"? Want to experience more of real India? Head down to the Rishikesh market and your senses are certain to be awakened - it's all loud, crowded and cramped. It is a typical small Indian city, with lots of shops selling anything from hardware to clothes to electronics and, of course, food. It may seem at first sight that there is nothing particularly interesting for tourists here, but there are a few places which deserves a mention. First off, the Triveni Ghat, a popular ghat with local tourists. The well-built and lovely walking path along the Ganges at Triveni Ghat brings you back to Ram Jhula if you turn left. It makes for a nice walk that is usually not too crowded.

If you really want to enjoy authentic Indian food, head to the famous and crowded Rajasthani Restaurant along the main road. The food here is great though a little spicier than what you get in the Ram/Laxman Jhula areas. They have a very special range of Indian sweets (mithai) as well and if you are there shortly before Diwali, they literally sell hundreds of different varieties. Bear with the crowd, it is worth it. If you can still stomach more, head down to Pappu Lassi across the street in the middle of the market. They sell the creamiest lassi around. What used to be just a popular lassi dispensing machine is now a proper shop with seats! At 30R a cup, it is really a drink not to be missed, especially on a hot day.

I did say top 3 places to visit in Rishikesh market, but if you still have time and are adventurous enough, take a slow hour walk from Rajasthani Restaurant to the Rishikesh Railway Station. It is small and peaceful, very unlike most other Indian train stations. This easy walk is also recommended if you are interested in seeing some local life away from the crowded market.