US travel vlogger finds hidden waterfall in Rishikesh. Tries wellness ritual which helps to calm mind and ease stress

Tucked away along the banks of the mighty Ganges River and surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, lies the sacred city of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh. Boasting greenery and a reverberating spiritual vibe, the place draws tourists not only from India but across the world for its quiet charm and serenity. Dubbed as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh offers a wholesome experience for globetrotters where a traveller can start their mornings with yoga, spend their afternoon exploring cafes or temples, and end the day watching the serene Ganga Aarti as lamps float across the water.

Now, American travel vlogger Charlie Evans has documented his trip to Rishikesh, exploring a hidden gem in the location aka a secret waterfall in Tapovan. A day ago, he dropped a video on Instagram, enjoying himself at the secret spot with what appears to be his friends. For those unaware, Charlie left the United States last year in October and moved to India. Since then, he has explored multiple destinations in the country, including Delhi, Amritsar, Kashmir, Varanasi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner.

US vlogger's Rishikesh experience

What grabbed the attention in the clip was how Charlie Evans chose a place, nestled in the lap of nature, to engage in sound healing — a practice where soothing vibrations emanating from various instruments like singing bowls, gongs, or chimes are used for relaxation, reducing stress, and restoring a sense of balance to the mind and body. Encircled by the calming sounds of flowing water, gushing waterfalls and lush greenery, the setting seemed to enhance the meditative experience, perfectly capturing the tranquil spirit that Rishikesh is known for.

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A post shared by Charlie Evans| American in Asia🇺🇸 (@charlietravelusa)

In a separate video, Charlie Evans was seen taking a dip in the cool waters of the secret waterfall, calling it the ‘most beautiful and refreshing spot’ besides the Ganges in Rishikesh. According to the traveller, to reach the spot one has to undergo a short trek through the forest trails, dotted by emerald-green trees and the chirp of birds, while crossing small streams, before navigating one's way through mini cliffs and reaching the natural and isolated retreat.

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A post shared by Charlie Evans| American in Asia🇺🇸 (@charlietravelusa)

Things to do in Rishikesh

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from October to March, offering cool, pleasant weather (8°C to 34°C) perfect for sightseeing, yoga, exploring and other spiritual activities. Here are the top 5 places to see here:

Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula, a suspension bridge stretching across the Ganges, is one of the most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding hills. It’s blessed with temples, cafes, and small shops, making it a lively spot for both sightseeing and soaking in the town’s spiritual atmosphere.

Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is another famous suspension bridge connecting major ashrams and temples on both sides of the river. The walk across the bridge offers stunning views and easy access to spiritual centres like Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

Triveni Ghat

Triveni Ghat is a sacred bathing ghat along the Ganges, where you can find yourself being lost by the mesmerising evening Ganga Aarti. Devotees gather here to offer prayers, light lamps and float them on the river, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Neer Garh Waterfall

It is a short drive from the main town, ideal for nature lovers. A short trek through the emerald-green forest leads to refreshing pools where visitors can relax, take photos, and enjoy the cool mountain surroundings.

The Beatles Ashram

Also known as Chaurasi Kutia, this ashram might be in ruins now, but it gained global fame when legendary rock band The Beatles stayed here in 1968. Today, it’s a fascinating place filled with meditation huts, murals, and graffiti art that attracts history lovers and photographers.