Climate, Flora & Fauna of Rishikesh

Climate of Rishikesh

The town of Rishikesh is located at a high elevation at the foothills of the Himalaya Mountains; therefore, the climate here generally remains cool. Rishikesh’s climate is much cooler than many other Indian cities, but it never becomes extremely cold even during the winters. The pleasant weather ensures that tourists throng the place round the year.

During spring season, which runs between late February and March, intermittent rainfall is common in Rishikesh. The temperature during spring remains between 20-30 °C and is ideal for trekking and camping.

Summers in Rishikesh are quite dry. During summers, which are between the months of May and mid-July, temperature remains between 30-40 °C. Mountaineering, trekking, camping and river rafting are in full swing in the summers The monsoon season brings with it continuous heavy rainfall. In Rishikesh, monsoon season starts during late July and keeps showering the place until mid-September.

During fall season, which is between September and November, the town of Rishikesh observes pleasant weather. This time of the year is particularly favorite among travellers. However, some treks close down for the winters by October.

Winters in Rishikesh are generally cold, but not extremely cold. The temperature between November and February remains below 20°C, and often touches the freezing point. While the city itself remains vibrant, most treks and camping expeditions are closed during this time of the year as the Himalayas are covered with treacherous white carpet of snow.

Yoga retreats are operational almost throughout the year. White water rafting closes for a brief period during the monsoon. For most part of the year, it’s ‘business as usual’ for locals as well as the tourists.

Flora & Fauna of Rishikesh

Rishikesh is endowed with nature’s bounty. Away from the hubbub of the main town, and amidst chirping of birds and rustling leaves, you can discover many beauties of nature hidden in the forests surrounding Rishikesh. The place is best explored on foot. And for those with a big appetite for adventures, a jungle-walk through Rishikesh’s mountain forests is nothing less than an enthralling experience.

Besides the religious value of the place and the experience of river-rafting in the high tides of Ganges River, it is the natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna that beckon thousands of adventurers and naturalists from around the world.

Bird-watching tours are particularly famous in the region. If you are in Rishikesh, then you mustn’t miss the opportunity to catch a glimpse of a wide range of bird species that inhabit the Himalayan forests. The sights of bird Koklas and Khalij are relatively common but never fail to startle explorers. And if you are lucky, you might even get to see the Himalayan Pied Kingfisher and witness breathtaking sight of Monal, a bird with multicolored iridescent plumage. And don’t forget to take binoculars and camera with you to enhance your tour experience and capture some precious moments.

Rishikesh forests are home to a wide variety of animals as well, including tigers, leopards, panthers, bears, deer, and more. To take a closer look at these animals, you can visit the Rajaji National park and Jim Corbet Park.

The entire area of Rishikesh is enveloped with broad-leaved Sal, and about 150 feet tall deodar trees. Plants and other trees found in the area are known for their medicinal properties. In fact, all Ayurvedic medicines are prepared using plants, herbs and trees grown in the area.

Exploring the vivid flora and fauna of the area is an experience unto itself.