In short: stay within walking distance of a ghat, arrive the day before, avoid the Amrit Snan crush if you can, and plan one thing per day.
Pick the right date
The three Amrit Snans (6 March, 8 March and 14 April) bring the biggest crowds and the longest walks. With elderly parents, a regular snan day such as Basant Panchami or Magh Purnima is often far more comfortable and still deeply meaningful.
Pick the right area
Kankhal and the Har ki Pauri area keep the walk short. Kankhal's quieter ghats are easier on crowded days. Staying in Rishikesh means an early transfer on snan morning, which is hard on older travellers.
Questions to ask the hotel
- Is there a lift, or a ground-floor room?
- How many steps between the road and the room?
- Is there a western toilet and hot water?
- Can a taxi drop us at the door on our arrival date?
- Are simple meals available on site?
On the day
- Agree on one meeting point before you leave, and write it on paper for each person.
- Carry their regular medicines, water and a light snack.
- Bathe at the edge of a designated ghat and follow the police and lifeguards.
- Rest in the afternoon. Keep temples and sightseeing for another day.
- If they have a heart, breathing or mobility condition, talk to their doctor before the trip.