Rishikesh: Kunjapuri Sunrise Trek & Temple Tour with Breakfast

Summary

Watch the sky change above Rishikesh at Kunjapuri Temple sunrise

You’ll set off before dawn from Rishikesh for a private Kunjapuri Sunrise Tour, watching morning unfold over Himalayan peaks and the Ganges from the temple hilltop. Guided by a local expert, you’ll share hot chai, trek down through forests toward Tapovan, and finish with breakfast back in town — real moments you’ll remember long after your legs stop aching.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, it’s not as steep as it looks,” our driver grinned as we wound up the dark mountain road out of Rishikesh. I remember rolling down the window just a crack — cold air, sharp with pine and something sweet I couldn’t name. There were already two local women in bright shawls climbing ahead of us on foot, chatting in low voices. Our guide, Rajeev, handed me a thermos of chai before I could ask for coffee (honestly, better than coffee at 5am), and then we started up the last steps to Kunjapuri Temple. It was quiet except for someone softly ringing a bell somewhere inside. I hadn’t expected to feel so awake.

The sunrise itself at Kunjapuri Temple is… well, I’m not great with words for this stuff. The sky went from black to that weird blue-grey so fast, and suddenly there were these pink stripes above the Himalayas. You could see the Ganges way down below, almost silver in the early light. Some people closed their eyes to pray; others just stood there shivering together. Rajeev pointed out which peaks were which — honestly, I forgot most of them except for Chaukhamba (he made me repeat it three times). There’s incense in the air and sometimes you catch a whiff of fried dough from one of the temple stalls starting up for pilgrims.

The hike down towards Tapovan after breakfast surprised me — parts are rocky but nothing wild if you’re used to walking. We stopped once so Rajeev could show us wildflowers he said locals use for festival garlands (I tried smelling one and sneezed immediately; he laughed). My legs were tired by the end but it felt good. Back in Rishikesh, we ended up at their office trading stories over more chai — still sticky with sweat but grinning like idiots. I keep thinking about that first light on everyone’s faces.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kunjapuri Temple sunrise and trek

• Hike to Kunjapuri Temple hilltop
• Watch sunrise over Himalayas
• Enjoy panoramic views of Ganges
• Trek from temple to Tapovan
• Visit office to share experience

Top questions

How early does the Kunjapuri Sunrise Tour start from Rishikesh?

The tour starts before dawn to reach Kunjapuri Temple in time for sunrise.

Is breakfast included on the Kunjapuri Sunrise day trip?

Yes, breakfast is included after visiting the temple and trekking down.

How difficult is the trek from Kunjapuri Temple to Tapovan?

The trek is moderate and suitable for most fitness levels.

Are entry fees or taxes included in this tour?

Yes, all fees and taxes are included in your booking.

Is hotel pickup available for this sunrise tour?

Yes, pickup is included from your accommodation in Rishikesh.

Can service animals join this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What altitude is Kunjapuri Temple located at?

Kunjapuri Temple sits at 1,645 meters above sea level.

Is there a guide during the Kunjapuri Sunrise Tour?

A local guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your morning includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from your Rishikesh hotel or guesthouse, all entry fees and taxes covered along the way, bottled water for your hike up to Kunjapuri Temple at sunrise (trust me — you’ll want it), plus breakfast waiting after your trek before heading back into town together.