Aloha On The Ganges is one of the better-known riverside stays in the Rishikesh area, set on the banks of the Ganges away from the tightest crowds around the jhula bridges. The appeal of this kind of property is straightforward: instead of waking to horns and scooters in a narrow lane, you look out on the river, hear water and birds and walk to a terrace or lawn for breakfast. Rishikesh has plenty of simple guesthouses and ashram rooms, but comfortable resort-style stays are rarer, and a riverside position makes this one a natural pick for couples, honeymooners and families who want room to relax. Because the property sits outside the central bazaar, you trade walkability for peace. Plan to use a car or taxi for trips to the main ghats, the evening aarti and restaurants, and ask the hotel about transfers when you book. It also works as a base for rafting, since many rafting routes pass along this stretch of the Ganges.
Location and getting around
The hotel lies along the river road away from the centre, so allow time for transfers into town. The drive to Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula depends on traffic and season, and pilgrim periods slow the road noticeably. Ask the hotel to arrange a car for the evening aarti and for sunrise outings such as Kunjapuri. Dehradun airport is the nearest air link, and Haridwar station is the main rail connection, each about an hour or so away by road.
Rooms and the rest
Rooms in riverside resorts of this type generally range from standard rooms to larger river-view rooms and suites, so choose a view category if the water is the point. Check what is on site, including a restaurant, garden, pool, yoga space or spa, since facilities and opening arrangements can vary by season.
Most food in Rishikesh is vegetarian, and alcohol is limited in the area, so check dining and drinks policies before you arrive. Cooler months from October to March are the most comfortable, while the monsoon brings heavy rain and swollen water.
Who it suits and what to know: it is best for couples, small groups and families who value calm over convenience, and for travellers combining a rafting day with a few quiet days of yoga or reading. Budget travellers and those who want to walk to cafes should consider a hotel closer to the jhulas.
Book ahead for the October to March season and for holiday weekends, ask about river access and swimming rules, and confirm what is included in the rate, such as breakfast and airport pickup. Always check current facilities and room types before you book.
Why stay here
- ✓Ganges riverside setting
- ✓Quiet location outside the bazaar
- ✓River-view rooms in some categories
- ✓Garden or terrace for relaxing
- ✓Vegetarian dining in the area
- ✓Close to rafting routes
- ✓Yoga nearby
- ✓Car transfers on request
Good questions
Is it in the centre of Rishikesh?+
No. It sits on the Ganges away from the busiest lanes, so plan on transfers to the jhula bridges and the evening aarti.
Is alcohol served?+
Alcohol is limited in much of the Rishikesh area, so check the hotel's policy before you arrive.
When is the best time to stay?+
October to March is the most comfortable. The monsoon brings heavy rain and high water.
