In addition to being the world’s yoga capital and the gateway to the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a café-hopper’s paradise. The best cafes in Rishikesh are tucked between the Ganges River, lush green hills, and iconic suspension bridges. They offer mouthwatering food, breathtaking views, and the perfect blend of chill and spiritual vibes.
Whether you’re in the mood for a late-night open mic, a lazy brunch with a view, or sunset mocktails overlooking the Ganges, here are the top 5 best cafes in Rishikesh you shouldn’t miss.
1. 12 Monks: The Gathering Place with a View
12 Monks Café shows you that Rishikesh is more than just meditation and yoga. With expansive views and a high vantage point over the Ganges, this rooftop café transforms into one of the best cafes in Rishikesh for music, laughter, and good vibes after sunset.
Why visit? Live open-mic nights, fire shows, ecstatic dance parties, and a crowd that knows how to have fun—without alcohol!
Must-try: Himalayan trout, wood-fired pizzas, and their famous ginger-honey-lemon tea.
Location: Tapovan, near Laxman Jhula.
Best time: Evenings for the electric rooftop energy.
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2. Shambala Café: Brunch Goals & Lazy Hippie Vibes
If you want to do nothing but eat delicious food and gaze at the river all afternoon, Shambala Café is your spot. With dreamcatchers, floor cushions, and a terrace shaded by trees, it’s one of the best brunch cafes in Rishikesh.
Why visit? The ultimate brunch vibe—vegan pancakes that even non-vegans crave, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls.
Must-try: Cold brew coffee and the Shambala Big Breakfast Platter.
Location: Upper Tapovan, a short walk from Ram Jhula.
Best time: Morning to early afternoon for that laid-back hippie energy.
3. Secret Garden Café: Breakfast Wonderland & Affogato Dreams
Tucked under vines and twinkling fairy lights, Secret Garden Café is a peaceful breakfast escape and one of the most charming cafes in Rishikesh. With calming music and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, it’s a place you’ll want to linger.
Why visit? The calmest café in Rishikesh during the morning, with a signature affogato—vanilla ice cream drenched in espresso.
Must-try: Banana pancakes, shakshuka, and the affogato.
Location: Badrinath Road, near Little Buddha Café Lane.
Best time: Early morning for a cozy corner under the trees.
4. Chillout Café: Sunset Dinners & Freedom Ghat Views
Want to dine with a front-row view of the Ganges at golden hour? Chillout Café is one of the best river-view cafes in Rishikesh, right above Freedom Ghat. Enjoy your meal as the hills turn pink and the evening aarti fills the air.
Why visit? A romantic dinner setting with candles, fairy lights, and live acoustic music on weekends.
Must-try: Himalayan thali, grilled sandwiches, and masala chai with a view.
Location: Freedom Ghat, Jonk (Swargashram side).
Best time: Sunset to dinner—reserve a river-facing table in advance.
5. Tattv Café: Healthy Eats & Detox Mocktails
For the health-conscious traveler, Tattv Café offers nourishing dishes and refreshing mocktails. In Sanskrit, Tattv means “element,” and everything here feels balanced—fresh, light, and full of flavor. The rooftop offers beautiful sunset views over Laxman Jhula.
Why visit? A wholesome menu, creative salads, and refreshing detox drinks make it one of the best healthy cafes in Rishikesh.
Must-try: Blue Pea Lemonade, Quinoa Buddha Bowl, and Beetroot Hummus Platter.
Location: Rooftop near Laxman Jhula Bridge, Tapovan.
Best time: Late afternoon for sunset mocktails.
Safe travels & happy cafe-hopping in Rishikesh!
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~ Your fellow traveler & foodie.