Rishikesh is more than just an adventure hub; it's a place of profound natural beauty. The daily spectacle of the sun rising and setting over the Himalayan foothills is a spiritual experience in itself. While you can catch glimpses from town, the most awe-inspiring views are found on hilltops and quiet roadsides—places best reached on two wheels.
Renting a bike gives you the freedom to escape the crowds and find your own private viewpoint. Here are our top 5 recommendations for the best sunrise and sunset points in Rishikesh, all accessible with a bike rental from Laxmanjhula.
1. Kunjapuri Temple Trek Viewpoint
This is the undisputed king of sunrise spots in Rishikesh. A 25 km ride followed by a short flight of stairs takes you to the temple, which offers a stunning 360-degree view. On a clear day, you can see snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Gangotri glowing in the morning sun.
Pro-Tip: Start from Laxmanjhula by 4:30 AM. The ride is chilly, so carry a jacket. The road can be a bit rough, making the Royal Enfield Himalayan an ideal choice.
2. The "Secret" Sunset Bends on Neelkanth Road
You don't need to ride all the way to Neelkanth temple for a great sunset. The road itself offers numerous westward-facing curves with spectacular views. Ride about 10-15 km up the road, find a safe spot to pull over, and watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Pro-Tip: A comfortable cruiser like the Classic 350 is perfect for this ride. Head back right after sunset as the road gets very dark.
3. Patna Waterfall Area
While people go here for the waterfall, the area around the starting point of the trek offers a peaceful and less-crowded sunset experience. It’s a short and easy ride from Laxmanjhula. Park your bike and find a spot overlooking the valley for a serene end to your day.
Pro-Tip: The Honda Activa is perfect for this short trip. Pack some snacks and enjoy a quiet picnic as you watch the sunset.
4. New Tehri Lake Viewpoint
This is for the serious riders. A longer trip of about 75 km one way, the ride to New Tehri is an adventure in itself. The reward is a magnificent, panoramic view of the massive Tehri Dam lake. Both sunrise and sunset are spectacular here, reflecting off the vast expanse of water.
Pro-Tip: This is a full-day trip. Rent a powerful and comfortable bike like the Himalayan. Start early and plan for an overnight stay if possible.
5. Ganga Viewpoint on Vashishta Gufa Road
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, take a ride on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway towards Vashishta Gufa. This route runs parallel to the Ganges. Find a spot where the valley opens up, and you can watch the sun set behind the hills on the opposite side of the river. It's quiet, intimate, and truly beautiful.
Pro-Tip: The road is excellent. Any of our bikes will be a joy to ride here. It's a great option for a relaxed evening ride.