Begin your journey with a 1.5-hour road trip in a private car from Rishikesh to the trekking starting point near Kaudiyala village, located just 40 km from Rishikesh town.
The Kotli Bhel Trek traces its roots to an ancient Himalayan route once used by pilgrims travelling towards the holy shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. Long before modern roads existed, villagers and sadhus followed these forested trails along the Ganges to move between remote Himalayan settlements.
The region around Kotli Bhel has been historically significant due to its proximity to old trade paths and spiritual routes connecting Rishikesh with the upper Garhwal mountains.
Today, the trek preserves this heritage, allowing visitors to walk through landscapes that have witnessed centuries of pilgrimage, cultural exchange, and traditional Himalayan life.
Once you arrive at the trailhead, follow your guide along an ancient path that leads to sacred Himalayan sites on the banks of the Ganges—routes once used by Indian pilgrims travelling towards the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples deep in the Himalayas.
The trail pass through tricky paths down to the river and lush forested areas along the Ganga River, with awe-inspiring views of the river and valleys below.
Hike downhill for about 7 km, passing a beautiful waterfall along the way. Continue across a hanging suspension bridge and follow a wooden trail that runs right along the edge of the Ganges, leading you into what feels like the middle of nowhere.
Walk beside the river, soaking in the silence, nature, and flowing waters, before hiking back along the same route..
Encounter the Shiva temple ( Mohan Chatti ) and interaction with temple's monk ( Sadhu ) and walk on suspension bridge again to cross the river, adding to the rustic charm and giving a feeling of the timeless atmosphere. Experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and catch glimpses of the region’s traditional routes, once vital for pilgrimage and trade.
On the way back to Rishikesh, visit the ancient Vashishta Gufa, a sacred meditation cave where Sage Vashishta is believed to have meditated thousands of years ago.
Vashishta Cave, also known as Vashishta Gufa, is one of the most serene spiritual attractions near Rishikesh. The ancient cave is believed to be the meditation spot of Sage Vashishta, one of the Saptarishis, and is renowned for its deep silence that naturally encourages meditation.
Visitors can sit inside the dimly lit cave for peaceful meditation sessions, enjoy the tranquil Ganga riverbank, and explore the lush forest surroundings that make the area incredibly scenic.
The small ashram nearby, peaceful ghats, and riverside walking paths further enhance the experience, making Vashishta Cave a must-visit spot for spiritual seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for quiet moments away from Rishikesh’s busy town centre.
