Patna Waterfall Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
1 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
520m
GROUP SIZE
4 - 6
TREK DISTANCE
7 km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
All Around Year
PICKUP POINT
Lakshman Jhula
Overview of Patna Waterfall Trek
The Patna Waterfalls trek is an excellent beginner's or family trek that provides plenty of opportunity for relaxation in nature while on a half-day trip close to Rishikesh (compared to high-altitude treks elsewhere in the Himalayas). The Patna Waterfall is created by a seasonal stream that flows over a limestone rock formation and is surrounded by dense vegetation. This short but rewarding trek through the lower Garhwal Himalaya Mountains takes you down into the foothills of the Himalayas just outside Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, until you reach a wonderful waterfall to visit.
Rocky riverbeds, narrow paths, and shade from Sal trees make the trek a great way to escape the busy ghats and crowds of Rishikesh. You will find plenty of opportunities along the way to enjoy your trekking experience while exploring forests and waterfalls at the same time, without the commitment of a multi-day trek or challenging terrain.
History of Patna Waterfall Trek
The Patna Waterfall is an area of great historical and cultural significance, having been part of the ancient pilgrimage routes to Rishikesh. There is considerable speculation that the name "Patna" comes from a small ancient village, which existed many years ago, located within the current forested area of the Patna Waterfall area.
Historically, this route was used by local villagers, as well as sādhu (ascetic renunciates), who lived in caves or hermitages within the surrounding forest areas and spent time meditating and practising their various spiritual disciplines.
It is also said that the caves in this area served as centers of meditation for the sages and saints who travelled through this area, such as the renowned Sri Adi Shankaracharya, when he travelled through the greater Garhwal region. The traditional trails of this forest area were used to link small villages to the river crossings, rather than for the purpose of trekking tourism.
As a result of its sacred atmosphere and its relative isolation, the Patna Waterfall area has remained largely untouched for thousands of years. The popularity of the Patna Waterfall Trek has grown recently, as it has become an ideal place for those who want to enjoy a short walk in nature close to Rishikesh.
Short and Scenic Forest Trek
The Patna Waterfall Hike is a short trek of about 1.5-2 km one way, making it accessible to almost every person. The trail is filled with lush forest canopy, babbling brooks, and rocky areas, which make the hike enjoyable and rejuvenating.
Beautiful Seasonal Waterfall
The main draw of the hike is the Patna Waterfall itself. During monsoon season and just after the monsoon season, the waterfall is often in its full flow, providing a dynamic and relaxing view. During winter/summer, the waterfall is calmer, yet still provides a beautiful atmosphere.
Quiet Alternative to Popular Spots
Compared to other well-known waterfalls such as Neer Garh and Garud Chatti, the Patna Waterfall is relatively quiet, particularly on weekdays, making it an ideal location for travellers seeking peace and solitude.
Perfect Beginner Trek Near Rishikesh
This trek is an excellent introduction to hiking for those who have never hiked before. It does not require any prior hiking experience while giving you an introduction to walking through the forest of the Himalayas.
Level of Trekking difficulty: Easy
The Patna Waterfall Trek is simple and can be easily completed by beginners to advanced-level trekkers. Suitable for families and children (with proper supervision). There are no steep climbs or anything that requires technical ability.
Natural Path
The path consists of dirt paths, rocky paths, and shallow water crossings. Caution must be taken on the path if you are trekking during the monsoon season due to possible slippage.
No Technical Skills Requirements
You will not need any mountaineering skills, ropes or harnesses. However, you must have some level of fitness and must pay attention to where you are walking.
March to June
The best time for this trek is during the spring and early summer. The weather is nice, and there are plenty of green leaves in the forest. The amount of water flowing is moderate.
July - September
The best time to see the waterfall is during the wet season, when it will be flowing at its highest rate. However, the trail will have a lot of debris; therefore, trekking should be performed with caution and appropriate footwear.
October - November
The post-monsoon time period will have clear skies, fresh greenery, and more stable trail conditions. The amount of water will be significantly lower than in July/August, but it's still nice to see.
December - February
Winters will have a much cooler and quieter time. There will be little to no amount of water flowing, but the trek will still be an enjoyable experience and provide a good forest walking experience.
- The Patna Waterfalls are found approximately 6km from Rishikesh on the Neelkanth road.
- The trek starts near Patna village on the Neelkanth Mahadev Road.
- You can reach the starting point of your trek from Rishikesh by taxi, auto, or bike, and the nearest railway station is either Rishikesh or Haridwar.
- If you want to fly, book your flight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
Nature Photography!
The trees, rocks & waterfall offer great photo opportunities, especially right after the monsoon!
Meditate, Yoga or Relax at the Waterfall!
The quiet, peaceful atmosphere around the water & nearby caves makes for an excellent place to rest, meditate or do yoga.
See The Local Plants & Trees!
There are plenty of Sal trees, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers to see while you're out there! Nature lovers will love the plants in this area!
A Short Weekend Getaway From City Life!
The Patna Waterfall Trek is an awesome half-day trip from the hustle and bustle of daily city life and crowded tourist locations!
Good hiking footwear (preferably with a rubber sole) is essential to provide adequate grip when trekking through the challenging terrain and wet conditions of this region. Dress comfortably in quick-drying clothing. Bring a small backpack with plenty of water, light snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you plan to hike during the monsoon season, bring a poncho or rain jacket; however, avoid carrying heavy bags, as the trek is relatively short. It's also a good idea to carry a basic first-aid kit and a cell phone that has a full charge.
Day 1:
Rishikesh to Patna Waterfall and return to Rishikesh.
Do Not Attempt to Hike Through Heavy Rain
Heavy rain can create large flash floods, fast-moving streams, and very slippery rocks, all of which can be very dangerous while trekking through these conditions.
Wear Appropriate Shoes
Having a good grip on your shoes is important because wet rocks will be slippery.
Don't Go Near the Edge of the Waterfall
The rocks at the edges of the waterfall may not be stable and could be slippery as well.
Keep the Area Clean
Take all trash with you and show respect for the environment by keeping it clean while on the trail.
Only Hike During Daylight Hours
It's not safe to hike late at night due to reduced visibility in the forest.
The Himalaya Shelter provides guided Patna Waterfall trekking for people who want to have a safe and fully organised trip near the Rishikesh area. Our guides are experienced locals who will lead you around the area safely, give you a lot of local information about the forest and area, and also ensure that you find your way to hidden areas in a way that is responsible for the forests and the environment.
The trek can be adapted to meet the comfort level and time schedules of solo, group, and family members, making it possible to make your experience hiking in the foothills of the Himalayas both enjoyable and an enriching experience. Customise your trek with us
Himalaya Shelter is now operating in the sections of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), offering structured, well-paced journeys across the Indian Himalayas with a strong focus on safety, acclimatisation, and responsible travel.
Patna Waterfall Trek is approximately 1.5-2 km long each way.
Patna Waterfall Trek is a beginner-level trek which is suitable for beginner-level trekkers and families.
Swimming is not recommended due to the slant and slippery rocks and the high current of water.
Although guides are NOT a requirement, they are recommended for first-time visitors to non-camp areas, especially during the rainy season.
The best time to visit Patna Waterfall for waterfall viewing is during/shortly after the monsoon season.
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