India’s most Beautiful Resort in the Himalayas where you can escape the heat
GQ India Presents a list of India’s most beautiful hill resorts where you can escape the heat. Luxurious one-stop vacations where the only time you will leave the grounds is when checking out
Atali Ganga, Rishikesh
Rishikesh, the hub for whitewater rafting and other activities for the adventure enthusiasts – also offers options for the luxury seekers. This hotel only has individual and family cottages spread across two levels of the property, allowing you to enjoy privacy in the middle of the forest. Along with a swimming pool and yoga center, they have a 24ft climbing wall on the premises and a provision for mountain biking and kayaking.
For reservations call: +91-7060072708
Why the Himalayan foothills run cooler
Rishikesh town sits in the plains at the base of the hills; Atali Ganga sits above it on a forested hillside beside the Ganga, which makes a real difference in peak summer (April to June). Elevation, tree cover, and the river itself keep the property noticeably cooler than the town below, and the water coming down from the Himalayan snowmelt stays cold even when the air is warm.
Rafting and kayaking are part of the escape, not despite the heat
Summer (April-June) is peak rafting season, before the water activities pause for monsoon in July. A few hours on cold Himalayan river water is one of the more effective ways to actually cool down here, alongside the pool, the yoga sessions, and shaded activities like the climbing wall and high ropes course.
Planning a summer stay
Pack light, breathable clothing for the days, the property itself does the rest. For the complete seasonal picture, see what to pack for a Rishikesh adventure trip and best time of year for rafting, or start with the full trip-planning guide.